Stained Glass Isn’t Just Found in Churches Anymore

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

Glassware, historically considered less significant than ceramics, is experiencing a resurgence in popularity, driven by a renewed appreciation for its aesthetic and historical value. Collector Mark Hill notes the puzzling disparity in value and scholarly attention between glass and ceramics, despite glass's enduring appeal. Mid-century glassware, particularly pieces from Murano, Sweden, Finland, Denmark, the UK, the US, and Czechoslovakia, remains highly sought after. This era showcased a wide range of styles, from Murano's elaborate, kaleidoscopic designs using ancient techniques like murrine to the modernist simplicity and nature-inspired colors favored by Finnish designers such as Alvar and Aino Aalto with their iconic Savoy vase, and Timo Sarpaneva's textured Finlandia glassware. These designers often influenced each other, with British designers like Geoffrey Baxter drawing inspiration from Scandinavian aesthetics, incorporating natural textures into his designs. The international studio-glass movement, initiated in the 1960s by American artists like Harvey Littleton, democratized glassmaking by enabling individual artists to produce pieces in smaller furnaces, leading to more expressive works. Contemporary homeware brands are now channeling this mid-century aesthetic, exemplified by Danish brand Hay's Splash vase, which utilizes techniques like rolling molten glass over colored fragments. While the visual appeal of glass is a significant draw, current trends also reflect an interest in authentic craftsmanship, a sentiment highlighted by the Netflix series "Blown Away," which showcased the skill and drama of glassblowing. This show also brought attention to the increasing number of women entering the previously male-dominated field of glassmaking. Modern glass artists, such as Deborah Czeresko, the winner of "Blown Away," are also using their craft to explore conceptual and political themes, addressing issues like feminism and environmentalism through installations. Designers like Erwan and Ronan Bouroullec experiment with glass for architectural and conceptual pieces, while artists like Jochen Holz utilize techniques like lamp-working to create unique, asymmetrical glassware in vibrant hues. The industry is also evolving to incorporate more environmentally friendly practices. Manufacturers such as Japanese brand Sugahara and H&M Home are developing ranges from recycled glass and employing energy-saving production methods. British artist Allister Malcolm uses waste lead crystal, reuses offcuts, and powers his studio with solar panels. The "market for craft" report indicates a significant increase in the value of sales for individual glass pieces in England. Emerging trends include the growing popularity of colored glass, as observed by Turkish brand Nude, and a movement towards mismatched sets in tableware, offering greater freedom in design and color, as noted by SCP owner Sheridan Coakley. Technological advancements like 3D printing are enabling more intricate designs, while traditional handcrafted methods, such as lost-wax casting, remain vital for artists like Angela Jarman, ensuring the continued evolution and appreciation of glamorous glassware. #GlasswareDesign #MidCenturyModern #ArtGlass #HomewareTrends #SustainableDesign #Glassblowing #Craftsmanship #InteriorDecoration #NordicDesign

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

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

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

The article revisits the architectural material of glass bricks, highlighting their resurgence in contemporary design. Initially gaining popularity in 1977, as noted by Carter B. Horsley in a New York Times article, glass bricks were appreciated for their translucence, privacy, visual appeal, and structural order in residential and restaurant projects. However, after a period of widespread use, the material became associated with the dated aesthetics of the 1980s, leading to a decline in its perceived value. Despite this historical perception, contemporary architects are now re-evaluating and re-integrating glass bricks into modern designs. This renewed interest stems from their unique properties, which allow for innovative applications across various architectural contexts. The material offers a balance of natural light penetration and visual obstruction, making it suitable for spaces requiring both openness and privacy. Modern architects are employing glass bricks in diverse projects, moving beyond their previous utilitarian roles. Examples include their use in sleek, minimalist bathrooms where they contribute to a sense of spaciousness while maintaining privacy, and in industrial-themed bars and restaurants, where they add a distinctive textural and luminous quality. The material is also being incorporated into vintage residential windows, blending historical charm with contemporary functionality. Furthermore, glass bricks are finding applications in experimental urban facades, where they contribute to dynamic and visually engaging building exteriors. The versatility of glass bricks allows them to create different aesthetic effects, from smooth and uniform surfaces to more textured and fragmented appearances, depending on the type and arrangement of the blocks. Their ability to diffuse and transmit light without offering clear views makes them ideal for interior partitions, exterior walls, and decorative elements where controlled light and a sense of enclosure are desired. This adaptability supports a wide range of architectural styles and design intentions. The comeback of glass bricks signifies a shift in architectural trends, where previously overlooked or stigmatized materials are being re-imagined and utilized in innovative ways. This trend reflects a broader architectural movement towards material exploration and the re-evaluation of established construction components. The article suggests that the current "boom" of glamorous glass bricks is not merely a nostalgic revival but a sophisticated re-introduction driven by their inherent qualities and the creative approaches of modern designers, who are harnessing the material's potential to meet contemporary design challenges and aesthetic preferences. #GlassBrick #Architecture #MaterialInnovation #ContemporaryDesign #ResidentialArchitecture #CommercialArchitecture #GlassFacade #DesignTrends #BuildingMaterials

Frosted glass has been a long-standing element in interior design, offering privacy and diffused light, often as an alternative to curtains. However, like many design elements that have existed for decades, its contemporary relevance is being questioned. This article explores the benefits and potential drawbacks of frosted glass, and investigates whether it remains a viable design choice or if more modern alternatives have taken its place. Traditionally, frosted glass is created through sandblasting or acid-etching techniques, with acid-etching being the more expensive option. Both methods use abrasives to achieve a frosted appearance that obscures views while allowing light to filter through, creating a soft, ethereal glow. The degree of opacity can vary, and some frosted glass even features intricate patterns. This characteristic makes it effective for privacy, potentially eliminating the need for curtains, while still ensuring a well-lit space. Frosted glass is not limited to external windows; it is also utilized internally for room partitions, shower screens, or modern bathrooms, helping to divide spaces without making them feel closed off. Incorporating frosted glass panels into living rooms as room dividers, for instance, can foster a sense of openness while maintaining a contemporary aesthetic. The key to its continued relevance in interiors lies in its broader context within the room's design. Despite its benefits, some designers argue that frosted glass is becoming outdated. Mimi Meacham, owner and principal designer of Marian Louise Designs, states that frosted glass windows are out of date, arguing they lack a homey or chic feel and that numerous superior privacy solutions exist. This perspective suggests a shift towards more creative, fashionable, and contemporary looks. While frosted glass is a type of obscure glass (any glass that distorts and obstructs light and shapes), there are many other contemporary options available. Alternatives gaining popularity include glass bricks, which can offer a retro or industrial look, and fluted glass. Fluted glass, in particular, is experiencing a resurgence, appearing not only in cabinet fronts but also in window panes and shower doors. It introduces texture and a delicate interplay of light and shadow, adding depth to a space. Colored glass is another option that can bring a fresh look to windows. However, it's important to note that colored glass may not provide the same level of distortion and privacy as frosted glass, making it less suitable for privacy concerns if not combined with other methods. Laura Miller, an interior designer at Modern Interiors, highlights the evolution of frosted glass, noting that colored frosted glass windows can add a vibrant and modern touch, transforming the material from traditional to contemporary when colors are carefully chosen to complement the interior palette. For budget-conscious options, colored frosted glass films are available, which are easy to apply and remove, mimicking the appearance of colored glass. Beyond glass alternatives, designers like Mimi Meacham suggest exploring other window treatments such as window shades, shutters, and cafe curtains, which can enhance a home's design more effectively than traditional frosted glass. #FrostedGlass #WindowTreatments #InteriorDesign #PrivacySolutions #ModernInteriors #GlassAlternatives #HomeDecor #DesignTrends

Fluted glass, a style characterized by vertical, undulating grooves, has been present in design for over a century but is now gaining significant traction as a prominent interior design trend for 2026. This type of glass is highly valued by designers for its ability to diffuse light and subtly obscure objects behind it, making it a versatile material for various applications within a home. It is being incorporated into projects in several ways, offering both aesthetic and practical benefits. One primary application of fluted glass is to add texture and depth to furniture. Designers, like Linda Hayslett, have replaced traditional wood cabinet doors with fluted glass panels, particularly in areas such as bars. This technique softens the overall appearance of cabinetry and allows for a hint of the items stored inside, rather than a full, clear display. The unique ripple effect created by the glass adds movement and elevates a simple storage piece into a notable design element. Another key advantage of fluted glass is its capacity to obscure storage while maintaining an elegant look. Designer Claire Staszak notes that fluted or reeded glass panels in cabinets create visual movement, bounce light, and introduce a vintage or historic aesthetic. While not completely concealing clutter, it effectively hides items better than clear glass, making it suitable for areas where a neat interior is desired but not always perfectly maintained. However, it is not recommended for spaces intended to hide significant disarray. Fluted glass is also instrumental in softening the ambiance of a room by scattering and refracting light. This makes it an excellent choice for spaces where a moodier, more diffused glow is preferred over bright, focused task lighting. For instance, Julie Bradshaw utilized white fluted glass in a historic Texas home to preserve its architectural heritage while introducing a modern touch. The refined lines and texture of the glass create a bridge between eras, complementing classical millwork with a light, contemporary counterpoint. Furthermore, fluted glass is being used to create warm and cozy moods, especially in lighting fixtures. Lee Thornley, founder of Bert & May, highlights how fluted glass shades in dining rooms produce a dappled, warm glow that enhances comfort. In rustic settings, the delicate nature of the glass pendants balances more robust elements like wooden paneling and reclaimed tiles, contributing to a softer overall atmosphere. This makes it ideal for spaces where intense focus is not required, unlike home offices. Finally, fluted glass provides an excellent contrast with other materials, particularly in kitchens. In environments where functionality often dictates a uniform material palette, such as wood in many kitchens, fluted glass introduces much-needed dimension and texture. Joelle Kutner of Ome Dezin emphasizes that fluted glass in kitchen cabinetry achieves a perfect balance between beauty and practicality by adding depth without overwhelming the space. The ribbed surface helps achieve this harmonious blend of aesthetics and utility in interior design. #InteriorDesign #FlutedGlass #HomeDecor #DesignTrends2026 #TextureInDesign #LightDiffusion #CabinetryDesign #AmbianceCreation

Judson Studios, established in 1897 by William Lees Judson and his three sons, stands as the oldest family-run art glass studio in the United States. Located in Los Angeles, the studio has a rich history spanning 124 years, adapting its craft from traditional stained glass to contemporary artistic collaborations. The studio's legacy is comprehensively showcased in the retrospective exhibition, "Judson Studios: Stained Glass From Gothic to Street Style," held at Glendale's Forest Lawn Museum. William Lees Judson, originally from Manchester, England, founded the studio after recovering from ill health following his relocation to Los Angeles in 1893. His arrival coincided with a period of rapid growth and construction in the city, creating a significant demand for stained glass in both commercial and residential buildings, as well as new churches. William Lees Judson quickly became a prominent figure in the city's artistic community, serving as the first dean of USC's College of Fine Arts and co-founding the Arroyo Guild of Fellow Crafters. Recognizing the need for stained glass in the burgeoning metropolis, he established the Colonial Art Glass Company, which later evolved into Judson Studios. Throughout its history, Judson Studios has created a diverse range of glassworks, from windows for Craftsman homes and skylights for movie palaces to fixtures for shopping centers and cathedrals. The studio has successfully integrated various architectural and artistic styles, including Beaux-Arts, Arts & Crafts, and Mid-Century Modern, into its centuries-old glass-making techniques. The exhibition at Forest Lawn Museum, curated by James Fishburne, presents the studio's extensive output through photographs, working drawings, and show pieces, complemented by the book "Judson: Innovation in Stained Glass. A significant turning point for Judson Studios was their 2018 project for the Church of the Resurrection in Leawood, Kansas, which features the world’s largest fused glass window. This project marked the studio's expansion into fused glass, a technique involving the high-temperature bonding of glass pieces without lead. To execute this ambitious project, Judson Studios constructed a new facility and collaborated with Narcissus Quagliata, a pioneer in fused glass. This innovation allows for the creation of large-scale glass art that combines traditional methods with new possibilities, attracting artists interested in pushing the boundaries of the medium. The exhibition's final section highlights the studio's collaborations with contemporary artists, many of whom are street artists. These collaborations have resulted in innovative artworks that challenge conventional notions of stained glass. Examples include Marco Zamora’s "Amor Fati," which merges medieval and street art aesthetics, and David Flores’s self-portrait, "The Muralist." Other artists, like Dani Tull and Alice Wang, have created pieces that transform the medium, with Tull's fanciful lamps and Wang's unconventional black, floor-based glass forms that intentionally defy traditional stained glass characteristics. David Judson, the fifth-generation owner, envisions a future where glass, with its durability and unique interaction with light and color, continues to be a vital medium for both public and gallery art, fostering new artistic expressions. #JudsonStudios #StainedGlass #ArtGlass #ArchitecturalGlass #LosAngelesArt #GlassInnovation #Craftsmanship #ContemporaryArt #FusedGlass

This product listing details the specifications and features of brown reflective and tinted glass, available in 5mm and 6mm thickness, with dimensions of 2440x3660mm, suitable for window applications. The glass is offered by Shuohai International Trade Co., Ltd., a company operating as a distributor, exporter, manufacturer, online seller, trading company, and wholesaler. The minimum order quantity is 1000 square meters, with a lead time of 2-7 days. Pricing ranges from US$3.20 to US$3.35 per square meter, and a sample policy is available at $100.00 per square meter for 1-10 square meters. The reflective glass, known as Hongxing reflective glass, is produced by fusing a metallic coating to ordinary float glass at 1200℃. This metallic coating creates a one-way mirror effect, enhancing privacy by preventing visibility from the outside. The product is noted for its durability. Two types of reflective glass are described: on-line reflective glass, processed using chemical vapor deposition (CVD) with a metallic coating applied during float glass manufacturing, and off-line reflective glass, produced by magnetron sputtered vacuum deposition (MSVD) in vacuum chambers, applying a homogeneous film of metal compound directly onto float glass. The thickness of this metallic film determines various colors and high thermal performance. Key features of this reflective glass include excellent optical performance, superior chemical stability, resistance to acid and alkali, and a chemically formed film at high temperatures ensuring high wearability. It also boasts high color uniformity, a gentle and elegant appearance, and is easy to machine, capable of being toughened and thermally curved. The glass is available in various thicknesses from 2mm to 19mm and multiple sizes, including 2200x1650mm, 2140x1650mm, 2440x1650mm, 2440x1830mm, 2140x3300mm, 2440x3300mm, 2140x3660mm, and 2440x3660mm, with custom sizing options. Packaging involves interlaying paper between sheets, securing them in seaworthy wooden crates, and consolidating with iron belts. Shipping is typically done via 20'GP or 20'OT containers, with each container capable of loading approximately 27 tons. Hongxing Glass, the manufacturer, operates with advanced equipment and a focus on continuous process optimization and innovation in glass technology. The company employs over 250 staff, including more than 20 R&D technical team members, and maintains several laboratories for testing raw materials, glass performance, fuel diversification, and glass formulation to ensure product quality and support new product development. The company aims to become a leading enterprise in Africa within three to five years, providing high-quality glass products and addressing local employment issues. The supplier highlights several advantages, including being the only glass factory in Central Africa, performing 100% quality checks before shipment, and possessing rich experience in delivery through long-term cooperation agreements with major shipping lines. They also offer a comprehensive after-sales service system with offices in several African countries, providing 24-hour online support. The minimum order quantity is flexible, allowing for mixed loading of different sizes and colors. Samples are offered for free, and customized production is accepted based on customer requirements. The best prices are offered based on detailed specifications such as size, thickness, quantity, special requirements (drilling, cutouts, acid-etched, silkscreen), and required delivery timelines. Shipping information indicates FOB Port as Pointe Noire, Congo, with a lead time of 2-7 days. The product weighs 1.0 kilograms per unit with dimensions of 15.0 x 10.0 x 10.0 centimeters. Main export markets include the Mid East/Africa, North America, Western Europe, Asia, Central/South America, and Eastern Europe. #ReflectiveGlass #TintedGlass #WindowGlass #BuildingMaterials #GlassManufacturing #PrivacyGlass #ArchitecturalGlass #GlassTechnology

Joy Cho, founder and creative director of Oh Joy!, sought a new type of tile for her guesthouse-slash-work studio bathrooms, moving beyond the popular zellige tiles she had used previously in her main house. Her goal was to achieve a brighter, lighter aesthetic with a noticeable glow, leading her to choose glass tiles. Specifically, she opted for Fireclay’s glossy finish in a basic square silhouette, appreciating the 4-by-4-inch tiles for their retro appeal and how they allowed the inherent glistening hues to dominate without distraction from complex shapes. The decision to use the same finish and shape across both bathrooms helped to unify the entire space, even though each room featured distinct palettes and patterns. Cho collaborated with designer Cleo Murnane of Project M Plus to create two unique bathroom designs. In the bathroom connected to a moody blue bedroom, they arranged glass tiles in shades of turquoise, including Snowy Owl, Warbler, Magpie, and Kingfisher, into graphic stripes. This design was inspired by Josef Albers' iconic paintings, carefully selected to avoid a juvenile appearance. By placing the darkest tiles at the bottom, they effectively created an illusion of greater ceiling height. The second bathroom embraced a more random, pastel color scheme, incorporating at least five different tile colors: Rosy Finch, Carolina Wren, Warbler, Dove, Egret, Lark, and Sparrow. To achieve this random pattern, Cho suggests either allowing the installer to pick tiles haphazardly from a mixed pile or meticulously planning the arrangement on paper using a color-by-numbers system, while also considering placement around shelving niches. Cho also explored other potential design approaches for these vibrant tiles, such as an ombré effect that would transition colors either upwards or downwards, envisioning a rainbow-like progression. Beyond these specific applications, Cho offered additional tile recommendations to suit various aesthetic preferences. For a cheerful, mid-century-inspired ambiance, she suggested a 'fruity and summery' citrusy combination, which she believes would be well-suited for a kitchen, laundry room, or bathroom, evoking the feel of an orange grove. For those desiring a more subdued yet colorful space, she recommended a 'cool and neutral' mix of muted colors, ideal for a shower or bathroom where a bold statement isn't the primary goal. Finally, recognizing that glossy glass tiles might not appeal to everyone, Cho presented an alternative: classic Carrara marble tile. She emphasized that the key to making natural stone feel fresh and modern lies in the chosen shapes and patterns, such as skinny vertical rectangles or star-and-cross layouts. She noted that marble could also serve as an excellent complement to other, more colorful sections of a bathroom, allowing the entire space to still achieve a distinct and elegant shine, albeit in a different manner than the vibrant glass tiles. #BathroomDesign #TileTrends #GlassTiles #ColorPalette #InteriorDesign #HomeRenovation #ZelligeAlternative #OhJoyStudio #ZelligeTile

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

Designers are increasingly drawing inspiration from English interiors, and tapestries are emerging as a prominent antique item in stylish spaces. These textiles are being embraced to introduce warmth and character into modern interiors, moving away from formal perceptions to appear cozy and confident. Whitney Romanoff of Meet West notes that tapestries instantly add mystery, romance, and softness, captivating with their historical craftsmanship and visual narratives. This trend signifies a shift towards cultivating atmosphere, reminiscent of English country houses where layered textures, mixed patterns, and a lived-in feel are valued over excessive polish. Modern applications of tapestries emphasize rich, moody aesthetics, often featuring velvets, fringe, and pastoral scenes that contribute texture and depth, creating an intimate, cocooning effect in living spaces and bedrooms. The renewed appeal of tapestries aligns with a broader desire for personalized rather than impeccably polished rooms. Designer Sarah Stacey highlights that tapestries are classic, versatile, and can function as wall art, a means to conceal televisions, or even as material for pillows and upholstery. She notes their ability to read as almost neutral despite intricate designs due to their non-repeating patterns. The growing appreciation for handmade items in an increasingly AI-driven world also contributes to the timing of this trend. For individuals seeking impactful decor without committing to extensive gallery walls or large paintings, a tapestry offers an accessible solution to complete a large wall. Designers recommend specific strategies for styling tapestries. Crystal Sinclair appreciates the texture antique tapestries bring, using them to introduce a sense of history and balance to modern environments. She advocates for pairing them with contemporary furniture to avoid a heavy or theatrical feel, emphasizing that the textile's age becomes an asset when contrasted with clean-lined pieces. Sinclair advises homeowners to be bold with their choices, suggesting that a tapestry should be a room's focal point. Both Stacey and Chiara de Rege agree on the importance of scale, encouraging oversized pieces that can extend almost wall-to-wall or behind furniture, making the layering appear intentional and allowing the tapestry to define the space. Achieving a current aesthetic with tapestries hinges on contrast. Designers stress the importance of combining them with modern furniture, streamlined shapes, or unconventional materials. De Rege particularly enjoys the dynamic tension created by juxtaposing very old tapestries with contemporary elements like steel consoles or modern seating, describing the effect as both grand and subtly satirical. The objective is not to replicate historical period rooms but to use the tapestry as a grounding element, allowing the rest of the decor to feel fresh and contemporary. When sourcing, designers overwhelmingly favor vintage pieces for their unique character and inherent narrative. Sinclair emphasizes the challenge and reward of finding suitable vintage tapestries, while Stacey often searches auctions, flea markets, and online marketplaces. De Rege encourages selecting pieces whose stories resonate with the client and project. In an era where warmth, personality, and thoughtful design are highly valued, tapestries provide a unique blend of intimacy, layering, and groundedness, offering a sense of escapism that aligns with current design sensibilities. #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #TapestryTrend #AntiqueDecor #DesignInspiration #EnglishInteriors #TextileArt #VintageHome

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

The article explores the increasing and creative use of color in architectural design, focusing on the application of laminated glass with colored interlayers in both interior and exterior spaces. It highlights how architects and designers are leveraging colored interlayers to achieve specific design objectives, such as influencing daylighting, aiding in wayfinding, defining distinct areas, or simply enhancing the aesthetic appeal and emotional impact of a space. The versatility of glass in architecture is attributed to advancements in its strength and performance through the incorporation of plastic interlayers. Laminated glass, created by bonding two layers of glass with a thin, flexible plastic interlayer under heat and pressure, offers enhanced durability and functionality. The article details the composition and characteristics of laminated glass, explaining that interlayers can be used with various types of glass, including annealed, heat-strengthened, or fully tempered glass, without compromising optical clarity. It notes that while heat processing can introduce some undulating waves in the glass, this is considered a characteristic and can be managed. Laminated glass finds applications in a wide range of architectural elements, such as façades, stairways, balustrades, railings, curtain walls, windows, overhead glazing, interior partitions, and various decorative features. The aesthetic advantages are broad, encompassing a spectrum from natural earth tones and contemporary neutrals to vibrant whites and all colors of the rainbow. Colored interlayers are presented as a transformative tool that can turn ordinary buildings and interiors into distinctive statement pieces. The article emphasizes the extensive design possibilities, noting the availability of over 17,000 color combinations and the capacity to layer up to four colored interlayers, leading to more than 3,000 potential transparent or translucent glass colors. This flexibility also allows for the use of two different colors to create varied visual effects on each side of the glass. These custom design options unlock virtually limitless opportunities for integrating color with functional requirements, such as safety, security, solar control, and sound damping. Furthermore, the article provides examples of building projects where designers have successfully incorporated color, including theaters, schools, hospitals, offices, retail establishments, hospitality venues, parking garages, and wayfinding systems. It reiterates the benefits of laminated glass, which include security, improved thermal performance, structural stability, sound reduction, solar management, and storm resistance. The possibility of combining or 'stacking' different interlayers allows for multiple functions to be served within a single application. The technical aspects of ensuring uniformity and minimizing optical distortion during the manufacturing process are also touched upon, with technical experts collaborating with glazing customers to achieve optimal results. Heat-strengthened glass is highlighted for its ability to resist thermal stress breakage, reduce spontaneous breakage, provide a larger break pattern, and maintain residual strength after breakage. #ArchitecturalDesign #ColoredGlass #LaminatedGlass #GlassInterlayers #BuildingMaterials #InteriorDesign #ExteriorDesign #ConstructionInnovation