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Unlocking the Versatility of Glass
April 9, 2024
Sanjitha Suresh
Glass provides a fusion of style, usefulness, and adaptability and thus has become a popular choice in contemporary kitchens, writes Sanjitha Suresh
Kitchen is no longer a mere functional space. Recent lifestyle-related changes have meant that increasingly it is becoming part of living spaces. Since the kitchen is becoming an activity centre of the house, the aesthetics and overall ambience of the space are equally important. And, this has a direct impact on the mood board and the material palette for the kitchen.
The choice of materials used in kitchen design has a significant impact on the overall atmosphere, functionality, and visual appeal of the room. The use of glass in kitchen design has grown in popularity in recent years.
When incorporating glass into a kitchen design, it's important to balance the classic charm of traditional kitchens and the sleek modernity of contemporary kitchens. Photo Courtesy: JB Glass
Glass as Material Cabinet Doors
Glass cabinet doors are among the most visually arresting applications of glass in kitchen design. Glass cabinet doors give the kitchen an airy, open feel while giving the impression of more space. Glass's transparency makes it possible for users to display their glasses, dishes, and other kitchenware, transforming their cabinets into useful showcases. This gives the kitchen a classy look while also promoting neatness and organisation. The following types are glasses are widely used as material for cabinet doors:
Clear Glass: A sleek and contemporary touch is added to the kitchen with clear glass cabinet doors that offer a transparent view of the contents. This works well for displaying glasses, dishes, and ornamental objects.
Frosted Glass: Glass that has been etched or frosty offers some privacy without sacrificing visibility. Depending on the design, it softens the interior of the cabinet and gives it a classic or contemporary appearance.
Leaded or Stained Glass: Cabinet doors can be given a traditional or vintage look by using stained or leaded glass to add some colour and artistry. These are frequently utilized in traditional and ornamental kitchen designs.
“Glass back-splashes have the advantage of reflecting light, which can help create a brighter and more open feeling in the kitchen. This can be particularly beneficial for kitchens with limited natural light. Tiles, on the other hand, do not provide the same level of light reflection.”
Shilpa Jain Balvally
Principal Architect,
Studio Osmosis
Glass Backsplashes
Glass backsplashes are becoming a more and more common feature in modern kitchen designs. They are decorative as well as functional. Glass is a practical option for a surface that frequently experiences spills, splatters, and other messes during cooking because it is simple to clean. In addition, a broad variety of colours and patterns are available for glass backsplashes, allowing designers to customise the look of the kitchen and coordinate it with other décor elements. Both glass tiles and back-painted glass are widely used by designers.
Glass Tiles: Glass tiles come in an array of hues, dimensions, and feel. They can give the kitchen a bright, contemporary appearance. They can reflect light, making the area brighter, and they are simple to clean.
Back-painted Glass: Glass backsplashes with back painting are made to order and have a smooth, glossy finish. They come in a range of colours, so one can match them to the colour scheme of the kitchen.
Cabinet doors can be given a traditional or vintage look by using stained or leaded glass to add some colour and artistry. Photo Courtesy: JB Glass
Milind Pai, Principal Architect, Milind Pai – Architects and Interior Designers asserts that glass is also a popular choice for high-end kitchens in tops and dados. “Back painted glass gives us a seamless look and partially reflects some surface making the end space appear larger. Not only is glass easy to clean and maintain, but it is also a non-porous material that helps cut down on germs and bacteria from food products.”
Highlighting another advantage, Shilpa Jain Balvally, Principal Architect, Studio Osmosis shares, “Glass back-splashes have the advantage of reflecting light, which can help create a brighter and more open feeling in the kitchen. This can be particularly beneficial for kitchens with limited natural light. Tiles, on the other hand, do not provide the same level of light reflection.”
Although glass backsplashes are typically installed as large panels, minimising the number of seams and making installation relatively faster. “However, glass backsplash installation may require more precision and expertise to ensure a seamless and flawless finish,” adds Balvally.
Countertops made of tempered glass resist heat and are long-lasting. They offer a glossy, reflecting surface that can elongate the kitchen's visual aspect. Photo Courtesy: JB Glass
Glass Countertops and Open Shelving
Another creative addition to modern kitchen design is glass countertops. They provide a gorgeous, reflective surface that can enlarge and brighten the kitchen. When properly cared for, these countertops exhibit remarkable durability, withstanding heat, scratches, and stains. They are a great option for busy households because they are also simple to clean.
Countertops made of tempered glass resist heat and are long-lasting. They offer a glossy, reflecting surface that can elongate the kitchen's visual aspect. They work well in contemporary and modern kitchens. However, designers and users are wary of the durability, propensity of penitential chirping and regular maintenance. And, hence, Quartz as an alternative is used more frequently.
Simple glass shelves that float can be used for open shelving, showing off kitchenware, or holding decorative objects. They give the kitchen a more modern, open feel.
“Back painted glass gives us a seamless look and partially reflects some surface making the end space appear larger. Not only is glass easy to clean and maintain, but it is also a non-porous material that helps cut down on germs and bacteria from food products.”
Milind Pai
Principal Architect,
Milind Pai – Architects and Interior Designers
Glass in Traditional Kitchens
Modern kitchens frequently feature minimalist design, clean lines, and reflective materials. Glass looks sleek and contemporary, so it fits right into this style. But can the material be used in traditional kitchens which frequently have wood, warm colours, and elaborate details?
Designers argue that glass can be used in both traditional and modern kitchen designs because of its versatility. The secret is to make sure the glass components blend in with the overall design scheme and to incorporate them with care. When incorporating glass into a kitchen design, it's important to find a balance between the classic charm of traditional kitchens and the sleek modernity of contemporary kitchens.
Cabinet doors can be given a traditional or vintage look by using stained or leaded glass to add some colour and artistry. Photo Courtesy: JB Glass
Glass in Compact vs Large Kitchens
Glass in kitchen design is more appropriate depending on the layout, preferences, and specific design goals than it is on the size of the kitchen. Glass can be a useful element in small kitchens to prevent a cramped feeling and to create an air of openness. It can be used for both decorative and practical purposes in large kitchens, which improves the overall design.
In a small kitchen, glass cabinet doors can help give a feeling of openness and keep it from feeling overly cramped. Because glass is transparent, one can see inside the cabinets, which reduces the visual clutter in the kitchen.
Glass open shelving can be a great option for small kitchens. It has options for storage and display and has a modern, airy appearance. Maintaining the shelving's aesthetic appeal and organisation is, however, essential.
On the other hand, in a large kitchen, one can use glass as a design focal point. This could be a gorgeous glass chandelier, a glass room divider, or an island countertop made of glass. These components can offer a hint of elegance and luxury.
Glass room dividers or partitions are a useful tool for defining specific areas within large kitchens while preserving an open, airy atmosphere. These dividers can serve a practical and aesthetic purpose.
Glass cabinet doors are among the most visually arresting applications of glass in kitchen design. Photo Courtesy: Milind Pai - Architects and Interior Designers
Making a Wise Choice
While there are many things going for glass as a material, it also comes with certain trade-offs. Glass surfaces are prone to showing fingerprints and stains, necessitating frequent cleaning to maintain a pristine look. Moreover, glass can be susceptible to breakage, highlighting the importance of professional installation to ensure a secure fit.
Additionally, while glass is versatile and can be matched to the kitchen's colour scheme, it tends to be more expensive. However, it may have fewer options for patterns and textures in comparison to other popular materials like tiles. However, printed or back-painted glass can provide unique design possibilities.
The drawbacks also need to be considered while planning to use it in the kitchen. Ultimately, evaluating the specific needs and style preferences of the kitchen will help determine the best option for a particular project.
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