Siren Glasses: Handcrafted Seashell-Inspired Art for Entertainers
Handcrafted locally from foraged seashells, the Siren glasses by Bare Home decor have the uber cool kids (including us) scrambling for a set
At a recent event, I was drawn to a small crowd gathered at the far end of the store in Long Street, Cape Town. Peeking over the shoulders of fellow gawkers, I spotted them, the perfect accoutrement to every entertainer's portfolio — the Siren glasses.
Inspired by the timeless elegance of seashells, and designed by ceramicist Michele Koch of Bare Home Decor, these glasses blend functionality and artistry in a strikingly modern way. The range, which includes napkin rings, is deeply rooted in the essence of the South African coast and its history. Michele drew inspiration from Nassarius sea snail shells, which were originally used to craft beads in the region nearly 100 000 years ago. This connection to ancestral artistry is woven throughout each creation, bringing shells into contemporary settings while honouring their legacy in art and decor.
The concept for the collection came to life during a period in New York, where Michele was captivated by the work of dinnerware artist Izabel Lam, specifically a set of hand-forged brass flatware. Upon her return to South Africa, Michele realised the challenge of finding glassware that would complement the flatware's aesthetic. Inspiration struck when a large Nautilus shell caught her eye. After weeks of trial and error, the result was the Siren glass — a beautiful yet functional piece of art, combining the elegance of seashells with the practicality of glassware.
Each shell in the collection is meticulously handpicked, sterilised and crafted into a unique, durable item. The glass stems of the champagne coupes are created by the renowned glassmakers Royal Leerdam, ensuring both longevity and beauty.
Find the Siren collection at Merchants on Long in Cape Town or via @bare.home.decor.
Text by Catherine Mo