Bowen Liu‘s Helle Coffee Table reinterprets contemporary brutalism through a minimalist lens, challenging the boundaries of glass design. Meticulously crafted from solid cast glass, this table is a testament to both technical prowess and artistic dedication. The creation process is nothing short of rigorous: the side table base undergoes a 12-day firing and annealing cycle in a precisely controlled kiln, while the tabletop endures an equally intricate 10-day process. The mold for casting the base weighs a formidable 200 pounds, underscoring the immense skill required to bring this vision to life. The Helle Coffee Table exudes a quiet elegance, its pyramid base instilling a sense of calm through its solid, architectural form.

Introduced in 2021, the Helle collection is a tribute to Liu’s sailing experiences in New York, offering a unique interpretation of the Hell Gate Bridge—a striking steel arch that spans a notoriously turbulent stretch of the East River. The collection extends beyond the coffee table to include bookends, a floor lamp, a mirror, and a side table, each crafted by master glass workers in Brooklyn. Every piece in the collection embodies a harmonious balance of solidity and translucency, creating a mesmerizing interplay of light and form.

Liu’s journey with glass began over a decade ago, influenced by the revered glass-making traditions of Murano, Italy, and Japan’s artisanal villages. This passion led her to the Rochester Institute of Technology, where she honed her skills in contemporary glass art. Her work, characterized by beveled edges and refined silhouettes, reflects her diverse cultural background and an appreciation for both Scandinavian and Eastern design principles.

Founded in New York City in 2017, Bowen Liu Studio epitomizes a distinctive approach to modern glass furniture. The Helle collection stands as a testament to Liu’s innovative spirit, offering a bold and architectural perspective on minimalist design.