Creative Mind: Andreea Avram Rusu

The Romanian-born architect and designer’s lighting designs have become a staple on the design-fair circuit

A woman stands behind modern pendant lamps with a neutral expression and a light background.
The designer with her Link pendants. Photo: TIMOTHEE SPITZER

The best ideas take time—just ask Andreea Avram Rusu, who has spent the past decade shepherding her floral-inspired lighting creations from concept to fruition. “Botanica started with a single abstracted leaf in glass and grew into a surreal composition of multiple plants and flowers,” says the Romanian-born architect and designer, who founded Avram Rusu Studio in Brooklyn in 2004. Resembling giant banana blossoms rendered in milky pastel hues, the sensual pieces have become highlights on the design-fair circuit, thanks to Wexler Gallery, which mounted an exhibition of them last summer at its New York location. 

Artistic pendant light with colorful glass petals hanging on green cord against white background.
Botanica Chandelier. Photo: PETER KUBILUS
Abstract spherical sculpture with various colorful discs and metal rods, creating a dynamic and intricate design.
Confetti Glass Chandelier. Photo: PETER KUBILUS

Other bold designs by Rusu include striking Sputnik fixtures embellished with colorful glass disks as well as Continuum, a series of bent-metal chandeliers and sconces that channel frenetic graffiti art. This year, look for new additions to existing collections, plus some exciting debuts. “I’m pushing the forms further,” she says, “and exploring porcelain for both lighting and accessories.”

Modern glass pendant lights in floral shapes with green and purple hues hanging in front of abstract gray wall art.
Botanica Bloom anf Botanica Chandelier. Photo: Courtesy of the artist
Contemporary multi-colored pendant lights with geometric design and brass fittings, suspended against a white background.
Andreea Avram Rusu’s Continuum chandelier. Photo: PETER KUBILUS

A version of this article first appeared in print in our 2023 Spring Issue under the headline “Creative Minds.” Subscribe to the magazine.