WonderGlass is an Italian brand that produces hand-blown glass lighting and decorative objects with an artistic flair. They combine ancient Venetian skills with a modern approach to design. Their aim is to evoke emotions and beautify interiors rather than just illuminate them.
History of the Brand
WonderGlass was founded in 2013 as a family business under the management of Maurizio and Christian Mussati. They were inspired by Murano’s centuries-old glassmaking tradition and decided to combine it with today’s design scene. Their first public appearance was at the Salone del Mobile in Milan, which immediately brought them the attention of the design community.
By collaborating with renowned designers, the brand has steadily expanded its creative reach. People like Marcel Wanders, Nendo, India Mahdavi and even the late Zaha Hadid contributed to the success with their collections. Through this collaboration, WonderGlass became an international reference for imaginative glass lighting. They also founded Made In WonderGlass, a collective of experienced glassblowers, design studios and research teams. This group focuses on new ways of shaping, casting and fusing glass without throwing tradition overboard.
WonderGlass relies on the Venetian art of glassblowing and lets top-class designers bend the rules. Their motto could be described as “innovation through tradition”, as they do not see classic craftsmanship as an outdated concept. Rather, they see these skills as an evolving art that can merge with futuristic shapes and ideas.
Products and Services
Bespoke Commissions
Tailor-made orders characterize WonderGlass. They create solid glass installations and bespoke chandeliers for hotels, private homes or public spaces. Each project is given special attention from start to finish. Customers can choose shapes, colors and even unusual attachments. WonderGlass gathers experienced glassblowers, lighting experts and structural engineers to ensure that everything works harmoniously.
Customized designs often require collaboration between the brand and interior designers or architects who have specific concepts in mind. Let’s say a luxury boutique wants a flowing sculpture that wraps around a staircase — WonderGlass helps bring that idea to life by shaping glass in ways that may seem impossible. They enjoy tackling complicated requests.
Collection Pieces
In addition to custom-made pieces, the company also offers a range of lighting fixtures and decorative objects. Examples of these products include:
- Luma, a chandelier designed by the late Zaha Hadid’s team, is made of tubular glass components that taper and expand to create a layered, organic shape reminiscent of a giant glass flower.
- Calliope, a design by Marcel Wanders, has playful, flowing elements that allude to classic decorative styles but still look fresh.
- Hollow by Dan Yeffet is a minimalist column made of glass that has been carefully blown and polished into shape. It shines in a subtle way while also being a sculptural piece.
- Melt by Nendo, which incorporates gravity into the process by placing hot glass plates over steel rods to create surprising shapes.
Limited Editions
WonderGlass also produces limited edition “art design” pieces. These are small series of experimental objects that blur the boundary between sculpture and functional decor. One example is the Minosse glass chair, in which clear glass blocks merge to form a seat. Another is a playful table lamp in which glass parts are contrasted with wood or metal to create a patchwork effect.
These editions allow WonderGlass to test new melting or casting methods and collaborate with artists who are not necessarily typical industrial designers. Collectors and gallery owners are often after these pieces because they have added artistic value.
Quality and Reputation
Materials and Craftsmanship
WonderGlass uses Murano glass of the highest quality for almost all its articles. Experienced craftsmen shape it in specialized workshops, every step is done by hand. For some designs, it is also cast in heavy molds and different colors are fused into a single piece.
The company has a ‘slow design’ mentality, which means they don’t release a new collection every other month. They invest time in prototypes and testing. Some designs take more than a year to reach their final form, so they set high standards for themselves and their customers. They polish and check each object by hand to make sure there are no cracks or bubbles to ruin the effect. The tolerances can be very tight, but it is still an artisanal process, so small quirks or differences in thickness emphasize the human touch.
Safety and Endurance
Lighting fixtures must comply with electrical standards in various markets. WonderGlass uses certified parts to meet CE marking in Europe and UL standards in North America. They also focus on heat management — although glass is inherently heat resistant, they don’t want places that get dangerously hot. The brand recommends professional installation for their larger chandeliers. Some are very heavy and require reinforced ceiling brackets or special stands.
Industry Recognition
Although it is a relatively young brand, WonderGlass has already received a lot of praise from design fairs and magazines. They are represented at Milan Design Week, Maison&Objet in Paris and other high-profile events. Critics describe their exhibits as “unforgettable” and praise them for their combination of art and technical know-how. The brand works with some of the biggest names in design, which adds to its credibility.
They have gained attention for their approach to fusing ancient craftsmanship with modern esthetics. They have not broken with the whole Venetian tradition, they have updated it. This ethos has earned them a reputation as one of the best references for designer lighting. Their name appears in major design publications dealing with innovative furniture, lighting or decorative art.
Reviews Overview
Let’s collect recurring themes that are mentioned online and in design magazines:
- Beauty and effect. Reviewers often say that WonderGlass lights look like glowing sculptures. Homeowners mention that each piece is an eye-catcher that guests can’t miss. Designers praise the use of color and the subtle reflections that glass can create in a room.
- Craftsmanship. They talk about the perfect polish, the even thickness and the special shine that only Murano glass radiates. They refer to small handmade details that show the signature of the artisan.
- Exclusive price range. The high price is mentioned in many reviews. Few complain that it is “too expensive” because they did not expect it, but they point out that these items are not exactly inexpensive. Some say it’s more like buying functional art than a practical lamp.
- Waiting times. Users repeatedly note that WonderGlass cannot deliver within a week or two. Waiting times can be up to two or three months (and sometimes more for large, customized pieces). Customers accept this, but mention it as a factor.
- Concerns about fragility. Some worry about shipping these large, fragile items. A couple of unhappy customers had a broken piece and then had to wait for a replacement. They said WonderGlass was courteous, but took time to remake the parts.
- Maintenance and cleaning. Owners mentioned the dust buildup on complex chandeliers. They get used to either getting on a stepladder or hiring a cleaning service. It’s all part of life with a handmade glass chandelier that has multiple dangling or curved elements.
Overall, negativity is rare. The brand attracts a niche audience that appreciates craftsmanship and is willing to accept certain inconveniences. Most compliments revolve around the magical quality of the glass and the care with which each piece is made.
General Impressions
WonderGlass feels like a brand that lives and breathes glass art. They take an artisanal approach and never strive for mass production. This approach promotes first-class craftsmanship and drives up costs and waiting times. It also preserves the exclusive feel that fans appreciate.
They mix old-school know-how — such as glassblowing, which dates back to Venetian masters — with experimentation. By collaborating with renowned designers, the brand goes beyond standard shapes. They are comfortable with wild esthetics and complicated concepts. This willingness to take risks pays off in visually impressive luminaires that combine function and sculpture.
I find it admirable how they stick to their concept of combining “fairytale ideas” with real furniture and architectural projects. They transform big dreams (like swirling glass chandeliers or huge glass partitions) into tangible objects. In my opinion, the brand is firmly in the luxury segment, so not for people looking for quick, cheap furnishings. But if you have a serious design budget, you get an emotional payoff that a mass brand can’t offer.
If I had to point out a weakness, it would be the logistical side. Large items can be difficult to ship, and glass is fragile. This can lead to headaches if the shipping company isn’t careful. Still, the brand tries to mitigate this issue by using specialty boxes, recommended carriers or “white-glove” services. The rest is simply the nature of buying glass art.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Authentic handmade quality
Experienced Venetian artisans blow, cast and melt each piece. This level of craftsmanship gives each piece soul and uniqueness. - Original, artistic designs
These are not just lighting fixtures. They function as statement pieces and mini-sculptures. - Collaboration with renowned designers
Partnerships with the likes of Marcel Wanders and Nendo result in fresh, boundary-pushing objects. - High quality materials
Murano glass has a special shine and clarity, and the brand invests in high-quality metal and fittings. - Tailor-made solutions
They make bespoke chandeliers or architectural glass installations if someone wants a unique piece.
Cons
- High price
This is not a brand for bargain hunters. The pieces often cost thousands of dollars, sometimes tens of thousands. - Long lead times
Production can take weeks or months, especially for large projects. Impatient buyers may struggle with this. - Fragile shipping
Large glass chandeliers are not easy to transport. Either hire a specialist service or risk damage. - Maintenance effort
Dust accumulates on glass surfaces, so cleaning is more frequent and more difficult than with conventional lights. - Limited focus
WonderGlass mainly produces sculptural lighting and some art objects. If you want basic functionality at a modest price, you should look elsewhere.
Final Verdict
WonderGlass is aimed at people who appreciate design as art and are looking for pieces that illuminate more than just a room. These products are suitable for collectors, luxury interiors, design-oriented restaurants and anyone who craves the dramatic effect of handmade glass. You’re paying for craftsmanship, customization and the heritage of the brand. If that appeals to you, it’s worth the investment. If you prefer something practical and quick, it’s not for you.
I see WonderGlass as an ideal choice for design enthusiasts who love detail, tradition and a touch of magic in their homes or commercial spaces. Their pieces are eye-catching and a conversation starter. The brand isn’t about utility, it’s about turning glass into a luminous art form and giving you something you don’t see every day.
Nick Oscar
