Historically, stained/leaded glass was developed and used in churches and cathedrals. In more recent (yet still historical) times, this medium regained prominence with other uses. And, as it is a timeless one, it has progressed into the modern age today.

Perhaps the biggest misconception regarding it is that it is limited to certain very traditional uses, and thus cannot be applied to modern homes and other contemporary architecture.

This is a complete FALLACY.

This erroneous notion came about from the fact that this medium was developed originally and exclusively for churches and cathedrals for a very long time.

However, in the nineteenth to twentieth century, this medium saw a revival into more modern use with artists such as Louis Comfort Tiffany and Marc Chagall and made its way into popular design styles at the time like American Craftsman, Art Deco and Art Nouveau, and even started to get incorporated by the likes of Frank Lloyd Wright and Greene and Greene.

And today, in our contemporary age, stained/leaded glass is indeed used in very modern designs. However, the fact of the matter is that this not popularly known. It hasn’t had a sweeping revival in the here nad now, at least not yet.

It is a whole renaissance that is starting to blossom. And we at Progressive Art Stained Glass Studio are proud to be a catalyst in this movement.

Unfortunately though, with some, the misconception that this medium is associated exclusively with certain traditional uses still exists.

Nothing can be further from the truth. Stained/leaded glass is one of the most versatile mediums around. It can be used in just about any style of design and type of building. Its only limitation is with one’s vision with it.

Let’s disabuse the misbelief and hopefully expand one’s vision of its versatility and creativity.

There are certain characteristics of contemporary architecture that are popular, in particular, the following:

1. Linear, rectangular, 90-degree-angle orientations.
2. Minimalism.
3. White or neutral palette.
4. Lots of sweeping clear glass.

However, the mistaken belief by some is that these are strictly limitations. While they may be popular design elements, it is important to know that: 1) the keynote of modern/contemporary design is being innovative, as this is what has sparked every great movement and style, and 2) that stained/leaded glass can be integrated into any of these design characteristics and styles accordingly.

Whether as a strictly integrated element or a progressive one, we can accommodate stained/leaded glass into just about any project successfully, for we have the unique qualifications of knowledge, experience and savvy in architecture, construction, development, design and art, with a special place in our hearts for the contemporary. There is a reason we call ourselves Progressive Art Stained Glass Studio.

Hare are some basic points regarding the use of stained/leaded glass in contemporary architecture:

1. The design can be of linear, curvilinear, geometric or even abstract orientation.

2. It does not have to be colored if one does not wish for a color palette. There is a myriad of glass available that is of a clear nature.

3. It does not necessarily have to be bold, but can be quite subdued if desired.

4. It does not have to be a complex design, but can be a simple one.

5. Not always does it have to be exterior, but can very well be a strictly interior element.

6. It can add a very welcomed contrast, if that’s what’s desired.

7. It doesn’t have to be a focal point or grand, but can even be an element that simply adds an accent.

These are just some noteworthy points. There is a plethora of ways it can be applied to just about anything modern. There are practically NO limitations in MOST cases. Ultimately, it depends on the individual project and what you envision with it. Whatever it is, try us with a complimentary consultation and you just might gain an insight and spark a new revelation and inspiration for your creative vision.