Botanicus Reef Emerald (G) Art Glass

AKDO is proud to announce our latest collection, Botanicus, an art glass collection designed with renowned mosaic artist Allison Eden. With over 25 years of experience, Eden is a groundbreaking artisan whose art glass and mirror projects can be found around the globe. Eden’s experience in designing and executing hand-cut mosaics is what makes Botanicus a work of art.

We had the pleasure of connecting with Allison Eden, the founder of Allison Eden Studios, to discuss the new Botanicus collection exclusive to AKDO. We explored her inspiration behind designing the collection, how she developed her craft, and her love of tile. Her passion for the trade illuminated the conversation and brought us into the art of crafting beautiful mosaics.

About Allison Eden Studios

Allison Eden Studios is a contemporary art glass house specializing in hand-made mosaic art, custom glass tile, wallpaper, and fabrics. The tiles are designed and handcrafted in NYC by skilled artists. Allison Eden’s designs are featured worldwide in hospitality, gaming, bars, restaurants, and high-end residential spaces. Every installation from Allison Eden Studios is a captivating work of art. 

Botanicus Bloom Sapphire (G) Art Glass

How did you get started working with art glass?

I attended the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York City, where I fell in love with crafting patterns in fabric. One day when I was walking by a store in the city, I saw glass mosaics and was inspired to create the patterns I love with tile instead of fabric. That one walk through the city led to my calling and genuine passion for creating art glass mosaics.

Has being an artist in New York City influenced your work?

Working in New York City, I’ve never taken no for an answer, and I’ve always said yes to a challenge, which has led to incredible learning experiences and figuring out how to do things I would never have explored otherwise. I think this is the place to come if you want to be the titan of your industry.

Botanicus Bloom Multi (G) Art Glass

What inspired you in the creation of Botanicus?

The Botanicus collection is inspired by the beauty of the earth, oceans, and our world. The most beautiful things in the world come from or are found in nature. So I wanted to create a collection to inspire people to reconnect with nature and appreciate its beauty. Our earth is an incredible place where we are given many gifts from mother nature — we need to care for, respect, and cultivate those gifts. I hope that when this collection is featured, it will remind anyone who sees it of the beauty of nature and inspire them to preserve it. 

Why did you pick art glass as a medium for your new collection?

I’ve been using art glass for 30 years, so I wanted to stick with my favorite medium for this collection. I’ve learned everything about how art glass works, how it’s made, and the best way to create a beautiful result with art glass. I love the vibrancy of the colors you can create with art glass, so it made sense to use a medium I love and use for this collection.

Botanicus Leaf Emerald (G) Art Glass

Where do you envision Botanicus being used?

The versatility of the designs could go in so many spaces; I see this collection everywhere. I always say if you love nature, you want to be in it as much as possible, and what is a better way than to bring it into design? I can picture this collection in hotels, casinos, seaside homes, and more. There is something for everyone, from the mountains to the seaside, so I can see these ending up in many different spaces.

I know it’s hard to pick favorites, but do you have a favorite SKU in this line?

I can’t pick a favorite. I see something different that I love in each one. It might change daily, but I don’t have a favorite today — I love them all. I wouldn’t have included them in the collection if I didn’t genuinely love them all! 

Botanicus Leaf Angelite (G) Art Glass

What inspired you to create this collection exclusively with AKDO?

After working in the industry for over 25 years, I’ve grown familiar with all tile brands. I’ve always loved the AKDO brand and their incredible team. I needed this collection to shine, and I wanted to create this collection for a company that would appreciate and help cultivate the collection — I knew that was AKDO. I thought that Botanicus would be the perfect way to feature something different from what AKDO traditionally creates. It was an opportunity to take on a new challenge. 

Do you have any other projects you’d like to share with us?

I’m typically working on 15-20 different projects at a time. I’m currently in the designing phase with many projects I’m working on, including a custom installation in a casino.

Botanicus Reef Pastel Multi (G) Art Glass

Allison Eden has extensive experience designing glass mosaics for residential and commercial spaces. Whether it’s a touch of a floral backsplash or an entire room of corals, the mosaics bring a burst of joy and happiness to any space. Embrace the beauty of nature with the Botanicus collection. Find out more about the product range here!