Top 5 Glass Design Trends In Architecture
Glass is a major component of architectural designs. Due to its versatility, it can be incorporated with different design elements and has a variety of applications. Integrating glass in architectural designs, gives buildings, homes, and various infrastructures a contemporary yet classic touch., while generating a bright atmosphere- Think about the Louvre in Paris, France or The Basque Health Department Headquarters, Bilbao, Spain, where glass is an integral part of the architecture.
Architects love using glass in their designs since the innovations in glass technology have made it a more resistant and stable building material. Additionally, it is hygienic, odor-free, and easier to maintain than most building materials. Because of its popularity, glass has been used for windows, roofing, partitions, elevators and balcony railings.
Unsurprisingly, several commercial and residential towers have glass-dominated interiors and exteriors; from wide glass window-facades, glass partitions, and ceilings. There is no doubt that every architect seeks a reputed glass company to collaborate with and bring to life their designs using glass.
Discover the Top 5 glass design trends commonly used in architectural designs all over the world.
Printed Glass
Glass can be printed on to enhance and increase its aesthetic value. Printed glass opens several possibilities that bring both beauty and function to surface designs. The technology of UV printing has made it possible to customize the designs on glass and mirrors, to be applied to interiors, furniture, and even advertising.
Thanks to the advances in technology, printing on glass can offer more than just design potential. Exterior and interior surfaces can benefit from how durable, flexible, and sustainable printed glass can be. From glass suppliers, designers, right down to architects; digital printing on glass delivers impressive advantages and plenty of room for creativity.
Additionally, glass printing technology enables the production of bespoke products that can integrate classic and natural designs with a wide array of color palettes. For instance, the marbling effect can be achieved through this technology. Subsequently, this can have a variety of applications; from wall mounts, room panels, to kitchen cupboards.
Today, there is an existing high demand for eco-friendly, sustainable, and creative surface designs on glass in the market. Printing on glass provides a competitive edge to stand out from the rest. With infinite design potential, there is no doubt that this decorative glass technique is sought after for commercial, industrial and most especially, architectural applications.
Smart Glass
Also known as LCF glass, it is perhaps the latest innovation in architectural glass designs. Presently, there are three different types namely, electrochromic, thermochromic, and photochromic smart glass.
Electrochromic smart glass utilizes liquid crystal molecules that are activated with an electric charge to either transform into transparent or opaque. On the other hand, thermochromic smart glass reacts to the change in temperature; whereas photochromic smart glass reacts to sunlight.
Each of the three main types of smart glass is used differently. In architecture, electrochromic smart glass is commonly used.
Stained Glass
Stained Glass has been part of architecture since the middle ages, from stained glass adorned cathedrals to modern-day buildings. Stained glass never goes out of trend. Today, stained glass is not limited to chapels, cathedrals or commercial buildings anymore. A lot of contemporary architects even incorporate it in home designs, as more and more people embrace this glass art.
Stained glass is often used on windows and ceilings. It is made of different colored glass pieces that are arranged to form patterns or particular designs. It is traditionally held with strips of lead or supported by a rigid metallic frame.
Laminated Glass
Laminated glass is perhaps the most versatile glass material used for architectural designs. Not only is it used for its durability and safety, but it could also be customized by color or design to become not just shatterproof but also aesthetically pleasing as well. In other words, laminated glass brings in functionality and design together.
Several infrastructures with stunning architectural designs incorporate laminated glass in a building’s structure. Due to its resistance against impact, temperature, and pressure, laminated glass is commonly used at airports and high-rise buildings or skyscrapers.
Laminated glass is made by placing a layer or more of EVA or PVB in between two or more layers of glass. Laminated glass brings together design, functionality, and safety together. There are also countless ways glass companies can offer to customize a laminated glass; from inserting fabrics, colored films, and even metal mesh- the design possibilities are endless.
Curved Glass
Curved Glass can be used in different form s depending on the requirements of a design. Curved annealed glass is commonly used to achieve a tighter radius and is also used for installation purposes which less likely needs safety and durability
For architectural purposes, however, curved toughened glass is used. This material is stronger and more durable than ordinary curved glass. This is often used in designing staircases, balconies, and other interiors. Curved glass can be laminated or can undergo glass back painting as well. This makes for an even more aesthetically pleasing architectural element. Typically, curved glass is custom-made by bespoke glass suppliers.
Glass has unlimited aesthetic potential. Its diverse range makes it a design choice for architects. If you are planning on designing your new home or looking to revamp your office or commercial space, you can visit Mirodec and talk to one of our design experts.