Radost revitalized: A Prague club legend will see new life as a co-working space

When it opened in the early '90s, Radost FX became one of the most renowned clubs in the Czech capital—a pioneering vegetarian restaurant with a basement club that later served as a backdrop for Rihanna's Don't Stop the Music video in 2007.

Although the venue, once ranked among the twenty best of its kind in the world by the British magazine Ministry, faced closure following Covid, Radost FX is set to step back into the spotlight with the opening of a new co-working space under the Hygge brand on its premises.

This transformation is part of a broader initiative by Zdeněk Rudolský, a pioneer of coworking in the Czech Republic, who together with partners Martina Rudolská and Petr Vondruš aims to combine productivity with cultural vitality by revitalizing iconic buildings across the country. Hygge co-working spaces are also set to open in Ostrava and Zlín.

"My great wish was to open a new generation of coworking spaces. To create a concept for myself and others that will last for decades, where personal and work life will be well managed and where it will be possible to find beauty in every moment. Simply hygge. Preparing the project was not easy, the investment was in the higher units of millions of crowns. But we believe it was worth it. All our spaces are connected by a strong genius loci, history and strategic location," says Hygge founder Rudolský.

Hygge Praha offers flexible coworking options in its bistro and lounge, accommodating up to 100 people. Radost FX will continue to be open to the public for concerts and events. Visitors can use the space for either a full day or pay for an entire month. The three areas can also be rented for larger events, accommodating up to 250 people, while the bistro and lounge are available for smaller gatherings.

Each space possesses its own distinct atmosphere, ranging from an underground vibe to pop art. The current Prague location features artwork from some of the most notable figures associated with the Czech graffiti scene.

In Ostrava, Hygge is revitalizing the historic Ostravica-Textilia building, a former department store abandoned for decades. Scheduled to open in February 2025, it will offer 65 coworking spaces, rental offices, and even access to the building’s iconic staircase. Meanwhile, Zlín’s Silo II will reopen as Hygge Zlín, featuring open coworking areas and a skyroom terrace with city views.

Coworking spaces have gained significant traction in Czechia, reflecting a broader trend toward flexible work environments. According to a 2024 study, coworking memberships in the country grew by 20 percent over the past year, with demand driven by remote workers and small businesses.

"We are most excited that, thanks to our collaboration with [Radost owner] Matyáš Sichrovský, we can revive this legendary Prague place where creatives have always felt at home. The best have played and created here, and we are looking forward to this era coming back," says Petr Vondruš. 

Hygge, a Danish term for the feeling of comfort and well being brought on by coziness, will open in Radost FX on Bělehradská Street In January.