Artisanal Glass: Enhancing a Kensington Victorian Residence

Artisanal Glass: Enhancing a Kensington Victorian Residence

The Client’s Vision

In the heart of Kensington, a private client with a Victorian residence embarked on a home improvement journey, seeking a blend of privacy and artistry. Agreeing to showcase their exquisite panels, the client has granted us a glimpse into one of Daedalian Glass Studios' most stunning projects.

The challenge was clear: to create sophisticated floor-to-ceiling cast glass panels that serve as both privacy screens and dynamic works of art. Interested in the intricate world of decorative glass, the client had a demanding brief that met their high standards of aesthetics, craftsmanship, and quality.

The Initial Design Consultation

The process began with a comprehensive design consultation. During this crucial phase, the team communicated various technical and feasibility aspects of casting glass. The initial design featured a central shell motif bordered elegantly, emphasising the exquisite detailing possible with cast and polished glass.

An interesting requirement was the integration of external glazing panels behind the cast glass to facilitate easy cleaning access. This technical nuance ensured that the panels could serve their practical purpose without compromising the design’s integrity.

From Concept to Craft

Upon agreeing on potential design options, the team sketched up various proposals. With sign-off achieved, a detailed quote outlining value engineering and value-adding options was submitted to the client. Several techniques to realise the cast glass design were explored deeply, including:

• Cast glass panels with polished motifs and negative areas
• Frosted motifs paired with polished negative areas
• Privacy detailing through hand-drilled negative areas paired with frosted motifs
• Frosted motifs along with frosted negative areas

Ultimately, the client opted for cast glass panels with polished negative areas and frosted (sandblasted) motifs. Once the final control sample was approved, the studio began the meticulous production process.

Creating the Masterpieces

The journey from design to installation was a saga of precision and dedication. Here’s a step-by-step look at how these bespoke panels came to life:

1. Modelling Board Creation: CNC cut modelling boards were sanded to a refined finish and detailed by hand. A silicone master mould was created, followed by a plaster refractory mould for kiln use.
2. Glass Casting: Glass billets were cast in the plaster moulds and fired in kilns. The casting process required skilled handling to ensure each motif was perfectly realised.
3. Cold Working: Post-firing, the castings underwent fettling (removal of excess material) and linishing (surface polishing), ensuring a consistent and finely polished finish.
4. Safety Compliance: As cast glass cannot be toughened, each panel was laminated to 6mm thick toughened low-iron glass, adhering to British standard building codes.
5. Final Touches: Polished negative areas were masked, and motifs were sandblasted for a frosted finish. The installation frameworks included integrated LED lighting to illuminate the glass art subtly.

Installation and the Finished Elegance

After the production was complete, the team provided an installation service. Working alongside the site's general contractor, Daedalian Glass Studios ensured that the panels were installed with precision and care. The dramatic transformation brought an unparalleled elegance to the residence.

Conclusion

The glass panels at the Kensington residence stand as a testament to the incredible potential of decorative glass. With an eye for detail and a commitment to craftsmanship, Daedalian Glass Studios has once again proven their ability to execute complex design briefs seamlessly.

For those captivated by bespoke glass artistry and considering similar enhancements to their living spaces, further inspiration can be found by exploring more in our portfolio.

By choosing Daedalian Glass Studios, you can integrate bespoke glass art that merges functionality with luxury, elevating your home to new heights of elegance.