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Dutch design duo Studio Klarenbeek & Dros, whose Reorient: Arctic Collection featured a series of vases, decorative trays and candle holders made in 3D printed glass at Swarovski’s factory in Austria. Inspired by geographical surveys of shrinking arctic ice, the objects are designed to draw attention to the rapid reduction of the ice caps from 1980 to 2018 and signal the need for change for the sake of future generations.
Eschewing traditional crystal cutting, the designers are working closely with Swarovski’s innovation division to champion the possibilities of 3D printed crystal, using the material for the first time ever in Light Sapphire to emulate the Arctic’s waters. The objects – when viewed from above – represent the contour of the arctic icecaps as captured by satellites. The bottom of each object represents the first recording and the top shows the current stage. The horizontal layers are representing both ice layers and a timeline
Over the last two years, Swarovski’s technicians have developed 3D crystal capabilities to create more detailed structures not possible when cutting crystal in the conventional way. The home objects will work as building blocks, connecting together to create covetable table top objects that reflect the ever changing icecaps, and reaching new heights of fascination and form in a range that expresses unique interpretations of Swarovski’s signature sparkle.
