Client: Din Tai Fung

Overview

BUBBLE is a custom commissioned hand blown glass chandelier made of blown glass globes 16″ – 24″ diameter each. This creates a cluster bubble effect with the final installation, measuring 35' long x 7' wide x 8' long. Amber glass, soda glass and mirror coating add to the level of light reflection and dynamic dimension.

Goals

The goal of this work was to become the jewel in the crown of the Din Tai Fung franchise of Dim Sum using an Asian design with a modern twist. The large scale of these glassworks could not be accomplished in most parts of the world. Julie's specialty of lighting design and glass making in the renowned Seattle glass community brought this project to reality.

Process

Julie not only blew all the glass globes with her hotshop team, but additionally she coordinated 16 glass makers and cold workers to assist with the large scale of the project. The interior designer and client had clear concepts, but the realization of the project came with the hands-on production each step along the way. Julie worked onsite, placing each globe in an integrated pattern with her signature style. She used her integrated design of metal unistrut to suspend several hundred pounds of glass with the illusion of light and airy bubbles, making for a grand scale chandelier to become the focus of the famous dim sum restaurant.

Additional Information

Din Tai Fung is famous for its dumplings. Get there early and put your name on the list, as the restaurant is always full. Julie and her team installed this monumental piece over 3 overnight installation stages, never closing the restaurant.