Glass (yes glass) has begun to dominate real estate design trends. It’s dynamic, has endless applications, and can be blended with any style. Glass has been used in historic architectural feats for thousands of years and is now the key to many new innovations in building, and real estate. Micro-apartments, tiny houses, modular buildings, and even the suburbs are coming into fashion again, and glass can be used in every case. So what are some of its applications, and what’s next?
Glass Sinks
Glass sinks have quickly gone from being the domain of elite, luxury homes to making appearances in more modest homes properties. A glass sink is capable of adding a lot of flare to any room it is installed in. It is also easy to match with just about any decor.
Glass Showers
Glass shower enclosures have been in demand for years now. Rather than falling out of fashion, they are now being improved upon and upgraded. Recent upgrades to these fixtures have made them a high class commodity. Some of the most elegant homes now sport textured glass panels, or walk-ins surrounded by glass mosaic walls.
Glass Countertops
Tear out the crusty old granite. Glass is in. From glass accents to entire glass islands, it’s in for the kitchen. Few may realize it, but glass can actually be stronger than stone, and is hygienic. It can also be used for desks.
Glass Railings
Glass railings aren’t just for rooftop pools at condominium buildings. They make stylish additions to modern custom homes. One of the newer applications is using glass railings and enclosures around in ground swimming pools. This can be the perfect solution for keeping kids and pets safe, without sacrificing views.
Sunrooms
Sunrooms are making a big comeback. Outdoor spaces have emerged as the most in-demand real estate run-ons, and are only expected to grow as the trigger for new offers to buy and rent. At the same time, house flippers, and homeowners are looking for ways to add value and square footage to their homes. Glass enclosed sunrooms can be the perfect hybrid solution. They are far more affordable than traditional extensions, help keep utilities down with additional natural light, and are better for the environment.
New Windows
New windows can be smart home improvements for adding lots of appeal, and adding a tangible benefit in lower utility bills. With hurricane maps changing, many homeowners and real estate investors may also want to, or need to, upgrade their windows for protection.
Google Glass
Google ‘Glass’ may still be finding its way into the real estate field, but it is gaining traction. Like other augmented reality applications that consumers are taking too, Google Glass is still evolving and being tested. Some real estate firms have already put Glass in the field as training tools for sales people. Others are experimenting with is as the next generation of monitoring devices for childcare.
Other applications for augmented reality Glass in real estate could include: viewing properties, live virtual open houses, viewing and purchasing materials, exploring new neighborhoods, supervising construction and rehab jobs, and even providing and receiving live DIY training.
Glass Floors
One of the hottest design trends of the moment is glass floors. They can be used for walkways, focal points, creating new levels in lofts and micro-apartments, and organizing new spaces without compromising spaciousness.
What will you do with glass?
