Architectural Glass Projects Around the World
Glass has always fascinated architects and designers as a medium for
construction. Contemporary designers have pushed avant-garde to the extremes by
using glass in ways that have never been imagined before. There are many
examples around the world that exhibit the use of architectural glass in
impressive commercial and residential projects.
National Grande
Theater of China
In Beijing, China, this easily recognizable dome was
designed by Paul Andreu and completed in 2007. Glass panes are combined with
titanium to produce extra-strong glass for the large dome shape that can
withstand weathering. The final product of this massive dome has stirred
controversy in China with the ultra-modern design contrasting against the
traditional Chinese architecture of the nearby Forbidden City and Tiananmen
Square.
Burj Tower
Completed in 2009, Burj Khalifa is
located in downtown Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Following its inauguration to
the public in 2010, Burj Tower officially became the world's tallest building.
Chicago office of Skidmore, Owings & Merrill LLP (SOM) was responsible for
design with Adrian Smith FAIA, RIBA acting as consulting design Partner. Burj
Tower is covered with 120,000 square meters of architectural glass. The glass
withstands extreme desert conditions, from changing temperatures, to heavy
winds, and weathering from sand.
