Exploring The Techniques Used In These Famous Glass Projects
Exploring The Techniques Used In These Famous Glass Projects
The use of glass in architecture dates back to 4000 B.C, where it was utilised to glaze stone beads. In modern times, glass has evolved in tremendous ways, becoming one of the most significant materials used in construction. Its versatile nature gives it both a classic and modern aesthetic to any space, making it an effective timeless element incorporated in structures built to last for years. Advancements in technology and manufacturing processes promoted growth in the glass-making industry – paving the way for a wide array of new designs and varying durability and functions.
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque – Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Located in the capital city of the United Arab Emirates, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is one of the largest mosques and most iconic architectural structures in the world. Some of its most significant architectural elements are its glass panels. The mosque is adorned in colourful glass pieces all around its domain – in doors, windows, lighting fixtures and more.
To create these stunning decorative pieces, a combination of different glass-making techniques are used; namely, back-painting, etching and engraving, fusing, and laminating. The back-painting technique involves painting or coating glass on one side, producing an opaque glass surface. Use of back-painted glass effectively improves the appearance of any structure by adding elements of elegance and vibrancy to complement plain walls. Etching and engraving, on the other hand, use abrasive elements to create patterns and textures in glass. This technique is considered as one of the most intricate art forms applied in glass-making. As for fusing, adhering, melting, or overlaying glass pieces together is used to create colorful patterns. The laminating technique applied in the glass decorations of the mosque involved the use of ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA), a thermoplastic copolymer resin that is a durable, less moisture-sensitive option that offers aesthetic, acoustic, safety, and environmental benefits.
Al Bayan Palace – Bayan, Kuwait
The Al Bayan Palace of Kuwait not only functions as the main palace of the Emir of Kuwait, but it is also considered as one of the country’s finest architectural masterpieces. Opened in 1986, the palace covers a total of 1,399,500 square metres. This structure is adorned with stunning glass interiors created with the use of back-painting, etching and engraving, and mirror techniques. Adding mirrors to the architecture in a building adds style and identity to any building instantly. Additionally, its wide array of design and pattern options fit various aesthetic needs.
Princess Noura University – Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
The Princess Nourah Bint Abdulrahman University (PNU) is the largest university for women in the world. Its prestige is reflected through its innovative architectural design that embodies the culture of KSA. Various glass-making techniques such as bending, laminating, beveling edging, mirror, and etching and engraving are used in the glass features in this structure. Bending glass is a technique that involves curving the glass while it’s hot with the use of a piece of metal to match a specific radius. Beveling and edging creates aesthetic angles to form elegant architectural pieces to a structure.
Understanding the techniques in glass-making is highly essential in the manufacturing process. Glass is a material linked to elegance in luxury as it requires a very delicate and intricate creation process. Mirodec is a regional leader in glass design and execution, specialising in decorative structures and furniture pieces. Get in touch to know more about our wide range of glass products and services today.