ICON-GLASS - Frequently Asked Questions.

Since launching our ICON-GLASS range of digitally printed glass splashbacks, wall art and radiators we are regularly asked a number of similar questions relating to this exciting product.

We have therefore produced the following list of answers to the most frequently asked questions on ICON-GLASS: 

How much does it cost? 

For a quote, please contact our team with the required dimensions.

What are the minimum & maximum sizes?

We can digitally print onto peices of glass as small as 150mm x 100mm right upto as big as 2500mm x 1500mm. You can also place multiple peices/panels next to each other for a larger overall size.

Can holes/cut outs be included?

Of course, depending on the size of the glass panel, cut outs and drilled holes can be included for additional costs. 

Is the glass toughened?

Yes, ICON-GLASS is produced using high quality toughened low iron glass, with all edges polished.

When using ICON-GLASS as a kitchen splashback, how far away from the hobs does it need to be?

Glass splashbacks made from standard glass should be kept at least 150mm away from a heat source. However we use toughened glass, which can be placed directly behind a heat source with no problems.

How is ICON-GLASS fitted?

ICON-GLASS can be placed using a simple mirror bond/adhesive. Tubes of this can be added to your order if required.

Do you provide a templating or fitting?

At this moment in time, we don't. However, each ICON-GLASS project is different so please contact our team directly to discuss this further.

What are the delivery/lead times?

ICON-GLASS is produced to order. We aim for a complete turnaround of 4 weeks. It could be faster, however this is the timeframe we set ourselves.

If you have any further questions that you believe haven't been asked or answered above, please feel free to add them in the comments section of this blog post.

The Library of Birmingham

As a Birmingham based company with a showroom in the historic Jewellery Quarter, we are extremely excited about the new Library of Birmingham shooting up Centenary Square. The fact that it will be a large transparent glass building further cements the fact we are big fans!

How it will look.

The project, by architects Mecanoo, began at the design stage in 2008. The construction than began last year and will run through to 2013 when the Library is due to be opened.

Below is what Macanoo have to say about this exciting, major project:

Centenary Square, the largest public square in the heart of Birmingham, currently lacks cohesion or a clear identity or atmosphere.  Mecanoo’s design transforms the square into one with three distinct realms: monumental, cultural and entertainment. These palazzos form an urban narrative of important periods in the history of the city; The Repertory Theatre (REP), a 1960s concrete building, the Library of Birmingham, designed in 2009 and Baskerville House, a listed sandstone building designed in 1936. The busiest pedestrian route in the city, what Mecanoo calls the red line, leads pedestrians into Centenary Square. The cantilever of the library is not only a large canopy that provides shelter at the common entrance of the Library of Birmingham and the REP, but additionally forms a grand city balcony with views of the events and happenings on the square. 

The Library of Birmingham is a transparent glass building. Its delicate filigree skin is inspired by the artisan tradition of this once industrial city. Elevators and escalators dynamically placed in the heart of the library forms connections between the eight circular spaces within the building.  These rotundas play an important role not only in the routing through the library  but also provide natural light and ventilation. The rooftop rotunda houses the Shakespeare Memorial Room, designed in 1882. This Victorian reading room is lined with wood from the first Birmingham Central Library. Its prominent position as a rooftop aerie makes this delicate room visible from the square. The REP with its unique and beautiful auditorium will be renovated. New workshops, staff accommodations and a shared theatre and foyer space will be created for both the REP and the library.

The Library of Birmingham is a BREEAM excellent rated building and incorporates grey water systems and ground source heat pumps. Although the Library is a transparent building, it maintains energy efficiency through the buffering capacity of the building mass and the atria. Sun shading and reflective materials within the facades block the harsh rays of the sun during the height of afternoon while allowing natural daylight into the interiors. The ground floor benefits from the mass of the soil which provides buffering and insulation. The circular patio cut out of the square creates a protected outdoor space and invites daylight deep into the building. The building will incorporate a mixed mode and natural ventilation strategy. The façade will respond to external conditions and openings will allow fresh air intake and outflow. The addition of soft landscaped roof spaces will further enhance the immediate surrounding conditions.

mecanoo.nl

Aerial photo taken of the current building work.

Current building work, viewed from the ground floor.

How the interior will look when complete.

One of the main reasons we've opened our first glass furniture showroom in Birmingham is the fact we see this cultural City as being in the middle of some really exciting architectural projects. As well as the Library of Birmingham, New Street Station is going through an extraordinary transformation into a stunning 21st century transport hub. There is also a large renovation project approaching for the Jewellery Quarter, right on our doorstep.

Featured Item, Crystal Circular Glass Dining Table

One of our most popular items to date is the Circular Glass Dining Table, taken from our Crystal Range.

Whilst functional, the striking design is sure to grab peoples attention and is one of the main factors attracting customers to this item.

Providing a beautiful centerpeice for any home, the gentle curves give this glass dining table its distinguished style.

Made from 12mm clear toughened glass, the legs are UV bonded together, with the top placed on top and kept secure with rubber distance holders. The standard dimensions for this item are 1500mm.diameter x 720mm.h, however it may be made to bespoke dimensions following discussions with our design team. For more info on our bespoke glass furniture service, click here.

A day made of glass...

Corning have put together a nice video showing their vision for the future, a day made of glass.

In this video, glass has been used to fuse together both futuristic technology and everyday items from the current day, including cars and even bus stops.

It is basically the world as a giant iPad!