As we look into exciting material solutions for another new retail project, we have been reflecting on our collaboration with Manolo Blahnik in Tokyo’s Omotesando district. The simple stainless steel framed facade design of this store allows for a clear view of the similarly steely lines in the interior fittings and colourfully vibrant footwear collection. Glass is weather-resistant, easy to clean, long-lasting, requires little maintenance, and is 100 percent recyclable. A glass rainscreen can be quick to install as it eliminates the need for wet trades during installation. It will allow for good thermal insulation and moisture control, and being subject to rigorous regulation will be robust and safe.
Glass is weather-resistant, easy to clean, long-lasting, requires little maintenance, and is 100 percent recyclable. A glass rainscreen can be quick to install as it eliminates the need for wet trades during installation. It will allow for good thermal insulation and moisture control, and being subject to rigorous regulation will be robust and safe.
The possibilities for harnessing the aesthetic qualities of glass are limitless – tinted, frosted, textured or patterned, with back enamelled or digital fritted graphics, laminated with mirror shiny surfaces or perforations, multi-faceted, rugged or slick- smooth, subtle illumination or full-on projectable, large sheet panels or tiny shimmering mosaic.
There is so much for us to work with in bringing a surface to life with glass. It is a material that fuels our creativity while offering a sustainable and functional solution. The incorporation of glass into a wide range of projects across residential, retail and commercial spaces creates many exciting opportunities, both creatively and spatially.
References for glass include: Saint-Gobain, Cantifix, Stuart Fox, and Rough Old Glass.