Thinking beyond windows: Creative glass applications

Tapping into the true potential of glass requires thinking far beyond traditional windows and doors.

There is almost no limit to how this versatile material can be incorporated into the design of a space; to create a greater sense of openness, to welcome in natural light, to create a stunning focal point that draws the eye and keeps it there.

If you’re looking for a way to enhance the look of a space, improve the performance of a building, or make a design extra special, we recommend considering some of the more creative applications for glass.

Statement staircases

Staircases are a common functional component that connect multiple floors within a building, but a staircase has the potential to play a dual role as a striking design feature – if created using the right materials.

A staircase, by necessity, can require a significant amount of dedicated space, but a glass staircase doesn’t encroach on the sense of openness within a room – instead, it allows light to pass through it creating a beautiful ‘barely there’ aesthetic.

Using structural laminated glass provides the assurance of strength and structural integrity for weight bearing glass structures like staircases.

Polished pool windows

A swimming pool is a quintessential feature of the Australian backyard – and its contribution to the aesthetic of a home is just as important as its practical uses. A pool becomes the centre of activity in the warmer months, for entertaining and enjoyment. And when the weather cools down, its visual impact becomes even more significant.

Introducing glass into the design of a pool is among the more sophisticated trends that have arisen in recent years. Particularly when combined with the external façade of a dwelling, creating a pool window, glass not only adds a sense of modernity but creatively marries external and internal living spaces.

Clear double-glazed glass is a structurally sound choice for a swimming pool that also provides maximum clarity, increasing visual appeal and letting an abundance of natural light flow through.

Airy atriums

An atrium is a guaranteed way to add that “wow” factor to your space – letting an abundance of natural light transmit and spread across multiple floors, while also adding a distinctive sense of style.

With standards now calling for greater levels of energy efficiency in building design, choosing a toughened laminated glass with solar control for atriums means a building can feature substantial expanses of overhead glazing without having to sacrifice temperature control or send energy costs skyrocketing.

Beautiful balustrades

While balustrades are a necessary safety feature, nothing detracts more from a great view than obtrusive railings and barriers. Developments in glass technology – leading to improved safety and durability – have allowed glass balustrades to become a staple in luxury home design, as safe structural elements that also offer unrestricted vision.

Toughened glass is manufactured to avoid thermal breakage and resist soft object impacts, to last significantly longer than ordinary glass. It’s perfectly suited to a wide range of applications that would normally put ordinary glass at risk of breaking, including balustrades.

Glazing goes so far beyond windows – it provides a range of practical solutions that deliver unrestricted views of the world, without having to compromise on safety, energy efficiency, or style.

To find out more about our Structural Systems range, visit our website: www.viridianglass.com/products/structural-systems