Andrew Joseph: What’s inspiring you in life (in the industry) right now?
Grace Denniston: I look for graceful curves and natural forms and materials as inspiration. Nature provides endless inspiration – it’s beautifully designed and can be very simple or incredibly complex, depending on where you look.
I also enjoy thinking about layering – whether that means combining multiple materials and/or textures or physically placing one layer on top of another. Layering is a great way to add depth and interest to a piece, and it’s fascinating to see how light plays with different textures and layer thicknesses.
This outdoor crystal collection uniquely combines art and functionality, featuring rare weatherproof light fixtures with water-resistant LED drivers and a special matte black finish to withstand both freshwater and saltwater conditions.
AJ: What are you most proud of?
GD: I’m incredibly proud of the Tablas Collection that I designed. It was one of the first designs I had ever created with Kalco Lighting as a new designer fresh out of school and it won the Better Homes & Gardens People’s Choice Award in the home decor category in 2021. I was only 23 when I won the award, so it was a major confidence boost and confirmed that I had chosen the right career path. Since then, my designs have gone on to win other awards as well, such as Arpione Esterno, which is part of Allegri Crystal’s collection of contemporary outdoor crystal wall sconces.
I was thinking about abstract art, sculptures, and glaciers when Arpione Esterno became a concept, which was the inspiration for the chiseled-like rock crystal spears within the frame. After I presented my first sketch, the whole team began working together to make the Esterno Cristallo collection a reality. We dove headfirst into researching the best weatherproofing/waterproofing methods and carried out extensive testing. Specifically, with Arpione Esterno, the biggest challenge was figuring out how to keep the angled crystal rods in place. Thankfully, all the hard work paid off, and the entire collection is absolutely eye-catching and continues to expand with different finishes, such as the new matte white.
The Vezzo Pendant showcases Bohemian-inspired layers with brushed champagne gold curved cast brass hardware, accentuated by decreasing sizes of clear Firenze octagon crystals and a canopy adorned with single crystal ornaments, seamlessly connecting eye level to ceiling.
AJ: What do you find yourself daydreaming about most these days?
GD: I find myself daydreaming about colored glass, painted finishes, and different fabrics, as well as the interaction of light and color.
I am also dreaming up interesting forms, shapes, and materials and imagining how I can apply them to my designs. From bent metal, custom crystals, or cast brass pieces, I’m thinking more about the unique shapes that I want to make, and then seeing which material and manufacturing method would work best.
AJ: What would you like to be remembered for?
GD: I’d like to be remembered as a thoughtful creative. I hope the fixtures I design bring warmth and beauty into people’s homes for many years to come. Good design is timeless, and I strive to create the best – from the smallest of details to the overall feel and presence of the fixture.
The Tablas Collection, drawing inspiration from classic rattan and wicker furniture, features warm, modern light fixtures handcrafted in the Philippines, emphasizing individual wraps and bindings to showcase the artisan’s master craftsmanship.
AJ: What’s a new hobby/skill that you have learned recently?
GD: I recently finished my first crochet project, thanks to a gift from a very sweet coworker. I’ve always been a knitter, and until I received a crochet kit, I couldn’t wrap my head around using one needle/hook instead of two. Thanks to my new hobby, I now have a little stuffed dinosaur and more confidence to explore new projects!
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