The development of modern architecture has seen a rise in the demand for glass solutions. Glass is now considered a major construction solution, as opposed to being just a practical material for doors and windows.
The last decade has seen industry-leading architects and designers increasingly use glass in their iconic buildings. With this increase in our built environment, it’s no surprise that we see this becoming an even more popular choice of material for residential settings – both internally and externally.
Glass Solutions & Trends
We see many interior design trends come and go, but indoor-outdoor living doesn’t appear to be going anywhere anytime soon. This concept focuses on merging your indoor and outdoor spaces for both aesthetic and practical reasons – glass works magnificently in designing for this trend.
A common go-to solution for indoor-outdoor living is bi-fold doors, with them opening out into a garden/outdoor space. Yes, this works and is highly effective but there is so much more that can be creatively done with the use of glass, even with limited space.
Balconies, balustrades and staircases can create the illusion of a larger space through increased light exposure and extending the line of sight using glass.
Balconies and terraces are becoming common features in our homes, whether they are extensions to an existing build or part of the specification for a new build. We live in a world that yearns for space and if we cannot access it at ground-level, we add it above. Naturally, balconies have become a must-have in our cities, utilising the limited space available for residential dwellings. Subsequently, it’s uncommon to see a tower block without each apartment having balcony access. Where a full walk-on balcony is not practical, a Juliette balcony can be used as an attractive and effective way to create that indoor-outdoor feeling. Glass is a sleek and stylish finish and now a go-to solution for balconies, not only looking great but also allowing for unobstructed views.
Terraces and patios use glass as the material of choice for the balustrade as it opens-up spaces and allows for clear, uninterrupted views. Whether out onto your garden space or looking toward surrounding skylines and horizons, blending your exterior with your interior is a great solution.
When it comes to staircases, the balustrade is the most important consideration. Your balustrade will act as a safety component as well as a design feature in your home. Interior designers and homeowners create elements of individuality in properties by carefully considering their staircase designs. Glass staircases are used for a look of luxury and sophistication whilst also allowing light to spread throughout the house. If you have a staircase in a location that does not allow for natural light to flow, glass is particularly useful in reflecting artificial light into surrounding areas, creating the illusion of a vast space.
Glass is not just to be considered for your building, it can also add luxury, light, and features to your outdoor spaces. Recently, it has been used to accent gardens and parks. With technology advancements and increases in the safety of glass, it can be used more often and for less common purposes such as glass partitions, exterior glass tables, water features, sculpture and even glass fencing!
When considering your projects here are some added value benefits of glass.
Customisation – Glass can be made to measure, it comes with many different finishes, colour options and can be used as a multi-material solution alongside metals, woods and masonry.
Practicality – Glass can absorb, refract, or transmit light. Transparent solutions can add ‘space’ and light to your projects. It is not affected by the atmosphere and is resistant to exposure from chemicals, heat and moisture. It can also be cleaned easily, allowing for an even longer lifespan.
Sustainability – Glass contributes to the sustainability of your project. Illuminating the building during the day, with natural light, will save money on the cost of energy use. The material is also 100% recyclable and can be re-used at the end of life.
Costs – Glass is considered a luxury product due to its sleek finish. It is thought of as the more expensive solution than architectural metal works, however, this is not the case. Glass can provide a solution for projects on a budget also!
For any project queries, advice or services contact us at ISWUK and we will be happy to help you.
www.iswuk.com
Tel: 03330 067813
Email: info@iswuk.com
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