The Common Use of Structural Glass in Private Houses

In the last 5 years, we have recorded a trend where structural glass elements replace traditional materials. This dramatic increase is due to increasing interest from architects as well as the transparent yet durable material, resistant to weathering. By using supporting glass structures and frames, like beams and fins, this increases the transparency even further. Beyond its core function of shelter, the private house is a testing ground for the use of innovative use of structural glass. The paper will review the specification for thermal, solar and air-tightness performance in buildings and domestic construction. Reference will be made to three residential projects currently under construction each with an unusually high percentage of glazing that demonstrate how structural glass has now become integral to the architecture of the private house.