6:AM create a spellbinding Murano glass showcase in Milan’s abandoned public shower stalls

The Milan-based design studio 6:AM, founded by Edoardo Pandolfo and Francesco Palù in 2018, is redefining the application and perception of Murano glass. The studio's name, 6:AM, signifies the moment the furnaces on the Venetian island are ignited daily, marking the continuation of a 700-year-old glassmaking tradition. Pandolfo, a Venice native, and Palù, an architect, aim to introduce Murano glass to a broader audience through a diverse range of products, including architectural installations, modular lighting, furniture, and sculptural objects, all characterized by precision, materiality, and conceptual clarity. Their work spans bespoke commissions for international brands and research-driven explorations into the future of glassmaking. 6:AM's approach marries ancient techniques with contemporary aesthetics, emphasizing a continuous dialogue between craftsmanship and design. This synergy means that product development and glassworking techniques evolve in parallel, where the object's shape often dictates how the glass is worked, and conversely, the design influences the choice of technique. The studio collaborates closely with Murano's master artisans, leveraging their extensive expertise in manipulating glass in its molten state. They actively experiment with layering, fusing, and adapting traditional methods to expand the material's potential while striving to minimize environmental impact. A notable project demonstrating this ethos is FLOAT, unveiled during Milan Design Week 2024. This collection repurposed salvaged glass from 1930s Milanese windows into furniture, shelving, and architectural cladding. By combining fused glass panels with minimalist steel structures, FLOAT explored new technical and aesthetic possibilities for post-industrial materials. This initiative culminated in the 'Resourceful Intelligence' installation at the 2025 Venice Architecture Biennale, where reprocessed glass from Milan’s Palazzo Missori was utilized to showcase circular design strategies, developed in collaboration with Park Associati. Earlier in the year, 6:AM held its inaugural solo exhibition, 'Two-Fold Silence,' at Milan's historic Piscina Cozzi during Milan Design Week. The exhibition featured Quadrato, a lighting collection that draws inspiration from 1920s industrial design, blending Bauhaus rationalism with the geometric abstraction of Kazimir Malevič. The Quadrato collection, crafted from blown Murano glass with varying textures and opacities, included a screen-printed lattimo wall lamp encased in painted iron, offering a modern interpretation of early 20th-century emergency lights. From crafting jewel-like hand-blown Murano glass stools for Bottega Veneta’s SS26 runway show to their pioneering material recovery projects, 6:AM consistently demonstrates a distinctive visual language. This language is characterized by fluid silhouettes, luminous textures, and a steadfast commitment to handmade quality. Each cuboid stool for Bottega Veneta, for instance, began as a 43 cm glass block shaped using cast-iron molds engraved with CNC technology, reflecting a process akin to traditional marble sculpture. The studio's work is deeply embedded in Murano’s historical glassmaking heritage, yet it is decisively forward-looking, continuously pushing the boundaries of glass design. #GlassDesign #MuranoGlass #6AMStudio #MilanDesign #SustainableDesign #BottegaVeneta #ArchitecturalInstallations #ContemporaryCraftsmanship #CircularDesign

This article explores the enduring appeal of Murano glass homeware and presents a curated selection of nine items to enhance home interiors. Murano glass, originating from the small island of Murano near Venice, Italy, is celebrated for its timeless elegance and distinctive craftsmanship. Artisans on Murano have been honing their glass-making skills for centuries, with a community of craftspeople established as early as the 1200s. The unique mouth-blown technique, combined with the integration of special fibers, results in glass pieces that feature ornamental, one-of-a-kind patterns, distinguishing them from other glass products. The article highlights that while interior trends may fluctuate, glass homeware maintains a classic and often heirloom-quality aesthetic. Murano glass, in particular, is noted for its ability to introduce vibrant color and sophisticated design into any living space. The selected items demonstrate the versatility of Murano glass, ranging from functional everyday objects to decorative accents. Featured products include a Murano glass cake stand from Sous Chef, priced at £49.99, which offers a stylish platform for desserts, utilizing ancient Venetian glass-making techniques. A cordless Abigail Ahern portable table lamp, designed in a mushroom shape and costing £26.50, provides soft, movable lighting for various rooms. The Oliver Bonas glitter glass vase, available for £39.50, is presented as an item that can brighten a space with its turquoise hue and white and gold flecks, making supermarket flowers appear more opulent. For a more sculptural addition, the Anthropologie glass side table, priced at £198, is described as a sophisticated piece with a white mottled design that elevates any room. A Dunelm pendant shade, costing £38, offers an elegant enclosure for overhead lighting. The Light & Living tall side table from Shropshire Design, at £200, is highlighted for its thick, rich glass construction that interacts with light to create mood-enhancing rays within a room. The selection also includes a Next confetti glass candle holder for £18, characterized by its moody color and dramatic design, making it a luxurious statement piece for any table. A Macchia su Macchia hand-blown glass bowl from Abask, priced at £385, is presented as an artisanal item crafted in Milan using traditional techniques, providing a unique terrazzo-style pattern ideal for displaying fruits and vegetables. Finally, the Green Wolf Lighting Murano glass table light from Abask, costing £380, is recommended for its ability to cast a warm glow, perfect for creating a cozy ambiance. Each product is presented with its brand, price, and a brief description of its features and aesthetic appeal, emphasizing how these Murano or Murano-inspired glass items can refresh and transform home environments with their inherent beauty and craftsmanship. The article positions these pieces as accessible ways to incorporate a touch of timeless Italian artistry into contemporary home decor. #MuranoGlass #Homeware #InteriorDesign #Glassware #HomeDecor #ItalianCraftsmanship #ArtisanProducts #StylistLoves #ColorAndCraftsmanship

The Murano tile collection, designed by Italian designer Giovanni Barbieri, integrates a raised three-dimensional pattern with colored Murano glass inlays. This collection is presented through Dezeen Showroom, a platform designed to assist brands in launching new products and promoting their designs to a broad audience. The Murano tiles are crafted with a natural stone base, providing a robust foundation for the Murano glass elements. The combination of natural stone and glass inlays results in a tactile surface with a distinct raised profile, adding depth and visual interest to any application. The collection is characterized by its high level of customization, offering an extensive array of colors, patterns, and dimensions. This flexibility allows designers and clients to create unique aesthetics tailored to specific project requirements, ensuring that each installation can be distinct. Barbieri's design philosophy prioritizes this bespoke approach, aiming to deliver specialized products without compromising on quality or cost-effectiveness. The aesthetic outcome is paramount, with a focus on producing visually appealing and functional surfaces. The tiles are available in a diverse range of geometric and abstract patterns, further enhancing their versatility. An innovative feature of the Murano collection is the option to incorporate LEDs within the tiles. These LEDs are strategically placed to create a backlighting effect, which illuminates the hand-made Murano glass elements. This backlighting capability accentuates the intricate details and colors of the glass, transforming the tiles into a dynamic design feature that can alter the ambiance of a space. The use of Murano glass, known for its rich history and artisanal quality, imbues the tiles with a sense of luxury and craftsmanship. Giovanni Barbieri emphasizes a comprehensive design approach that considers not only the aesthetic and functional aspects but also the health and well-being of the end-users. His philosophy includes ensuring 'healthy supply and installation' processes, reflecting a commitment to sustainable and safe practices in manufacturing and application. This holistic view ensures that the products are not only visually striking but also responsibly produced and installed. Dezeen Showroom highlights products like the Murano collection as part of its partnership content, providing detailed information and imagery to its global readership. The platform serves as an essential resource for showcasing innovative design solutions and connecting designers with potential clients. The Murano collection, with its blend of traditional craftsmanship and modern technology, represents a notable offering within the contemporary surfacing market. Its unique material combination and customizable features make it suitable for a variety of interior and architectural applications, offering distinctive decorative possibilities. #MuranoTile #GiovanniBarbieri #TileCollection #MuranoGlass #InteriorDesign #SurfaceDesign #ArchitecturalFinishes #CustomizableTiles #LEDLightingIntegration

Glassware, traditionally considered a practical and often overlooked category in home decor, is undergoing a significant transformation, moving beyond its functional role on dining tables to become a prominent decorative element throughout the home. This shift is driven by a new wave of designers and brands, including homeware brands like LaDoubleJ, as well as fashion and jewellery brands such as Jil Sander and Sophie Bille Brahe, which are introducing creative and aesthetically driven glassware. These brands are infusing the category with unique designs, vibrant colours, and sophisticated details, elevating glassware from a mundane item to a stylish accent. Historically, everyday glassware like cups, wine glasses, and carafes did not prioritize cutting-edge design. However, contemporary designers are now pushing boundaries, creating pieces that serve as versatile decorative items. Emily Wong, Senior Vice-President of Merchandising at Lane Crawford, emphasizes that decorative glassware's appeal lies in its ability to reflect light, its versatility, and its capacity to instantly add a modern and elegant vibe to any interior. She notes that it's an easy way to introduce pops of colour, diverse textures, and finishes, fostering a sophisticated yet approachable atmosphere. Furthermore, there's a growing emphasis on personalizing spaces with unique, artisanal pieces. The allure of modern glassware is also rooted in the intricate techniques and high level of skill required for its creation, akin to luxury handbags. Handblown Murano glass, for instance, exemplifies this craftsmanship. Originating from an island near Venice, Murano glass has a rich, centuries-old history, with expert techniques passed down through generations. These traditional methods are now evolving to incorporate new styles and trends, attracting a new generation of collectors and enthusiasts. Martina Mondadori, founder of Cabana, highlights the constant desire among Murano glassblowers to innovate while respecting traditional craftsmanship. Technical advancements have further fueled new trends in glassware, particularly concerning colours, finishes, and textures. Vibrantly coloured glassware has become a staple in tablescapes, allowing homeowners to express their personality. Examples include Saint-Louis’ Les Endiablés collection, known for its bold bi-coloured crystal and significant waitlist, and Cabana’s balloton glasses, which feature mesmerizing hues ranging from vivid jewel tones to soft pastels. This evolution indicates a broader trend where functional home items are increasingly becoming integral components of interior design, reflecting personal style and aesthetic sensibilities. #GlasswareDesign #HomeDecorTrends #DecorativeAccents #MuranoGlass #ArtisanalCraftsmanship #InteriorDesign #LuxuryHomeware #TablewareInnovation #ColorfulGlassware

The article highlights the resurgence of Murano glass chandeliers as a prominent interior design trend for the upcoming year, particularly in 2025 and 2026. This prediction is supported by the 1stDibs annual trends report, which indicates that Murano glass pendants and chandeliers are expected to be the most popular iconic vintage lighting, surpassing last year's favorite, the Noguchi Akari lamp. The author's personal experience of noticing a vibrant green, tiered Murano glass chandelier in fashion designer Hogan McLaughlin's New York loft apartment sparked the initial interest in this trend. This particular chandelier, despite being an accidental color choice (absinthe green instead of olive green), became a striking statement piece within the apartment's neutral and luxurious palette. McLaughlin and his partner, Bill Crisafi, sought to soften their lofty, industrial space, and having previously admired Murano glass sconces, they moved towards larger tiered chandeliers. The unexpected green hue became a conversation starter, described as resembling the 'Emerald City turned upside down' or 'Minas Morgul' from Lord of the Rings. The article emphasizes that the trend extends beyond the unique aesthetic of Murano glass chandeliers to the broader phenomenon of tiered chandeliers. These fixtures, especially in Murano glass, are lauded for their ability to introduce both softness and boldness, energizing a room while blending organically with elements like plants and greenery. The timeless yet modern appeal of these chandeliers stems from the combination of material, form, and color. Lina Laurin, founder of Studio Laurin and an expert in Murano glass, explains the historical and cultural significance of Murano glass. Originating from Murano, an island near Venice, Italy, glassmaking traditions have been upheld since the 13th century. The handmade nature of Murano glass, characterized by its irregularities, roughness, and visible bubbles, gives each piece a unique depth and a sense of human craftsmanship. This prestige, however, often translates into a high price point for Murano glass chandeliers. The article further categorizes different types of tiered Murano glass chandeliers that are gaining popularity. The Poliedri style, launched by Venini in 1958, features angular, jewel-like polyhedrons and a shallow tiered design. The Tronchi chandelier, designed by Tony Zuccheri for Venini in the 1960s, is characterized by its modernist mid-century aesthetic with long, subtly flower-shaped tube prisms. The Murano Petal style, developed by La Murrina in the 1960s, showcases flared glass petals, offering an elegant look. Lastly, the Murano Drop prism, produced since the 1970s, features oversized, fluid teardrop shapes. Regardless of the specific style, the article concludes that these tiered chandeliers, with their rich history and distinctive design language, are not just a fleeting trend but enduring pieces that will continue to be popular for decades. #MuranoGlass #LightingTrend #InteriorDesign #Chandeliers #HomeDecor #DesignClassics #LuxuryLighting #GlassArt #HomeFurnishings

The article explores how modern shower head designs are transforming the bathroom into a space for relaxation and well-being, moving beyond mere functionality. Historically, relaxation has been linked with water, with preferences divided between quick showers and leisurely baths. While bathtubs have often been romanticized in popular culture, the shower's potential for regeneration and relaxation largely depends on the performance and design of its shower head. This focus on advanced shower head technology and aesthetics is exemplified by antoniolupi, a company that consistently innovates in this domain. antoniolupi's journey in shower head design began in 2011 with the introduction of 'Meteo', a ceiling-mounted shower head designed to evoke the sensation of falling rain. This initial concept evolved into various concealed ceiling products, such as 'Ghost' and 'Ghost Big', which prioritize the water jet itself, making the mechanical elements almost invisible. The company's commitment to integrating technology and design is further highlighted by iconic products like 'Apollo'. Named after the Greek god of the sun and light, the 'Apollo' shower head seamlessly blends light and water into a single, elegant fixture. Crafted from brass, it functions as both a lamp and a shower head, symbolizing the meeting of these two natural elements. Its pure geometric form and sophisticated technology, which combines a precise shower head with a spherical lamp within a tubular structure, have made it one of antoniolupi's most recognizable pieces. The 'Apollo' is available in wall-mounted and two ceiling-mounted versions, offering different jet types and integrated LED lighting that activates with the water flow, extending its use even to outdoor environments. Another significant innovation is the 'GhostCOMBI', designed by AL Studio. This single shower head system offers a customizable experience by combining various jet types, including rainfall, aerated sprays, a traditional central jet, and a waterfall jet. This combination allows for a personalized and invigorating shower, catering to different preferences for toning and regeneration. The 'GhostCOMBI' is lauded for its ability to create a customized wellness atmosphere, despite its compact 20x35 cm dimensions. Its design ingeniously hides the complex mechanisms, presenting users with a simplified, enjoyable experience. The 'Raindrop' shower head, a creation by Calvi Brambilla, further pushes the boundaries of design by mimicking the natural phenomenon of concentric waves created when a raindrop hits water. Made from Flumood, it seamlessly integrates with the ceiling, becoming a decorative element that enhances the bathroom while concealing its technological components. The 'Meteo' series, initially launched in 2011 by Navio Tellatin, embodies a minimalist design philosophy, akin to Mies van der Rohe's "less is more." These built-in shower heads, including the 'MeteoXXL' and 'FuoriMeteo', conceal mechanical parts to emphasize the sensory experience of water and light. The 'Meteo' line offers various finishes and options for LED and chromotherapy lighting, with the dispensing cartridge recessed into the ceiling. The 'MeteoXXL', introduced in 2014, caters to the demand for larger water coverage, featuring traditional modules, two waterfalls, four nebulizers, and a perimeter heat barrier. This design creates a vapor barrier, making it suitable for spaces without traditional shower enclosures. The angled jets of the waterfalls in 'MeteoXXL' are engineered to direct water towards the center of the shower area, complemented by a central nozzle that produces a unique 'nail' shaped water flow. The integration of lights in this system enhances the visual effect of the nebulizers and adds volume to the space. Finally, 'FuoriMeteo' represents an evolution for situations where built-in installation is not feasible. This visible shower head, with its refined volume, can be camouflaged by matching its coating to the ceiling, offering a sophisticated design solution while maintaining the advanced functionality of the Meteo family. These innovations from antoniolupi collectively transform the shower from a utilitarian necessity into a holistic, intimate, and aesthetically pleasing experience within the home. #ShowerDesign #BathroomInnovation #Antoniolupi #HomeWellness #LuxuryBathrooms #ProductDesign #InteriorDesign #WaterFeatures #LEDLighting

The GROHE SPA showcase at Milan Design Week 2023, held from April 18-23 at the Pinacoteca di Brera, Milan, Italy, featured a captivating water surface installation. This presentation highlighted GROHE SPA's commitment to transforming bathrooms into holistic home spas through products that embody high quality, advanced technology, precision, and progressive design. The exhibition, conceived by the LIXIL Global Design team, effectively communicated the overarching theme of ‘Health through Water,’ inspired by the Latin phrase ‘Salus Per Aquam’ (Health Through Water). The installation at Brera not only reflected the museum's stunning architecture on the water's surface but also showcased four distinct product tiers within immersive cubes. These tiers included exclusive 3D metal-printed products, customizable Atrio and Allure Brilliant Private Collections, products featuring trend-setting GROHE Colors, and a multi-sensory experience demonstrating the brand’s modular shower solutions. This new collection represents a significant revitalization of the GROHE SPA portfolio, designed to offer users unique and luxurious wellbeing areas centered around soothing water rituals. GROHE SPA's product range extends beyond aesthetics, pushing boundaries in design, technology, and precision. The comprehensive portfolio encompasses sophisticated faucet collections, customizable ceiling showers, intricate ceramics, and a variety of complementary accessories. A key feature of the Atrio and Allure Brilliant Private Collections is the extensive customization options available. These options allow customers to personalize their bathroom experiences by choosing from various colors, materials, finishes, and handle designs, catering to individual needs and preferences. Patrick Speck, Leader of LIXIL Global Design, EMENA, emphasized that GROHE SPA aims to empower architects, designers, and planners to craft exceptional water experiences for bathrooms and spas. To further support these professionals, GROHE provides expert consultation services. These services guide architects, designers, specifiers, and project developers in selecting the ideal products and solutions to integrate seamlessly into their bathroom designs, ensuring optimal functionality and aesthetic coherence. #GroheSPA #MilanDesignWeek2023 #BathroomDesign #HomeSpa #WaterRituals #LIXILGlobalDesign #LuxuryBathrooms #ProductDesign #InteriorDesign

StudioTamat, a Rome-based architectural firm, has undertaken the renovation of an 80-square-metre "villino" in the heart of Rome, situated within the courtyard of a late-19th-century building on Viale di Trastevere. The project, known as RA House, was designed to create a sense of spaciousness and vibrancy for a couple who split their time between multiple residences. The intervention strategically employs elements of color, transparency, and reflection to achieve this objective within the compact three-level property. The design ethos centers on amplifying spatial dynamism while maintaining a coherent aesthetic that nods to the existing charm of the villino and the lively Trastevere neighborhood. Architects Matteo Soddu, Tommaso Amato, and Valentina Paiola spearheaded the transformation, which involved a significant rethinking of the vertical arrangement of the house. A key modification was the replacement of part of the original first-floor mezzanine with a structural glass floor. This innovative feature establishes a direct visual connection between the ground-floor living areas and the bedroom located above, promoting a more open and integrated living experience. Further enhancing the feeling of openness, a void was introduced into this new glass floor, creating a double-height lightwell. This lightwell is complemented by a new window, allowing natural light to permeate deeper into the interior. Mirrored ceilings are strategically incorporated throughout the house, contributing to an illusion of expanded space and vertical infinity. These reflective surfaces work in conjunction with the transparent elements to dematerialize boundaries and make the relatively small footprint feel significantly larger. A central blue volume acts as a functional core, extending between two levels. On the lower floor, it neatly houses the kitchen and utility spaces, while on the upper level, it accommodates an en-suite bathroom. This clever integration of services within a unified volume optimizes space and maintains visual continuity. The circulation within the house is also thoughtfully designed; a bookshelf ingeniously doubles as a space-saving staircase connecting the two main floors, while a spiral staircase provides access to the second floor, which serves as a flexible study or guest room. In addition to these structural and spatial interventions, the project meticulously restored the art-nouveau-style stained glass, which now forms an orangery at the entrance, infusing the space with shades of green, orange, and yellow. New materials are introduced with a discerning eye, including Verde Alpi marble, which is prominently featured as a podium at the base of the chestnut wood staircase and on kitchen surfaces. Fluted glass is used for partitions in the upstairs en-suite, offering a degree of privacy while maintaining light and an open feel. The kitchen also showcases metal cabinets with an ombre effect, fading from rose-gold to black. The interior is furnished with a mix of contemporary and vintage pieces, including a concrete table, vintage Thonet chairs, and a custom-made bed, providing the final touches to a sophisticated and spatially efficient urban residence. The project successfully blends historical preservation with modern design principles, creating a functional, elegant, and seemingly expansive home within its compact Roman setting. #StudioTamat #RAHouse #RomeArchitecture #VillinoRenovation #GlassFloors #MirrorCeilings #SpatialDynamism #InteriorDesign #ResidentialArchitecture

Archeda, a family-owned business established in 1996 in Porcia, Friuli Venezia Giulia, specializes in creating bathroom furniture, accessories, and complements. The company's core philosophy revolves around culture and sharing, viewing them as essential tools to inspire and appreciate beauty. Archeda focuses on designing bathroom systems that are adaptable and multifunctional, transforming bathrooms into personalized spaces for self-care and well-being. Each collection is a blend of research and innovation, aiming to anticipate current and future design trends and lifestyle shifts. Founders Maurizio Poletto and Piergiorgio Verardo initiated the company with the vision of infusing beauty and innovation into bathroom design through a diverse range of furnishing solutions. The company’s expertise is rooted in a rich tradition of craftsmanship combined with a passion for design, embodying the resilience and foresight typical of "made in Italy" enterprises. The second generation, led by Alberto Poletto, Maurizio's son, has joined the business, bringing a clear and determined vision for future growth. Alberto Poletto's aspiration is to contribute to the family business by developing design furniture, and he aims to implement digitization processes for faster and more innovative services. He also plans to expand into new foreign markets to promote Archeda's core values globally. The manufacturing facility in Porcia spans 4,000 square meters, where a significant portion of the workforce has been dedicated to the company for two decades. These skilled professionals are responsible for processing raw materials, assembling, and crafting high-quality, durable design pieces. Archeda enhances its customer-centric approach by offering a digital configurator, which allows clients to design their bathrooms virtually. The company is deeply committed to sustainability, integrating eco-friendly materials such as wood and glass into its products and adopting environmentally conscious production methods. Longevity of products is a key priority, further supporting their sustainable practices. To minimize its environmental impact, Archeda powers its operations using photovoltaic panels installed on the company's rooftops. The brand's products are distributed throughout Italy via specialized thermo-hydro-sanitary and furniture shops. On the international front, Europe, particularly France, is a significant market accessed through traditional distribution channels. In the United States, Archeda strategically targets the Boutique Contract sector, collaborating with architects and design professionals in major cities like Miami, New York, and Chicago. This approach highlights their blend of traditional craftsmanship with modern business strategies and environmental responsibility.

This article highlights a luxurious bathroom designed by Post Architecture and Analogue Design Studio, emphasizing its spa-like qualities and thoughtful design elements. The 18.5-square-meter space features a freestanding tub as its central focus, set against a two-meter-tall frosted window. This window not only bathes the room in a soft, milky light but also ensures privacy while offering glimpses of the sky through a clear sliver of glass. The design effectively combines functionality with aesthetic appeal, creating a serene and contemplative atmosphere. The bathroom incorporates a 4.6-meter-long floating double-sink vanity crafted from walnut and quartz, which extends across the room, enhancing the perception of depth and offering ample storage. This vanity is designed to conceal all bathroom essentials, contributing to the room's minimalist and uncluttered appearance. The use of walnut in the vanity ties into the home's overall wood finishes, creating a cohesive design narrative throughout the residence. The article details how the design team focused on creating a harmonious retreat that balances privacy with natural light. Adjacent to the vanity, a three-square-meter walk-in shower further elevates the spa experience. It is finished with large Dolomite stone tiles, providing a luxurious and durable surface. A standout feature within the shower is a generously sized, recessed shelf, which is illuminated from within by LED lighting. This detail not only adds a touch of modern elegance but also offers practical storage for bath products, keeping them easily accessible yet neatly organized. The Dolomite slabs used for the shower walls further reinforce the sense of luxury and continuity with the overall design theme. The combination of materials, such as the walnut and quartz vanity, porcelain flooring from Stone Tile, and Dolomite stone tiles, contributes to the sophisticated and tranquil ambiance of the bathroom. The design deliberately integrates warm wood tones with cool, natural stone elements to create a balanced and inviting space. The article underscores how every element, from the frosted glass to the hidden storage, is meticulously chosen to contribute to a sense of calm and indulgence, transforming a functional space into a personal sanctuary. This bathroom, originally featured in 'Best New Homes & Condos 2019' and '7 Modern Bathroom Designs Chock-Full of Inspiring Takeaways,' exemplifies contemporary bathroom design focused on luxury, privacy, and a seamless blend with the home's architectural style. #BathroomDesign #InteriorDesign #FrostedGlass #SpaBathroom #ModernDesign #WalnutVanity #DolomiteTile #LuxuryBathroom

Bathroom fittings are essential for both functionality and aesthetics within a space, influencing its visual appeal, comfort, and user experience through their technical features, materials, finishes, and styles. Dornbracht continuously re-imagines bathrooms as living spaces, creating innovative solutions centered on proportion, precision, progressiveness, performance, and personality. The company's MEM collection offers a range of minimalist bathroom fittings for washstands, showers, and tubs. In collaboration with ethical design brand Nature Squared and Italian craft manufacturer Glass Design, the MEM collection has been enhanced with new customizable features. These additions incorporate high-quality materials, sustainable craftsmanship, and artistic crystal glass. The MEM collection, designed by Sieger Design, focuses on clarity, reduction, and balance, mirroring the natural simplicity of water with a minimalist aesthetic characterized by an arc-shaped line and a wide rectangular spout. The design unobtrusively integrates a jet regulator and minimalist handles, reducing the design to essentials while promoting design freedom and customization. Nature Squared's collaboration with Dornbracht reinvents natural materials by transforming waste products like eggshells and seashells into artistic inlays. This process involves meticulously cracking seashells by hand and inlaying them onto a carrier, creating unique textures for bathroom details. This exploration of material innovation and artisanal skills integrates sustainable solutions into MEM finishes, offering over 30 possibilities for washstand, shower, or bath designs through combinations of seven materials and five finishes. These can be paired with Dornbracht finishes such as Chrome, Brushed Chrome, Platinum, Brushed Dark Platinum, and Brushed Durabrass (23kt Gold), allowing for unique customization. For instance, MEM faucets in Platinum finishes can be customized with mother-of-pearl handles, complemented by light wood, concrete, rippled glass, and terrazzo textures. Similarly, Brushed Dark Platinum faucets can be combined with textured blue mother-of-pearl handles, light mint tones, and patterned tiles. Glass Design, known for its expertise in glass and crystal production, introduces two minimalist artistic handle designs to the MEM collection. These hand-crafted handles, named “Glamorous Clivia” and “Glamorous ICE,” bring new shapes and colors to the collection through a harmonious blend of timeless design and traditional craftsmanship. “Glamorous Clivia” features intricate linear grooves that add brilliance and clarity to the washing area, while “Glamorous ICE” draws inspiration from ice pillars, with its glinting handles creating a distinctive bathroom ambiance. Additionally, Dornbracht has utilized artificial intelligence to create a visual world for its new lead bathroom architecture, _/imagine_. This AI-inspired setting showcases the MEM collection in the new Champagne (22kt Gold) finish within an architectural utopia, emphasizing the bathroom as a living space for self-care rituals. This visualization aims to enhance the experience of daily transitions, such as from night to day, by integrating seamlessly with a natural landscape. #BathroomDesign #CustomizableFittings #SustainableMaterials #CrystalGlass #Dornbracht #NatureSquared #GlassDesign #InteriorDesign #ArchitecturalInnovation

Glass blocks, a material popular in the 1980s and 1990s, are experiencing a significant resurgence in interior design, particularly in bathrooms. This trend is driven by their ability to diffuse natural light while maintaining privacy, a functional and aesthetic quality suitable for various architectural applications. The article highlights six contemporary uses of glass blocks in bathroom design, showcasing their versatility and ability to contribute to distinct aesthetic styles. One application is the use of glass blocks as shower screens. Vloom Designs' approach modernizes this retro material by creating functional shower screens. Brooke Fullick of Vloom Designs explains that glass blocks were chosen for their mid-century modern aesthetic and their ability to allow natural light to penetrate while ensuring privacy. The material also offers the benefit of creating captivating light and shadow effects and is less prone to showing dirt compared to traditional glass screens, making it a practical choice for shower enclosures or wet rooms. Another innovative use involves colored glass blocks to create specific atmospheric effects. Charlap Hyman & Herrero designed a small bathroom using orange-hued glass blocks to produce a warm, golden glow, mimicking sunrise or sunset. Principal architect Andre Herrero notes that the blocks allow natural light to deeply penetrate the narrow space while providing privacy. This demonstrates how tinted glass blocks can transform the mood of a room, creating an illusion of constant warm sunlight even on overcast days, offering a textural spin on color drenching. Glass blocks also serve to balance darker interior palettes. In a bathroom designed by Karolina Rochman, a glass block wall behind the vanity provides essential light, preventing an otherwise dark room with an inky black bathtub and wooden cladding from feeling claustrophobic. This strategic placement creates a luxuriously rich space by balancing light and dark elements. Karolina Rochman imported over 1,500 glass blocks for this project, utilizing them throughout the home to create continuity and a water-like visual effect. For a playful and sophisticated aesthetic, glass blocks can be incorporated into whimsical designs. Kristina Busco and Trone Paris combined glass blocks with bold patterns and colors, such as a painted ceiling, checkerboard floors, and striped walls. Romain Freychet, co-founder of Trone, emphasizes how glass blocks can introduce an avant-garde touch, creating immersive spaces that feel both futuristic and nostalgic. In this context, the glass blocks act as a calming element amidst the vibrant decor. Glass blocks are also effective in creating serene and spa-like environments. Floriana Interiors designed a spa bathroom using a full glass block wall in conjunction with natural stone and neutral tones. This setup ensures a brightly lit room that feels entirely private, thanks to the distorting properties of the glass blocks. Floriana Peterson highlights how this combination fosters a soothing ambiance and a peaceful retreat, merging comfort, functionality, and visual appeal. Finally, glass blocks can be integrated into bold, color-centric designs, as seen in another Trone Paris project. This design embraces a 'Barbie-core' aesthetic with bubblegum pink grouting, flooring, and sanitary ware. Romain Freychet points out that color plays a crucial role in these designs, where neutral tones offer a timeless feel, and bold tints create striking visual statements. In small spaces, glass blocks can contribute to a contemporary "tile drenching" effect, bringing personality and fun to the bathroom. The article concludes by suggesting that glass blocks offer an effective solution for refreshing bathrooms, particularly in small spaces, by introducing light, fun, and personality. #GlassBlock #BathroomDesign #InteriorTrends #ShowerScreens #ColoredGlassBlocks #Privacy #NaturalLight #RetroCharm #SpaBathroom #ModernBathroom

The art of glassblowing, once considered a craft material, has experienced a resurgence in the design world, captivating a broader audience and establishing itself as a significant frontier in contemporary design. This renewed interest is evident in various high-profile showcases, including Bradley Bowers’s large-scale Fiosa vase at Dolce & Gabbana’s Salone de Mobile exhibit, a new record-setting hand-blown glass bottle at the Museum of American Glass, and the popularity of the Netflix series "Blown Away." This growing fascination highlights a consumer demand for innovative and unique designs. Designers and artisans are pushing the boundaries of traditional glassblowing techniques, creating pieces that are both functional and artistic. This article features six such artists whose work exemplifies this innovative spirit. Ursula Futura, based in Vienna, crafts sculptural Eclipse Vases with elegant carved windows. These mouth-blown vases showcase an interplay of light and varied hues, drawing inspiration from nature, science, and moments of wonder. The studio aims to evoke joy and curiosity through its designs. Another featured collaboration brings together film producer Rebecca Marks and Venetian glass designer Paola Petrobelli, resulting in the Verdi II and Ambra Murano Portable lamps. These miniature, cordless, rechargeable, and water-resistant lamps come in seven colors and feature Murano glass with distinct gems at their core, providing a striking contrast against their colorful outer shades. These portable lights offer both practicality and aesthetic appeal. Seattle-based glass artist John Hogan presents his latest collection, "Menagerie," for the Future Perfect gallery. This collection comprises 105 palm-sized glass objects, emphasizing that impactful design doesn't always require large scale. Hogan's technique involves working with glass in its cold state, resulting in a vibrant and refreshing interpretation of the ancient art form. The Kaanch Glass Series Vessel I is a product of a collaboration between Guatemalan-based Diego Olivero Studio and artisans in New Delhi. The series, whose name "Kaanch" means "glass" in Hindi, includes 11 abstract, colorful vessels and lights. These pieces feature playful shapes welded onto clear borosilicate glass surfaces, known for its resistance to temperature changes, making them both durable and visually appealing. Sticky Glass, a Brooklyn-based design company, showcases its lighting collection, including Bubble Pendants and Mingling Lamps. Each piece is hand-blown, highlighting the fluid nature of glass through its bubble formations, and finished with a custom brass base for a modern touch. The company affectionately calls these "lights that hug," reflecting a current trend toward "blobby" and organic forms in design. Finally, designer Laura Kramer’s Marie vessel, displayed at the Heller Gallery, draws inspiration from natural scenes like barnacles on a boat hull. Her work aims to explore the "hybridity of made and natural materials," questioning traditional classifications and delving into liminal spaces between categories. These pieces exemplify how art can not only mimic nature but also enhance and reinterpret its perceived imperfections. Collectively, these artists demonstrate a commitment to innovation, artistry, and the continuous evolution of glass as a medium in the design world. Their works range from functional lamps to sculptural vases, all united by their exceptional craftsmanship and ability to transform molten glass into captivating objects that resonate with contemporary aesthetic sensibilities. #Glassblowing #HomeAccessories #ContemporaryDesign #ArtisanCraftsmanship #InteriorDecor #MuranoGlass #LightingDesign #SculpturalVases

Design trends, particularly in interiors, are cyclical, with styles continuously going in and out of fashion. What was once considered dated or uncool often experiences a revival, a phenomenon highlighted by design experts Kate Pearce of Kate Pearce Vintage and Krystal Reinhard of Old Soul Design Studio. They emphasize that pieces previously dismissed are now making a comeback, driven by a fresh approach to styling that blends old-world charm with modern aesthetics, prioritizing craftsmanship over fleeting trends. One significant item making a return is the skirted sofa and chair. These pieces have historical precedence, appearing in the early 19th century and during the Colonial Revival of the 1920s, and then again in the 1960s with velour fabrics. After a period dominated by furniture with exposed legs and sharp silhouettes, skirted designs are now perceived as soft, tailored, and sophisticated. To update their look, designers suggest pairing them with sculptural tables or streamlined lighting to avoid a "shabby chic" appearance. The choice of fabric is also crucial, with bold prints or vibrant color palettes recommended to modernize the furniture and balance its more traditional elements. Murano glass, which includes items like mirrors, chandeliers, and decorative dishes, is also experiencing a major resurgence. Once viewed as old-fashioned, it has become highly coveted in the secondhand market. This renewed popularity is attributed to a growing appreciation for quality and artisanship in an era of mass-produced decor. The intricate craftsmanship of Murano glassmakers appeals to consumers seeking unique and well-made items. Ceramic figurines, often relegated to the realm of kitsch, are another antique enjoying a comeback. Contemporary design embraces these figurines for the character and whimsy they can add to a space, moving away from generic decor towards more collectible, personality-filled pieces. To incorporate them effectively, designers recommend seeking out vintage figurines with distinctive glazes, handmade textures, and visible craftsmanship from charity shops or antique markets. Styling tips include grouping them in odd numbers or varying their scale for visual interest on shelves and mantels. Ornate gilt mirrors, reminiscent of the grandeur of Versailles, are also back in vogue after previously being dismissed as "gaudy." These mirrors are valued for introducing history and polish, particularly in rooms with minimalist or clean-lined aesthetics. When sourcing vintage gilt mirrors, the advice is to look for genuine or naturally aged gilding with warm tones and interesting crest details. They can be effectively placed above modern console tables or in smaller, unexpected spaces like a downstairs loo to create an effortless contrast. Finally, landscape art, once considered predictable or even dull, is experiencing a renewed appreciation. Historically, such pieces were abundant in charity shops and markets, often associated with a bygone era. However, the rise of "grandmacore" and "cottagecore" aesthetics has brought them back into the mainstream. This shift also reflects a move away from mass-produced wall art towards original paintings found in secondhand venues. Landscape art is now seen as offering a calming effect, evoking a simpler time and appealing to those looking for unique, artisanal decor. #AntiqueRevival #InteriorDesignTrends #HomeDecor #VintageFurniture #MuranoGlass #CeramicFigurines #GiltMirrors #LandscapeArt #SustainableDecor

The first week of 'The Block' 2025 introduced new contestants, controversial rules, and significant drama, culminating in the unveiling of the teams' first room—their bathrooms. Each team had a recommended budget of $20,000 for this critical space, with $10,000 awarded weekly to the most budget-conscious pair. The judges, consisting of Darren, Marty, and Shayna, evaluated each bathroom based on design, functionality, and adherence to the budget, offering detailed feedback and scores. Emma and Ben spent $22,552 on their bathroom, receiving positive comments for their balanced use of color and texture, which Shayna felt was inspired by Daylesford's beauty. Marty praised the layout and spaciousness. However, judges noted issues with the curved tiling's finer details, unnecessary shower screens, and vertical heated towel rails. Their total score was 24 points (Darren 8.5, Marty 7.5, Shayna 8). Han and Can's bathroom, costing $19,711, remained unfinished. All three judges gave them 6.5 points each, totaling 19.5, criticizing the high vanity, unsuitable for children's rooms, and the shower's framework. Marty also disliked the skylight's effect on room perception, and the judges universally felt the aesthetic did not match the home's exterior or Daylesford's regional appeal. While the curved vanity, textures, and bath received some commendation, the overall lack of completion and design misalignment were significant drawbacks. Britt and Taz invested $21,350 in their bathroom, achieving a score of 24 points with eights from each judge. Marty appreciated the space and bath but found the shower area too small and poorly positioned. Shayna liked the color palette and finishes but criticized the vanity's height, nickel finishes, and vertical towel rails. Darren, however, praised the wallpaper and timber elements, which he saw as connecting to the exterior. Sonny and Alicia emerged as the budget champions, spending the least at $14,739, and winning the $10,000 prize. They received the highest score of 25.5 points (Darren 9, Marty 8.5, Shayna 8). Darren particularly admired their color palette and the spaciousness achieved by omitting a shower screen. Despite positive feedback, Shayna pointed out the high vanity and basin, the vertical towel rails, and issues with tile placement. Marty believed their design resonated with Daylesford buyers, though minor tiling details prevented a perfect score. Robby and Mat spent the most at $25,394 but ultimately won the week with the highest score of 26.5 points (Marty 9, Darren 9, Shayna 8.5). Their bathroom was lauded by Darren as the "Goldilocks room," combining the best elements from other designs. They were the only team to feature a horizontal towel rack, and their vanity and basin were at the correct height. Marty considered it some of the best work he had seen, and Shayna appreciated the cohesive color palette and textured details. Darren noted their attention to detail in the tile line-up, contributing to their victory. #TheBlock #BathroomReveal #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #RealityTV #HomeDecor #Budgeting #DesignFeedback #DaylesfordStyle

Between the 1860s and 1910s, Venetian glass, particularly from the island of Murano, emerged as a highly coveted luxury item globally, captivating both American elites and artists. This period saw a significant cultural impact in the United States, with homes and institutions being adorned with these glass creations. Art critic James Jackson Jarves, for instance, accumulated approximately 300 pieces, which he later donated to the Metropolitan Museum of Art. American artists residing abroad not only depicted glass objects in their works but also captured the essence of the Venetian glassmaking industry, including glass blowers, bead stringers, and glowing furnaces, in their paintings, watercolors, and prints. Venice had a long-standing history of glass production dating back to the Middle Ages. However, its economic decline, loss of political autonomy, and high tariffs in the 18th and early 19th centuries led to a cessation of its 500-year-old glassmaking tradition. The city itself also fell into disrepair by the 1850s. The revival of Venetian glassmaking began when Antonio Salviati, a lawyer, observed the deteriorating mosaics of St. Mark’s Basilica. He established a mosaic and glassmaking manufacturing business, bringing together descendants of old glassmaking families who helped rediscover lost techniques from the Renaissance and ancient Rome. To expand his enterprise, Salviati opened a showroom in London, exhibited his works at international fairs, and distributed his glass through esteemed American retailers like Tiffany & Co. His workers, meanwhile, developed innovative techniques and styles that attracted numerous American collectors, tourists, and artists. The book, "Sargent, Whistler, and Venetian Glass: American Artists and the Magic of Murano," edited by Crawford Alexander Mann III and published by Princeton University Press, delves into this resurgence of Venetian glass and its influence on American concepts of taste, labor, and beauty during this critical era. This extensively illustrated book accompanies a traveling exhibition, which has been showcased at the Smithsonian American Art Museum in Washington, DC. Artists like James McNeill Whistler, who visited Venice in 1879, found the city and its glass intoxicating. His 1880 etching, "Nocturne: Furnace," illustrates a glassblower working at night, observed from a gondola. John Singer Sargent’s paintings depict young women engaged in labor within the city and factories, offering a realistic portrayal of the work involved in producing glass, lace, and other crafts. Other American artists like Ellen Day Hale focused on the electrification of glass street lights and lamps in Venice, while Louise Howland King Cox portrayed glass pieces as delicate elements of daily domestic life. Over time, Venetian glass profoundly influenced American glassmakers and consumers. Venice further solidified its artistic standing by establishing its biennale in 1895, where Murano glassworkers frequently held concurrent exhibitions of their creations. As the reputation of Venetian glass grew, its perceived value increasingly shifted towards fine art, as encapsulated by Oscar Wilde’s observation that a painting, in its primary aspect, possesses no more spiritual message than an exquisite fragment of Venetian glass. This historical account highlights the significant interplay between art, industry, and cultural exchange, demonstrating how Venetian glass transcended its functional purpose to become a symbol of beauty and artistic expression, deeply influencing American aesthetic sensibilities and artistic production during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The book and accompanying exhibition serve as a testament to the enduring allure and historical significance of Murano glass. #VenetianGlass #AmericanArt #MuranoGlass #ArtHistory #GlassMaking #LuxuryItems #CulturalExchange #ArtExhibitions #PrincetonUniversityPress

D’Lightus, founded by French duo Sandrine Farges and Jean Khelifi-Duprat, specializes in mid-century modern European designer lighting, decor, and jewelry. The company originated from their shared passion to bring beautiful, high-end European lighting to the United States. Sandrine and Jean moved from France to Los Angeles in 2000, bringing with them a curated selection of lighting pieces, which they initially sold to prominent mid-century and antique stores in Los Angeles and New York. Their unique offerings quickly attracted a celebrity clientele from the film and music industries, many of whom remain loyal customers today. While discreet about naming individuals, the company’s success led them to expand their physical presence, opening showrooms in New York, West Palm Beach, Houston, Dallas, and Boston. Currently, D’Lightus operates showrooms in Dallas and Boston, and has significantly broadened its reach through various online platforms, including dlightus.com, 1stdibs, Incollect, Decaso, and Pamono. This multi-channel approach allows them to serve a wide range of clients across major U.S. cities, including interior designers in San Francisco, New York, Chicago, and Palm Beach, in addition to their established markets. The Dallas showroom, in particular, has seen a growing clientele over the past few years. Sandrine and Jean are dedicated to continuously sourcing new and unique items, ensuring fresh inventory is added to their online stores weekly and shipped to their Dallas showroom monthly. All vintage lighting pieces are professionally rewired to meet U.S. standards, and worldwide shipping is available. D’Lightus plans to further expand its physical presence with a new showroom in Houston by the end of the next year. Previously, they maintained a popular double showroom within Antiques of River Oaks for five to six years until the store closed due to its owners' retirement. The company caters to both direct consumers and interior designers, offering special trade discounts. A core philosophy for D’Lightus is to maintain accessible pricing, as Sandrine emphasizes their desire for client satisfaction and happiness. The company’s primary focus since its inception has been on sourcing exceptional Murano glass pieces, particularly from the 1920s to the 1980s, a period they consider the most creative and sophisticated for lighting design. During visits to Murano, the founders discovered opportunities to acquire vintage stocks directly from factories, allowing them to consistently offer distinct and personality-filled glass and lighting fixtures. They value noble materials and sophisticated handwork, drawing endless inspiration from Murano glass while also appreciating marble, brass, and chrome. D’Lightus features lighting from renowned French and Italian designers such as Mazzega, Venini, Stilnovo, Barovier & Toso, Fontana Arte, La Murrina, Vistosi, Maison Bagues, and Maison Charles. In addition to lighting, their collection includes select Italian designer furniture from the 1960s, mirrors, vases, and other European decor items, alongside a unique line of contemporary Murano glass jewelry by artist Paola B. The founders prioritize timelessness in their selections, seeking pieces that can seamlessly integrate into various interior styles, from contemporary to neoclassical. Their selection criteria emphasize quality, excellent condition, authenticity, style, and a balance of simplicity and sophistication. Sandrine notes a prevailing trend in France, now emerging in the U.S., of mixing mid-century design with other styles. She finds this trend satisfying, believing that such stylistic integration creates the most beautiful and interesting interiors. When contemporary armchairs are paired with vintage mid-century Murano chandeliers, for example, each piece gains individuality and can be appreciated as a work of art, enhancing the overall value of the space. #EuropeanLighting #MidCenturyModern #MuranoGlass #InteriorDesign #DallasDesign #HomeDecor #LuxuryLighting #VintageLighting #DesignShowroom