Glass has class

Glass may seem delicate and brittle, but it does pitch in as a versatile material for your interiors, say designers.

April 10, 2015 08:29 pm | Updated 08:29 pm IST

VISAKHAPATNAM, ANDHRA PRADESH, 28-08-2014: Stained Glass window panels with etched paintings in Visakhapatnam.  Photo: CV. Subrahmanyam

VISAKHAPATNAM, ANDHRA PRADESH, 28-08-2014: Stained Glass window panels with etched paintings in Visakhapatnam. Photo: CV. Subrahmanyam

It may be delicate, and extremely fragile, and the idea of using it as a decorative element in an interior can set one to think twice. But none can question its beauty for an interior element.

We are talking of glass, the manner in which it can be used in a décor not just to elevate the aesthetics of space, but bring with it a visual volume that surpasses the actual physical contours.

Glass in interiors can be used in multiple ways, to address varied purposes, ranging from being a decorative element to addressing functionality of a space. Glass can also be used structurally to alter the design of a building where the architecture spells a different ideology.

Sheer glass wall

For instance, a sheer glass wall in a dining or living area overlooking a lush green landscape creates the feel of openness, bringing in the outdoors effortlessly inside. It also gives the visual effect of a larger expanse of space as the landscape appears as part of the interiors where the seemingly open dining or living space incorporates an outdoor, green décor.

This concept of opening on to the outdoors can also be introduced to bath spaces where the bathroom could opt for sheer glass walls that overlook a private garden. The result is a feel of bathing in the open amidst nature. The concept of open bathroom can also brought in by having a glass wall between the bedroom and bathroom, lending novelty.

Likewise, in an expansive interior which accommodates a free flowing living, dining space along with a family area and library, the demarcation between the various functional regions can be effectively brought in by the use of glass. Here, glass partitions that incorporate artwork and hence afford a certain level of privacy, bring about an effective demarcation without bringing in physical walls that hamper this free flowing concept.

Glass partitions

These glass partitions could also imbibe a water feature in them where the strips of glass permit the flow of water, appearing as water partition. The glass partition could also house greenery on one side, like bamboo where the leaves and stems behind the partition accentuate the aesthetics while lending privacy to the desired section.

Glass can be effectively used as a decorative element where it serves as a highlight in a living room or a foyer. Here, the artistic glass feature can also be back lit and combined with other medium like wood to make it an arresting element at the entrance of the residence.

A more dramatic entry into a residence can also be brought in by incorporating a glass floor at the entrance where the glass covers an enchanting water body with marine life. A walk over this glass floor overlooking the live elements beneath can be truly rejuvenating. If marine life is not desired, the space could also house pebbles or art pieces to lend charm.

Similar drama can be infused into a bedroom where a part of the ceiling could be glass, covering a skylight. But, spare a thought to the tendency of glass that increases the warmth of the interiors, due to the intensive heat ingress it permits. Too much glass in a very hot place or in the western direction would be a wrong idea as it would increase the warmth of the residence, warn interior experts.

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