Preventing Glass Collisions

This article discusses the development and application of structural glass sandwich panels with an aluminum honeycomb core, specifically for restaurant extensions and an entrance canopy at The Berkeley Hotel in London. The project aimed to create a bright, open space while providing sun protection and privacy, a challenge that traditional reflective coatings or ceramic frits could not adequately address without compromising the aesthetic of lightness and transparency. The solution involved using glass sandwich panels with an aluminum honeycomb core, an approach previously seen in smaller-scale interior decorative and floor panels but requiring significant engineering development for exterior, large-scale applications. The panels needed to offer durability, strength, stiffness, and clarity, prompting the development of a comprehensive testing and acceptance criteria. Given the large size of the panels, exceeding typical manufacturing capabilities, a specialist façade contractor developed a new production method. A key innovation was addressing the pressure changes within sealed sandwich panels exposed to weather. The proposed solution involved ventilating the panels through silica gel desiccant canisters to dry incoming air and prevent condensation, a technique common in electrical transformers but novel to the glazing industry. This technique holds significant potential for various façade applications. Architects Rogers Stirk Harbour + Partners sought a combination of technology and craftsmanship, likening the desired aesthetic to a Bugatti. Initial explorations of various shading and privacy devices within double-glazed units did not meet the stringent requirements for clarity, sparkle, and charm. The discovery of a small sample of a clear plastic sandwich panel with an aluminum honeycomb core, and observations of glass floors and interior dividers utilizing similar honeycomb structures, led to the adoption of this concept. The natural variations in the hexagonal cells of the honeycomb, a result of the manufacturing process, were embraced for their aesthetic richness rather than viewed as defects. Performance considerations were critical. While the aluminum foil is thin, its thermal conductivity necessitated additional insulation for the building envelope. This was achieved by incorporating a conventional insulating cavity with laminated heat-strengthened glass on the interior face of the structural honeycomb panels. A solar reflective coating on the lower pane and a low-emissivity coating on the insulating cavity minimized heat gain and loss. Estimating the shading coefficient was complex due to the honeycomb's geometry, requiring various simulation methods. A significant advantage of bonding honeycomb to glass skins is the enhanced stiffness and strength, enabling the construction of 4.5m high walls without mullions and 1.9m wide roof panels with minimal fall. The development phase involved selecting a clear adhesive and devising a manufacturing process for large panels, given the lack of existing facilities for the required size. A rigorous testing program was initiated to verify durability and properties, including tests for yellowing, chemical compatibility, fogging, moisture ingress, accelerated aging, mechanical strengths (tensile, compression, flexural), cyclic temperature, and impact resistance. The chosen adhesive demonstrated excellent performance, maintaining clarity and mechanical properties. A specialized panel manufacturing cell was developed for adhesive application and UV curing. Addressing climatic loads, particularly pressure changes in sealed sandwich panels, was crucial. The honeycomb core prevents glass deflection, leading to significant isochore pressure. To ensure durability and prevent seal failure, the panels were designed to equalize to external pressure using perforated honeycomb, a method borrowed from aerospace applications. To counteract the issue of moisture ingress due to equalization, industrial desiccating breathers containing silica gel granules were employed. These units, which also feature relief valves, ensure that the cavity remains dry enough to prevent condensation. This technique, though not resulting in the ultra-low dew-point of hermetically sealed units, is sufficient for preventing transient condensation. Potential applications extend beyond façades to include glass floors, offering high strength-to-weight ratio and obscuration while maintaining brightness. The desiccant breather system was also successfully applied to spherically curved insulating glass units on the Las Vegas High Roller observation wheel. The technique has broader implications for curtain wall systems and could allow for greater design flexibility, extend product life, and facilitate material recycling by avoiding permanent bonding of panes. In summary, structural glass sandwich panels with a honeycomb core provide unique architectural qualities, and the desiccant breather technique enhances their durability and broadens their application potential. #StructuralGlass #SandwichPanels #HoneycombCore #FacadeDesign #ArchitecturalGlass #BuildingMaterials #GlazingTechnology #SustainableDesign #GlassInnovation

Glass features prominently in modern architectural design, offering transparency and connecting interior and exterior spaces. However, this inherent transparency also presents vulnerabilities, as glass can be a weak point in a structure and poses a risk of injury upon breakage. Security window film is a solution designed to fortify glass, providing enhanced safety and protection. This film can mitigate risks associated with break-ins, natural disasters such as high winds and tornadoes, seismic activity, flying debris, blasts, and accidental impacts. The application of security film is a proactive measure for both residential and commercial properties, contributing to overall safety and security. Security window films function by strengthening ordinary glass. Most types of security film are adhesive-backed, allowing them to firmly adhere to glass surfaces. Beyond their primary function of increasing safety, these films offer several other benefits. Many security films incorporate UV-blocking properties, which help to protect interior furnishings from sun damage and fading. Their transparent nature ensures that natural light is not obstructed, maintaining the aesthetic and functional aspects of glass. Certain window films also include tinting, which can contribute to energy savings by reducing heat gain and loss, thereby lowering heating and cooling costs. In the event of natural disasters, security films prevent glass from shattering into dangerous shards, containing the fragments and reducing the risk of injury. Furthermore, the visible presence of security film can act as a deterrent to potential burglars, encouraging them to reconsider targeting a protected property. When selecting a security window film, several factors should be considered. The thickness of the film directly correlates with the level of protection it offers, with thicker films providing superior impact resistance. Films are available with either adhesive backing or static cling; adhesive versions typically offer greater strength and durability. Accurate measurements are crucial for purchasing the correct roll size, and it is advisable to buy slightly more film than needed to accommodate potential errors during installation. While most security films are transparent, variations in visibility exist. The integrity of the window frame and overall structure should also be assessed, as a strong film on a weak frame may not provide adequate protection. Installation can be challenging, and while some films come with tools, professional installation is often recommended to ensure proper application and avoid issues like air bubbles. The market offers a range of security window films, each with specific features. For instance, the BDF S8MC Window Film Security is an 8-mil thick film designed to absorb impact and keep shattered glass intact, also blocking approximately 99% of UV rays. The GordonGlass 12 Mil Clear Security Window Film is a thicker option, providing high impact protection and 99% UV ray protection, available in continuous rolls up to 50 feet. The VViViD 12 Mil Clear Safety Window Film also offers high-impact resistance, utilizing a rubber-based adhesive to distribute impact over a larger area. Thinner options, such as the Queenbox 3M/10FT Clear Safety and Security Window Film (2 mil) and HOHOFILM 4 Mil Clear Vinyl Shatterproof Safety Window Film (4 mil), prevent glass from shattering and offer UV protection, though with less robust impact resistance. TOYOCO Security Window Film (8 mil) provides UV protection to reduce fading of indoor furnishings, while Rayno Window Security Film (4 mil) combines shatterproof qualities with anti-UV and anti-IR properties for insulation. SW MEGICOLIM Shatterproof Protective Vinyl Adhesive Transparent Film (4 mil) focuses on keeping windows intact and absorbing impact. Shackcom Tempered Glass Window Film (4 mil) is multi-layered, tear and impact-resistant, mimicking the protection of tempered glass. ColorfulHall 2 Mil Adhesive Waterproof Window Film, an explosion-proof film, is waterproof, oil-proof, and moisture-proof, suitable for both interior and exterior use. Beyond security films, other types of window films serve different purposes. Privacy window films, often tinted or frosted, allow natural light while obstructing visibility from the outside. Blackout window films are completely opaque, offering maximum privacy and light blocking. Decorative window films are used for aesthetic enhancement, mimicking various glass styles and available in diverse colors and patterns. It is important to note that these non-security films are not designed for impact resistance or protection against breakage. #WindowSecurityFilm #GlassProtection #HomeSafety #UVProtection #ImpactResistance #NaturalDisasterProtection #CrimeDeterrent #EnergyEfficiency #HomeImprovement

Glass-mat sheathing, a product long utilized in commercial construction, is increasingly finding its place in residential building due to its advanced properties that address several contemporary construction challenges. This innovative material offers non-combustible, moisture-resistant, and mold-resistant characteristics, making it a compelling alternative to traditional sheathing options. The transition of glass-mat sheathing into residential applications is significant, especially considering the product's established history and the familiar use of gypsum-based panels, like Sheetrock® Brand, in homes since post-World War II. USG Securock® Brand Glass-Mat Sheathing, specifically, is highlighted as a vapor-open, non-combustible, and structural sheathing that effectively mitigates various residential construction issues. For instance, in densely populated areas with zero-lot-lines, its fire-resistant gypsum core provides a crucial safety benefit. Furthermore, in regions susceptible to urban or rural wildfires, glass-mat sheathing offers an important layer of protection. This versatility also extends to architectural design, providing builders and architects with flexible options for exterior cladding. Beyond its safety features, the sheathing's cost-effectiveness, ready availability, and ease of installation contribute to its growing popularity. Installers can work with glass-mat sheathing using common tools like a utility knife, scoring and snapping it much like drywall. Fastening is accomplished with exterior-grade screws or hot-dip galvanized roofing nails, simplifying the construction process. The material's vapor-open nature, coupled with its inherent moisture and mold resistance, leads to improved indoor air quality and contributes to the overall durability and comfort of a home. The article also delves into the integration of glass-mat sheathing within modern wall assemblies, particularly in the context of continuous exterior insulation, which is becoming a standard practice due to increasing energy requirements. An example wall assembly is described, featuring a Sheetrock® Brand panel, fiberglass cavity insulation, glass-mat sheathing, a self-adhered WRB, continuous exterior mineral wool insulation, a rain screen, and lap siding. This configuration demonstrates how glass-mat sheathing enhances fire resistance and, when paired with a properly detailed vented rain screen, provides diverse design possibilities for walls with continuous exterior insulation. For further simplification, products like Securock® ExoAir®430 panels offer a factory-applied air and water control layer, streamlining the installation process while maintaining the benefits of glass-mat sheathing. Regardless of whether standard glass-mat panels or ExoAir® panels are used, the installation remains straightforward, requiring no specialized equipment and allowing for easy maneuverability and cutting of panels. The application of glass-mat sheathing is also suitable for a variety of exterior finishes, including stone and stucco veneer systems. Its moisture and mold resistance make it a reliable choice for these applications, drawing parallels to its proven performance in commercial settings that have stood for decades. In essence, Securock® Brand Glass-Mat Sheathing emerges as a resilient, durable, and high-performing option for residential construction, offering enhanced resistance to air and water infiltration, mold growth, and flame spread, all while being cost-effective and easy to install. #GlassMatSheathing #ResidentialConstruction #BuildingMaterials #FireResistance #MoistureResistance #MoldResistance #ContinuousInsulation #BuildingEnvelope #ConstructionTechniques

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

This 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

The popularity of glass as a material for partition walls and internal doors is increasing, offering aesthetic and practical benefits for homeowners. It allows for the creation of spaces that feel large and open while maintaining the functionality and privacy of separate rooms. This trend has emerged as the lines between home and work life blurred during the pandemic, leading to a desire for distinct zones without sacrificing natural light. Glass walls also add a 'wow' factor to interior design, providing an understated yet cool industrial vibe. Several design options are available for glass walls, including simple partitions, hinged doors, bi-fold doors, and sliding doors. Sliding doors, in particular, draw inspiration from traditional Japanese house designs, allowing for flexible interconnected or distinct spaces. These can be framed with bespoke timber or steel, and can feature clear glass for unobstructed views or obscure glass to allow light while maintaining visual privacy. The framing materials for glass partition walls and internal doors vary, influencing both cost and aesthetic. Steel and aluminium are popular choices, with Crittall-style windows and doors offering a sleek, industrial look. While ultra-traditional steel can be expensive, aluminium provides a more affordable alternative with a similar aesthetic and robustness. Bronze offers a unique, rich, and deep color, suitable for both traditional and contemporary designs, though it is a more premium option. For a minimalist look, frameless glass walls create an illusion of greater space, as seen in glass brick walls for an opaque, vintage-industrial feel, or transparent stairwells that appear to float. Various glass types offer different functionalities. Obscured, reeded, and colored glass are used when visual privacy is desired without blocking light, offering a sense of connection between spaces. For increased sound insulation, thicker glass (e.g., 6mm or 6.8mm) can be specified, especially useful for home offices. Acoustic glass, a multi-layer glass with a special resin, provides enhanced noise reduction while remaining transparent. Smart Glass, a technology featuring a liquid crystal layer, allows clear glass to turn opaque at the touch of a button, offering on-demand privacy, though it is more common in corporate settings. Several design considerations are crucial when incorporating glass walls. Glass screens are typically not load-bearing, so removing a structural wall requires installing a reinforced steel joist (RSJ) to support the structure above. Homeowners should also consider the implications of transparency; a glass wall allows views into the adjacent room, which may not always be desirable. Additionally, items like shelves or large flat-screen TVs cannot be mounted directly on glass walls, influencing room layout. For high-traffic areas, kick plates can be added to the bottom of glass doors to prevent scratches and ease operation when hands are full. Practical applications of glass partition walls include creating ultimate larders or pantries, where a glass partition can visually expand the kitchen while maintaining a cooler, separate storage area. The Shoreditch kitchen example uses 8mm Crittall glass, saving space compared to traditional walls. Glass walls can also define en suite bathrooms or dressing rooms within bedrooms, making these private spaces feel larger. Oversized glass double doors can serve as grand, yet practical, room dividers, offering an open-plan feel when open and separate, cozy spaces when closed. Glass walls are also effective for dividing reception rooms or creating spacious home offices, gyms, or wine storage areas. Finally, frameless glass banisters or half-height glass walls can provide a safe yet visually open solution for staircases, enhancing light penetration and the sense of space. #GlassWalls #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #PartitionWalls #NaturalLight #CrittallStyle #SmartGlass #AcousticGlass #OpenPlanLiving #SpaceMaximization

The French-based design firm AD-3D, led by Bulgarian designer and artist Aleksandar Dimitrov, has introduced an innovative 3D-printed accessory called 'clip on glass.' This creation transforms an ordinary drinking glass, specifically the IKEA Pokal glass, into a functional vase for flowers. The design aims to add a secondary purpose to everyday items through a simple yet effective modification. The 'clip on glass' is engineered to be minimalistic while maintaining full functionality. Measuring 9 x 9 x 6 centimeters, the object is optimized for material efficiency, utilizing a minimal amount of polyamide. Polyamide was selected for its strength and flexibility, critical properties for the 'clip' mechanism. The material's fine surface texture allows for the necessary expansion and contraction during the clipping process, ensuring a secure fit without compromising the integrity of either the accessory or the glass. The design ethos behind 'clip on glass' centers on enhancing existing household items rather than replacing them, promoting a sustainable approach to home decor. By leveraging 3D printing technology, AD-3D offers a customizable and accessible solution for users to repurpose their drinking glasses. The ease of attaching the accessory means that users can effortlessly switch between the glass's original function and its new role as a vase, providing versatility in home styling. This project highlights the potential of additive manufacturing in creating practical and aesthetically pleasing objects for daily use. The ability to produce complex geometries with minimal material waste makes 3D printing an ideal method for such small-scale, high-utility designs. The product serves as an example of how thoughtful design can integrate new functions into common objects, extending their lifespan and utility. Aleksandar Dimitrov's work with AD-3D demonstrates a forward-thinking approach to product design, focusing on user-centric solutions and the innovative application of modern manufacturing techniques. The 'clip on glass' accessory is not only a decorative item but also a statement on adaptable design, encouraging creative uses of everyday objects and showcasing the transformative power of 3D printing in the realm of home accessories and functional art. #3DPrinting #HomeDecor #ProductDesign #IKEAHack #SustainableDesign #FunctionalArt #AleksandarDimitrov #AD3D #Polyamide

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

The "Indefinite Vases" project by Stockholm-based multidisciplinary design practice Studio E.O explores the dynamic relationship between organic and geometric forms, and between transparent and opaque materials. This series utilizes handblown glass and meticulously cut stone to create a collection of unique vessels. The design process involves melting and cooling traditional vase forms directly onto sharp, angular stone bases, resulting in a distinct interaction where gravity plays a crucial role in defining the final shape. The project intentionally blurs the lines between sculpture and container, as well as between functional and decorative objects. The core concept revolves around the contrast between the fluid, malleable nature of the handblown glass and the rigid, defined structure of the stone platforms. This juxtaposition highlights the interplay between a delicate, fragile material and its solid, unyielding counterpart. The glass appears to "melt" onto the stone, adopting its contours and creating a seamless, yet visually contrasting, union. Each vase becomes a site-specific creation, molded by the precise interaction with its individual stone base. Studio E.O's approach emphasizes the inherent characteristics of each material. The handblown glass, with its inherent imperfections and fluidity, is allowed to naturally conform to the sharp edges of the cut stone. This process ensures that no two vases are exactly alike, each possessing a unique form dictated by the forces at play during its creation. The transparency of the glass further enhances this effect, allowing light to interact with the forms and reveal the subtle variations in thickness and texture. The angular stone bases provide a stable and strong foundation, contrasting with the soft, flowing lines of the glass. The selection of stone, likely chosen for its aesthetic and structural qualities, complements the ethereal quality of the glass. The project statement elaborates on this exploration, highlighting how "indefinite melting material interacts with definite angular forms and gravity determines the relationship in between." At the time of its release, a limited number of these "Indefinite Vases" were made available through Galerie kreo, a renowned gallery specializing in contemporary design. The project demonstrates Studio E.O's innovative use of traditional materials and techniques to produce pieces that challenge conventional notions of form and function. The collection serves as an example of how careful consideration of material properties and natural forces can lead to compelling and visually striking design outcomes. #glass #sculpture #vessels #StudioEO #handblownGlass #stoneArt #design #artisticVases #materialContrast

This article highlights eight architectural projects from around the world that utilize glass bricks and blocks to enhance natural light, privacy, and aesthetic appeal. Glass bricks, which gained popularity in the 1930s, are experiencing a resurgence in modern architecture due to their ability to create luminous facades, internal partitions, and intriguing patterns of light and shadow. The selected projects demonstrate diverse applications of this material, ranging from residential homes to commercial spaces and greenhouses. The Optical Glass House in Japan, designed by Hiroshi Nakamura, features a shimmering glass-brick facade that encloses a residence on a busy street in Hiroshima. Approximately 6,000 bespoke glass blocks provide privacy while allowing diffused views and casting dynamic light patterns onto a tree-filled courtyard. The Brest Post Office renovation in France by Chatillon Architectes integrated glass bricks into the extension of a 1950s post office converted into flats, giving the building a contemporary quality alongside concrete and wooden elements. In Chile, Max Núñez Arquitectos' Casa de Vidrio uses square glass blocks to form vaulted roofs for a greenhouse. These blocks refract light, creating a warm environment suitable for tropical plants without direct sun exposure. Delmulle Delmulle Architecten's Glass Brick House in Belgium, situated on a narrow, enclosed plot in Ghent, employs a glass-brick facade to maximize natural light within the three-story home, addressing the challenge of limited window space. The Glass Fortress in Thailand, by Archismith, serves as an entrance pavilion for a sales office in Bangkok. Its facade comprises 20,000 rectangular glass bricks, which reduce the feeling of claustrophobia within the eight-meter-high walls and block out external noise. MVRDV's Crystal Houses in the Netherlands feature a partially transparent facade made from hundreds of glass bricks and transparent high-strength glue, creating the illusion of a dissolving wall that merges with existing terracotta brickwork, offering an alternative to a traditional shopfront. Remi Connolly-Taylor's self-designed Maryland House in the UK incorporates a tower of square glass blocks to enclose a red staircase. This design maximizes natural light while maintaining privacy and light standards for adjacent properties. Finally, ROOM+ Design & Build's Glass-Block Micro House in Vietnam involved renovating a compact house and shop in Ho Chi Minh City, replacing two street-facing walls with translucent glass blocks. At night, the house transforms into a sparkling lantern, enlivening the neighborhood. These projects collectively illustrate the versatility and renewed appeal of glass bricks in contemporary architecture for their functional and aesthetic benefits. #GlassBricks #ArchitectureDesign #NaturalLight #Privacy #FacadeDesign #GreenhouseDesign #ResidentialArchitecture #CommercialArchitecture

The "2x Glass Vases" collection, created by Assembly Design, features unique glass vases that give the impression of ice crystals forming both on their interior and exterior surfaces. This distinct aesthetic is achieved through the application of master glass-blowing techniques, ensuring that each vase in the collection is entirely one-of-a-kind. The creation process for these vases involves the careful integration of broken glass shards into a freeform glass bubble. This bubble is initially shaped through mouth-blowing, a traditional glass-making method. Following the initial blowing, the piece undergoes a meticulous process of repeated heating and hand-molding. This iterative shaping and heating allow the glass shards to become seamlessly embedded within the vase's structure, transforming them into integral sculptural elements. The purposeful incorporation of these glass fragments is what contributes to the vases' unique, crystal-like appearance, giving them a texture and visual depth that distinguishes them from conventional glasswork. The manual and repetitive nature of the shaping process ensures that while they share a common design principle, no two vases are exactly alike, each possessing its own subtle variations in form and shard integration. Once the sculptural body of the vase is complete, the final steps involve cutting and polishing the top edges. This finishing touch refines the vase's aesthetic, providing a smooth, clear opening that contrasts with the textured body, and making it suitable for practical use while maintaining its artistic integrity. The entire production sequence underscores a commitment to craftsmanship and artistic expression, resulting in decorative objects that are both functional and visually striking. #GlassVases #AssemblyDesign #GlassBlowing #SculpturalArt #HomeDecor #UniqueDesign #ArtisticGlassware #Craftsmanship #InteriorDesign

This article details a distressing incident where a 10-year-old Singaporean girl sustained severe injuries, requiring over 100 stitches, after a kitchen sliding glass door unexpectedly shattered at her grandparents' newly occupied home. The mother, Nadine Yap, expressed profound concern and an increased sense of paranoia regarding glass installations in homes, questioning the quality and sourcing of tempered glass. She also highlighted the conflicting information available on optimal glass solutions for different installations. The incident with Nadine's daughter is not an isolated one, as the article references two other similar occurrences in Singapore in 2018. One involved two daughters injured by a shattering glass shower screen, and another concerned a toddler hurt by an exploding bathroom glass door, emphasizing a pattern of spontaneous glass breakage in residential settings. These cases underscore the potential dangers associated with glass doors in homes, despite their common use. To address safety concerns, the article provides essential information about different types of glass commonly used in Singaporean homes. It clarifies that while regulations exist for exterior glass in buildings, internal glass installations are left to the homeowner's discretion. A crucial point highlighted is the misconception that applying a safety film automatically transforms any glass into 'safety glass.' Experts confirm that if the underlying glass is not properly treated, it can still cause significant harm, as shards can cut through the film. The article outlines four primary types of glass: annealed, heat-strengthened, tempered, and laminated. Annealed glass, being untreated, shatters into sharp, dangerous pieces. Heat-strengthened glass, made stronger by a heating and gradual cooling process, is about twice as strong as annealed glass and commonly used in building facades and windows. However, it still breaks into large shards, though these often remain within the frame in windows. Tempered glass, treated with rapid cooling after heating, is 4-5 times stronger than untreated glass and is considered safety glass because it breaks into smaller, less sharp fragments. Despite its safety features, tempered glass can shatter spontaneously due to stress from improper installation or impurities like nickel sulphide. Laminated glass is presented as the most robust and expensive option. It consists of multiple layers of glass bonded by a plastic interlayer, which holds the glass together when shattered, preventing dangerous fragmentation and typically showing a characteristic 'spider web' cracking pattern. Automobile windshields are a common application for laminated glass, highlighting its superior safety characteristics. #GlassSafety #HomeSafety #ChildSafety #GlassDoors #TemperedGlass #LaminatedGlass #AccidentPrevention #HomeRenovation #BuildingMaterials

This article discusses the technology and applications of smart privacy glass, a material that can transition from transparent to frosted with an electrical current. While not yet in widespread use, this technology has existed for several years and offers various practical applications. For instance, it can be used for home windows, potentially eliminating the need for traditional blinds. In commercial settings, it could be implemented in storefronts for nighttime privacy or in bathrooms where privacy is paramount, albeit requiring a certain degree of trust in the technology's reliability. Saint-Gobain, a French company, manufactures an 'intelligent' glass product called Privalite. This glass operates by sandwiching a polymer liquid-crystal film between two glass plates. When an electrical current is applied, the film's liquid crystals align, making the glass transparent. When the current is off, the crystals scatter randomly, resulting in a frosted, opaque appearance. The transition between these states is nearly instantaneous and can be activated as frequently as needed. Real-world applications of privacy glass are highlighted, such as its use in the dressing rooms of the Koolhaas-designed Prada flagship store in SoHo, New York. Another notable example is found at Bar 89 on Mercer Street in NYC, where the bathroom doors utilize privacy glass that is activated by an infrared sensor. This demonstrates both commercial and public space implementations of the technology. The underlying principle of privacy glass is polymer liquid-crystal optics. The laminated glazing consists of two glass sheets, which can be clear or tinted, and a liquid crystal film. The film's surfaces are coated with a transparent, electrically conductive material. When the power supply is off, the liquid crystals are randomly dispersed, diffusing light and rendering the glass non-transparent. When the power is switched on, the crystals align themselves, allowing light to pass through and making the glass completely transparent. The rapid switching capability between opaque and transparent states offers flexibility in managing light and privacy. Beyond its current applications, this smart glass technology holds significant potential for energy efficiency. By being integrated into residential windows, it could contribute to substantial savings in heating, cooling, and lighting costs. This suggests a future where buildings can dynamically adjust their transparency to optimize indoor climate control and natural light utilization, thus reducing energy consumption and environmental impact. #PrivacyGlass #SmartGlass #Privalite #ArchitecturalInnovation #InteriorDesign #HomeTechnology #EnergyEfficiency #LiquidCrystalTechnology

Plum Bottom Gallery in Door County recently hosted an opening reception showcasing new additions to fused-glass collections from artists Kellie Hanson and Laurel Grey. The gallery's Plum Bottom Road location features a garden setting where glass stands and sculptures interact with sunlight, flowers, and trees, extending this aesthetic indoors through mosaics and wall panels. The event provided an opportunity for artists and customers to engage in conversations about the art pieces. Kellie Hanson, one of the featured artists, specializes in mosaics, creating art for windows and walls. Her works, such as “Door County Waters” and “By the Lake,” use varying shapes and sizes of hand-cut glass to depict natural scenes, with larger pieces forming elements like the sky and smaller ones mimicking rippling water. Hanson's inspiration for mosaics originated from a stained-glass window in her aunt's home, prompting her to explore this art form. Her artistic focus is deeply influenced by the landscapes and waterscapes of Door County and Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. Laurel Grey, another artist, is known for her glass leaf strands, which are displayed in rainbow colors and brilliant turquoise throughout the gallery gardens and around the entrance. Grey's motivation for creating these pieces came from a desire to bring nature indoors due to limited opportunities to spend time outside. She transitioned from making flat, painted stained-glass leaves to more dimensional ones, aiming for each leaf to be as unique as those found in nature. Her process involves hand-painting, kiln-firing, drilling, and stringing individual glass leaves into columns. She often incorporates local elements like driftwood and stones from Door County into her designs, and also integrates her leaves into ornaments, tree sculptures, and wall panels. Grey's artistic style is significantly shaped by her childhood experiences in Japan, where she observed the organization of nature in bonsai trees and raked rock gardens. Her visits to glass factories in Japan also influenced her decision to focus on glass as her medium, as she witnessed skilled Japanese artists transforming molten glass into various beautiful objects. Furthermore, Buddhist philosophy, particularly the teaching of "letting go of the outcome," resonates with her approach to working with glass, as the material often reacts in unexpected ways. The versatility of fused glass is highlighted by Grey's leaf strands. In shaded areas or on cloudy days, they illuminate spaces with shiny color, while in direct sunlight, light dances off the leaves, creating vibrant reflections. The rainbow-colored strands exhibit an iridescent quality, symbolizing how different colors combine to form white light. This interplay of glass, color, and light enhances both indoor and outdoor settings, with pieces sparkling and capturing ambient light in any room, offering a whimsical impression of a sunny garden or a reminder of a Door County scene. #FusedGlass #ArtExhibition #PlumBottomGallery #DoorCounty #GlassArt #MosaicArt #NatureInspired #ArtisticProcess #GlassSculptures

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