5 Design Trends from Glass Performance Days – Glass in Modern Buildings

1. Glass as a Structural Element

Structural glazing is no longer confined to niche projects; it's becoming a mainstream choice in modern building designs. Beyond facades, glass is being integrated into interior elements like railings and stairs more than ever. This trend is fueled by the appeal of using glass as a primary structural component. The demand for laminated and tempered glass is rising as these materials play crucial roles in structural glass design.

2. Building Reform

Gone are the days when large glass facades meant boxy buildings. Designers now crave shapes, curves, and round edges. Advances in glass technology are making complex designs feasible, and consumers are willing to pay a premium for custom-designed facades. This shift supports the industry's move towards more innovative and visually appealing glass applications.

3. Total Transparency

Glass’s transparency is its greatest asset, allowing natural light indoors and creating a sense of openness. The trend towards transparency is growing, with large glass sheets and new fixing systems enabling almost complete transparency in design. For instance, tempered glass sheets can now reach lengths of over 10 meters and widths of more than 3 meters. A prime example is the iconic Apple store on 5th Avenue in New York, showcasing the impact of large glass sheets on building transparency. This trend extends to renovations, offering significant opportunities for both designers and glass processors as the renovation market outpaces new construction.

4. Large Printed Surfaces

Advancements in digital printing technologies have expanded the possibilities for glass design, particularly in terms of size. This progress allows for fully customizable and transparent facades, pushing the boundaries of innovative glass use. Imagine a building facade that is not only transparent but also personalized with large-scale prints, enhancing both aesthetics and functionality.

5. Future Glass and Building Design

The future of glass in building design is filled with potential. Futuristic designs, such as those presented by Benjamin Beer, showcase the evolving application of glass in architecture. The glass industry is rapidly advancing, bringing more innovative design concepts to life. Keith Boswell of SOM Architects emphasizes the importance of treating each project with the utmost care, as if it were the last one. To ensure success, follow these guidelines:

1. Ensure the project meets the assignment's requirements.

2. Respect the climate in your design.

3. Strive for the highest level of craftsmanship.

4. Utilize innovative and appropriate technology.

5. Make sure your final product makes a bold statement.

These trends highlight the dynamic nature of the glass industry and its critical role in modern architecture, pushing the boundaries of what is possible in building design.