Creative Solutions for Interior Glass

By: Tom Mooney

During several recent discussions with our clients, a pattern of interest over the use of interior glazing and glass treatments has emerged. At LKC, we are extremely well-versed in current design trends and treatments that are available to you as you begin your next PLAN | DESIGN | BUILD project.

Where possible, we strive to use interior glazing in our designs to increase visibility throughout the space and help bring more natural light into the interior areas of buildings.

History

In the past, many clients preferred an untreated, clear glass to maximize natural light and present an uncluttered, clean aesthetic to their spaces. However, in recent years, the concept of ‘clear’ glass has evolved dramatically.

Present day ‘clear’ glass has become even more transparent than its predecessors. Years ago, most glass used in the interior of buildings had a dark or green tinge to it when viewed on edge, created by the addition of iron oxide. While the coloring had little to no impact on the transparency or aesthetic of the glass, it did increase the reflectance to observers. This reflectance provided a visual cue that the glass was present as viewers approached it.

Present Day

In today’s modern buildings, the use of floor-to-ceiling Butt Glazing – wherein no physical mullions are used between sheets of glass – creates challenges when coupled with the very clear glass material available today.

Often, we are asked: What can we do to ensure that people can see the glass as they approach and will not walk into it?

Many problem-solvers have stepped in to address this issue and, in the process, have created more options that add interest to the environments around us. There are now hundreds of different glass hues and patterns that are available to restore the visual cue of the presence of the glass and at the same time add to the design and interest of the space.

Plus, there are literally thousands of manufactured film patterns that can be applied to glass. These options are more economical than special glass and are also easy to remove if the design needs to be modified in the future. In addition, custom films are not much more expensive than these ‘off-the-shelf’ choices and open up limitless possibilities for creativity, branding, and personalization. Films can also be selectively applied to specific areas of the glass, if desired, to maximize natural light and/or create a sense of separation or privacy between spaces. These various interior glass treatments and finishes allow you to fully customize the functionality and design of your space.

PDB Process

When you work with the L. Keeley team, we make sure to address the smallest details up-front and throughout the entire PDB Process to ensure that your project is a success. Reach out to us today to start the conversation about your next PLAN | DESIGN | BUILD experience.