#849 Glass block construction makes pretty solid smiles

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If there is anything to know about me it is I am a big fan of architecture. I like all types but especially architecture that uses things like glass block. Some people call it glass brick but I use the term glass block so we are going with that if that’s ok with you.

What is glass block? It is an architectural element made from glass or acrylic that provides visual obscuration while admitting light. Glass block was originally developed in the early 1900s to provide natural light in manufacturing plants. You can use gloss block either in walls or the floor! If you use them in the floor they can allow light to pass between floors but note there are different types of glass block for floors or walls. They are shaped and laid similarly to brick or concrete blocks in the same way you would build a brick wall.

Glass block glass brick wall troy swezey

Other common residential uses for this building material include shower walls…

Glass block glass brick gym troy swezey

and since they can be used to construct non-load bearing walls, partitions, and windows or other walls glass block is often found in office buildings.

Glass block glass brick gym

You can do some pretty interesting things with glass block…

Glass block glass brick toilet bathroom

One of the cool things about glass block is the diversity in its use. It is really limited to your imagination. I have seen them backlit as well as neon lighting tubes run through them. Some people use them as Christmas decorations. I have seen walls built with multiple colors. People have built bars made with glass block. It is a world of possibilities.

Often glass block is used for basement windows since these windows are considered easy access to a home. Glass block windows are more difficult for would-be thieves to penetrate and therefore considered a more secure alternative than regular glass. They even come in a bullet-proof style. Also, they may be opalescent or clear and are also available tinted with hints of various colors so they can provide a certain level of privacy.

glass block brick red wall construction

I really like glass block and it always makes me smile. When I build my dream house it will have plenty of it incorporated into the architecture. In fact, I even went to the Home Depot home improvement store and bought a piece that I keep on my desk. In fact as I look at it now I can’t help but smile.

What about you? Have you ever seen architecture using glass block? Was is your though about this type of architectural medium? Click here to leave a comment and share your opinion and experience. Would love to hear from you.

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Included are step-by-step directions on how to make and decorated beautiful glass blocks. Also included is a Bow-Making tutorial to make perfectly symmetrical bows using wired ribbon. There are also tips on where and how to sell a lot of them.

Here are some other posts you might like to read:

  1. #982 Lego blocks build huge smiles
  2. #864 Sabrage makes me pop my top with smiles
  3. #778 The Nightmare Before Christmas makes me smile all year round
  4. #859 Ivy covered building has me crawling with smiles

49 Replies to “#849 Glass block construction makes pretty solid smiles”

    • I was watching a documentary about secrets of the U.S. president and they said that when the president stays in a hotel they always get a room that does not have a view but typically they just pull the curtains closed so no one can see in. “If he can see out, they can see him. That makes him a target.”
      Yikes!
      Troy S. recently posted…6 people I would love to chat withMy Profile

      Reply ↓

  4. Thank you for every other magnificent post. The place else may anyone get that type of information in such a perfect method of writing? I have a presentation next week, and I’m at the look for such information.

    Reply ↓

  9. Great Post, I read your all the stuff and found it very useful. You gave very fine points about the Glass Block Construction but one thing I want to say that we can’t use them on load-bearing walls. Thanks for sharing this valuable information. Keep Blogging.

    Reply ↓

  10. Hi
    I really liked the way you have used the glass in construction.

    The points you have shared are very much justified and I really believe that it will bring a change in decor.

    Glass itself has its own look and create a different sort of ambiance on parties.

    Thanks friend for sharing informative blog with everyone.

    Reply ↓

  13. Installing glass block is easier than i think. All we need is the right information. Thank you for sharing this informative post with us.

    Reply ↓

  15. I am also a huge fan of architecture, I am a residential investor and I flips many homes a year. I have used both clear and colored glass block. They add a nice distinct look to the room. Allows light but aren’t see through so you still have privacy. Interesting article, enjoyed the read.

    Reply ↓

  17. Hey, great share…..

    Glass block windows are popular options for their aesthetic appeal that other windows don’t offer. Glass block allows in light while offering privacy and an additional layer of security for basement and ground floor windows.

    Thanks for sharing this post.
    Keep sharing more….
    Cheers!!
    Eamon Hurley recently posted…Hello world!My Profile

    Reply ↓

  18. This glass design gives me the retro vibes. I don’t know but yeah it feels old school but in a good way. I usually see this in salons or commercial places. I like how you used it on the red wall, they kinda compliment each other. Also on the side of the toilet looks nice. Just not sure about the gym haha I think that’s gonna give me some headache staring at it for a long time but all in all very nice!
    Rob Sprague recently posted…How Does Glass Repair Work?My Profile

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  22. Hi Troy

    I am really amazed by your way of showing and utilizing the old glass blocks. I am really impressed and will try to utilize them in a more efficient way in building and designing a trendy office or will use these glasses at some other places.
    Thanks for offering these innovative ideas.

    Reply ↓

  29. As an Interior Designer, I am not usually a fan of glass block, but you showed some interesting ways they can be used. I have put them in ground level bathrooms that need privacy and the client did not want to use shutters or blinds and they looked great.

    Reply ↓

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