A 2.4m illuminated feature for a clifftop residence on Guernsey

The setting

Our client contacted us at the early stages of his project. He was having a fabulous new-build property designed and built overlooking the sea, near St Peters Port on Guernsey.

He wanted to incorporate a glass installation which would be back-lit, to make a special feature in the double-height living area.

The brief

The design was to complement the stunning coastal setting of our client’s home, and bring the ocean inside. Initially we explored a number of ideas for views of the local coastline, some featuring for example historic landmarks such as Fort George.

However upon reviewing my portfolio of past designs our client spotted an abstract design I had made previously featuring colourful flowing forms, and asked if I could create something similar but in more oceanic colours.

Courtesy of my client I travelled to Guernsey to see the site and meet personally with himself and the architect. Whilst a site visit is not always necessary, for a project of this scale it was very helpful so that I could get a proper feel for the setting of the glasswork.

Lighting

Whilst the design was being formed, we liaised with the architect and the lighting consultant who were designing a system for illuminating the glass from behind with LEDs. They sent us a sample system so that we could test out the lighting with the glass to ensure it would give the desired effect. Below is a 1m x 1m test panel in the making.

Making

The glass art itself was made in two sections to be aligned side by side, and created by fusing layers of 3mm glass with enamels in between. In order to create sturdy panels suitable for the location, we then laminated the glass art to toughened safety glass. This is a process which we have the facilities to carry out in-house.

Delivery and installation

We have an excellent independent courier James, whom we have been working with for over 10 years. He personally transported the glass safely to site on Guernsey for us. Scaffold had been erected and the glass was hoisted into position.

Thanks to James for the installation photos, and to our client for the images of the finished project.

The Result

The feature looks particularly spectacular in the evening, reflected in the surrounding windows.

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How to get in touch

If you are considering a possible architectural glass commission, please get in touch at studio@steverobinsonglass.com to arrange a no-obligation discussion with me.