Kiko Lopez, Kuba, Pair of Contemporary Wall Sconces, Steel Glass, France, 2023

When it comes to design, glass artist Kiko Lopez doesn't believe in holding back. Equal parts artist and competent craftsman, Lopez creates sumptuous furniture and decor using luxe materials and innovative techniques. He is best known for his lavish and generously proportioned decorative wall mirrors, but he also makes glass wall sculptures and lighting fixtures such as table lamps.

Lopez was born in Rio Piedras, Puerto Rico, in 1962, but he grew up in Miami, Florida. As a child, he learned to work with ceramics. In his teenage years, studying under sculptor Barry Massin, he also mastered materials like wood, acrylic and steel. Lopez then studied architecture at the University of Miami and even won the school's Best Designer award in his first year. 

When he completed his studies, Lopez met his now-wife, Ebba Langenskiöld Lopez, and moved with her to France in 1990. The two settled in a village called Bonnieux and opened an architectural studio that specialized in restoring old country houses.

Lopez subsequently apprenticed with local retired French artisans, who initially didn’t think he was serious about broadening his skills. From these masters, he learned a technique called verre églomisé, which involves applying gold and silver leaf over engraved glass. López opened his own atelier in the commune of Beaumettes, where he began receiving commissions for glass furniture, objects and architectural elements like doors, chandeliers and glass walls. 

While the great respect he has for tradition is prominent in his work, Lopez's designs also have a modern appeal. His use of glass allows him to play with light and imbue each piece with a luminous quality.

Lopez has secured commissions from Musée de l'Homme, the Compagnie des Cristalleries de Saint Louis and the Westfield Les 4 Temps shopping center in Paris's La Défense suburb. His pieces are regularly sought by well-known interior designers like Alexandra Champalimaud, Damien Langlois-Meurinne and Brad Ford. The first solo presentation of Lopez’s work took place in 2022 at Maison Gerard in New York City.

On 1stDibs, find Kiko Lopez mirrors, wall decorations and lighting.