INFO

Whenever we think of crystal chandeliers we tend to imagine hanging objects: Glass elements of many different styles that enable lights to sparkle. But making chandeliers is not about working with glass. Without metalworking expertise, even the most beautiful crystals are left hanging in a state of limbo. This is why companies such as Bakalowits, which has been manufacturing crystal chandeliers in Vienna for almost 180 years, are principally metalworkers – masters in the shaping of materials such as iron and brass. They buy all the glass parts from their partners in Murano or Austria.

For this project which was commissioned by the Vienna Design Week I was asked to collaborate with the traditional crafts manufacturer Bakalowits. Today Bakalowits is still a family business run in the 5th generation. Working on this project I wanted to correct an image: Rather than the crystal that invariably provides the focus, I wanted the usually secondary metal to play the main role. All the shapes are based on the bent metal profiles of the Maria-Theresia chandeliers.

01 shelf, 02 hook, 03 bowl , 04 vase, 05 stool, 06 trivet, 07 stool, 08 candle holder, 09 shelf, 10 bowl

Credits

Concept, Design & Art Direction: Anna Zimmermann; Manufacturing: Bakalowits; Commissioned by: Vienna Design Week Photography: Daniela Trost.