Why Fritted Glass Makes Buildings Even Better
Glass has long been a popular building component, but its use skyrocketed in the 20th century with the popularity of the International Style, and it continues to be a go-to material for contemporary architects. But for all the benefits of glass, such as natural light and views, there are downsides, namely heat and lack of privacy. To make their designs more energy efficient, architects often use glass that is printed with a ceramic frit and fired into a permanent, opaque coating. Not only does fritted glass help reduce glare, cut cooling costs, and lower the danger to birds, it can also give the exterior a distinctive look with patterns ranging from simple shapes and gradients to intricate designs. Discover how some of the world’s top architects, from Frank Gehry to Snøhetta, are using fritted glass to create innovative, eye-catching buildings.