Glass stairs have already secured the status of an extremely common, popular design solution used in modern interiors. However, their inappropriate use can make the design of the space completely inexpressive and even ridiculous.
Glass stairs in the interior
Interiors with well-chosen and conveniently located glass stairs look truly exclusive, because the material has a rather fragile look. Giving preference to glass stairs over the same wooden or metal structures, you should not worry about your own safety. After all, their manufacture is based on the use of heavy-duty glass panels that can be specially hardened.
When making unique, attractive design solutions a reality, you need to remember the practical side of the issue. Without a doubt, glass is simply not subject to the level of practicality that characterizes natural wood or metal. However, this does not mean at all thatglass stairs are fragile and unreliable. There is a sufficient number of absolutely transparent materials, which can only be damaged by the use of a sledgehammer and the application of remarkable force.
However, it is worth recognizing that the choice of glass stairs is primarily due to their aesthetic appeal. So, most glass structures suggest the possibility of installing additional decorative elements and spectacular lighting. All sorts of drawings and patterns can act as decoration for such stairs.
Safety
As noted above, the reliability, strength and safety of the materials used for the manufacture of such structures are beyond doubt. However, glass stairs for the home also have their drawbacks, the main of which is the slippery surface of the steps. There are several ways to fix this issue. So, to make glass stairs more rough, you can apply a matte pattern to their surface, fix rubberized panels or make metal corrugations. In most cases, sandblasting glass steps is sufficient to improve safety.
If we talk about the strength of glass stairs, then it depends, first of all, on the number of holes in the structural elements of the structure. The fewer such holes, the stronger the structure itself. That is why, in each specific case, it is advisable to calculate the expected loads to which theladder during operation.
Mounting Features
It is recommended to install glass stairs in rooms with concrete or brick floors. Moreover, before installation, new walls and ceilings must undergo a complete shrinkage process.
Particular attention is paid to fixing glass stairs when they are installed in wooden houses, in which a regular load on the structure can lead to some subsidence of the fixtures themselves. Based on this, the installation of glass stairs in wooden houses usually requires the creation of additional support elements.
Textural unity
The decision to install glass stairs opens up a unique opportunity to implement several different decorative textures in the interior at the same time.
Based on the chosen design solution, the element in question can be made either entirely of glass or using a range of additional decorative materials. In the first place here comes the possibility of harmonious use of plastic, metal and wood.
Fully glass stairs, photos of various variations of which can be seen in our article, as well as stairs with metal elements fit perfectly into cold, minimalist interiors or high-tech rooms. In this case, it is advisable to give preference to structures made of frosted or transparent glass.
Speaking of wood andplastic, the use of such materials as functional or decorative elements of glass stairs looks relevant when decorating interiors in warm, cozy colors.
Backlight
The glass spiral staircase takes on a really spectacular, expressive look in the presence of well-chosen lighting. Thoughtfully placed lighting accents can turn a seemingly unremarkable glass structure into something that boggles the imagination.
Naturally, lighting should be used only if its presence is combined with general interior solutions. However, there are always options for mounting such a backlit glass staircase that does not spoil the desired design.
In conclusion
Stairs made with glass panels have truly attractive, individual characteristics. However, the incorrect implementation of such a solution in a residential or office interior can lead to a complete violation of the general character of the design of the premises. That is why it is extremely important to consult with a professional designer before making a final decision on the installation of a glass staircase. A specialist in the development of modern interior design will not only select several suitable options, but also develop a verified project for an advantageous location of the structure, which will avoid unnecessary problems.
