Education
Architectural Art Glass 105
Embracing sustainability and/or “green” virtues can be confusing at best. Even “experts” differ as to what can be deemed as sustainable. The Architecture and Design (A&D) community wants a design to leave an impression in aesthetics and function while remaining timeless, but how do we achieve that and leave the smallest footprint possible? Where do we turn and which tactics do we take to make the “right” decisions?
This varied and somewhat confusing area of “green” definitions was illustrated by my experience a few years back while enrolled in the local SBA (Sustainable Building Advisor) program. What I valued most from the experience were the community of diverse participants and their viewpoints. We were all working toward a common goal to do the most good in our own professions and community. The melting pot of knowledge came from Architects, Interior Designers, City Planners, Sustainability Consultants, Builders, Engineers, Biologists, Landscapers and Product Sales to name a few. In one particular session, we were asked as a class to compile a list of sustainable products. Upon examination of our completed list and the characteristics of each product, we discovered that even these so-called green products had conflicting attributes that could endorse or deny their acceptance.
So where to go from here? I have found that the best plan of action is common sense and due diligence in research. Work with trusted sources that have a respected reputation and a proven track record of contribution in their field and community. In addition, it is important to take a step and start the process. Remember that each product or practice will have its pros and cons but it is important to make the effort however large or small that will contribute to the larger good.
Our team at Glassworks is no different in that we want to craft a beautiful product that is a unique and healthy choice for our clients.
The following are attributes that make our cast or fused glass a sustainable choice:
- Among our offerings is a completely recycled product from the post-industrial source material.
- We focus our efforts sourcing and selling in our local community to limit our carbon footprint.
- Our primary source of heat for a large part of our facility is captured from our kilns.
- We offer 100% glass solutions, the attributes of which contribute in the following ways:
- Glass is non-toxic: It will not emit harmful volatile organic compounds (VOC’s) or radon making it one of the most environmentally safe materials to have in your home or office.
- Glass is non-porous: Leaving no place for germs to hide or stains to absorb.
- Glass is durable: Glass is made of silica which is the main element found in granite, offering a similar hardness and long useful life. And glass doesn’t require sealing.
- Glass is inert: It won’t react with substances that come into contact with it during normal use.
We invite you to rely upon our vast background of glass knowledge; design and our 45 years of contributing to architectural art glass in the Seattle area. Interested in learning more? You can contact us through our contact form or by calling 206.441.4268
Request a Quote
If all the previous steps have had the appropriate time and attention, this is the easiest step in the process. We typically return quotes in one to three business days depending on the complexity and scope of the project.
Now you are on your way to creating Architectural Art Glass like a pro. This advice fits most situations, but there are always exceptional situations that need special attention. If you have any questions about this process or the details of your project, please feel free to contact us via email, or call is at (206) 441-4268 or toll free 1 (888) 441-4268.
For more information on our glass, our process and our people, feel free to read more articles in our Glassworks, Inc ongoing educational series:
Architectural Art Glass 101: Getting Started
Architectural Art Glass 102: Glass Style
Architectural Art Glass 103: The Big Three
Architectural Art Glass 104: The Art of Glass
Architectural Art Glass 105: Going Green