Gorgeous Stained Glass Windows for Modern Homes

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Stained glass is an art form that dates back thousands of years and can be found nearly everywhere, from Egyptian and Roman pottery to Medieval churches and mosques all over the world. While stained glass windows traditionally adorn religious buildings and other important establishments, contemporary artists like Frank Lloyd Wright have demonstrated that they can also be used in homes. We love the juxtaposition of historical and modern design elements and think that stained glass windows are the perfect way to give a nod to tradition in your modern home. Here are just a few of our favorite stained glass window decorations to give you some inspiration.

Tiny house, huge character

Even the smallest homes can have modern stained glass windows — or doors, in this case. We love the way the bright colors in this reclaimed door add light and character to this tiny house with a combination of geometric and modern panels. We’re sure the owner wouldn’t mind if we copied this design in our own home!

Understated art deco

While an art deco design like this is more early 20th century than ultra modern, many contemporary homeowners are embracing this kind of throwback style in entryways and other surprising places throughout the home. The bright primary hues in these windows add just the right touch of color while still allowing light to flood in through the clear glass.

Inspired by Frank Lloyd Wright

Stained glass was given its first, most popular taste of modernity with architect and designer Frank Lloyd Wright’s trademark linear style. We’re sure he wouldn’t mind if you copied this style in your own home with a combination of geometric patterns and golden tones.

This impeccable stained glass door design would be right at home in a modern church, but everyone can agree that this contemporary take on a classic art form makes a stunning addition to the home — in this case, as an inner entryway that is more of an inviting conversation starter than a simple door.

Modern first impressions

Some contemporary homes have small rosettes and other frilly stained glass designs in their entryways, but this particular design is certainly not one of them. Upgrade your entryway with a modern geometric print and give your home added curb appeal. Although this front door has tons of exposed glass, the stained glass designs give privacy while still allowing the light to shine through.

Victorian restoration

If your home is blessed with original European-style Victorian or Edwardian windows, there is no reason to get rid of them in order to make your home more contemporary. A quality restoration job can breathe new life into even the most tired stained glass windows and make them look as good as new. This bathroom is an excellent example of the ways in which traditional and modern styles can come together to create something breathtaking.

Bold blocks of color

When one stained glass window simply isn’t enough, there is no reason you can’t create an entire glass wall to showcase your favorite designs and colors. This stained glass wall is more art installation than functional window, but we love the way the light shines through and makes a unique and remarkable statement. Who wouldn’t want to work in a room like this?

Pantone rainbow door

Stained glass is perhaps the perfect solution for homeowners who are looking for a way to make their homes unique. This mosaic style doorway is actually an artistic representation of all the Pantone colors used throughout this particular home and certainly makes a lasting impression. We love the modern interpretation of stained glass here and especially the way the light reflects onto the stairway.

Creative stained glass alternatives

Homeowners who love the idea of stained glass but either can’t or don’t want to commit to new windows will love these affordable alternatives. Available from just about everywhere in a variety of design styles, these stained glass window hangings will add the same color and light as a window without the cost and disruption to the fabric of your home.

If you’re feeling inspired by these designs and want to add some character and color to your home, there is no reason not to take the leap into the world of stained glass. The best thing about this kind of artistic expression is that there is no limit to the kinds of pieces you can have in your home, so let your mind run wild and get creating!

Stained Glass in the interior

Stained glass in the interior always look attractive, add design of status, originality. Previously stained glass were available just enough rich people, currently possible to create stained glass and with his own hands, since there were modern materials and technologies, allowing it to do without the use of sophisticated tools and the availability of skills.

A little history

Originally stained glass collected from small glass pieces, remaining after the creation of a solid product. Between them they were held together with metal strips. Such glass They used not only as a decoration, but also as a product, the ability to close the desired area. It was connected with the inability to make a product of the right size.

Italian masters used as glass transparent minerals, then they were coated, eg, alebastrom. This is to protect the room from the sun, creating a shadow. Later, there were red, yellow and blue glass, of which can be folded intricate pattern. Stained Glass valued dearly, served as an ornament of rich houses and cathedrals.

Stained glass front door

How to create a modern stained-glass windows?

Modern stained glass windows are made completely by other technologies. They can be produced in the factory, or do fans with their hands. glass of different colors are used to create the classic stained-glass window. Similarly, based on sketches by drawing cut, then bonded portion by using the H-shaped profile from a lead.

Such designs are thick and bright contours, which are well highlighted line. The appearance of the stained glass is familiar: they can be found in the Old Cathedral. AT modern interior such constructs can be used not only for the exterior glass, but also for the decoration of interior partitions and doors. Very popular minimalist style.

Stained-glass window over the connecting door

Nabornaya technology TIFF

Stained glass window in the interior is often used for manufactured typesetting technology. These are called Tiffany stained glass, they appeared in the US in the XIX century. Details are also carved on the design of the desired color on the glass, connection occurs by means of soldering and copper foil tape special, that the glass around the perimeter obvorachivayut. The result is integrally, which can be used as stained glass.

The technology allows the use of not only traditional glass, but also textured surfaces, elements are not standard form, eg, convex. Such decorations can be created, if desired, independently. They often make out the window, interior partitions, fixtures, ceiling.

Stained glass ceiling with lighting

sandblasting technology, etching application

Fusing is a modern technology, applicable to the creation of stained glass. In the 90s it was invented in Germany. The main feature is the method of connecting the fragments: they are not drunkards, and sintered, using a high temperature. To do this, the details need to put on a flat surface, then heated until, until the glass becomes soft and fragments will not soldered to each other. When the elements are firmly connected, it is allowed to cool.

stained-glass window, created by this technology, It has no visible seams of metal, on fashionable, often used for interior decoration. The boundaries between the elements are not evident, colors have a smooth transition to each other. Stained glass looks like a one-piece, slightly blurred picture. Such designs are suitable for rooms with high humidity, because it does not contain the elements, oxidizable. Besides, They are suitable for use in display cases and windows, since the connection portions vitrage dense and hermetic. This technology is used to create and fixtures, decorative elements, decorations of various furniture.

Stained glass window in the bathroom

A method of creating a large composition of several elements

Modern stained may be a large composition, establish that in the past it was impossible to. The technique resembles fusing, because it involves the use of metal loops. Details spread on a special substrate of glass, Stir the material in special cells, whereupon the mold is heated, occurs and its liquid filling material, which firmly sintered with the metal elements. For greater strength and achieve an attractive appearance metallic contours are made convex. Externally, such a stained sufficiently similar to the ancient.

There is another way to prefabricated large stained-glass windows. For this purpose, clear glass, is specially etched. So you can get almost any image on the glass the desired area. To obtain the desired color in the glass field, where there should be drawing, is treated with hydrofluoric acid. The image comes out matte. If this glass to illuminate an end, matt areas will glow from within, creating a magnificent view and bringing in design originality.

There is another option to create a pattern — sandblasting. It is less attractive in appearance, than etching, but it is simpler to implement and cheaper. Its essence, that sand jet knock topsheet glass, creating a matte surface. Most often, stained glass windows created in this way are used for the decoration of interior doors and partitions, They can be used in kitchens and bathrooms, where there is high humidity.

Rarer manufacturing methods vitrage:

• Bezel — a way, wherein the chamfer is cut from the glass and thus creating a pattern. Master, conducting such work, must have the appropriate experience and knowledge, otherwise a high risk to spoil the glass. Cells glass are combined with a conventional metal frame. When exposed to light on the facets he distorted, spilling a lot of glare. Stained glass windows of this type is particularly well looks in the windows, room door, where a lot of light.
• Creating stained glass with the help of film. Membrane technology is affordable and accessible to anyone who wants a way to turn ordinary glass into the stained glass. It’s enough to stick the film the desired color on the glass. To impart a decorative kind used lead circuit. This decor is available for any interior. It is recommended to use a glass, decorated film indoors, since under the influence of rain and UV film on the street quickly loses light, It becomes attractive in appearance and needs updating.

Glass, converted into film stained using, It becomes stronger, such glass when broken its fragments remain hanging on the film and will not fall onto the floor.

To create a drawing first need to make a sketch on paper, then the film is cut ready elements. The films produced colored, on this you can choose any colors, are popular and can blend in with your décor. Cut parts accurately applied to the glass, then encircle special circuit, which can be bought in shops for artists. Such stained dislikes moisture, direct sunlight, so use it better in dry and warm rooms. It is perfectly in harmony with the furniture, a variety of home furnishings, suited to modern and classic style of the room.

Stained glass windows in the kitchen cabinets

Where will look stained?

Best of all such elements are suitable for interiors, decorated in a bohemian style. This style is characterized by the classic stained glass with a copper frame.

Classic stained-glass window in the kitchen

If the interior is designed in a Scandinavian or Eastern style, eg, Japanese, more relevant use of stained glass, obtained by means of sandblasting. In virtually any room will look favorably on the stained-glass ceiling.

Stained-glass windows — the perfect solution for almost any interior. They attach to your style and personality of the high cost of, emphasize originality, can decorate a room, having placed the necessary emphasis.

Stained Glass: The Splendid History of an Ancient Art Form That Still Dazzles Today

Sainte-Chapelle in Paris (Photo: Stock Photos from SIAATH/Shutterstock) This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase, My Modern Met may earn an affiliate commission. Please read our disclosure for more info.

For thousands of years, artisans have found inspiration in glistening glass. In any form, glass can produce exquisite works of art. However, when colored, the medium climbs to kaleidoscopic new heights.

Though often associated with windows and places of worship, stained glass has been adopted and adapted for all kinds of art, from ancient cups to contemporary installations. Before we trace the age-old history of stained glass, however, it’s important to understand the medium’s key characteristics.

What is Stained Glass?

“Stained glass” refers to glass that has been colored by metallic oxides during the manufacturing process. Different additives produce different hues, allowing artisans to strategically produce glass of specific colors. For example, adding copper oxides to molten glass will culminate in green and blue tones.

Photo: Stock Photos from HelloRF Zcool/Shutterstock

Once the glass has cooled, it can be pieced together to produce works of decorative art. These fragments can be held in place by various materials, including lead, stone, and copper foil.

History

Ancient Wares

Evidence of stained glass dates back to the Ancient Roman Empire, when craftsman began using colored glass to produce decorative wares. While few fully in-tact stained glass pieces from this period exist, the Lycurgus Cup indicates that this practice emerged as early as the 4th century.

The Lycurgus Cup, 4th century CE (Photo: The British Museum CC BY-NC-SA 4.0)

The Lycurgus Cup is an ornamental drinking glass made out of dichroic glass—a medium that changes color depending on the direction of the light. When lit from the inside, the cup produces a red glow; when illuminated from the outside, it has an opaque green appearance.

How did early Roman artisans craft such a cup? Today, the process used to create this piece is shrouded in mystery. Though historians are certain gold and silver droplets in the glass are responsible for its color-changing qualities, they believe that it may have been produced by accident, as no other work of dichroic glass from this time features such a drastic color contrast.

The Lycurgus Cup, 4th century CE (Photo: The British Museum CC BY-NC-SA 4.0)

“The Lycurgus Cup demonstrates a short-lived technology developed in the fourth century CE by Roman glass-workers,” a team of art historians explain in The Lycurgus Cup – A Roman Nanotechnology. “We now understand that these effects are due to the development of nanoparticles in the glass. However, the inability to control the colourant process meant that relatively few glasses of this type were produced, and even fewer survive.”

Still, the Lycurgus Cup is celebrated as one of the most important ancient glassworks, with art historian Donald Harden going so far as to call it “the most spectacular glass of the period, fittingly decorated, which we know to have existed.”

Medieval Monasteries

By the 7th century, glassmakers began shifting their attention from wares to windows. As expected, these stained glass windows were used to adorn abbeys, convents, and other religious buildings, with St. Paul’s Monastery in Jarrow, England as the earliest known example.

Created when the monastic building was founded in 686 CE, fragments of these centuries-old windows were excavated by archaeologist Rosemary Cramp in 1973. While the original composition of the blue, green, gold, and yellow pieces is unknown, the monastery compiled them into collages in order to offer viewers an idea of how beautiful these windows would have been.

“When we picked it up, it was like picking up jewels,” Professor Rosemary Cramp explains in an audio guide for the site, “and it still gives an idea of how precious it must have been.”

Gothic Cathedrals

By the Middle Ages, stained glass windows could be found in countless Catholic churches across Europe. Until the 12th century, however, these windows were relatively simple, small in scale, and outlined by thick iron frames. This is because Romanesque architecture—a style characterized by thick walls and rounded forms—dominated architectural tastes.

Beaune Notre-dame, France (Photo: Stock Photos from lynnlin/Shutterstock)

In the 12th century, however, the Romanesque style was replaced by Gothic architecture. Unlike Romanesque buildings, churches and cathedrals built in this style illustrate an interest in height and light. This focus is evident in all aspects of Gothic design, including sky-high spires, delicate, thin walls, and, of course, large stained glass windows.

Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris (Photo: Stock Photos from Viacheslav Lopatin/Shutterstock)

Gothic windows typically come in two forms: tall and arched lancet windows or round rose windows. In both cases, they’re often monumental in scale and rendered in meticulous detail—an achievement made possible through the use of tracery, a decorative yet durable form of stone support. Because of both their size and intricacy, Gothic stained glass windows were able to let in more dazzling light than ever before.

Islamic Architecture

By the 8th century, stained glass had made its way to the Middle East. The magic behind the medium is discussed at length in Kitab al-Durra al-Maknuna (“The Book of the Hidden Pearl”), a colored glass cookbook written by Persian chemist Jābir ibn Ḥayyān.

Jabir ibn Hayyan Geber, Arabian alchemist (Photo: Wellcome Collection CC BY 4.0)

In this manuscript, Jābir ibn Ḥayyān offers dozens of “recipes” for colored glass and artificial gemstones. To the author, experimentation was key to creating high-quality glass. “The first essential in chemistry is that you should perform practical work and conduct experiments, for he who performs not practical work nor makes experiments will never attain to the least degree of mastery,” he wrote. “Scientists delight not in abundance of material; they rejoice only in the excellence of their experimental methods.”

At this time, glass industries were thriving in Iraq, Syria, Egypt, and Iran. Here, artisans adopted and adapted the ancient Roman medium, using it to adorn mosques, palaces, and other staples of Islamic architecture with windows rich in color and complex in pattern. These pieces became increasingly ornate over time.

The Blue Mosque (Photo: Stock Photos from Artur Bogacki/Shutterstock)

Historians believe that Jābir ibn Ḥayyān’s creative approach illustrates the Islamic approach to the stained glass practice. “Muslim and non-Muslim glassmakers working in the Islamic areas . . . were extraordinarily creative,” historian Josef W. Meri writes in Medieval Islamic Civilization: An Encyclopedia, “and in tune with the general evolution of Islamic art, brought this craft to a new technical, technological, and artistic heights.”

American Arts and Crafts

In the 19th century, American artisans transformed the ancient art of stained glass into a modern art form. This approach is particularly evident in the work of Frank Lloyd Wright, the pioneer of the Prairie School movement, a style of architecture and interior design that emphasizes craftsmanship and a connection to nature.

Clear windows with pops of stained glass became an intrinsic part of Wright’s Prairie School interiors. These accents materialized as “ribbons of uninterrupted glass” featuring “geometric abstractions unique to each building for which they were created,” making each window a one-of-a-kind work of art.

At the same time that Wright was producing his windows, another American glassmaker successfully reinterpreted the ancient art form. In 1885, Louis Comfort Tiffany established the Tiffany Glass and Decorating Company, a New York City-based studio that produced spectacular stained glass lamps.

While these once-popular lamps fell out of fashion in the middle of the 20th century, they recently saw a revival and, today, remain coveted collector’s items.

Stained Glass Today

Today, contemporary stained glass artists keep the age-old art form alive. Like their 20th-century predecessors, these artists continue to come up with creative new ways to reinterpret the ancient craft.

Tom Fruin, ‘Kolonihavehus’ (Photo: Stock Photos from Edi Chen Lopatin/Shutterstock)

Whether they’re using sparkling glass to spruce up the New York City skyline, enhance an enchanting cabin, or make a botanical garden bloom in new ways, these artists prove that stained glass is anything but outdated.