ALCOI

A widely discussed material in the AEC (Architecture, Engineering, and Construction) industry, glass definitely comes with its baggage of myths and misconceptions. However, diving deep into the matter can bring to light the fact that glass, if used wisely, can be a step towards a sustainable approach in modern design.

Flexibility in design
By providing visual continuity while still maintaining a physical separation, glass can bring in a lot more flexibility in design permutations and enliven spaces. In addition, the thin dimensionality of the material makes it possible to experiment with different layouts and take the design to the next level.

More natural light, makes it right

Glass comes in varying degrees of thickness, transparency, and permeability of light. Choosing the right glass can transform a space depending on the situation.  Technological advancements in glass now allow designers to play with the quality, amount, and intensity of light that can be let into a space to portray it in the best light possible, quite literally.

Saving up on electric costs

Using glass strategically can help you optimize the natural light in any given area resulting in reduced electricity consumption due to artificial lighting. Various treatments and typologies available in glass also allow you to increase or curb the heat transmission according to your needs. Pairing up your choice of glass to complement the climate of your site can help you save on heating and cooling costs as well as lighting expenses.

Lowered environmental impact

Though a completely recyclable material, glass was regarded as a foe to the environment earlier due to manufacturing processes, which were harmful to the environment. However, in the past few decades, cutting-edge technology has enabled manufacturing with a lower carbon footprint. Glass technology has undergone tremendous improvements, resulting in the availability of greener options. Choosing the right type of glass for your needs can result in decreased environmental repercussions and offer higher energy efficiency. Glass is also mainly made of non-polluting materials and can be melted and recycled, curbing the energy required to produce new materials.

Choose your right fit

A variety of treatment options and coatings are now available for glass, depending on its use. This results in lower heat transmission, better heat insulation, optimal light diffusion, and reduced energy consumption for temperature control of the given space. Depending on the intent, location, need for privacy, lighting requirements, and other considerations, choosing the right type of glass and fenestrations would be a step along the sustainability route.

In modern design, glass is a great material as it complements a wide spectrum of contemporary aesthetics while also boasting its longevity. Glass has the potential to let designers experiment and expand the limits of modern aesthetics to be integrated with intelligent building design.