There are many aspects of design and décor to think about when you want to update your home. The fixtures and finishes you choose for your kitchen, bath or addition will set the tone for the space and bring smiles to your face every time you see your remodeled rooms.
While you’re picking wood finishes for cabinets or deciding whether to go with granite or quartz for counter surfaces, there’s another classic material that deserves consideration in upgrading the look of your home: glass. There are many new and exciting opportunities for adding more glass to your décor.
Custom Kitchen by Merrill Contracting & Remodeling
Windows on Your World
The increased efficiency of the latest high-performance windows means you can add larger window surfaces to any room to let in more natural light while not wasting energy. Gone are the days of having one tiny window over the sink in a dark kitchen. Today’s open-floor-plan kitchens can have a row of windows above the counter instead of wall cabinets. Nothing to see here but wide-open spaces and the great outdoors! It’s a look that we love that lets you enjoy the view of the backyard year-round while staying cool (or cozy) indoors.
Disappearing Glass Walls
If you still have a cumbersome sliding glass patio door, you’ve probably considered replacing it. An elegant solution is a glass wall, such as a NanaWall system, that folds open to seamlessly integrate your home’s interior with your backyard view, deck, or patio.
Photo courtesy NanaWall
Perfect for entertaining, the glass panels are easy to open and close, or fold away completely so it looks like there’s no wall at all. These glass panels are energy efficient and offer excellent protection from even extreme weather conditions.
Glass-Front Cabinets
Custom Kitchen by Merrill Contracting & Remodeling
Kitchen designs today often pack cabinetry up to the ceiling to get the most storage space possible. In order to lighten up the heavier look of solid doors, have the top row of cabinets feature glass doors. You’re not putting EVERYTHING that you store on display, but you get a fresh look. Another option would be to outfit one cabinet with glass doors floor to ceiling to give the feel of a farmhouse kitchen or the look of a china cabinet.
Ditch the Shower Curtain
Many master bathroom renovations today feature a spa-like atmosphere with a large shower. Nothing spoils that vibe faster than the need for a shower curtain, so these showers almost surely have glass enclosures.
Photo courtesy Kohler Co.
With 1, 2 or even 3 glass walls (or half-walls), a roomy, curbless shower is an elegant solution that makes the space feel bigger. It also allows a more accessible bathing experience when you want to employ the principles of Universal Design for a home you plan to stay in as long as possible. Add a smart shower system with personalized presets for precise temperature control and the ability to connect multiple shower devices, such as showerheads, hand showers and body sprays. Put in a bench and you’ll have all the luxurious touches you need for complete relaxation in your master bathroom.
Glossy Glass Tile
Photo courtesy Lunada Bay Tile
For a colorful and durable alternative to ceramic tile, glass tile is an excellent choice. Glass is eco-friendly when made from post-consumer recycled glass. The rich hues and variety of shapes make glass the perfect tile material for a master bath accent wall, a glossy mosaic kitchen backsplash, or a shower stall that expresses your creativity.
We can help you lighten up your home with glass in any number of exciting ways! Get in touch with us today for ideas on how glass can be the transparently perfect way to freshen up your home.
