Architectural Structural Glazing

Using large, frameless glass panels as structural elements within a building. Unlike traditional glazing systems, structural glazing relies on the strength of the glass itself, and is usually seen with minimal framing or no visible frame at all, allowing the glass itself to form walls, roofs, or façades. This results in open, light-filled spaces and clean lines, providing a contemporary, seamless connection between interior and exterior spaces.

What is Architectural Structural Glazing, and How Does It Work?

Architectural structural glazing uses large glass panels as integral elements in a building’s structure. This approach reduces or eliminates the need for visible framing, allowing the glass to create a frameless appearance for walls, roofs, or façades. By combining glass with advanced engineering, structural glazing offers a minimal, modern aesthetic, often with barely visible support. It’s ideal for projects that demand high transparency and a seamless indoor-outdoor connection, allowing spaces to feel more open and filled with natural light.

Benefits of Structural Glazing

  • More Natural Light: Large, frameless glass panels maximise natural light, reducing the need for artificial lighting.
  • Expansive Views and Modern Aesthetic: Engineered for large spans with minimal framing, structural glazing provides uninterrupted views, seamlessly connecting indoor and outdoor spaces.
  • Strength and Reduced Dead Weight: Our structural glass is manufactured to handle high loads, allowing it to serve as a building element while reducing the overall dead weight of the structure. This makes it ideal for all types of buildings; renovations, extensions, and multi-storey buildings.
  • Energy Efficiency and Comfort: High-performance glazing options with insulated coatings help regulate indoor temperatures, keeping spaces comfortable and lowering energy costs.
  • Customisation and Privacy: Choose from a range of glass types— such as Self-Cleaning, Solar Control or Privacy Glass — to balance privacy with light and views, tailored to meet your project’s aesthetic and functional needs.
  • Durability and Low Maintenance: Toughened and laminated glass offers excellent resilience, with optional coatings for easier cleaning.
  • Increased Property Value: Structural glazing is a premium feature that enhances property value, appeal, and marketability, making it a great investment for both residential and commercial spaces.

Information for Architectural Structural Glass Installations

Architectural structural glazing refers to the use of large glass panels as structural elements in a building’s design. This glazing technique allows for sleek, modern facades and internal spaces, where the glass itself plays a role in supporting the structure, often with minimal framing. It’s commonly used for façades, extensions, roofs, and other architectural features that benefit from an open, light-filled appearance.

Yes, architectural structural glazing can be energy efficient when installed with the right glass options, such as double or triple glazing, low-emissivity (Low-E) coatings, and insulated frames. These features help to keep indoor temperatures stable, reducing energy usage for heating and cooling. Solar control glass can also prevent excess heat from entering the space, further improving efficiency.

Absolutely. Architectural structural glazing is highly customisable to suit different project requirements. Every job is bespoke to each customer. Options include 2540 RAL colours to choose from. Different aluminium profiles to choose from and lots of different glass configurations. You can also choose from different framing styles or opt for a frameless look. Structural glazing can be tailored to meet specific thermal, acoustic, and aesthetic needs.

Planning permission requirements for structural glazing depend on the project and the property type. For listed buildings, properties in conservation areas, or when making significant changes to the exterior, planning permission may be necessary. It’s recommended to consult with a planning authority or architect to understand any permissions needed for your project.
Installation timelines for structural glazing depend on the project’s size and complexity. After the design and planning phases, installation can take from a few weeks to several months, depending on factors like access, weather conditions, and the need for specialist equipment. It’s advisable to work with an experienced structural glazing company to ensure efficient project management.

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Explore what you can achieve with structural glazing. If you’re an architect, structural engineer or a residential customer, we are ready to answer any questions you may have.
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Architectural Structural Glazing Ltd is a registered company in England & Wales. Registered company number 15653646. VAT Registration Number 471109314

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