The most common problems in modern apartments are the lack of space and light. We have to deal with both unsuccessful layout and shading or windows on the north side at the same time. Sound familiar? Then we suggest you pay attention to glass partitions. They let in the sun, save space, and also help to comfortably and beautifully zone rooms.
Advantages of glass partitions
Developers of office and retail space were the first to appreciate all the advantages of glass partitions and began to use them for zoning huge open spaces. But since then, they have confidently migrated into everyday life, combining aesthetics and functionality.
Glass partitions instantly make the interior unusual and individual. They harmoniously coexist with any other materials, from bare brick or concrete to precious woods or natural stone. This is a bold and creative solution that is always worked out strictly for a specific project.
With the help of partitions, the space becomes lighter, lighter and more airy. This is especially true due to the fashion for minimalism, futurism and hi-tech. But depending on the decor, such designs will fit into any other style: neoclassical, contemporary, modern, art nouveau or loft.
Free layout is in vogue, but many still prefer to keep small secluded corners. Glass partitions successfully balance between these concepts, because, if desired, glass can be matte, opaque, covered with decorative or mirror film.
Installation of partitions in an apartment is simple and quick, without "wet" and dirty processes. You can cope with it yourself, and do it at any time, and not only in the process of cosmetic repairs. In this case, the configuration, height, width and other parameters can be absolutely any.
Disadvantages and features of use
Complete transparency and lack of privacy are not suitable for everyone, and penetrating light sometimes interferes with relaxation. In this case, pay attention to tinted partitions, film, matte finish.
The second problem is the fragility of glass, but modern manufacturers have already successfully solved it. Choose hardened grades: their strength is 5-7 times higher, and in case of damage, such a partition simply crumbles into small, non-sharp fragments.
If you have a home theater system or your own mini studio, glass partitions won't work. They are sensitive to vibration and reflect sound waves and therefore cannot be used with loudspeakers.
Glass requires careful handling and care, and it is recommended to wash it with special products. You cannot use abrasives, the surface will periodically have to be polished from splashes and streaks, dust inevitably settles on it and fingerprints appear.
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Types of glass partitions
All glass partitions are classified according to different criteria and installation method. There is no single system, but we have outlined the main categories to make it easier for you to navigate among all the diversity.
Material
For production, different types of glass are used: tempered, laminated triplex, multilayer with polymer films. Such partitions are installed in fire safety systems and even withstand a direct hit from a firearm.
Frame
All partitions can be frame or all-glass. In the first case, different types of aluminum profiles are used. In the second, either one-piece 2-3-meter panels, or inconspicuous silicone seams.
Stationary partitions
These are massive overall structures from floor to ceiling, which are attached to the bases using rigid metal rails. In fact, this is a full-fledged replacement of the wall, which must be done even at the redevelopment stage. But there are also low stationary partitions between the kitchen and the living room, the balcony and the kitchen, or to symbolize the recreation area.
Sliding partitions
If stationary partitions are an alternative to walls and drywall, then sliding ones completely replace interior doors. To unite the space - just move the sections to the side, and to retire - put them back in place. Choose from two basic principles of folding: "accordion" or a conventional sliding system, like wardrobes.
Mobile partitions
These are lightweight mobile structures that perform the same tasks as mobile folding screens. For convenience, they are often made on casters and with an accordion system. If you wish, you can constantly change the layout of a spacious studio apartment, living room or combined rooms.
Glass blocks
Glass block walls are made of transparent or colored cubes, so they can only be stationary, as an alternative to the usual plasterboard structures. In terms of installation technology and properties, the partition resembles ordinary brickwork.
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Decoration and decor
Glass partitions are not only a functional element, but also a full-fledged decorative accessory. Glass is easily subject to additional processing, so the decor of the partitions can be chosen to your taste.
Clear glass
The simplest and most common option is plain transparent glass. Thin, weightless and graceful canvases create symbolic boundaries of different functional areas. It is a popular trend in all futuristic and technological styles.
Frosted glass
Depending on the processing method, the light transmittance of frosted glass varies between 15-75%. They give what transparent partitions are not capable of: the effect of privacy. Therefore, they can even be used in a bedroom or a combined bathroom.
Tinted glass
Glass tinting has two main functions: it filters out too bright light and can be an independent accent color. Tinting does not have to be black - orange, red, blue and green look bold and extravagant. And you will surely appreciate the classics if you live in a sunny hot area or in a house with south-facing windows.
Opaque constructions
The classic matte and tinted finish does not provide complete privacy, but a special treatment allows you to make the partitions completely opaque. This can be film wrapping, sandblasting, or chemical etching.
Corrugated glass
These are textured partitions with embossed elements, stripes, ribs or waves. Such glass is usually thicker than simple transparent glass, but it creates an interesting play of light due to its refraction along the embossed surface. It is these inserts that are still often installed in interior doors.
Pasting with foil
The choice of films for glass is huge and varied, from an inconspicuous shockproof coating to matting films. There are also films with different patterns, ornaments, logos. The main advantage of such a decor is its simplicity, because you can paste over the partition at home on your own.
Stained glass and mosaics
Sophisticated artistic stained glass and mosaic partitions are a luxurious decorative element. Even factory-made, they are more expensive, not to mention manual work. But such an interior will definitely be luxurious and individual, especially in artsy classic styles.
Sandblasting
The smooth transparent glass surface is processed with a special sandblasting machine.Abrasive particles under pressure create ornaments and whole pictures against the background, and the pattern can be of any kind.
Glass and other materials
In sophisticated decorative structures, glass segments are harmoniously combined with other materials. For example, with valuable wood or metal inserts, with artificial stone, epoxy resin and any other decorative compositions.
Glass partitions in the interior
Do you think that glass partitions are something of little use, unnecessary in new homes? We are ready to argue that such an interesting and practical decorative solution can be played in any room or interior.
Glass partitions in the kitchen
Along with tiles and acrylics, glass is one of the best materials for decorating a kitchen. It does not absorb odors and can be easily washed from any stains, because even wine or juice does not penetrate into the structure.
A sealed partition between the kitchen and the living room will prevent odors from spreading with a weak hood. And the glass structure between the dining area and the balcony will provide natural light and scenic views.
Glass partitions in the living room
Traditionally, the living room combines most of the functions, therefore it is it that is most often zoned in modern apartments and houses. Glass partitions are suitable even for small rooms to symbolically separate the recreation area, workplace or creative workshop.
On the balcony, separated by a glass wall instead of brick or drywall, you can create a full-fledged greenhouse and admire it from any corner of the living room. And replacing the partition between the living room with the kitchen with a translucent one visually enlarges and expands both rooms.
Glass partitions in the bedroom
Partitions are rarely used in full-fledged separate bedrooms. But even so, the compact, mobile design will help separate the work area, wardrobe, dressing table or newborn's crib.
In one-room apartments and studios, everything is more difficult, because it is difficult to completely distinguish between the guest and sleeping areas. In this case, the glass partition will give the effect of privacy, but at the same time it does not clutter up the space. And for a more expressive division of the territory, pay attention to tinted glass or frosted glass.
Glass partitions in the bathroom
In the bathroom, glass partitions traditionally solve two main tasks: they enclose a stationary shower cabin and allow you to divide the room without reducing it visually. Glass goes well with tiles, plumbing fixtures, mirrors, acrylics and chrome details, so it fits into the bathroom as if it were native.
Glass is not afraid of moisture, easy to clean, does not damp, does not deform and does not rust. A smooth coating does not create favorable conditions for the development of mold or mildew. It is not for nothing that shelves, showers and bathroom accessories are often made of glass.
Glass partitions in the hallway
The cramped hallways and narrow corridors of most modern apartments are hopelessly separated from the sunlight. The lack of space and windows is difficult to compensate for even with the most modern lighting system.
A glass stationary or sliding partition instead of a wall will solve both problems at once: it will facilitate the interior and provide access to daylight. Most often, they are installed at the junction with the kitchen or living room, leaving, but blurring the border between the rooms.
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