Questions, answered.

Objects with history are naturally full of stories. Buying them should feel beautifully straightforward.

Whether you would like to know more about a piece, understand its condition or arrange delivery to your home, we are here to help. Below you’ll find answers to some of the questions we are most often asked.

If there is anything else you would like to know, simply get in touch with Martin or Amy at info@bybarnabas.com.

THE COLLECTION

Are all your pieces original?

Yes. By Barnabas specialises in original 20th-century furniture, lighting and homeware, primarily from former Czechoslovakia.

We do not sell modern reproductions. Every piece is individually sourced, examined and researched, with known designers, manufacturers, dates and original labels documented wherever possible.

How do you choose pieces for the collection?

We look for design that feels distinctive, beautifully made and relevant beyond its original period.

Some pieces are recognised icons of Czech design; others are lesser-known objects that deserve to be rediscovered. What connects them is integrity of design, quality of construction and the ability to bring something individual to a contemporary interior.

We buy selectively rather than in volume. Every object must earn its place in the collection.

Is every piece unique?

Most pieces in our collection are one of a kind and available in a single example. Even when a design was originally produced in larger numbers, variations in materials, finish, patina and history make every surviving piece individual.

If something speaks to you, we recommend getting in touch. Once it is gone, finding another may take time.

How do you research your furniture and lighting?

We examine construction, materials, labels, stamps and other manufacturing details, supported by specialist publications, period catalogues and archival sources whenever available.

Attributions are made carefully. Where the designer or manufacturer cannot be established with confidence, we say so rather than presenting an uncertain attribution as fact.

CONDITION & RESTORATION

What condition are your pieces in?

Our collection consists of original vintage objects, so gentle signs of age and use are part of their character.

Each product page includes detailed photographs and an honest condition description. We record notable wear, repairs or restoration wherever relevant, allowing you to understand exactly what you are buying.

If you would like a closer look, we are always happy to provide additional photographs, videos or condition details before purchase.

Do you restore every piece?

Only where required.

Our approach is guided by the individual object. Some pieces need careful professional restoration, while others are best preserved with their original finish and patina intact.

The aim is never to make a vintage piece appear newly manufactured. We restore with respect for its materials, construction and history, retaining as much original character as possible while preparing it for continued use.

Will my piece look exactly like the photographs?

The photographs show the actual piece offered for sale, rather than a stock example.

We make every reasonable effort to represent its colour, texture, finish and condition accurately. Small differences may occur between screens or under different lighting, particularly with natural wood, glass, textiles and aged surfaces.

If a particular colour or detail is important to you, please contact us and we can provide further images or a video in natural light.

Is vintage furniture suitable for everyday use?

Unless stated otherwise, our furniture is offered in functional condition appropriate to its intended purpose.

Vintage pieces should still be treated with the care their age and materials deserve. We are happy to advise on placement, maintenance and everyday use if you have any questions about a particular item.

What about vintage lighting?

We carefully inspect our lighting and describe its current condition on the individual product page.

Because electrical requirements differ between countries and installations, vintage lighting should be checked and installed by a suitably qualified electrician before use.

PURCHASING

How can I buy a piece?

Items can be purchased through our website where online checkout is available. You can also contact us directly if you would like to ask a question, confirm delivery or receive an invoice before purchasing.

If you are buying internationally or arranging delivery for a larger piece, we are happy to guide you personally through the process.

Can I reserve an item?

We may reserve an item for a short period by prior agreement. Once an invoice has been issued, the piece can normally be reserved for up to seven calendar days while payment is arranged.

As most pieces are unique, please contact us as soon as possible if you are seriously considering a purchase.

Can you provide additional measurements?

Of course. We understand that a few centimetres can make all the difference.

If you need to check a doorway, alcove, tabletop, seat height or any other detail, contact us before ordering. We will be happy to take additional measurements and help you establish whether the piece is right for your space.

Can you help me choose a piece for my interior?

Yes. With backgrounds in design and architecture, we understand that proportion, material, colour and context all matter.

Send us photographs, plans or dimensions of your space and tell us what you are considering. We will be pleased to offer an honest opinion and suggest pieces from the collection that may work particularly well.

DELIVERY

Do you deliver internationally?

Yes. We ship regularly throughout Europe and worldwide from our studio in Brno, Czech Republic.

Depending on the size, fragility and destination of the piece, we use trusted international couriers or specialist furniture carriers. Smaller objects are securely packed and sent by tracked courier, while larger furniture is transported using an appropriate specialist service.

How much does delivery cost?

The delivery price is shown on the product page, calculated at checkout or confirmed with you before purchase.

For larger furniture and less frequently served destinations, we prepare an individual quotation based on the dimensions, destination, access requirements and safest available method of transport.

Send us your postcode and the name of the piece, and we will be happy to provide a quote.

How will my piece be protected?

Every object is packed according to its individual construction, materials and fragility.

Our packaging is prepared by hand in our Brno studio and made specifically to fit the piece. Wherever suitable, we reuse cardboard boxes and prioritise recycled materials, while using specialist protection where it is necessary for safe delivery.

We work only with couriers and furniture carriers we trust.

How long does delivery take?

Courier deliveries within Europe generally take approximately 3–5 working days, while international courier shipments usually take approximately 5–14 working days.

Delivery of larger furniture by a specialist carrier is arranged individually according to the destination and transport route. We will keep you informed and provide tracking or delivery updates whenever available.

What happens if an item is damaged during delivery?

Please contact us promptly and retain the packaging. Photographs of the item and packaging will help us assess what has happened and resolve the matter with the carrier.

For consumer orders delivered using one of our arranged services, responsibility for the item generally remains with By Barnabas.

Can I return a purchase?

Consumers purchasing online generally have the right to withdraw from the purchase within 14 days of receiving it, subject to the exceptions provided by applicable law.

Because furniture and fragile vintage objects often require specialist transportation, please contact us before arranging a return. Full details can be found on our Delivery & Returns page.

VISITING & PROFESSIONAL ENQUIRIES

Can I view a piece in person?

Yes. Our collection can be viewed at our studio in central Brno by prior appointment.

Please contact us before travelling so that we can arrange a suitable time and make sure the pieces you are interested in are available to view. Purchases may also be collected from the studio by arrangement.

Do you work with interior designers, architects and galleries?

Yes. We welcome enquiries from interior designers, architects, stylists, galleries, dealers and production teams.

We can assist with individual pieces, groups of furniture, combined international delivery and sourcing for residential, hospitality, retail, editorial or film projects. Preferential trade pricing may also be available for professional clients and purchases of multiple pieces. Please contact us to discuss your project and requirements.

Can you source a particular piece?

We are always searching for exceptional examples of Czech design.

If you are looking for a particular designer, manufacturer, model or type of object, tell us what you have in mind. Although we cannot promise when something will appear, we can keep your request in mind while sourcing.

STILL CURIOUS?

Finding the right piece should feel exciting, never uncertain.

If you would like another photograph, a precise measurement, a delivery quotation or simply a conversation about something in the collection, we would love to hear from you.

Contact Martin and Amy
info@bybarnabas.com
+420 720 940 500

EXPLORE THE COLLECTION