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Iconic architecture and statement interior design :
GLASS , INDOOR-OUTDOOR
THE DEVELOPMENT OF MODERN ARCHITECTURE HAS SEEN A RISE IN THE DEMAND FOR GLASS USAGE . GLASS IS NOW BEING CONSIDERED A MAJOR CONSTRUCTION MATERIAL , AS OPPOSED TO BEING JUST A PRACTICAL SOLUTION FOR DOORS AND WINDOWS .
The last decade has seen industry leading architects and designers increasingly use glass in their iconic buildings . With this increase in our built environment , it ’ s no surprise that we see this becoming an even more popular choice of material for residential settings – both internally and externally .
Trends & Solutions
We see many interior design trends come and go but one trend that doesn ’ t appear to be going anywhere anytime soon is indoor-outdoor living . This concept focuses on merging your indoor and outdoor spaces for both aesthetic and practical reasons - and glass works magnificently in designing for this trend .
A common go-to solution for indoor-outdoor living is bi-fold doors , with them opening out into a garden / outdoor space . Yes , this works and is highly effective , but there is so much more which can be creatively done with the use of glass , even with limited space .
Balconies , balustrades and staircases can be constructed creating the illusion of a larger space by increased light exposure and extending the line of sight through using glass .
Balconies and terraces are becoming common features in our homes , whether they are extensions to an existing build or part of the specification for a new build . We live in a world that yearns for space and if we cannot access it at ground-level , we add it above . Naturally , balconies have become a musthave in our cities , utilising the limited space available for residential dwellings . Subsequently , it ’ s uncommon to see a tower block without each apartment having balcony access . Where a full walk-on balcony is not practical , a Juliet balcony can be used as an attractive and effective way to create that indoor-outdoor feeling . Glass is a sleek and stylish finish and now a go-to solution for balconies , not only looking great but also allowing for unobstructed views .
With the same benefits above , we see balustrading predominantly specified with glass . Terraces and patios use glass as the material of choice for balustrades as it opens-up spaces and allows for clear , uninterrupted views . Whether out onto your garden space or looking toward surrounding skylines and horizons , it is a great solution to blend your exterior with your interior .
When it comes to staircases , the balustrade is the most important consideration . Your balustrade will act as a safety component as well as design feature in your home . Interior designers and homeowners create elements of individuality to properties by carefully considering their staircase designs . Glass staircases are used for a look of luxury and sophistication , whilst also allowing light to spread throughout the house . If you have a staircase in a location that does not allow for natural light to flow , glass is particularly useful in reflecting artificial light into surrounding areas , creating the illusion of a vast space .
Glass is not just to be considered for your building , it can also add luxury , light , and features to your outdoor spaces . Recently it has been used to accent gardens and parks , with technology advancing and increasing the safety of glass it can be used more often and for less common purposes such as glass partitions , exterior glass tables , water features , sculpture and even glass fencing !
When considering your projects here are some added value benefits of glass .
Customisation – Glass can be made to measure , it comes with many different finishes , colour options and can be used as a multi-material solution alongside metals , woods and masonry .
Practicality – Glass can absorb , refract , or transmit light . Transparent solutions can add ‘ space ’ and light to your projects . It is not affected by the atmosphere and is resistant to exposure from chemicals , heat and moisture . It can also be cleaned easily , allowing for an even longer lifespan .
Sustainability – Glass contributes to the sustainability of your project . Illuminating the building during the day , with natural light , will save money on the cost of energy use . The material is also 100 % recyclable and can be reused at the end of life .
Costs – Not only saving on energy bills , glass is considered a luxury product due to its sleek finish . It is thought of as a more expensive solution than architectural metal works , however this is not the case . Glass can provide a solution for projects on a budget also !
For any project queries , advice or services contact us at Interstellar Steelworks and we will be happy to help you .
info @ interstellarsteelworks . co . uk 01233 229 266 www . interstellarsteelworks . co . uk
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