Curved leaded glass panels for the Halstead Square lobby, Tysons Corner VA.

A recent leaded glass installation by Classic Glass, Inc. posed an interesting challenge for resident stained glass artist Rudi Waros and designer Jacob Robison. Although the client sought a design that was rather simple; the leaded glass panels for the luxurious Virginia apartment lobby needed to wrap around a curved opening. For visual continuity, it was determined that the design of the sidelight panels needed to align and match the size of the diamonds running across the curved middle panels.

Leaded glass panel wrapping around a curved opening

Adding to the challenge was the overall size of these decorative glass panels. The sidelights of the interior wall measured 24″ wide x 124″ tall with the curved section measuring 120″ wide x 20″ tall. In addition to the curved leaded glass panels, Classic Glass also built two flat sidelights and a flat transom to match the same design for the lobby’s entrance. (pictured below)

Clear leaded glass can be flat or curved

Upon completion of a field measurement, decorative glass artist Rudi Waros constructed a wooden template to match the curve of the existing opening. The contour of the template resembled that of a “half-pipe” allowing Rudi to tightly construct the leaded glass panel to fit exactly when installed. The individual glass pieces are flat, not curved, but when divided into narrow sections (such as this design) can be constructed to precisely follow the contour of a curve.

Glass artist Rudi Waros constructs a wooden template for the leaded glass

Installation day is always a little nerve racking no matter how routine the job may be – weeks and months of planning and execution all culminate on that day. With over 30 years of experience, Classic Glass’ skilled glass artisans completed this installation with precision and professionalism. The curved glass panels fit perfectly into the opening and our client at Halstead Square could not have been happier.

Decorative glass panels for "The Rockwell" at Halstead Square

BACK PAINTED GLASS
We can simulate Pantone, Sherwin Williams and Benjamin Moore colors. Back-splashes, countertops and walls are just a few of the applications in this exciting product line.

Backpainted kitchen backsplash for a residence in Washington, DC.

LAMINATED GLASS
The ultimate in design flexibility while meeting ANSI safety standards. A variety of opacity’s, custom colors and textures available. Provides excellent soundproofing and UV protection.

Laminated bent glass partition with carved and painted detail. Sibley Hospital, Washington, DC.

CAST GLASS
We use recycled glass to produce panels up to 4′ x 8′. Available with fired-in colored frits and paints.

Cast glass privacy window with gold leaf detail for a residence in Alexandria, VA

STAINED & LEADED GLASS
Stained, leaded and beveled glass products available. Custom designs, Reproductions, Stained Glass Repair and Restoration.

10' diameter stained glass reproduction for the 6th and I Historic Synagogue.

ETCHED & CARVED GLASS, STONE
Experienced artists and craftsmen produce the finest etched and carved glass in the area.  State of the art automated equipment ensures consistency and accuracy. On-site blasting services available. Clear-Shield protection on all etched glass.

Etched glass partitions for a residence in Potomac, MD.

In June 2009, Classic Glass was approached by a customer who had a magnificent welded iron billiard lamp measuring approximately 48″ x 18″ for his home in West Virginia. The customer was looking for an exceptional piece that would compliment the lamp’s iron work and fit with his home’s outdoor/nature theme. “This is the kind of job that is right up our alley so we jumped at the opportunity to create this truly one of a kind piece,” said Karen Elkin, President of Classic Glass.

To get started, our resident stained glass artist Rudi Waros selected the glass that would bring the piece to life. Rudi traveled to Youghiogheny Glass(pronounced YOK-a-GAY-NEE), a materials supplier in Connelsville, PA, known for their nature-themed opalescent glass. At Youghiogheny Rudi browsed an extensive collection to hand select sheets of “stipple” glass. “I was looking for glass that would be appropriate to the outdoors theme, something that really came to life when the lamp was lit up” Rudi explained.

Unlike traditional opalescent glass, Stipple Glass has an icy or waxy translucence. This translucent color works well with bright light sources, evenly diffusing the light giving a three dimensional effect. As in the original Tiffany glass, Stipple Glass has some light mottling and surface haze. The overall effect of Stipple Glass is unlike any other glass on the market today.

Back at the shop Rudi hand cut pieces of the selected glass and used a copper foil technique to create four panels that were then siliconed into place. The result is a unique piece of decorative glass art reminiscent of a watercolor painting.