Alabama Maker’s stained-glass art colors home and heaven

Once primarily associated with religious institutions or antique lamps, stained glass is experiencing a modern resurgence as a distinctive element in home design. This traditional art form is being reimagined beyond its conventional applications, offering homeowners unique ways to incorporate color and visual interest into their living spaces. The renewed interest in stained glass is evidenced by a significant increase in online searches, with platforms like Etsy reporting a 69 percent rise in relevant searches over the past six months, highlighting a growing trend in contemporary interior design. Modern applications of stained glass are diverse, ranging from subtle accents to prominent architectural features. Instead of being confined to small suncatchers, designers are now integrating stained glass into full-sized doors and windows, transforming them into vibrant focal points. This allows for a creative blend of art and functionality, providing both aesthetic appeal and an element of privacy, especially for street-facing windows. The abstract patterns and subtle color compositions found in contemporary stained glass art depart from the elaborate, traditional designs, offering a fresh aesthetic that appeals to a modern sensibility. Several approaches cater to different levels of commitment and budget. For those with an affinity for abstract art, incorporating stained glass panels with subtle colors into windows can enhance curb appeal and add a unique artistic touch to a home's exterior. Alternatively, a stained glass accent wall can replace traditional paint, creating a striking visual impact, particularly in areas like entryways or dining rooms, where the interplay of light and color can transform the ambiance of a space. This method provides an artistic backdrop without the need for traditional wall coverings. For individuals hesitant about permanent installations, smaller, impactful applications are possible. For instance, customized glass rondels integrated into front doors offer a charming and understated way to introduce stained glass. Budget-conscious decorators can explore DIY options, such as creating faux stained glass panels for windows using glass paint, allowing for creative color combinations and gradients without significant expense or professional installation. These DIY projects enable personalization and a hands-on approach to home decoration. Furthermore, sourcing vintage or antique stained glass sheets from flea markets or stores presents an opportunity to incorporate a piece of history into a modern home. These found pieces can be secured in windows with minimal construction, providing an effortless way to add character. For those seeking to make a bold statement, entire sets of French doors can be transformed into expansive stained glass mosaics. This dramatic use of stained glass can invigorate a space, such as a galley kitchen, especially when complemented by elements like butcher block counters and rustic lighting, creating an immersive and colorful environment that feels both historic and contemporary. #StainedGlass #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #ArtInstallation #DesignTrends #DIYHomeDecor #ArchitecturalFeatures #ModernDesign

Designer Annie Kern undertook the renovation of a 1913 Kansas City, Missouri, home, focusing on preserving its unique character while updating its interior to be more approachable and comfortable. The house, built by a Frank Lloyd Wright protégé, features distinctive stained-glass windows, reportedly custom-made by Indiana’s Kokomo Opalescent Glass Co. These windows, with their jewel tones, amethysts, ochres, and aubergines, served as the primary inspiration for the home's new color palette, guiding the selection of fabrics, wall coverings, and decorative elements throughout the expansive 14,000-square-foot residence. The design aimed to replace the previous owner's opulent and glitzy décor, which included silk damask walls and peachy colors, with a more inviting aesthetic. A significant challenge in redecorating the six-bedroom home was its sheer volume and the acoustic issues posed by its reinforced concrete construction and shot-sawn limestone cladding. To counteract the echo and create a warmer, more intimate atmosphere, Kern incorporated upholstered walls backed with batting. These wall coverings, featuring diverse patterns such as Mulberry Home’s plaid Braemar in the billiard room and a sunshine yellow gingham in the playroom, were chosen not only for their aesthetic appeal but also for their ability to absorb sound and envelop the rooms in a tactile sumptuousness. The music room, for instance, received Phillip Jeffries grasscloth walls to soften its plaster relief barrel-vaulted ceiling, complemented by custom shades on pendant lights. The redesign extended to various living spaces, each meticulously detailed. The main entry hall features a two-story stained glass window that immediately establishes a grand tone, with a custom sofa in Brunschwig & Fils fabric and Vaughan table lamps. The music room, designed with an “old-school, dapper, and prim” vibe, includes a custom sofa in Pierre Frey fabric, a custom ottoman, and a Ferrell Mittman armchair, all grounded by a Bellbridge rug. In the living room, Claremont Furnishing Fabrics wall coverings and Filippo Uecher draperies with Samuel & Sons trim create an elegant backdrop, while custom armchairs in Fermoie fabric and a Charles Edwards ceiling light add to the sophisticated ambiance. The snug offers a cozy retreat with Ferrell Mittman swivel chairs in Sanderson fabric, a Soane Britain ceiling light, and Les Indiennes wallcovering, alongside a Highland House sofa. The billiard room evokes a “Roaring Twenties–like parlor feel” with chairs from Esperance Gallery in Le Gracieux fabric and Mulberry Home wallcovering. The kitchen features a custom Gieske range hood, Armac Martin cabinetry, International Materials of Design tile, and Viking appliances. A high-gloss painted bar area includes custom cabinetry by Refined Finishes and Carthage Stoneworks backsplash and counter. The dining room, embracing a low-light setting, is painted in a high-gloss inky finish by Fine Paints of Europe, furnished with a New Classics dining table and Rose Tarlow dining chairs. Bedrooms also reflect the home’s renewed character. The primary bedroom boasts Schumacher wallcovering bordered with dark aubergine grosgrain, a Vaughan table lamp, and a custom bed. The children's bathroom combines whimsical and sophisticated elements with Scalamandré wallcovering, Visual Comfort & Co. sconces, and a Caldwell Green vanity by Benjamin Moore. The playroom, with its yellow gingham wallcovering by Romo and a Coleen & Company ceiling light, coordinates with the stained glass, offering a fun and vibrant space. Externally, a simple yet impactful change was the removal of hedges that had obscured the landmarked property for years, allowing the home to be visible and admired once again, signifying a complete transformation both inside and out. #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #HistoricHome #StainedGlass #ColorPalette #LuxuryInteriors #KansasCity #DesignInspiration #HouseTour

Shed Brand Studios, a third-generation glassmaking business in Charlotte, North Carolina, represents a rapidly dwindling group of craftspeople. The company's history traces back to 1969 when Suzy and Roy Knight, along with their son Marvin, founded the studio in a rented shearing shed. Initially, they focused on ceramics, candle-making, woodworking, and various forms of glasswork, predominantly stained- and beveled-glass suncatchers and lamps. Marvin's wife, Ellie, later joined the family business. In 1972, Shed Brand Studios moved from its original location to a storefront in Wesley Heights, and Marvin and Ellie expanded their glasswork to include windows and doors. A significant event in their history occurred in 1987 when they completed over 100 stained-glass windows for televangelist Jim Bakker's Fort Mill compound. Following Bakker's arrest and the closure of his PTL Television Network, the Knights sold all these windows within a week by advertising them as "PTL windows" in front of their shop. In 1988, the studio relocated to its current premises on Iverson Way in South End, across from Lowe’s. Today, Shaylor Knight, Marvin's son and a third-generation artisan, manages the family business. Shaylor started assisting with window construction at the age of 12 and, at 52, possesses a level of experience and expertise that is increasingly rare in the glass artistry field. His parents, Marvin and Ellie, now in their late 80s, are retired, though Ellie continues to create pottery for sale in the studio's showroom. Shaylor’s wife, Natalie Bork Knight, a contemporary fine artist and former art teacher, serves as a lead designer at Shed Brand and helps oversee the business operations. She emphasizes that Shaylor’s skills are a result of extensive practice, likening his approach to traditional Italian artisans who master their craft through hands-on experience rather than solely relying on formal credentials. Shaylor's career is marked by diverse projects, including recovering Tiffany-glass windows from dumpsters, crafting brass-and-leaded-glass doors for the Mecklenburg County Courthouse, and restoring elements of the historic Morrocroft estate, such as its roof tiles and 200-year-old German glass windows in the sunroom. The studio also famously repaired an Irish-made door at Rí Rá Irish Pub multiple times, eventually using tempered glass to prevent breakage. As one of the few remaining glass artisans of his caliber, Shaylor and Shed Brand Studios maintain a robust workload. The business now specializes in "finer wood and glasswork," encompassing doors, entryways, windows, window jambs, tabletops, cabinet glass, mirrors, backsplashes, glass domes, and skylights. Ninety-five percent of their clientele are located in North Carolina, with approximately 90% of their work involving new constructions and the remainder dedicated to restoration. The Knight family has contributed to the stained-glass windows of numerous Charlotte-area churches across generations. In addition to their custom projects, Shaylor and Natalie offer stained- and fused-glass workshops. The studio employs eight individuals, all of whom are trained by Shaylor due to a scarcity of skilled tradespeople. Despite being overloaded with work, the studio prioritizes quality and is cautious about expanding too rapidly. The office and workshop reflect a long history of craftsmanship, with hand-drawn designs, finished pieces awaiting pickup, and a wide array of colorful glass sheets. Natalie views Shed Brand Studios as a "historic landmark" within the community. The question of a fourth generation joining the business remains open, as Shaylor and Natalie do not pressure their 12-year-old son, Eli, to follow in their footsteps, though he has grown up immersed in the studio environment, mirroring Shaylor's own upbringing. #GlassArtisan #CharlotteHistory #FamilyBusiness #StainedGlass #CustomGlasswork #ArtRestoration #Craftsmanship #LocalBusiness

Stained and tinted glass, while an ancient art form, is finding renewed relevance in contemporary interior design. Designers are increasingly incorporating colorful glass accents and large planes of tinted glass to introduce an energizing glow and unique visual interest into modern spaces. This trend moves beyond traditional stained glass windows to include experimental geometric patterns and lighter color palettes, alongside minimalist applications of uninterrupted tinted or filtered glass in features like room dividers and interior windows. Fiona Stone, design development director at Róisín Lafferty, highlights that tinted glass diffuses light and creates an ethereal glow, noting its increased versatility beyond traditional windows and doors. The incorporation of colorful glass transforms both the light quality and the overall ambiance of a room. One approach involves using jewel tones, as seen in a Haussmannian flat designed by Uchronia for a jewelry designer. A rounded, rainbow-hued stained glass window leading to the kitchen infuses the space with a timeless, sanctuary-like feel. Designers suggest that for those unable to install such windows, arranging colorful vases and jugs on windowsills can achieve a similar light-catching effect. Another application is imparting a modern glow through elements like tinted glass balustrades. In a Dublin home, Róisín Lafferty utilized a cobalt blue tinted glass railing for a central staircase spanning four levels. This feature, complemented by surrounding blue surfaces, creates the impression of a growing blue cube, saturating the space with its striking hue and serving as a dramatic visual centerpiece. Tinted glass can also warm up a scheme. César Béjar Studio in Mexico employed a thin layer of amber paper to tint a window in the uppermost part of a house, which, while out of sight, floods lower levels with warm yellow light. This technique contributes to naturally warmer atmospheres, aligning with a current design emphasis on less industrialized materials and enhanced natural experiences. Color can be used to tell a story, as demonstrated by YSG Studio in a Melbourne Victorian home's living room extension. Colored panes were chosen to match the homeowner's Egyptian heritage, perfuming the kitchen and dining area with shades of turmeric and saffron, and reflecting the colors of the tiled floor, thereby harmonizing with the interior's overall color scheme. Colored glass can also be utilized for zoning with decorative screens. Maksym Dietkovskyi of Modektura used textured, multicolored stained glass to create an abstract wall and door behind a headboard, effectively zoning off a walk-in closet. This solution allows natural light to pass through while maintaining visual interest and providing additional lighting from the wardrobe in the evening, blending retro aesthetics with modern functionality. Finally, a warm filter can be added to bathrooms, such as a yellow-tinted shower screen in a Balearic islands bathroom designed by Laplace. This creates a glowing atmosphere, acting like a lens to bestow modesty, add interest to a minimal interior, and reflect the golden light of the environment, softening the space and segmenting the room effectively. #ColoredGlass #StainedGlass #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #LightingDesign #ModernInteriors #ArchitecturalDesign #HomeRenovation #DesignTrends

The article details a midcentury home renovation project in Seattle, undertaken by three creative sisters for their mother, Cynthia Chua. The property, identified by architect Sarah Smith of Best Practice Architecture and Julia Smith of Unique Art Glass, was purchased with the intention of transforming it into a forever home. The renovation involved extensive structural and aesthetic changes, highlighted by the addition of unique design elements such as fish scale shingles, vibrant paint colors, and custom stained glass windows. These stained glass pieces were designed by one of the siblings, showcasing a personalized artistic touch. The project reflects a collaborative family effort, leveraging the distinct skills of each sister. Sarah's architectural expertise guided the structural and spatial reorganization, ensuring the home met modern living standards while preserving its midcentury character. Julia's background in custom stained glass allowed for the integration of unique, handcrafted art into the home's facade, contributing to its distinctive and cheerful aesthetic. The decision to incorporate these specific design elements underscores a thoughtful approach to renovation, aiming to create a residence that is both functional and deeply personal. The home's exterior features, such as the fish scale shingles and punchy paint, were carefully chosen to revitalize the midcentury structure, giving it a contemporary yet respectful update. This blend of old and new design principles was central to the renovation's philosophy. The interior spaces were likely reconfigured to enhance flow and natural light, common goals in midcentury remodels, though specific interior details are not provided in this excerpt. The overall objective was to transform the house into a comfortable, stylish, and enduring home for their mother. This renovation serves as an example of how a family's combined talents can lead to a successful and meaningful home transformation. The article emphasizes the journey of revitalizing an older property through thoughtful design and craftsmanship, resulting in a residence that reflects the personality and collaborative spirit of its creators. The Seattle midcentury house, now adorned with personalized details, stands as a testament to the sisters' dedication and vision for their mother's long-term dwelling. #MidcenturyHome #HomeRenovation #SeattleArchitecture #FamilyCollaboration #StainedGlass #BeforeAndAfter #HomeDesign #BestPracticeArchitecture #UniqueArtGlass

Stained glass, a timeless craft with historical roots dating back to the 7th century, is re-emerging as a significant home accent trend in 2025. This resurgence is part of a broader movement among homeowners and design enthusiasts to move away from monochromatic and algorithm-driven aesthetic uniformity, embracing instead more colorful and personalized interior designs. The trend builds on a recent wave of 'grandma-adjacent' decorating styles, such as café curtains and wood-paneled walls, that have seen a comeback. Historically, stained glass gained significant popularity in American residential settings during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, largely influenced by figures like Charles Lewis Tiffany. Contemporary applications of stained glass often draw inspiration from these historical forms, featuring motifs such as flowers, or incorporate geometric patterns that became prominent during the Arts & Crafts movement. This versatility ensures that stained glass can complement various interior design styles, from modern farmhouse to classic cottage aesthetics. According to California-based stained-glass artist Debbie Bean, there has been a noticeable increase in demand for stained glass in interiors, particularly from residential clients who are open to integrating this craft in innovative and modern ways. This indicates a desire for unique, handcrafted elements that add character and color to living spaces. There are several effective ways to incorporate stained glass into a home. In entryways, stained glass doors can provide a welcoming and distinctive focal point, as seen in a Nantucket cottage project where a pre-existing stained glass door was retained for its charm. In kitchens, stained glass windows can serve as vibrant showcases, adding color and visual interest, as exemplified in a Texas cottage kitchen featuring such installations by designers Leanne Ford and Grace Mitchell. Dining rooms can benefit from stained glass accents by introducing splashes of color that enhance the ambiance of the space, creating a more lively and inviting atmosphere. Even in bedrooms, small stained glass windows or panels can add a fanciful and unique touch, transforming ordinary spaces into more enchanting ones, such as the oversized bunk beds in a barn home that are complemented by stained glass. Bathrooms can also incorporate stained glass, with accents near entryways or shower areas providing unexpected pops of color and artistic flair, as demonstrated by a stained glass arched doorway leading into a primary bath wet room. These applications highlight the adaptability of stained glass in enhancing different areas of a home, providing both aesthetic appeal and a nod to historical craftsmanship. #StainedGlass #HomeDecor #DesignTrends2025 #InteriorDesign #VintageDecor #ColorfulInteriors #ArtsAndCrafts #ResidentialDesign

The article highlights six new collections that showcase the enduring appeal and versatility of glass in contemporary design. These works demonstrate designers' fascination with the fragile material, utilizing rigorous techniques to create both decorative and functional pieces. The featured collections primarily come from emerging designers who are challenging and elevating traditional glassmaking practices. One of the highlighted collections is Agmes Anniversary, a collaboration between jewelry brand Agmes and glass artist Anthony Bianco of Bianco Light & Space. This collection marks Agmes's sixth anniversary and includes an organically shaped handblown bud vase and a textured small dish, available in various colors, alongside personal accessories that revisit an earlier glass jewelry line. Another notable collection is PhilaTerra, a charitable initiative by Colony, a New York City-based cooperative design gallery, creative firm, and studio, in collaboration with artist Deborah Czeresko. Czeresko, a winner of Netflix's 'Blown Away,' produced a limited edition of 100 glass vases, some colorless and others vibrantly hued, designed by Colony founder Jean Lin. Proceeds from the PhilaTerra collection support the Environmental Defense Fund and the Rainforest Foundation US. Heath Ceramics, known for its experimental and collaborative approach beyond clay, partnered with glassblower Cedric Mitchell for a new collection. Mitchell, based in Los Angeles, created a series of elegant bottles and vases with subtle Memphis influences, as well as jewel-toned cocktail stirring glasses and tumblers. Mitchell is also an instructor and a team member of Crafting the Future, a nonprofit that funds young talent for craft school experiences to promote diversity in the field. Sophie Lou Jacobsen, a sustainably-minded glassware designer, introduced her "Asking for a Friend" collection at Assembly Line in Brooklyn. This collection, on display through July 1, features Jacobsen’s distinctive silhouetted works, which were produced at Keep Brooklyn’s studio. The "Vetro Alga" exhibition by multidisciplinary designer Dana Arbib, curated by Alex Tieghi-Walker’s Tiwa Select, was showcased during New York Design Week at Galerie Michael Bargo. Arbib's work explores her Libyan heritage through glass, collaborating with Venetian artisans to honor Venice's rich glassblowing history. The collection, whose name means "seaweed glass" in Italian, draws inspiration from her distant relative Salvatore Arbib, a prominent Venetian glassblower from the early 20th century, resulting in textured vessels and bowls made in Murano. Finally, Swedish artist Annika Jarring's Line vase is recognized for the Loewe Foundation Craft Prize. Jarring’s innovative technique involves shaping 392 small glass elements with silicone to create an architectural vessel. Inspired by the ornamental jade pieces of ancient Chinese burial suits, this sculptural piece is one of 30 works shortlisted for the prize and will be exhibited at the Seoul Museum of Craft Art. #GlassDesign #HomeDecor #ContemporaryGlassware #DesignCollections #EmergingDesigners #ArtisanCraftsmanship #InteriorDesignTrends #CharitableDesign #GlassArt

Stained glass, traditionally associated with churches and religious buildings, is experiencing a resurgence in contemporary interior design. While its origins lie in medieval churches where it was used to depict biblical stories for illiterate congregations, the art form has evolved to become a striking feature in secular buildings and private residences. Historical examples can be found in prominent structures like Canterbury Cathedral and Westminster Abbey, and renowned architect Charles Rennie Mackintosh frequently integrated stained glass into his designs, such as The Glasgow School of Art. During the Victorian era, stained glass became more common in smaller, private homes, particularly in front doors. Its dual purpose was to infuse hallways with atmospheric light while offering privacy from outside views, making it a practical choice for spaces like bathrooms. The popularity of stained glass mirrored design movements like the Arts and Crafts era, which valued craftsmanship, and the Art Nouveau period, famous for Tiffany Lamps. Despite a decline during the rise of Modernism in the 20th century, contemporary designers are now rediscovering its elegance and versatility. Designers like Gemma McCloskey of Cuplà design studio advocate for incorporating stained glass to integrate art directly into a home's architecture. McCloskey designed abstract, pastel-hued stained glass panels for her sister Orlagh’s house, strategically placing them in darker corners of the sitting room to introduce decorative elements beyond textiles and accessories. To ensure a contemporary feel, she suggests using modern, fluid lines rather than traditional ornate designs, an approach she applied to her designs inspired by brutalist panels. A significant advantage is the dynamic play of light and color that stained glass creates as sunlight shifts throughout the day, adding intrigue and movement to a room. Modern installations can also be made as insulating as double glazing by backing the stained glass with a plain pane of glass on the exterior. Artist Natasha Mann has extensively used stained glass in her own home, viewing it as a way to embed art into the building's structure. For her front door, she chose a design that harmonizes with its Edwardian style. In her sitting room, a geometric stained glass motif obscures an undesirable view while still allowing ample light. In her bathroom, stained glass windows complement a painted ceiling pattern inspired by the Alhambra Palace, signifying water and evoking a sense of joy. Similarly, interior designers Angus and Charlotte Buchanan installed a reclaimed Victorian stained glass window in their windowless laundry room. This not only added visual interest but also allowed light from the corridor to brighten the space, without sacrificing privacy. James Williamson, a glass artist at Art With Glass, has observed a notable increase in commissions for decorative stained glass panels. He notes a shift in perception, where stained glass, once considered unfashionable, is now celebrated as an original architectural feature. Clients increasingly seek bespoke panels that extend the artistic theme of a space, drawing inspiration from artists like Kandinsky, Mondrian, Gaudi, or William Morris. While custom-commissioned pieces offer creative freedom, budget-conscious individuals can explore reclamation yards for unique, antique stained glass finds. The resurgence of stained glass transforms ordinary windows into vibrant focal points, bathing rooms in a kaleidoscope of colors. #StainedGlass #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #ArchitecturalFeatures #ArtInArchitecture #VictorianDesign #ModernInteriors #HomeRenovation #DecoratingAdvice

French design duo Ronan and Erwan Bouroullec have launched a new collection of architectural glass panels, developed in partnership with Skyline Design. This collection, which debuted at NeoCon, received a Silver award in the Architectural and Decorative Glass category. The project represents a thoughtful exploration of color, light, and scale, drawing inspiration from various observations in their daily lives. The design process began with the brothers capturing photographs of their surroundings, ranging from natural landscapes to urban scenes. The aim was to distill the inherent sensations of colors and light present in these everyday moments. From a selection of eight initial images, Erwan Bouroullec utilized a custom computer script to analyze the color information. This script then condensed the captured colors into a unique base color for each panel, simultaneously transforming the rhythmic qualities of the original images into distinct patterns. A subsequent layer of translucent patterns further enhances this foundational color, resulting in a multitude of additional color variations. The patterns are delineated by a darker outline, intentionally designed to evoke the lead lines found in traditional stained glass. This technique aims to mimic how lead frames shape the visual experience of stained glass, with the lines in the Bouroullec panels subtly influencing the distribution and density of colors, creating an almost imperceptible shift. The Bouroullec brothers specifically sought to reinterpret the captivating qualities of stained glass found in medieval cathedrals. Their objective was to translate the immersive and atmospheric experience of these historical artworks into contemporary architectural glass. The complex interplay of color and line within their panels is designed to create a sensation of being enveloped within an abstract landscape, evoking a similar sense of wonder that one might experience in a medieval cathedral. Skyline Design’s digital print and manufacturing capabilities bring these designs to fruition. The panels offer considerable customization options in terms of size, scale, and color, allowing them to be adapted for diverse applications. The collection features four distinct pattern variations: Oblique Regular, Oblique Bold, Chevron Stroke, and Chevron Fill. Each of these patterns is available in four monochromatic color schemes or four polychromatic palettes. These versatile glass panels can be integrated into various architectural contexts, both internal and external. Potential interior applications include feature walls, space dividers, and stair railings. For exterior use, the panels can be incorporated into facades, railings, and canopies, demonstrating their adaptability to different design needs and environments. #BouroullecBrothers #StainedGlass #ArchitecturalGlass #SkylineDesign #ColorAndLight #DesignInnovation #InteriorDesign #ExteriorDesign

This blog post compiles recent articles and projects from Designboom focusing on the application of glass in art, architecture, and design. The collection highlights the versatility and aesthetic potential of glass, ranging from large-scale public installations to architectural facades and interior elements. The articles showcase how artists and designers are pushing the boundaries of traditional glass use, incorporating it into innovative structures and artistic expressions. Key examples include a luminous forest in Hanoi composed of mirroring steel branches, demonstrating glass's role in creating immersive public art. Another project features an 'invisible Tokyo bar' that utilizes heated, transparent acrylic glass panels to distort reality, illustrating glass's capacity for experiential design. Architecture projects frequently employ glass for facades, as seen in Selgascano's transparent seaside café in China with three parallel glass volumes, and Cossement Cardoso's Helsinki museum concept, which features a textured glass skin forming a curved roof. The DA VÀNG studio in Vietnam also uses 3,000 glass bricks to create a curved, translucent house facade, emphasizing both structural and aesthetic applications. The articles also delve into the use of glass in smaller-scale design and art pieces. For instance, Bottega Veneta's summer show features 'lucid murano blown-glass stools' that mimic sea waves, showcasing glass as a medium for elegant furniture and decor. Artists like Vincent Leroy use floating lenses in an optical mobile, and Ben Tuna transforms a Porsche 911 into an art car with cathedral-inspired stained glass, highlighting the material's artistic adaptability. Sarah Brahim and Ugo Schiavi explore ancient rituals through glass temples and vessels, linking glass to cultural and historical narratives. Further architectural applications include a gradient brick facade by Delmulle Delmulle in a Belgium house, transitioning from terracotta to glass, and Vinklu's triangular prism coffee shop in Romania, using glass to fill narrow urban gaps. SICIS uses decorative glass to create glowing swimming pool surfaces in Cambodian villas, while BBWORKSPACE's Thai café employs iridescent panels to evoke gemstones and refract light. EcoLogicStudio's microbial installation at Triennale Milano reimagines domesticity with glass components, and Apropos Architects use a translucent glass facade for the Czech pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka, demonstrating its use in significant public structures. Industrial design also features glass, such as Bugatti's Brouillard Coupe, which includes a miniature glass sculpture in its gearshift. Fredrik Nielsen's Stockholm studio explores glass's resistance to fragility and embraces chance in its creation. Atelier Échelle’s lakeside gallery residence subtly integrates glass within dark clay brick structures, harmonizing modern elements with traditional aesthetics. The variety of projects presented collectively underscores glass's multifaceted role in contemporary design, from enhancing visual experiences and light manipulation to contributing to structural integrity and artistic expression across diverse scales and contexts. #GlassArt #GlassDesign #ArchitecturalGlass #PublicInstallations #InteriorDesign #ContemporaryArt #BuildingMaterials #DesignInnovation #SustainableDesign

This article highlights the transformation of a Los Angeles home, originally designed in 1951 by Chinese American architect Gilbert Leong, who notably incorporated an ornate stained-glass window. Decades later, interior designer Sarah Zachary-Jones took on the task of updating the home for a young couple working in comedy, aiming to refresh the entry, dining space, and two living rooms while preserving its mid-century character. The design approach was heavily influenced by a postcard depicting a poppy field in Yosemite, inspiring a palette of red-orange and emerald green. In the dining room, Zachary-Jones maintained an original fluted plaster wall, revitalizing it with several coats of Ash Grey by Farrow & Ball, a color chosen for its classic appeal and dynamic interaction with light. Furnishings were carefully selected, with an emphasis on vetted reproductions from brands like Lawson-Fenning and Design Within Reach, providing mid-century aesthetic without the extensive search for vintage pieces. The dining area's layout was optimized by repositioning the table and light fixture, and introducing a larger rug to enhance spaciousness and functionality. The entry, though compact, was enhanced by filling previously empty corners with living elements, including a tall, freestanding planter and large, graphic art pieces on the ledge above the door. The living room features Leong’s original metallic wallpaper. Zachary-Jones addressed a fading tree trunk pattern on the wallpaper by designing an 11-foot-long walnut storage bench with grasscloth doors, suggesting it replaced a custom cabinet that likely existed when the house was first built. The living room's proximity to the kitchen necessitated a modular sofa with a movable ottoman, offering flexibility for entertaining. For the casual TV room and office, a leafy wallpaper print was chosen for all four walls, with the ceiling left white to prevent overwhelming the space. In line with the home's 1950s origins, window treatments in both the TV and dining rooms were ceiling-mounted using a track system. This design choice, eschewing traditional iron rods, facilitates a ripple fold effect, creating a continuous wall of yellow when the curtains are closed, ensuring a consistent warm ambiance throughout the day and evening. #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #MidCenturyModern #LosAngelesHomes #StainedGlass #HomeDecor #DesignInspiration #SarahZacharyJones #DesignRevitalization

The Worcester Art Museum's exhibition, "Radiance Rediscovered: Stained Glass by Tiffany and La Farge," explores the works of two prominent Gilded Age artists, Louis Comfort Tiffany and John La Farge, focusing on their contributions to stained glass. The exhibition prominently features several windows commissioned for the Mount Vernon Congregational Church in Boston, which moved to a new location in the Back Bay in the 1890s. The church engaged Tiffany Glass and Decoration Company for its Byzantine-style interior and John La Farge for several stained glass windows. La Farge had previously established his reputation with his interior design for Trinity Church in the 1870s. The featured windows from the Mount Vernon Congregational Church were acquired by the museum after the church closed in 1975. They remained in storage for decades until conservation efforts began in 2017, taking over a year to meticulously restore them. Curated by T. Amanda Lett, a PhD candidate, the exhibition showcases these newly conserved pieces, presenting them in their original brilliance. The show highlights the rivalry between Tiffany and La Farge, both of whom independently patented the use of opalescent glass between 1879 and 1881, a material that became highly fashionable in stained glass design. The exhibition contrasts Tiffany Company's "Angel of the Resurrection" windows, which are attributed to Louis Comfort Tiffany but likely designed by Frederick Wilson, with La Farge's "The Pool at Bethesda" windows. Tiffany's works are characterized by a sweet, lambent quality, depicting an angel in opalescent robes emerging from lilies, framed by Corinthian columns. In contrast, La Farge's "The Pool at Bethesda" windows, illustrating a scene from the Gospel of Saint John, captivate with their dynamic composition and narrative depth. La Farge uses various types of glass to tell the story of an ailing woman and a man awaiting healing, with an angel disturbing the water. He employs irregular shards of colored glass for garments and opalescent glass to give solidity to architectural elements. The artist also ingeniously uses a green canopy to connect the two panels, with the angel's slightly awkward, human-like pose adding to the piece's character. The mirror-like quality of the water below the angel serves as a metaphor for self and spirit, and the depiction of the scene at a critical narrative moment before healing imbues the work with hope, possibly reflecting La Farge's own experiences with ill health. The exhibition further includes additional works to provide a broader context, such as watercolors and a smaller, highly detailed window by La Farge depicting a peacock, created after his trip to Japan and inspired by Asian aesthetics. This particular piece, a technical marvel, incorporates layered plates, unfired paint, colored putties, fused glass, and mosaic elements. The conservation of this peacock window involved distinguishing between intentional cracks and natural degradations over time. While the exhibition is limited in its scope for a comprehensive comparison, especially given that Tiffany himself didn't design the featured "Angel of the Resurrection" windows, it effectively reasserts John La Farge's artistic brilliance and his significant, albeit sometimes overshadowed, contributions to stained glass art. #ArtReview #StainedGlass #TiffanyGlass #JohnLaFarge #WorcesterArtMuseum #GildedAgeArt #ArtConservation #ReligiousArt #OpalescentGlass

Bill and Dorrie McGonigal, the homeowners, designed their oceanfront dream home in Kure Beach, North Carolina, with a strong emphasis on glass, leveraging Bill's background in the commercial glass installation industry. The house, slightly under 5,000 square feet, was built on a lot-and-a-half of oceanfront property not in a flood zone, adjacent to a beach access. The couple, who began vacationing in Kure Beach in the 1980s, purchased the property in 2011, which initially housed a bungalow and an apartment building that were subsequently demolished to make way for their new home. The design inspiration for the house was drawn from various sources including television shows, magazines, and past vacations. The McGonigals collaborated with Jimmy Doster, president of Doster Building Company in Wrightsville Beach, who was intrigued by their vision for a modern, unprecedented design. The construction process was highly collaborative, with the homeowners actively involved, especially in the early stages, sharing their expertise in glass installation. Bill and his sons even participated in installing a portion of the glass, a process that Doster's team then learned and completed. The build spanned two years, characterized by continuous brainstorming and problem-solving, without the involvement of a traditional architect, evolving organically through the combined expertise of the homeowners and the builder. A key feature of the home is its extensive use of hurricane-resistant commercial-grade glass for the ocean-facing exterior. These custom-fabricated panels, measuring up to 7 feet wide and 10 feet tall, were chosen for their durability and ability to maximize ocean views. The exterior also incorporates white painted glass tile, sizable glass panels, and bamboo planks, with ipe decking for the outdoor porches and electric solar panels on the roof, all chosen for low maintenance. The front entrance is marked by a slab of marble, and the property includes a four-car garage and a ground-level apartment designated for grandchildren. The interior design continues the theme of openness and reflection. High-gloss white cabinets in the kitchen complement carved concrete countertops mixed with cobalt and royal blue glass aggregates, mirroring the ocean's colors. Radiant heated porcelain tile is used throughout the home for flooring and accent walls. A glass staircase imported from Italy serves as an architectural centerpiece, alongside hand-blown glass light fixtures and one-inch thick glass railings fastened by metal clips, ensuring maximum transparency between floors. Embracing a minimalist lifestyle, the home features only two closets and sparse furniture in most bedrooms, with beds floating in the center of the room, all oriented towards the ocean. The master bathroom boasts a custom-fabricated sandstone tub, weighing over 2,000 pounds, which required a crane for installation before the final exterior wall was constructed. This tub was inspired by two sandstone vessels the McGonigals found. Upstairs, guest bedrooms accessible via the mezzanine feature painted glass sliding doors in various colors like blue, green, and coral, with each room offering ocean views over the glass railing. The design allows every bedroom to have an oceanfront perspective, a rare feature for a five-bedroom house. The outdoor spaces, including an infinity pool and a rooftop deck with 360-degree glass railings, are designed for year-round enjoyment, providing panoramic views of the ocean, Kure Beach, Carolina Beach, and even Wrightsville on clear days, fulfilling the homeowners' desire to immerse themselves in the coastal environment during their retirement. #GlassHouse #ModernArchitecture #OceanfrontHome #KureBeach #CustomDesign #CoastalLiving #LowMaintenance #SustainableDesign #LuxuryHome

Louis Comfort Tiffany, born in 1848, was an American designer renowned for his innovative approach to decorative objects, particularly the iconic Tiffany lamps. As the son of Charles Lewis Tiffany, founder of Tiffany & Co., he was immersed in the decorative arts from an early age. Although he initially trained as a painter, Tiffany shifted his focus to decorative arts, especially glasswork, by the age of 30. He gained practical experience by working in Brooklyn glasshouses in the 1870s and co-founded an artist's group, Louis Comfort Tiffany and Associated American Artists, which designed wallpaper, textiles, and furniture for notable clients like the Mark Twain House and the White House. Tiffany's fascination with glasswork led to the formation of the Tiffany Glass Company, later known as Tiffany Studios. He established his own glass factory with his father's financial support, aiming to revolutionize the form and function of contemporary glass. The first Tiffany lamp was introduced in 1885 and quickly became a commercial success. These lamps are celebrated for their distinctive stained glass, which features intricate organic patterns, harmonious color palettes, and jewel-like qualities. Tiffany's design philosophy emphasized both aesthetic beauty and practical functionality, aiming to brighten American interior decorating through color and texture. Tiffany lamps frequently incorporate natural motifs such as dragonflies, blossoms, and grapevines, brought to life through a careful arrangement of bold, contrasting, and complementary colors. The translucent, often gauzy or milky, texture of the glass highlights the artisanal craftsmanship and subtle variations in thickness and color saturation. The metalwork connecting the glass pieces is equally distinctive, featuring intricate, undulating designs that contrast with the clean lines of modern metalwork. The lamps' hollow bases are typically made of brass, often adorned with additional decorative elements like art pottery, enamel, or mosaic work, chosen to complement the lampshade designs. Tiffany lamps bridged the artistic gap between past and future, embodying the forward-thinking Art Nouveau movement prevalent in Europe and the United States while simultaneously evoking the nostalgia of Gothic stained glass and medieval cloisonné. Tiffany’s innovative approach to glassmaking was driven by his dissatisfaction with commercially available glass, which lacked the natural impurities he valued for their unique variations in texture, color, and translucence. He even used affordable discarded jars and bottles in his early works to achieve desired effects. As the demand for his lamps grew, Tiffany established his own factory in Queens, where he could control the glass production process and embrace these impurities. He trademarked his unique glass as "Favrile," a term derived from the Latin word for "made by hand." This allowed him to develop the signature multidimensional, opalescent, jewel-toned glass that defines Tiffany lamps. Furthermore, he refined centuries-old glass joining techniques, using copper foil instead of traditional lead in his "came glasswork" method, which enabled unprecedented levels of detail in his stained glass patterns. The term "Tiffany lamp" has since become synonymous with a broader style of leaded came glasswork, even for pieces not produced by his studios. The creation of Tiffany lamps involved a team of skilled artisans, including a significant number of women, often referred to as the "Tiffany Girls." These women, working in departments such as the Women’s Glass Cutting Department supervised by Clara Driscoll, played a crucial role in developing the renowned Tiffany aesthetic. They selected and cut colorful glass pieces, often following Tiffany's patterns but sometimes introducing their own motifs. Tiffany lamps continue to be highly valuable and fashionable today, with authentic pieces fetching substantial prices at auction, while numerous affordable alternatives keep the aesthetic widely accessible. #LouisComfortTiffany #TiffanyLamps #StainedGlass #DecorativeArts #ArtNouveau #AmericanDesign #Glasswork #InteriorDecorating #TiffanyStudios #CameGlasswork

Brooklyn-based designer Lauren Manoogian, known for her slow fashion approach, has partnered with Paris-based maker Lætitia Jacquetton to create a distinctive series of vases. These unique vessels are crafted from glass blown directly around carefully selected rocks. The collaboration is currently featured in Manoogian's Manhattan showroom and is also available for viewing and purchase online. Manoogian's decision to showcase Jacquetton's work aligns with her broader intention to provide a platform for other artists and craftspeople whose work she admires and finds inspiring. This initiative, dubbed 'Object,' began organically through Manoogian's travels to Peru, where she discovered compelling ceramic traditions. She emphasizes the importance of fostering a sense of wonder and emotional connection to physical objects, especially in an increasingly digital world. Lætitia Jacquetton's artistic practice seamlessly blends traditional glass-blowing expertise with a profound respect for the natural environment. She acquired her glass-blowing skills in Murano, Italy, and Nancy, France. Each of her sculptural pieces is created by blowing glass around rocks that she personally forages from nature, taking care not to disrupt the surrounding ecosystem. This process imbues her works with a sense of both rarity and reverence, effectively capturing a moment in time within a solid, poetic form. When discussing the parallels between their artistic approaches, Manoogian notes the seemingly simple yet transformative use of materials in both their works. She highlights that both their creations are sculptural and feature well-defined proportions, yet possess a mutable quality that arises from an intuitive process. This makes the pieces approachable and capable of enhancing daily life. Manoogian further elaborates that both their works are deeply intimate, both in their final use and in their creation process, emphasizing a shared tactility and an experimental drive to discover the ideal tension point within materials, which ultimately shapes the final form. The deliberate connection to nature embedded within Jacquetton's vessels is a central element that captivates the imagination. Manoogian expresses her appreciation for the artist's intention and the inherent uncontrollable elements within the creation process. She acknowledges the element of risk involved in making each piece, as Jacquetton works quickly, harnessing gravity and fire. The resulting forms are highly gestural, encapsulating the precise moment when all elements converge. This dynamic process is what imbues each vase with its unique aliveness and individuality, making every piece a singular creation. #Glassware #ArtCollaboration #HomeDecor #SustainableDesign #Craftsmanship #LaurenManoogian #LaetitiaJacquetton #InteriorDesign #NaturalMaterials

Tracy Guarino, an entrepreneur residing in Forest Hills, sought to infuse a sense of tranquility and modern Zen into her expansive 11,328-square-foot home. Collaborating with interior designer Ray Booth, the objective was to create a peaceful sanctuary that contrasted with Guarino's active professional life. The residence, situated within the gated community of Bancroft, presents a classic facade with Mediterranean architectural influences, featuring native stone, exotic wood, and a rust-colored barrel tile roof, extending across six acres. Inside, the home transitions into a modern aesthetic with an open floor plan, high ceilings, and a luxurious grayscale palette. Booth addressed the initial vastness of the space by incorporating floor-to-ceiling draperies made from Holly Hunt's 'Soft Spoken: Pale Silver' fabric. These semi-sheer panels create defined dining and living areas without fully enclosing them, offering a sense of intimacy and gentle transition. The draperies were instrumental in softening the previously 'cold and hard' interior, adding a crucial element of 'pause' before entering spaces like the master bedroom. Elegant details are found throughout the five-bedroom home. A hand-carved teak panel from Thailand and a Shakuff’s Kadur Drizzle multi-pendant chandelier contribute to the luxurious atmosphere. Guarino's passion for collecting is evident in various art pieces, including sculptures by Herb Williams made from crayons, an abstract commission by Ed Nash in the kitchen sitting room, and graphic artworks derived from the animated film 'Destino,' a collaboration between Walt Disney and Salvador Dalí. The master bedroom continues the theme of elegance with a velvety Italian carpet and a tufted gray chaise in the master bath. The outdoor space is designed to resemble a luxury resort, featuring a uniquely shaped infinity-edge swimming pool surrounded by cabanas and a secluded screened-in porch with an outdoor shower, which Guarino prefers over her exquisite indoor master bath shower. Functionality for entertaining and business is also a key aspect of the home's design, which includes a professional kitchen alongside the family kitchen, two offices, and a gift-wrapping room. The family kitchen, located strategically between Guarino's and her sons' bedrooms, serves as the home's social center. Ray Booth integrated 'appliance garages' made of Bendheim architectural glass in this space, allowing cabinets to be concealed for a seamless look. This kitchen is a central gathering point for Guarino's extended family, particularly on Sundays when she prepares large meals, reflecting her Italian heritage where the kitchen is considered the heart of the home. #ForestHills #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #ZenAesthetic #ModernLuxury #RayBooth #NashvilleHomes #ArchitecturalGlass #ArtCollection