The IKEA Staple You Need To Try DIY Stained Glass On

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

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

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

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

Painting on glass offers a wide array of creative possibilities, enabling individuals to craft beautiful home decorations or personalized gifts. The initial investment for this craft is minimal, requiring only quality acrylic paint brushes and a glass object. This guide delves into various types of glass paints, their forms, features, and applications to help users select the most suitable product for their projects. Water-based acrylic enamels are a common choice for DIY and craft use, offering good scratch resistance and often becoming more durable when cured in a household oven. These are non-toxic, though not food-safe, and are suitable for various glass items from jars to light bulbs. Solvent-based glass paints provide superior durability but are toxic, flammable, and release strong fumes, making them more suitable for professional use and not recommended for children. Tempera paints are ideal for temporary applications like window displays, as they adhere well but are easily washable. Chalk paint offers durability and versatility, applicable to multiple surfaces including glass, ceramic, metal, wood, and canvas, often without requiring prior preparation. Glass paints come in various forms and sizes, including 2-ounce bottles, smaller tubes, 11-ounce spray cans, and paint pens. Bottles, typically containing acrylic enamels, are often sold individually or in economical sets and are sufficient for multiple small projects. Tubes offer smaller quantities, similar to artist oil paints. Spray paints are excellent for covering large areas and come in finishes that can mimic sea glass or metallic textures. Paint pens provide precise control with various nib widths, making them user-friendly for intricate designs. Key features to consider include pigment strength, transparency, and compatibility with mixing to create diverse color palettes. While most water-based acrylic paints are non-toxic, areas that come into contact with food or mouth, such as glass rims, should be avoided. Acrylic enamel paints generally offer limited weather resistance unless varnished or sealed. Available finishes include gloss, frosted, shimmer, and metallic effects. Glass paints can be permanent or temporary. Tempera paints are temporary and easy to clean, making them suitable for displays that change frequently. Standard acrylics are semi-permanent but can be made permanent with a sealer. Acrylic enamels and solvent-based products are designed for permanent applications, offering significant durability, especially after curing. Glass curing is a crucial step for enhancing durability. After air-drying for 24 to 72 hours, acrylic enamels can be made even tougher by applying a spray-on or brush-on sealer, allowing 24 hours for curing. Alternatively, oven baking at 300 degrees Fahrenheit for 30 minutes, followed by natural cooling, can significantly increase durability, making the items dishwasher and microwave safe after 72 hours. Specific instructions for oven curing vary by manufacturer and product, with some paints, particularly sprays, being unsuitable for high temperatures. The article reviews several top glass paint products, categorizing them based on their best use cases, such as overall best, best value, best for windows, tiles, light bulbs, ornaments, jars, paint pens, and spray paints. Each recommendation includes pros, cons, product specifications, and details on type, form, and permanence, assisting users in making an informed choice for their specific glass painting needs. #GlassPainting #DIYCrafts #AcrylicEnamel #HomeDecor #ArtSupplies #GlassCuring #PaintTypes #CraftProjects

IKEA, a Swedish retailer established in the 1940s, is known for offering furniture that balances affordability, quality, functionality, and sustainability. Among its diverse product range, IKEA's glass display and storage cabinets are particularly popular, available in various styles, sizes, finishes, and functions, making them adaptable to almost any home and design aesthetic. This article highlights 10 of IKEA's beautiful glass cabinet options, including the well-known MILSBO and HEMNES series. These glass cabinets serve multiple purposes beyond traditional display for decor, books, or collections. Social media trends show them being utilized as indoor greenhouses, sophisticated bar stations, elegant bathroom linen storage, and even integrated into custom storage walls. Many models feature both glass shelves and doors, with some homeowners opting to install internal lighting for an enhanced warm, glowing effect that illuminates the entire unit. These dust-free display solutions are ideal for showcasing unique items that personalize a home. The MILSBO cabinet, priced at $229.99, is noted for its versatility as both a stylish storage solution and an indoor greenhouse, especially when fitted with grow lights. It is a metal cabinet available in white or black, with adjustable glass shelves and a lock. The BILLY bookcase, a bestseller since 1978, can be transformed into a display case by adding OXBERG glass doors for $357. This combination is suitable for showcasing collections, with half-glass door options available to conceal clutter. It can be paired with other BILLY series items to create a high-end custom library. The BAGGEBO cabinet offers an affordable option at around $40. Its perforated metal sides and small footprint make it suitable for modest collections, as a nightstand, or for extra storage in small spaces like bathrooms. The perforated design also allows for airflow, making it suitable for displaying plants. For a more dramatic and sophisticated look, the LOMMARP cabinet, priced at $499, comes in a striking dark blue-green finish, as well as black and beige. Its decorative details, including the doors, feet, and beadboard backing, lend it a new traditional and upscale cottage aesthetic, ideal for a dining room hutch or bathroom linen cabinet. The HEMNES glass-door cabinet, costing $479, is crafted from solid wood and features versatile drawer storage beneath glass display doors. As part of the extensive HEMNES line, it can be combined with other pieces to form customized storage walls in living rooms or home offices. Arranging multiple HEMNES cabinets can create an elaborate setup for entertaining, providing both display and hidden storage. For those seeking a cabinet with distinct personality, the FABRIKÖR, priced at $159.99, features a metal frame and double glass doors available in blue or light yellow. Its unique design is suited for art collectors or as a stylish bar cabinet, complete with a lock. The BESTÅ series offers a customizable modular system that can be upgraded with glass doors. Homeowners can create various configurations with different frames, finishes, and glass types, such as a dark olive low decorative sideboard or a swanky bar cabinet with reeded glass door panels. This series allows for easy creation of stunning, modular, and fully customized display pieces. The MOSSJÖN wall cabinet, under $90, incorporates the reeded glass trend. Its compact size, approximately 14 inches wide and 7 inches deep, makes it a space-saving wall-mounted storage solution. The reeded glass blurs the contents, offering a degree of privacy, making it suitable for bathrooms, vanity areas, or general utilitarian storage. The BRIMNES glass door cabinet provides an affordable full-height display option for $199. Standing over 6 feet tall, it is available in black or white and features 10 adjustable glass shelves and two stable wood shelves. Pairing two BRIMNES cabinets creates a wide, dust-free display wall on a budget. Finally, the HAVSTA series, a solid wood modular system priced between $418 and $429, was initially designed for living room storage but has proven versatile throughout the home. It allows for the creation of customized storage walls by combining a deeper base cabinet with an upper glass cabinet. These can be used in dining rooms or kitchens as hutches for displaying dishware, cookbooks, or bar supplies. #IKEAFurniture #GlassCabinets #HomeDecor #StorageSolutions #InteriorDesign #DisplayCabinets #AffordableFurniture #CustomizableStorage #ModernHome

Frosted glass spray paint offers a versatile solution for numerous DIY and craft projects beyond its common use in home improvement for privacy or decorative window effects. This product allows individuals to creatively transform various glass items, such as vases, candle holders, and other containers, providing an elevated aesthetic. While highly effective for aesthetic enhancement, it is crucial to recognize the semi-permanent nature of frosted glass spray paint. Its durability is limited, meaning it will not withstand the test of time indefinitely. This characteristic can be advantageous for projects where the glass item is intended for future repurposing, offering flexibility. However, for those seeking a long-term solution, the potential for the finish to wear over time might be a consideration. Social media platforms showcase a wide array of applications for frosted glass spray paint, with crafters demonstrating its use in diverse projects. One popular application involves frosting lanterns to achieve a softer, diffused glow when illuminated. This product is also particularly useful for upcycling inexpensive glass items, such as those found in dollar stores, into more sophisticated decorative pieces. The application of frosted glass spray paint extends significantly beyond windows. Brands like Rust-Oleum offer frosted glass spray paints that cater to both privacy needs and decorative aspirations. These products are ideal for numerous glass DIY projects requiring a frosted appearance. One creative method involves using stencils with the spray paint to apply intricate designs or personalized words onto various glass items. This includes mirrors, cookie jars, accent bowls, vases, and votives, allowing for customization and unique artistic expression. Additional applications encompass candle holders, small glass lamp shades, lava lamps, storage jars, ornaments, and tile blocks. Thrifted glass items can also be given a new lease on life through the transformative power of this spray paint. A significant consideration when using frosted glass spray paint is its lack of water resistance. This limitation means that items treated with the spray paint will not endure frequent washing or consistent exposure to water. Consequently, while suitable for decorative displays such as DIY mason jar centerpieces where water exposure is minimal, it is not recommended for everyday glassware that requires regular cleaning. #frostedGlassSprayPaint #DIYProjects #glassCrafts #homeDecor #upcycling #craftingIdeas #homeImprovementHacks #glassTransformation #decorativeSprayPaint

The article introduces 3D stencilling, a DIY trend gaining popularity on platforms like Instagram and TikTok, offering an upgraded version of traditional wall stencilling. This technique transforms flat walls into eye-catching, sculptural designs, adding depth, dimension, and texture to a space. Content creators, such as Kate Hewitt from @our_bears_home, have championed this method, using polyfilla and stencils to create embossed floral patterns, particularly in entrance areas to add a unique touch. This DIY project is highlighted as easy to execute and budget-friendly, requiring only three affordable items: stencils, plaster/filler (like Polyfilla), and a paint/wallpaper scraper. These materials are generally inexpensive, often costing under £6 each, and some may already be available at home. The accessibility and affordability of these tools contribute significantly to the trend's growing popularity among DIY enthusiasts of all skill levels. According to Gill Baker, an interiors expert at B&Q, 3D stencilling is a fun, customizable, and low-damage DIY solution. It allows individuals to transform plain walls into artistic designs that appear expensive, aligning with the importance of texture in interior design, a principle supported by experts like Kelly Hoppen. The method is versatile and suitable for various rooms, including living rooms and bedrooms, offering a timeless design feature that enhances a room's aesthetic appeal. The process begins with wall preparation, emphasizing the need for clean and smooth surfaces, with suggestions to sand down any rough spots. The next step involves selecting a stencil design, with floral and botanical patterns being common choices. Once a design is chosen and positioned on the wall, plaster or filler is evenly applied across the stencil using a scraper or putty knife. After application, the stencil is carefully removed while the paste is still wet, revealing the 3D design. This process is repeated across the desired wall areas. The article also notes that multiple layers of filler can be applied to achieve a more prominent 3D effect. Once the 3D stencils are dry, they can be left as is for a sculptural and minimalist look, or they can be painted to match or contrast with the room's decor. A significant advantage of this technique is its reversibility; if the design becomes outdated or disliked, it can be easily sanded down. This combination of ease, affordability, and stylish results makes 3D stencilling a widely endorsed social media trend for home decoration. #3DStencilling #DIYHomeDecor #InteriorDesignTrends #BudgetDecorating #WallArt #TextureInInteriors #HomeImprovement #CraftProjects #InstagramDIY

A woman identified as Kate, known on Instagram as @my_littlewood_home, successfully transformed her bathroom's privacy window using an affordable window film, saving herself approximately £750 compared to installing traditional stained glass. The homeowner sought a distinctive upgrade for her bathroom and opted for Purlfrost’s Zircon Art Deco Stained Glass Window film, which features a sunset-inspired design. The application of this film cost £23.75, offering a cost-effective alternative to a custom stained glass window, which could easily cost upwards of £750. Kate shared a video on Instagram detailing the before-and-after transformation and the application process, highlighting that even without prior experience, the film was relatively easy to apply. She admitted to initial apprehension due to the need to work over a sink but expressed satisfaction with the outcome. To assist others in replicating her success, Kate provided several practical tips gleaned from her experience. She advised precise measurement when ordering the film from Purlfrost to minimize the need for trimming excess material. Key steps for application included thoroughly cleaning the window before applying the film and re-checking for any debris after spraying the slip solution. Kate recounted an incident where a fly got caught in her film, emphasizing the importance of this step. She also recommended using a generous amount of slip solution to allow for ample time to position the film correctly on the window surface. Once the film is in place, she suggested using the provided tool to quickly remove air bubbles, applying firm pressure, and then wiping the surface with a damp cloth. Kate also advised a follow-up check after about 30 minutes, noting that she discovered and removed additional bubbles that were initially missed. The video quickly gained significant traction, accumulating 1.4 million views, and garnered numerous positive comments from social media users who praised the innovative and budget-friendly idea. Many expressed their admiration for the transformed window, with comments such as "Such a great idea," "That looks fantastic!" and "Oooh this looks incredible Kate! I might need one for our bathroom," reflecting the widespread approval of her DIY project. #HomeTransformation #DIYHomeDecor #BudgetDecor #WindowFilm #StainedGlassAlternative #BathroomRenovation #MoneySavingTips #InteriorDesignHack

This blog post explores the versatile applications of glass and mirrors in home design, highlighting their ability to enhance aesthetics, create illusions of space, and offer practical solutions. The article showcases various ways these materials can be integrated into different areas of the home, from functional items to decorative accents and architectural features. For instance, glass shelves with brass frames are presented as an alternative to traditional shelving, offering a lighter visual presence and giving the appearance that decorative objects are floating. This design choice contributes to an airy and open feel in a room. Mirrors are shown to be highly adaptable, capable of being incorporated into gallery walls alongside framed artwork, thus adding depth and reflective qualities that can brighten a space. Mirrored bar shelves, particularly those with antiqued finishes, are suggested as stylish and space-saving solutions for smaller areas, bringing a touch of glamour above consoles or buffets. The use of shelf cubes with mirrored backs is also highlighted for displaying collectibles, with the option to group multiple cubes for increased storage and visual impact. Glass extends its utility to dinnerware, with recycled clear glass sets elevating tablescapes with a coastal aesthetic. Decorative mirrors, such as sunburst designs, are featured as effective focal points in any room, reflecting light and adding a finishing touch that draws attention. In bathrooms, individual mirrors are gaining popularity, providing both functionality and ornamental value through their unique shapes. Sunburst mirrors with wood frames, resembling sunflower petals, are also identified as statement pieces suitable for entryways or other prominent areas of a home. The article also delves into custom glass and mirror applications through examples from Birmingham Glass & Mirror and Imagio Glass Design. Antiqued mirror samples demonstrate the potential for bespoke pieces to transform spaces, while custom textured glass backsplashes are shown to create beautiful backdrops for home bars, visually expanding the area. Textured glass doors offer a balance of light filtration and privacy, making them suitable for various interior spaces. Collaborations with cabinetmakers result in unique furniture pieces like colorful mirrored dressers, designed to be conversation starters. Custom antiqued wall mirrors are shown in diverse shapes and sizes, and their strategic placement flanking fireplaces can add glamour while visually enlarging the room. In kitchens, glass backsplashes are presented as a modern and practical choice. Examples include backsplashes that mimic weathered brick or dazzling designs simulating rain with custom color fades, providing a focal point. Solid glass backsplashes can replicate the look of subway tile without grout lines, and others feature designs like white reclaimed barnwood, accented with glass outlet plates. Innovative uses extend to backlit glass shower panels that display custom art scans of oil paintings, creating vibrant visual displays. Kitchen backsplashes with original art, such as one overlooking Traverse Bay, further illustrate the potential for personalization. Glass backsplashes incorporating stacked stone designs and even prayers demonstrate customization capabilities. Even subtle patterns on solid glass backsplashes can contribute to making smaller kitchens appear more spacious due to their seamless appearance. Finally, a corner wall in a kitchen wrapped with solid glass imaged with a high-definition Detroit skyline showcases how glass can create a dramatic, expansive backdrop, emphasizing the transformative power of these materials in interior design. #HomeDesign #InteriorDecoration #GlassElements #MirroredDecor #SpaceEnhancement #CustomGlasswork #KitchenDesign #BathroomDesign

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

Customizing IKEA furniture, often referred to as IKEA hacking, has become a popular trend on social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram, with tens of thousands of posts dedicated to creative modifications. While some hacks are simple, many require advanced tools and skills, posing a challenge for those who wish to personalize their furniture without extensive DIY experience. This article introduces O’verlays, a company that offers a simpler solution for transforming IKEA pieces. O’verlays specializes in decorative fretwork panels designed specifically for various IKEA furniture items. These panels come in a range of patterns and sizes, suitable for enhancing dressers, desks, doors, and bookcases. The application process is straightforward, typically requiring only glue, with occasional drilling for adding new drawer pulls. A key advantage of O'verlays panels is their white finish, which allows for further customization through painting, enabling users to match the updated furniture to their existing decor. The article highlights five specific IKEA-hacking projects using O’verlays products. The first example showcases how O’verlays' Mini Fluted Dresser Kit can transform an eight-drawer Hemnes dresser. This kit adds a fluted texture to the drawer fronts, elevating the dresser from a functional storage unit to a more elegant console table suitable for an entryway. Another project features the Greek Key Kit for the five-drawer Kullen dresser. This kit applies a classic Greek key pattern, making the furniture piece appear more sophisticated and less like a standard IKEA item. The Greek key design, with its historical roots in various ancient cultures, adds a timeless aesthetic to the modern dresser. For desks, the Anne Kit is presented as a way to enhance the two-drawer IKEA Micke desk. This kit allows for a more decorative, feminine look, suggesting that users can paint the O’verlays pieces gold and either keep the desk white or paint it a blush pink. This transformation can turn a basic desk into a stylish vanity. The fourth example involves the Dee Dee Single Kit, which can be applied to a Koppang chest. This kit introduces curved designs, giving the chest a more luxurious appearance, reminiscent of furniture from a high-end atelier rather than a mass-market retailer. Finally, the article describes the Chip Kit for the IKEA Billy bookcase with an Oxberg door. This kit adds intricate latticework to the bookcase doors, significantly upgrading its aesthetic. The enhanced appearance might inspire users to curate more refined collections for display within the now more elegant bookcase, moving beyond simple paperbacks to items like crystal or porcelain. O’verlays provides a user-friendly and less labor-intensive method for personalizing IKEA furniture, making sophisticated design accessible to a broader audience without the need for advanced DIY skills or power tools. #IkeaHacks #FurnitureCustomization #DIY #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #OVerlays #FurnitureRenovation #DecorativePanels

Erin Crosby, owner of Crosby Glass Studio, operates her business from a converted garage behind a Victorian home in Bellingham's York neighborhood. Her studio is a vibrant space filled with colorful stained-glass creations, including a portrait of her beagle, glass recreations of famous album covers, and a large custom window depicting blue ocean waves, a pirate ship, and an octopus, destined for the Cayman Islands. Crosby is known for her intricate work and is currently undertaking a significant restoration project: repairing all the 100-year-old stained-glass windows at Western Washington University's Wilson Library. The library's windows, installed in 1923, have suffered a century of damage, with every pane requiring attention. Crosby is the first to work on them since their original installation. The Wilson Library is named after Mabel Zoe Wilson, the university's second and most influential librarian, who was instrumental in establishing and growing the institution's library from a small collection to a dedicated building. She meticulously categorized books and advocated for a proper facility, eventually leading to the construction of the Romanesque-style building that now bears her name. Crosby's archival research reveals historical photos of children studying diligently in the library, suggesting its role as a community resource. Crosby's journey into stained glass began in childhood, inspired by her mother's projects. She recalls being more captivated by the stained-glass windows in church than by the sermons. Originally from Texas, Crosby moved to Bellingham and apprenticed with local artisan Lee Alexander for five years. Under Alexander's guidance, she refined her techniques, focusing on speed and quality. Upon Alexander's retirement, Crosby acquired her materials and established her own studio. Creating stained glass is a meticulous and time-consuming process. It starts with collaborative design between Crosby and the client, resulting in a 'cartoon' or line drawing. Once the design is finalized, Crosby scores and cuts the glass pieces to shape, then leads them together by soldering each joint and curve. The process concludes with the application of a glazing compound, filling the glass, and then polishing and waxing. Crosby also attended classes in Everett to learn hand-painting techniques for adding intricate details to glass, which are then permanently fused using a kiln. This hand-painting skill allows for a level of detail not achievable with leading alone. Crosby notes that she is one of the few individuals in the county who specializes in stained-glass repair and one of only two or three who take commissions. Her work extends beyond restorations to include creating new stained-glass windows for various clients, including churches, contributing to the artistic heritage of homes and historical buildings throughout the county. Her efforts continue to inspire new generations with the beauty of stained glass. #StainedGlassRestoration #ErinCrosby #CrosbyGlassStudio #WWUWilsonLibrary #HistoricalPreservation #GlassArtistry #BellinghamArtisan #WindowRepair #Craftsmanship

Jessica Simpson's recent Instagram post showcased her entryway featuring stained glass windows that cast a warm, golden glow, inspiring many to seek similar aesthetics for their homes. While bespoke stained glass might not be feasible for everyone, especially renters or those on a budget, interior designers offer several alternative solutions to achieve this captivating look without permanent changes or extensive renovations. The primary approach suggested is the use of window film, a versatile and cost-effective option. These films are applied directly to existing windows, mimicking the appearance of stained glass through various patterns, colors, and textures. Options range from iridescent designs and lattice grids to rainbow-hued hexagons, available through online retailers like Amazon and Wayfair. Chantelle Hartman Malarkey, an interior designer, highlights window film as an excellent DIY project that enhances privacy while allowing natural light to filter through. She emphasizes its affordability and removability, making it ideal for temporary living situations. For individuals desiring a specific color, colored window films, such as yellow or orange variations from brands like HOHOFILM, can be utilized. To ensure a smooth application process, readily available installation tool kits, which often include squeegees and scrapers, are recommended. Another creative, hands-on method involves using removable stained glass window paint. Designer Melony Huber, co-founder of La Peony, endorses this option for its ability to provide a stained-glass appearance without the permanence. This paint allows for personalization and color integration while maintaining natural light and privacy. When opting for window paint, it is crucial to protect the surrounding areas, such as entryway floors, to prevent accidental spills. Both window film and paint offer flexibility for those who want to frequently update their home's aesthetic or are looking for non-permanent decor solutions. Beyond direct window treatments, the article briefly touches upon incorporating vintage elements. Thrifting for stainless steel objects to hang near windows can create a similar vintage vibe, though caution is advised regarding the weight of such items and potential wall damage if not properly secured. The article also suggests adding a personal touch, like a black and white photo of a favorite musician, drawing a parallel to Simpson's likely decor choices. These expert-backed tips provide practical and accessible ways for individuals to emulate the inviting and unique ambiance created by Jessica Simpson's stained glass windows, catering to various preferences and living situations. #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #StainedGlass #RenterFriendlyDecor #WindowFilm #DIYHomeDecor #EntrywayIdeas #RemovableWallpaper #CelebrityHome

The IKEA IVAR cabinet, a simple pine wood furniture piece, has gained significant popularity as a versatile item for home DIY and customization projects. Originally part of a shelving system introduced in 1967, the IVAR cabinet's untreated wood, ideal dimensions, and affordability make it an excellent canvas for creativity, as noted by Jana Cagin, founder of Prettypegs, a company specializing in customizing IKEA furniture. This article explores seven innovative hacks to elevate and transform the IVAR cabinet, allowing it to seamlessly integrate into various home styles. One popular transformation involves creating a floating sideboard. By mounting the IVAR cabinets directly onto the wall, a sleek, space-saving credenza can be achieved. This method is particularly effective for small living rooms, as it frees up floor space and contributes to a clean, minimalist aesthetic. Adding a custom wood top and minimalist handles further enhances this sophisticated look, with a coat of paint providing the finishing touch. Another creative approach involves painting patterns on the IVAR cabinet. Beyond solid color coats, individuals can explore various paint ideas, such as trending stripes for a 'stripe drenching' scheme or whimsical designs for a children's playroom. This technique allows for significant personalization and the integration of the cabinet into specific thematic decor. Matching the cabinet's paint color with the wall, a technique known as color drenching, is a highly popular home decor trend. This method creates a cohesive and immersive feel within a room. For example, painting IVAR cabinets and surrounding walls in a rich burgundy shade, such as Sherwin-Williams' Sommelier or Farrow & Ball's Etruscan Red, can produce a striking and on-trend result. This hack emphasizes the rewarding journey of transforming simple pieces into something special. Applying a reeded or fluted finish to the IVAR cabinet is another effective way to elevate its appearance. These textured finishes are currently trending in interior design, particularly for wall paneling, and can significantly enhance the perceived value of simple furniture. While DIY options involve wooden slats or reeded panelling kits, specialized companies like Prettypegs offer ready-made fluted panels designed specifically for IVAR cabinet doors, making customization accessible even for those without extensive DIY experience. Replacing handles and adding legs are among the easiest and most impactful furniture upcycling methods. Since IKEA IVAR cabinets typically come without legs or stylish handles, this hack offers a straightforward path to personalization. Adding chic wavy handles and sphere-shaped legs, for instance, can drastically alter the cabinet's aesthetic, making it appear more bespoke and designer-like. Companies such as Prettypegs, Plank Hardware, and Etsy offer a wide range of options for hardware and legs. Decorating the IVAR cabinet with wallpaper or decorative stickers provides another avenue for adding color and pattern. Utilizing leftover wallpaper from other projects or opting for custom-sized peel-and-stick wallpapers, such as those created through collaborations like Prettypegs and Photowall, can transform the cabinet's surface. Designs like the 'Morning Light layer design' offer a sophisticated and unique touch. Finally, incorporating rattan or cane inserts can give the IVAR cabinet a sophisticated and modern look, aligning with recent interior design trends. Similar to how these inserts are used in IKEA KALLAX hacks to create customized bar cabinets, applying them to IVAR cabinets can result in a piece that is virtually unrecognizable from its original budget-friendly flatpack form. This demonstrates the potential for transforming basic furniture into high-end-looking pieces through thoughtful customization. #IKEAIVARHacks #FurnitureUpcycling #DIYHomeDecor #IKEACustomization #HomeDecorTrends #InteriorStyling #SmallSpaceSolutions #CreativePaintIdeas #CaneInserts

Glass bricks, originally popularized in the 1930s by architects like Pierre Chareau and Arne Korsmo, and later embraced by Tadao Ando in the 1970s, are experiencing a resurgence in interior design. This lookbook presents ten contemporary projects that highlight the versatility and aesthetic appeal of glass-block walls in various settings, demonstrating their ability to manipulate light and shadow while providing privacy and unique visual effects. The featured projects showcase how these glazed masonry units can illuminate and transform interior spaces, ranging from compact bathrooms and hallways to restaurants, co-working offices, and residential dwellings. Among the examples is Maido, a sushi restaurant in London designed by Child Studio, which converted a 1960s post office. The design incorporates a semi-circular glass-block wall that pays homage to the building's modernist origins, complemented by dark cherry wood and a soft-blue coffered ceiling. In Hiroshima, Hiroshi Nakamura & NAP's Optical Glass House features a towering, two-storey wall of 6,000 specially crafted glass bricks. This innovative partition separates the house and its planted courtyard from the busy city streets, creating a play of shadows and refractions that extend into the living spaces, which can open completely to the garden. Remi Connolly-Taylor's self-designed London home, Maryland House, utilizes glazed inserts in a small statement staircase and as a balustrade for an adjacent balcony. These glass bricks filter light into the interior, maintaining privacy while ensuring sunlight reaches two bright-white bedrooms. Buckle Street Studios, a hotel in east London by Grzywinski+Pons, features a glass-brick facade with radiused corners on its top floors, giving the building a lantern-like appearance at night. The interior guest suites echo these curves with custom-made furniture designed to fit the rounded corners. In Athens, Studio Andrew Trotter transformed a 1970s warehouse into 10AM Lofts, a bright and sunny event space. The renovation involved replacing a significant portion of a concrete wall with glass masonry and inserting new windows on the ground floor, enhancing natural light. The Glass-Block Micro House in Ho Chi Minh City, designed by ROOM+ Design & Build, is a Dezeen Awards-shortlisted renovation where frosted glass bricks entirely replace the walls, even in the second-floor bathroom. This design choice transformed a dark and cramped space into a private, sun-dappled sanctuary. Spacial, a co-working space in Montreal by Ivy Studio, employs a glazed-block wall to delineate public and private office areas while allowing light to permeate. The interior predominantly features a greyscale palette, accented by large circular blue mirrors and a zinc-plated reception desk. Jun Murata's Diamant Glass Art Gallery in Japan utilizes glass bricks of various textures and translucencies to create shimmering refractions, mimicking light filtered through water. The sparsely furnished interior, including a classic Barcelona chair, allows the glass wall to be the focal point for temporary product displays. J Boroski, a bar in Shanghai by Atelier XY, incorporates a glazed wall that bisects the space, separating the main bar from an intimate lounge. This wall also serves as a ledge for drinks and is part of an unusual interior design reflecting the owner's fascination with insects, including a display of preserved tarantulas. Finally, the Vizor office in Minsk, Belarus, by Studio 11, reinterprets Soviet-era design. A snaking wall of glass blocks, combined with a deep red colour palette, geometric flooring, and hanging ferns, integrates traditional elements into a modern workplace. These diverse projects collectively demonstrate the enduring appeal and adaptive qualities of glass bricks in contemporary interior architecture. #GlassBricks #InteriorDesign #ModernArchitecture #ArchitecturalTrends #LightAndShadow #RenovationProjects #HomeDecor #CommercialInteriors #SustainableDesign

Glass tiles are emerging as a versatile and visually appealing option for bathroom design, offering a unique blend of sparkle, depth, and practicality. Following trends like handblown glassware and stained-glass resurgence, glass tiles allow homeowners to incorporate similar aesthetic qualities into their spaces, whether through a subtle shower nook accent or a striking iridescent backsplash. Katie Michael-Battaglia, design director at Nemo Tile + Stone, highlights the material's ability to add a "jewel-like sparkle and depth," noting that its appearance varies based on manufacturing and finish. Beyond their aesthetic appeal, glass tiles are also a low-maintenance choice. They are easy to clean with standard window cleaner to maintain their glossy finish and are inherently water-resistant, making them ideal for areas prone to splashes. The article showcases six distinct bathroom designs that utilize glass tiles to achieve various styles and moods. For those who prefer earthy tones, a Montana-inspired shower features mustard-hued satiny subway tiles from The Nooq, arranged vertically for a modern, grid-like effect, complemented by matte black accents. This design provides a bold contrast to an otherwise all-white room, creating a striking focal point. For a coastal ambiance, a seafoam glass tile bathroom by designer Crystal Sinclair evokes seaside vibes. The green color is painted on the back of each square tile, ensuring durability against scratches and chips, and a recessed niche seamlessly integrates into the shower stall for a cohesive 3-D look. For individuals with a penchant for retro aesthetics, an iridescent glass tile backsplash from Oceanside Glass & Tile brings a disco-inspired shimmer. These sparkly tiles, manufactured from recycled bottles, pair well with chinoiserie wallpaper for a maximalist approach, tying in rich colors and textures. A vibrant red glass subway tile shower, designed by Chase Daniel, caters to those who embrace bold and expressive decor. Despite its intense crimson hue, the design maintains a refined appearance through a balanced incorporation of neutral tones and clean lines in the surrounding fixtures. These heat- and frost-resistant tiles are suitable for floor-to-ceiling applications. Pattern enthusiasts can find inspiration in a bathroom by Three Birds Renovations, where mint green subway tiles are arranged in a herringbone pattern on the shower wall and matched with miniature black rectangular flooring tiles. This approach demonstrates how various tile silhouettes can be used to create intricate and personalized designs, celebrating the ocean's diverse shades. Finally, for those who struggle to choose a single favorite color, Oceanside Glass & Tile presents a blue ombré tile bathroom. This tonal palette creates a splashy, all-encompassing statement, turning the bathroom into a dynamic kaleidoscope. The mosaic blend simplifies the design process, allowing for a vibrant and multifaceted aesthetic. These examples collectively demonstrate the versatility of glass tiles in achieving diverse design outcomes, from subtle elegance to bold statements, while also offering practical benefits. #GlassTile #BathroomDesign #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #TileTrends #RenovationInspiration #DesignInspiration #SustainableMaterials #ColorPalette