Fine crystalware doesn’t need to be just for Christmas – it should be an everyday luxury in our lives, says Joanna Gurasu. It also needs to be a classic that turns into a family heirloom
When and why did you set up Gurasu Crystal?
I set up Gurasu in January 2013, with the aim to produce beautiful and timeless objects that would enrich our everyday lives, not just on special occasions like Christmas. The problem I realised was that for the past decade crystalware had been considered as an object too luxurious and traditional to meet the expectations of modern life, which meant that a number of factories in the UK, Holland and France struggled and closed down. I decided to form a company that could create a demand for this timeless product and give work to the artisan craftsmen who create it.
What is it about your crystals that people love?
They are sophisticated and elegant but also functional and modern. My customers like enjoying little everyday luxuries.
What are your bestselling pieces?
Birds of Paradise and Pineapple are the collections that sell very well. It’s not a surprise to me as their rich multicolours suit many interiors. Also, they are so different from any other fine glassware available on the high street.
Do you have a favourite piece?
My favourites are the martini glasses. They are significant in size and have a real “wow” effect. They are a bit sexy, too. You can serve stunning cocktails as well as simple desserts.
Fashion, blogs and the V&A often inspire me
What is your design process and your main inspirations?
Creativity and ideas come from making interesting and unexpected connections at trade shows, exhibitions and networking talks with amazing people, but ideas also come from everything that I have experienced and learnt in life. Fashion, blogs and my favourite exhibitions at the V&A can often have an impact on the creative process. I like showing things we’ve all seen before in a fresh or unusual way.
The design process is less spontaneous. Once the vision for the new project is established, I create a wall of inspiration, which acts as an ever-changing tool throughout the project. Sketches become scale models which then grow into full-size mock-ups. I love this process because it allows me travel to factories and experiment on various solutions with the best craftsmen. Also, it allows me to see how the piece develops and make any final changes.
What’s your favourite part of the process?
The first sketch! From that point the idea can only improve and the joy of modelling and refining begins.
What makes a design classic?
Technically, a design classic must tick three boxes: it must be original, it must delight the eye of the user, and, crucially, it must be fit for purpose. Practically, it must be timeless. You can pass a piece to your children and grandchildren and they will still love it and keep in their home in years to come.
For more information on Gurasu
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