Crystal Calling

Designing with Luxury Fine Crystal

by Dena Roché

IF YOU’RE FAMILIAR WITH LUXURY BRANDS LIKE BACCARAT AND LALIQUE OR SIMPLY LOVE CRYSTAL, SEE WHAT THE FUTURE HOLDS.

In design, classics stand the test of time, even as living spaces modernize. Fine crystal may date to the 1500s, but its quality, craftsmanship and evolution have kept it relevant in 21st-Century design.

“Fine crystal carries a physical weight and visual presence that makes it dignified, special and alluring,” Yvette Craddock of Yvette Craddock Designs said. “Fine crystal can create a special signature through design that can serve as a conversation starter.”

Fine lead crystal has its roots in Europe, and, today, many of the top brands like Baccarat and Lalique are still headquartered where the art of craftsmanship is alive and well.

“At Baccarat, we are obsessed with perfection. The know-how of a glassblower, cutter, gilder or engraver is the result of an apprentice-like tradition of crystal fabrication, passed down from generation to generation,” Jim Shreve, President and CEO of Baccarat North America, said. Lalique was founded in Paris by René Lalique in the 19th Century. Originally focused on jewelry, Lalique became known for a unique style of crystal.

“Lalique’s signature is the contrast between our proprietary satin finish and clear, polished crystal,” Gwen Carlton, Head of Interiors and Special Projects at Lalique, said. “René Lalique personally developed the technique to enable him to ‘sculpt with light.’ It provides beautiful depth and a lovely tactile quality not found in other crystal.”

Photo Courtesy of Lalique

Pursuing a modern approach, Lalique is also partnering with new artists. “Lalique pushes the boundaries of its artisans through collaborations with renowned contemporary artists creating limited-edition designs with icons like Damien Hirst, Yves Klein, Anish Kapoor, Zaha Hadid and Elton John,” Carlton said.