Nadja Swarovski with Greg Lynn.
We caught up with Nadja Swarovski under the changing light of Greg Lynn’s Crystal Palace design about the designer selection process and pushing boundaries using crystals.
WHITEWALL: What is the selection process for the Swarovski Crystal Palace and how did you choose Greg Lynn for this year at Design Miami/?
NADJA SWAROVSKI: We have designers on our mind and Greg is someone who has always been on our radar. The time came for us to attack, get this done and we really appreciate what he’s done with his design and architecture and the result is amazing because it’s combining his passion for sailing and his passion and profession of designing.
WW: When you first saw his proposal for the installation what were your thoughts?
NS: It was very surprising and this project in particular is always about pushing boundaries doing things that are different and unexpected, seeing how crystals can enter a different field. This is certainly a different field for us and it’s great and such an honor for Swarovski to work with visionaries.
WW: When Swarovski Crystal Palace first began, did you have any idea of how far designers and architects could take the crystal material?
NS: No, not at all and certainly the designs were a complete surprise. I think it created this dynamic where the designers started to compete with each other and try to outdo each other with a better idea and that’s just amazing.
WW: Where do the installations go afterwards?
NS: We figure out different ways to exhibit them, whether it’s in the Middle East, Europe, Asia, or they go in storage or to whoever buys them.
WW: During this week, aside from all of this, what do you look forward to?
NS: I look around to see what direction design is moving into and meet designers that we could potentially work with in the future. I also like to juxtapose this fair to the art fair to catch the different vibes there. It’s a really wonderful opportunity to catch up with so many people we don’t get to catch up with.
The design process is so intricate, thoughtful, and has such a positive vibe. I really appreciate the creative process that you have with art and design and I feel very comfortable in that environment.
