Murano Glass Trays - A design choice that goes beyond current trends

“One uses a glass mirror to see one’s face; one uses works of art to see one’s soul.” - George Bernard Shaw

In the world of interior design, Murano glass trays stand out as elements capable of fusing traditional craftsmanship with modernity. These works of art, originating from the historic Venetian island, have become a must-have for lovers of luxury furnishings and for those who want to add a touch of sophistication to the home.

The art of Murano glass dates back to the 13th century, when Venetian glassmakers were forced to move to the island for safety reasons due to frequent fires involving the furnaces. Since then, Murano has become synonymous with excellence in glassmaking, with techniques passed down from generation to generation. Murano glass trays are the result of centuries of perfecting this art. Each piece is unique, handcrafted with meticulous care and attention to detail.

Versatility is one of the main strengths of the trays selected by Murano Store. They fit perfectly into a wide range of interior styles, from classic to modern, from minimalist to eclectic and even ethnic-chic. In a minimalist interior, a colorful tray can act as a focal point, adding a touch of liveliness without compromising the clean lines. In a more sumptuous environment, however, it can be harmoniously integrated with other luxury elements, helping to create a sophisticated and refined atmosphere.

Particularly interesting is the use of Murano glass trays in ethno-chic furnishings. This style, which blends ethnic and tribal elements with a contemporary and refined aesthetic, finds a perfect complement in Murano trays. The bright shades and intricate patterns typical of many trays blend beautifully to recall or complement, for example, the shades of kilim rugs, embroidered cushions or tribal tapestries, allowing you to create spaces full of personality and charm, where different traditions harmoniously blend objects from different cultures, creating a fascinating dialogue between Italian craftsmanship and global influences.

Murano glass trays are not only beautiful to look at, they are also functional. They can be used to serve drinks and snacks, display decorative objects, or simply displayed as ornamental elements. Their smooth and shiny surface makes them easy to clean and maintain. In addition, the transparency of the glass allows the beauty of what is placed on the tray to be enhanced, creating plays of light and reflections that add depth and visual interest to the environment.

One of the most fascinating features of Murano glass trays is the wide range of colors and shapes available. The glass masters selected by Murano Store are renowned for their ability to range from bright and vibrant shades to delicate and subtle nuances. The shapes range from the more traditional and symmetrical to bold and contemporary designs, offering endless possibilities for customization.

Murano Glass Trays: How do the archistars combine them?

Numerous world-famous designers have incorporated Murano glass trays into their projects, including a note of great merit for style and elegance goes to Kelly Wearstler: the famous American designer is known for her eclectic and bold style capable of translating some of the most beautiful dream homes into reality. In his designs, he often incorporates Murano glass trays with sinuous shapes and bright colors, using them as focal elements in luxury living rooms and bedrooms. And how can we not mention Philippe Starck? The famous French designer has not only chosen the Venice Lagoon and the island of Burano as his home, but over the years he has collaborated with the best master glassmakers of Murano to create unique pieces that combine his minimalist style with the richness of Venetian glass. His Murano glass trays are often characterized by clean lines and neutral colors, perfect for contemporary interiors. But the list could grow by mentioning India Mahdavi, Martyn Lawrence Bullard, Patricia Urquiola, Peter Marino, Marcel Wanders to whom we will give more space in a dedicated article.

These designers have helped bring Murano glass under the spotlight of contemporary design and the most prestigious magazines in the sector, demonstrating how these handcrafted objects can be perfectly integrated into a wide range of styles and environments.

Looking for ideas for your interior design? Here are the suggestions of the experts at Murano Store.

The versatility of Murano glass trays makes them perfect for different styles of modern decor:

Minimal: In minimalist spaces, a colorful tray can serve as an accent piece, adding a touch of vibrancy without compromising the clean lines.

Industrial chic: Combined with raw materials such as metal and wood, glass trays create an interesting contrast of textures.

Modern Scandinavian: The pastel shades and simple shapes of some trays integrate perfectly with the contemporary Nordic aesthetic.

Contemporary eclectic: In environments that mix different styles, Murano trays can serve as a unifying element.

In addition to their intrinsic beauty, Murano glass trays offer functionality that fits the needs of contemporary lifestyle in your home or workplace decor:

Dynamic centerpiece: On a glass or metal dining table, a colorful tray creates a vibrant focal point.

Coffee table styling: On a minimalist coffee table, use different sized trays to create geometric compositions.

Tech-chic organizer: In a charging nook, a sleek tray can neatly hold cables and gadgets.

Modern bar cart: On a contemporary bar cart, a Murano glass tray adds a touch of luxury.

Minimalist night stand: As the sole accessory on a basic nightstand, it can hold jewelry and small items.

Floating centerpiece: In a modern dining room, you can suspend a shallow tray from the ceiling as a artistic installation.

Room divider: In an open space, use large trays on supports as semi-transparent dividers.

Indoor garden: As a base for small plants or terrariums in a green and modern corner.

Wall installation: Create a composition of trays of different shapes and colors on a white wall as a contemporary work of art.

Beauty station: In a modern bathroom, as an elegant organizer for cosmetic products.

To integrate perfectly into modern interiors, Murano Store suggests you opt for:

- Clean geometric shapes: perfect circles, elongated rectangles, precise squares

- Intense monochrome colors: cobalt blue, ruby ​​red, amethyst, emerald green Sophisticated neutral shades: smoky grey, milky white, deep black

- Contrast effects: bold combinations of complementary colours

The use of Murano glass trays in modern interior design offers a perfect balance between traditional craftsmanship and contemporary aesthetics. Their versatility, combined with the ability to add colour, texture and functionality to spaces, makes them essential elements for those who want to create sophisticated and unique environments. In an era in which originality and quality are increasingly appreciated, these objects represent a design choice that goes beyond the fashions of the moment, bringing a touch of Italian luxury to modern and international contexts. A particularly relevant aspect is the recyclability of glass. Unlike many other materials, glass can be recycled countless times without losing its properties, making Murano glass trays an eco-friendly as well as aesthetic choice.

The Magic of Light: A Bridge Between Design and Modern Spiritualism

Murano glass trays have the unique ability to interact with light, creating reflections, refractions and plays of color that transform their surroundings. This interaction can be seen as a bridge between contemporary interior design and more spiritual concepts. Many practitioners of modern shamanism and other spiritual practices use stones, crystals and glass objects for meditation and energetic healing. Murano glass trays, with their vibrant colors and unique shapes, can serve as focal points for these practices, creating an atmosphere of calm and contemplation. This interaction between Fire, Light and Spirit has not escaped the sensitivity of Murano Store, which offers you some styling ideas with a mystical touch: Personal altar: use the tray as a base for crystals, candles and significant objects. Luminous meditation: position the tray to capture natural light. Energy diffuser: Partially fill the tray with water and add flowers, scented oils or floating crystals. Luminous mandala: Arrange small colored objects, glass beads or our murrine on the tray to create a temporary mandala. New beginning ritual: Use the tray as a symbolic container for rituals of release or manifestation. Whether it is an elegant classic home or a contemporary loft design, Murano glass trays have the ability to elevate the space, combining tradition, innovation and a touch of magic, transforming living spaces into places of beauty, functionality and, for those who want it, spiritual connection. Their timeless elegance makes them a lasting investment for those looking to create sophisticated and unique environments by adding a touch of luxury, color and personality. They are timeless objects, meant to be admired and used for generations, carrying with them the magic and skill of the Murano glass masters. Incorporating these unique pieces into your living space is not just about furnishing, but telling a story, celebrating an ancient art and creating a tangible connection to one of the world's most prestigious artisanal traditions. Murano glass trays represent a perfect fusion of functionality, beauty and meaning, making them an excellent choice for those who love to create interior spaces that are at once sophisticated, personal and full of meaning. “Beyond the exotic or picturesque forms, it is imperative not to lose sight of the profound message of spiritual progress, of transformation of consciousness, that our civilization needs if it is to survive.” - Holger Kalweit