Glass block wall. Glass blocks for room zoning

Very often, when decorating a bathroom, glass is used, which resembles frozen water. It brings light into the interior of the room, expands the space. That is why the use of glass blocks is very popular in the arrangement of the bathroom. Everyone without exception likes this material, even the most demanding customers prefer glass blocks for space zoning.

What is glass block?

Glass block is a simple product that has the shape of a brick, is made of glass and has an empty interior. The thickness of its walls is from 6 to 8 mm. This material is in demand when creating partitions in the bathroom due to the non-standard distribution of light. The glass block has many properties that allow you to create reliable sound and thermal insulation due to the rarefied air located inside. It is made exclusively from environmentally friendly materials. Glass brick stands out for its good fire resistance.

One of the most important properties of glass block is moisture resistance, so it can be used when decorating a bathroom. This material allows you to create original forms of partitions, without limiting the designer's imagination. With it, you can select various effects, give the room luxury and charm. The bathroom will be bright, stylish and comfortable.

Over the past few years, the glass block has become very popular. Manufacturers offer a wide range of products. They create a variety of shapes: square, rectangle, corner, round, etc. Today you can buy glass blocks of any color or texture. At the peak of popularity today, glass blocks with decorative fillers or decorated with backlight.

Glass block is an excellent choice when decorating a bathroom, because neither fungi nor bacteria can survive on its surface. In addition, glass is easy to clean and disinfect.

Dimensions

Glass blocks for decorating rooms have standard sizes - 19x19x8 cm and 24x24x8 cm. One glass block has a weight of 2.5 to 4 kg. The thickness of the product is from 7.5 to 10 cm.

Price

Today you can buy glass blocks at different prices. The buyer independently chooses the option that satisfies his needs. The price of glass blocks depends on many factors - size, color, shape and manufacturer. But on average, glass blocks are available to everyone. One such "brick" can cost from 110 to 310 rubles.

Diversity

Glass blocks are presented by manufacturers in different colors. Their surface can be corrugated, glossy or matte. The choice depends entirely on the preferences of the client. For the play of light, you can choose the appropriate option, because they are translucent, light-scattering and light-guiding.

Glass blocks can be of different shapes: rectangular, square, round, oval, triangular, with rounded corners, in the form of corner pieces or other irregular shapes.

Glass block partitions in bathroom design

Ordinary partitions

Translucent glass blocks can be used in a variety of partitions when decorating a bathroom to create multiple zones. They transmit light well, and at the same time create a blurry image. Often glass block partitions are used to separate the shower and bathroom. This design creates a magnificent tandem with ceramic tiles.

shower cabin

A glass block shower enclosure is often used by designers who want to create an elegant and modern interior. If you use glass blocks for the walls of the shower cabin, then the room will become lighter, because they let in about 85 percent of the light. Glass blocks can be of various shapes, which allows the designer to be creative. Using glass blocks as shower walls, you can achieve several goals at the same time: divide the space, reliably protect the entire room from splashing water while taking a shower, create privacy, and also decorate the interior of the bathroom.

Window

Not every bathroom has a window, but if there is one, you can also add originality thanks to the use of glass blocks. They allow you to add unusualness, create soft lighting, and are also distinguished by high strength and a variety of shapes. There are a lot of pluses, but there is one small minus - the lack of ventilation. Therefore, before you put glass blocks on the windows, you should take care of the ventilation of the room.

Decorative inserts

Very often, designers use glass blocks to create partitions in the bathroom. Glass stones will add originality and style to the interior. But you should know the measure, do not overload the partition with decors.

Installation

The process of installing a glass block partition is not easy, but you can do it yourself, even without special skills and abilities.

You can use one of the existing mounting methods:

• special frames, modules and profiles;
• cement-sand mortar;
• adhesive compound.

With the help of special frames, the installation of glass blocks can be entrusted even to a beginner. Blocks should be placed in special cells of the module, using rubber gaskets for fixing. Even without a plumb line and building level, you can quickly and easily build a partition. This method of installing glass blocks allows you to move the partition to another location if you wish. The entire structure remains intact. If you use an adhesive composition or a cement-sand mortar, then its location cannot be changed.

Each glass block has a protective film. Before installation, it should not be removed, because you can not only stain the block, but damage it.

In construction stores, you can buy a special high-quality adhesive that provides quick and easy installation of glass blocks. Due to its transparent texture, it remains invisible, so it will not affect the appearance of the glass blocks in any way.

The cheapest way to install a glass block partition is to use a cement-sand mortar. You will also need spacer crosses for even masonry. The installation process takes place in several stages:

• sand for the solution must be fine, because large grains of sand can scratch the glass;
• glass blocks have a special film that can be removed only after installation. If this film is damaged, then ordinary tape will help;
• work should begin with markings, while it is necessary to take into account the dimensions of the room, the glass block and the seams that will be placed between them. If the bathroom has more than 15 meters, then it is worth laying a frame of profiles. To achieve high rigidity, the frame is fixed in three directions: on the floor, ceiling and wall. If the frame is not used, then it is possible to reinforce the seams with metal wire;
• Only three rows of glass blocks can be laid per day. The solution does not adhere well to glass, so it is necessary to give it time to securely fix;
• This installation method is used exclusively for low partitions. The lower rows cannot withstand huge loads, since the solution can spread as a result of a large weight;
• for structural strength, it is necessary to purchase special metal rods that have a cross section of 4 to 6 mm. They are used before laying the next row;
• after installing the glass blocks, you need to process them with grout to hide the solution. But to save time, you can immediately install using a colored solution.

Glass blocks as a building and finishing material were used back in Soviet times, but after passing through decades and having undergone significant changes, glass bricks returned in a new way to perform decorative functions. In modern construction, this material has found wide application due to its unique properties and bright variety.

Classification of glass blocks

Glass blocks are two glass half-blocks soldered together. Hollow inside. They differ in a variety of shapes, sizes and colors, which can be found in the catalog with a photo. New production technologies make it possible to produce matte and colored glass blocks, corrugated and with inserts, which will transform the interior of any room.

• Forms. Available in the form of a brick, rectangular, half, hexagonal and angular. The last two are original, the first are the most popular.
• Color spectrum glass blocks in the interior:

1. colorless (from 70% to 90% transparency), colored (from 50% to 70% transparency);
2. matte (transparency less than 50%), transparent (transparent, light-guiding, light-scattering);
3. relief surface (drop, wave, cubes) and smooth;
4. with internal inserts and decorated in style stained glass(after viewing the photo, you can choose options with various decorative fillings);

• Coloring technique performed using two different technologies. They paint the inner surface before soldering the halves or give color when melting glass. This indicator affects the ability to transmit light.
• Application area. The three main types are decorative, interior and industrial. A shower room with elements of any kind will be original and unique.

Due to their technical characteristics, glass bricks have a number of advantages that allow them to be used in a variety of directions, and a do-it-yourself wall made of glass blocks as a structural element will delight not only with beauty, but also with practicality.

Advantages

• Differ in the increased fire resistance. Withstand high temperatures.
• They are durable, have excellent heat-saving, energy-saving and sound-proof qualities.

• Moisture resistant, therefore suitable for showers and pools.
• Glass blocks in the interior do not require plastering, painting, cladding with other materials.
• They have no contraindications for use in residential areas and comply with all hygiene standards.
• Installation of glass blocks is easy to do with your own hands.

Glass blocks and interior

For a long time there was an unambiguous attitude towards them - boring, unremarkable material, it blows a chill, its place is in clinics and catering establishments. And then completely oblivious. Now they seem to burst into our house as something new, original. Glass blocks in the interior make the room bright and spacious. In construction, they are widely used as a finishing material for the design of individual elements, kitchens, bathrooms, partitions in residential premises. Glass blocks in the interior of the apartment create a unique atmosphere of comfort, as evidenced by numerous photos.

V one-room apartment the original solution is partition for space zoning from glass blocks. If we assume that the sleeping area remains at the window, then the living room has lost natural light, but thanks to the partition made of glass blocks, there is enough light in the apartment, and the bedroom is hidden from prying eyes.

Glass blocks in bathroom and shower is a sought-after decorative material. On the one hand, they are opaque and at the same time let through part of the scattering light. Thanks to glass blocks as a partition, the shower room will visually increase in size, and by closing the toilet area with such material, you will add originality to the overall style with your own hands.

Advice! Before buying blocks, check out the options for decorating rooms in the photo and choose the most suitable one so as not to bring dissonance into the overall picture with a bright element.

Glass blocks cannot be attributed to an innovative building material. At the same time, modern technology and assortment differ significantly from those in the Soviet era, when glass blocks were often used in industrial and public buildings.

The building materials market is represented not only by domestic products, but also by Western brands (German and Italian quality is the most trustworthy). There is also a wide range of price ranges.

Glass block is a versatile material that can be used both for outdoor work and for interior design decoration. When using this material for the construction of interior walls and partitions, the aesthetic component is of particular importance. Glass blocks in the interior look original and aesthetically pleasing.

Properties of glass block as a building material

A glass block is a hollow three-dimensional block of fused glass plates with a thickness of just under 1 cm. They are produced in square, rectangular, triangular and round shapes. The most popular are square blocks with standard dimensions of 190x190 mm and 240x240 mm with a thickness of 80 to 100 mm. The weight of a single block depends on the size and averages 3-4 kg. In general, a glass block is a glass brick with a sealed air chamber inside.

Physical properties of the material:

• high light transmittance;
• good heat and sound insulation;
• high level of fire resistance;
• high strength and resistance to cracking;
• resistance to condensation.

Glass is a chemically inert material and environmentally friendly. Due to the hollow construction of the blocks, in case of damage, the fragments will be inside, which is safe to use. They do not require the use of special detergents and are easy to clean.

Classification of glass blocks on the outer surface

Today you can buy not only colorless transparent glass blocks with a smooth surface, but also decoratively designed options. Depending on the area of ​​application and the planned design, blocks can be selected in different colors (from neutral, calm shades to bright flashy colors) and with different surface finishes (smooth, grooved or patterned). The method of surface treatment affects the light transmission of glass and its transparency.

According to the type of surface treatment, glass blocks are distinguished:

• even, smooth;
• glossy, with a mirror finish;
• matte;
• embossed.

Depending on the type of surface, the blocks may have a light-scattering or light-directing effect.

Disadvantages of glass blocks

Unfortunately, ideal materials do not yet exist. Despite the advantages and advantages of glass bricks, they are also not without flaws. In fairness, we note the main negative points that can be encountered when using glass blocks in the interior.

The heavy weight of the block significantly makes the structure heavier, therefore it is not recommended to create walls with an area of ​​​​more than 15 square meters. meters. Installation is quite laborious and requires certain knowledge and skills.

The next important point is the high cost of the material. The price of Russian manufacturers varies from 120 to 220 rubles per piece, European quality will cost much more, on average 300-500 rubles. The price of decorative blocks with figures and three-dimensional paintings in the inner cavity is around 1500 rubles. In Moscow, you can buy any, including non-standard, options from different manufacturers at the best prices, while for the provinces it will be problematic to find a suitable option.

It is impossible to hang any decor or shelves on finished walls and partitions made of glass blocks. Although the problem with shelves can be solved by creating special niches.

Features of installation of glass blocks

For those who have experience in laying tiles or brick walls, the installation of glass blocks will not seem difficult. However, you need to know some subtleties.

Installation of glass blocks can be carried out in two ways: in a joint on a special adhesive solution and on a special frame base (module) in the form of a lattice with cells. The second option is easier to perform, but it is not always possible to find a suitable basis.

First way. To begin with, a profile is attached to the floor, along which the first block is laid. Rows should be laid away from the wall. Special crosses are installed between the blocks. Given the large weight of the blocks and the long time of reliable binding of the solution to the surface of the block, the laying is carried out in stages, making a time interval between each third row.

For structural strength, metal rods are laid, avoiding contact between the rod and the block using mounting crosses. When the laying is completed, grouting is carried out. Upon completion of all installation work, you can remove the protective film from the blocks.

The second way. A wooden frame or module with cells of the appropriate size can be purchased at a hardware store. Before starting work, the frame must be securely fixed to the floor, ceiling and adjacent wall.

With such a module, glass blocks are laid using rubber gaskets, and the blocks can be removed and replaced if necessary. This method is used to create decorative partitions.

The use of glass blocks in a modern interior

Glass blocks are both natural, environmentally friendly and modern high-tech material. Glass fills the room with light and visually expands the boundaries. Glass block structures seem light and fragile. Glass blocks are not afraid of moisture and high temperatures, so they are ideal for bathrooms and kitchens. They are very easy to care for but look very delicate. It is not surprising that such material has become very popular with designers.

Photo examples of how glass blocks can be used in the interior will be presented below. Fresh and original ideas will help your imagination spread its wings and come up with something exclusive for your home.

A panoramic window made of glass blocks in a private house is not only spectacular, but also very reliable. The use of colored or corrugated blocks will fill the living room or terrace with a special light.

The bathroom is often deprived of natural sunlight, but the owners of country cottages can easily fix this with the help of glass blocks. Such a window is not created for ventilation, but solely for decorative purposes.

The wall with glass block inserts looks like an ice barrier, which makes the interior chilly. You can fix this by combining glass with warm wood or stone.

Glass blocks look very harmonious in the interior of the bathroom. With their help, you can make exclusive shower cabins, fence off the toilet bowl or create a relaxation zone with a jacuzzi.

Many of us, when we hear the word "glass blocks", recall Soviet buildings with bluish-green glass squares of glass that served as windows or partitions in various public buildings - from canteens to bathhouses. In those days, it never occurred to anyone to use this building material as a decor. The use of glass blocks was due to the strength, availability and obvious functionality of the products. Nowadays, this building and finishing material has undergone external changes and is used not only for its main purpose, but also for decorating the interior and facades of buildings. Over the past ten years, the use of glass blocks in the design of residential premises is gaining popularity - modern designers offer options for the construction of practical and aesthetic structures, the use of glass blocks locally, as a functional decor.

Glass blocks are an excellent soundproofing material that is resistant to moisture and has good heat-saving properties. That is why it was so often used in utilitarian premises for taking water procedures. And today, glass blocks can most often be found in bathroom design projects, where partitions are created from translucent cubes, window openings are laid out and racks are installed.

The design of the glass block is simple - it is a “brick” hollow inside, the walls of which are 6-8 mm thick. The rarefied air inside the block provides the product with high soundproofing properties and low thermal conductivity, which helps to save heat in the premises. As a result, industrial glass blocks are used both for the construction of non-load-bearing walls inside the building, and for cladding the outer surfaces of buildings.

As a rule, glass blocks are produced in a square shape, but there are also products in the form of "bricks", end (corner) blocks and even rounded shapes. As for colors, transparent, colorless glass blocks have an advantage here, but recently tinted products with various decors inside (pebbles, shells and even herbariums) are gaining popularity, LED products look especially luxurious and modern. Glass blocks can be of different sizes, but still the most popular options are standard shapes: 19x19x8 cm and 24x24x8 cm.

Glass blocks in interior design

Partitions, racks and more

One of the most popular options for using glass blocks in the interior is the creation of partitions in the bathroom. There are several reasons for this popularity:

• glass blocks let in up to 85% of sunlight, but at the same time create a barrier behind which you can retire;
• excellent moisture resistant properties;
• structural strength;
• relative cheapness of the material;
• ease of care;
• excellent soundproofing properties allow you to drown out the sound of pouring water;
• glass block partitions are able to retain heat, creating a comfortable atmosphere for taking water procedures.

In order to create a safe and easy-to-use glass block partition, products with a rounded shape are used in the last row of the building. As a result, your opening, passage or niche in the partition will be ergonomic, safe and visually attractive.

The creation of semicircular partitions made of glass blocks that separate the shower space from the common room has become most widespread in modern design projects. You get a bathroom space isolated from high humidity, but at the same time you keep the presence of sunlight in the shower area.

The combination of transparent and tinted glass during the construction of partitions in bathrooms allows you to create not only functional protection of the room from moisture, but also decorate the interior, bring an element of originality.

Products of different sizes and colors will help to bring originality to the construction of a glass block partition. Here is an original combination of transparent rectangular glass elements with square emerald blocks with a corrugated surface.

In creating glass block partitions from colored glass, the main thing is not to overdo it with brightness and maintain harmony in the use of color solutions.

Partial laying out of one of the walls of the bathroom with the help of glass blocks will allow you to maintain the privacy of the room, but at the same time create the possibility of using light coming from the adjacent space. As a result, during the day you can not use artificial lighting when visiting the bathroom.

Windows in rooms for different purposes

Most often, glass blocks are used for the construction of window openings in utility rooms - bathrooms and toilets. This choice makes sense because you end up with a window that lets in nearly as much light as regular double-glazed windows, yet creates a private atmosphere without the need for curtains or blinds. Most often, glass block windows can be found in private urban-type houses or suburban households.

The use of glass blocks for window decoration allows you to create both panoramic monolithic window openings, and entire compositions from small sections with a translucent composition.

The use of glass blocks of different sizes and shapes allows you to build not just window openings, but real decorative interior elements that can raise the level of design uniqueness to an unprecedented height.

Creating a window from glass blocks in the bathroom allows you to use the resulting surface as a base. For example, when one or two sinks are located near such a window, you can hang mirrors and even small shelves directly on the glass structure.

Panoramic glass block bathroom windows can be used to mount various accessories. In the shower space, it can be handrails or small shelves, mirrors.

But not only in bathrooms you can find windows made of glass blocks. Originality and practicality bring this inexpensive material to the living room space. In this case, glass products are used not only for their functional qualities, but also as a decorative element.

When refurbishing former industrial spaces into living spaces, glass blocks are often used as a nod to the times when these glass products were used solely for their functional qualities. Here is a design project for a spacious kitchen with high ceilings and glass block windows.

Another example of arranging a glass block window in a modern kitchen-dining room

Even in the interior of the hallway, the use of a glass block window looks organic. Modern and unique.

Original solutions in a modern interior

Windows and partitions made of glass blocks can hardly surprise anyone. But the use of this durable, but at the same time translucent building material as the basis for flooring can bring originality to any interior design. Here is just such a way to design an office with a seating area. The glass roof, complete with a glass block floor, made the room completely airy, light, and light.

A semicircular bar counter made of translucent glass blocks? Easy! The design will look especially impressive if you add lighting to the structure - color or monochrome.

Small inserts of glass blocks in the walls are a unique opportunity to bring originality to the interior of the room. The room is filled with light, glare plays on surfaces, but at the same time the walls do not lose their strength and wear-resistant qualities.

Creating an interior partition of transparent glass blocks in the space of the stairs will help create a light, almost weightless image of this structure. The solid construction will ensure that your stairs are exposed to sunlight from adjoining spaces.

Unusual use of glass blocks can be found even in the bedroom. Windows made of this material can protect your space from prying eyes, but at the same time fill the room with subdued sunlight.

Glass blocks in the interior - functional, aesthetic, modern

Modern glass blocks allow you to build both functional and decorative structures. The glass block partition in the room transmits and diffuses sunlight well, giving the interior lightness and airiness, but at the same time providing the necessary privacy. The material is durable, water and fire resistant, high heat and sound insulation, safety and does not require additional finishing. A wide variety of shapes, sizes, colors, degrees of transparency and textures will satisfy any requests and tastes. The wall for zoning the living room-bedroom can be completely lined with blocks or other materials with glass windows and inserts.

Partitions made of glass blocks in the room:
▪ 01

Partitions with windows and glass block inserts:
▪ 05

Studio apartments of square, rectangular and corner layouts

Glass blocks in the interior (design)

In Soviet times, glass blocks were not often used to decorate rooms and facades of buildings.

Yes, and the choice was small - often the glass block was a structure made of uneven and cloudy glass. But today on the market there are a lot of glass wall blocks and windows made of glass blocks of various shapes and all colors of the rainbow.

In our article, you will learn what decorative glass blocks are and why glass blocks in the interior are a good design solution.

Glass block design

Glass blocks in the design of the room

Interior experts, not without reason, believe that modern transparent glass blocks and colored glass blocks often give visual lightness and airiness to the room where they are installed.

If you like experiments, then you can purchase an LED glass block with internal inserts or with stained glass pictures.

Since the glass block itself is hollow, you can put various decorative things in it, for example, stars, seashells, dried flowers, and just photos. Although it is more appropriate to use such decorative glass blocks only as an insert into a wall or ceiling.

By using glass blocks for design, you get a lot of advantages:

1. A window made of glass blocks transmits and refracts light, unlike drywall and brick partitions.

Thus, the glass blocks in the interior look like large lampshades, which makes the room spectacular.

glass block window

There are transparent glass blocks that let in daylight, but the "photo image" does not. This is logical, why should strangers see what they are not allowed to see? This advantage of glass blocks made it possible to use them for decorating windows in bathrooms. 3. Glass blocks in the interior are convenient, because they can be built into absolutely any surface. For example, illuminated glass blocks can be used as a great decoration for partitions, walls, windows, floors and even furniture.

You can learn more about other equally interesting features of glass blocks with photos in the article on our website “Glass blocks in an apartment - sizes and prices”.

What can be made from glass blocks?

Walls, partitions can be made from glass blocks, or transparent glass blocks can be used to create window structures.

In addition, you can use colored glass blocks to decorate walls or create stationary furniture from glass blocks and much more. But first things first.

Illuminated glass blocks to create walls

Glass blocks are decoration for the wall

A wall of glass blocks will allow enough sunlight to pass through.

Moreover, corrugated glass wall blocks will protect from prying eyes. And also such wall blocks do not look heavy, which visually simplifies the entire space.

It's no secret that glass is cold and looks "soulless", which is why glass blocks resemble ice cubes.

Designers advise: if you decide to build a huge wall, then it is better to combine glass blocks with some other material. For example, let one third of the wall be made of transparent or colored glass blocks, and two thirds of drywall sheets.

A wall of illuminated glass blocks can be used to separate zones in an apartment, for example, a bedroom from a living room or a kitchen-dining room from a working area.

Glass wall blocks for creating partitions

Glass block partition in the bathroom

Glass blocks are good because thanks to them you can quickly and beautifully build a partition of any width and height.

In this case, the top of the partition can be curly, for example, stepped, pyramidal, or uniform.

Read more about this in the article on our website "Glass blocks for partitions".

Usually, glass blocks are used to create partitions in the bathroom, where they are most harmonious. After all, glass is not afraid of moisture, and the blocks are not completely translucent, which allows you to create a so-called.

n. "intimate zone".

Read more about this in the article on our website "Glass blocks in the bathroom".

Designers advise, like walls, to build partitions only in certain styles, for example, urban, loft, high-tech, and in classic decor they will look ridiculous.

Decorative glass blocks to create a window

Bathroom with glass block wall

Inner glass block window

i.e. it is a window construction between rooms, which brings additional light, and is also a decoration for empty wall surfaces.

To create windows, LED glass block is used, which will perfectly fit into such rooms that separate each other, such as a bathroom and a toilet or a shower room in a large bathroom, a living room and a corridor or a kitchen, a bedroom and a pantry.

Of course, glass blocks are also used for glazing window structures that go outside.

However, you won’t be able to enjoy a beautiful view from such a window and you won’t be able to ventilate the room with its help, because.

Glass blocks in the interior

to. such designs are usually produced deaf.

Decorated wall made of glass blocks - photos attached!

Glass blocks as inserts in the wall in the shower room

Glass blocks are also used as wall inserts. Often these blocks are "embedded" in the wall structure, and not through.

In another way, they are also called point glass blocks, which are used in fragments. But there should be few such glass blocks: one “brick” per sq. m. walls.

Colored glass blocks are used as an insert in wall structures and with internal photographic images, which give the premises brightness and originality.

Glass blocks to create stationary furniture

Glass block kitchen island

Glass blocks in the interior (photo) are a very convenient thing.

From them you can build a wide variety of structures. For example, a fixed island in the kitchen, a bar counter or in the bathroom - a beam under the washbasin.

Any furniture made of glass blocks looks impressive and solemn. There is only one drawback here - you can’t rearrange with furniture made of glass blocks; but is it necessary?

Other options for using glass blocks - photo

Glass block bath screen

From glass blocks you can create a screen (space) for a bath.

This can be done in two ways: lay it out of glass blocks or just decorate with them.

Such options for the use of glass blocks in styles are appropriate: modern and minimalism.

In addition, glass blocks are placed under the steps of podiums and stairs, and they also decorate an empty space near doorways. And sometimes in the kitchen, a working apron is covered with blocks of glass, or a false fireplace is laid out of them in the living room.

In a word, there is room for a designer soul to turn around!

Glass blocks in the interior: their price is different, but affordable even for a person with a modest income. Read more about this in the article on our website "Glass blocks in the apartment - sizes and prices."

Photo gallery of interiors with glass block walls and partitions

Glass blocks are not only a wonderful decorative element, but also quite a functional material.

It can be used to decorate bathrooms, kitchens, living rooms and bedrooms, fold functional partitions and even use it as an additional sound and heat impervious layer.

From the past to the present

People who made the times of the USSR probably remember the glass blocks for partitions, which could often be seen in the entrances.

Translucent walls made of flat slabs perfectly decorated the interior and served as a solid wall. Today, many designers have decided to return such a useful material, but in a different version.

Pictured are decorative glass blocks

Why are glass blocks good?

1. They have a variety of colors and textures, which allows them to be used in a variety of interiors: from bathrooms to cabinets.
2. Glass blocks in the interior are highly durable and able to withstand significant loads.

   This allows you to use them for the construction of decorative walls and partitions. In addition, they are quite simple to replace without dismantling the entire wall.

3. The material is highly soundproof and perfectly retains heat. In addition, they are waterproof and quite fire resistant: they can withstand almost an hour with direct exposure to fire.
4. The installation of wall blocks can be carried out independently, without inviting the master. When working with them, neither paint nor plaster is required, in addition, it is convenient for them to give an unusual shape.
5. A variety of glass blocks plays into the hands of designers: glossy and matte, transparent and opaque, plain and with pictures, smooth and embossed.

   By combining a variety of options, you can create whole pictures or visually correct the shortcomings of the room.

Scope of glass blocks

You can build a wall of glass blocks or lay out a wall with them in any part of the house, giving the interior lightness and airiness.

Partitions in the bathroom made of glass blocks will allow you to separate the bathing area, separating the shower part, and in the kitchen - dividing the room into a place for cooking and a dining room.

Note!

Reflected in the glass, sunlight will fill the room with comfort and spring mood, and drops of water will beautifully settle on it.

Small glass blocks can be placed on the wall above the stove or near the sink, hiding the walls from moisture and heat.

The latter option can be used in any room if the walls are too thin to let in cold and sounds.

Lay out a panel or a simple pattern from them a centimeter from the wall and enjoy the warmth and silence.

Glass blocks in the interior of the apartment: 85 photo ideas

If the room is too large, it can be easily divided into several parts using translucent walls. Refracting, reflecting or transmitting light, they will give the room an unusual look and make it more functional, dividing, for example, a nursery into a play area and a sleeping area.

Pictured are glass block partitions

Unusual use of glass blocks

In addition to the above methods, you can use decorative glass blocks in a more curious way, making them an arch between the corridor and the rooms.

Using light, reflective parts, you can easily turn a dark, narrow hallway into a bright and joyful place, and an exit to the main part of the apartment into an intriguing portal.

In addition to the standard arch, you can build an unusual relief wall that will complement the interior and decorate it, adding a twist to the overall look.

Block partition

But a simple wall and an arch is far from all that can be thought of from this amazing material.

An interesting feature will be glass block furniture: a bathroom screen, a washbasin console, a bar counter or a niche in the dining room. And although it will be impossible to move such “furniture”, it will please you, even standing in one place.

They can also lay out a ladder, a false fireplace, door and window openings, interior windows and much more.

In the photo glass blocks for partitions

Do it yourself

For those who decide to use this unusual material in the interior, there is great news: the installation of glass blocks is not difficult and is quite accessible to everyone.

You do not need any special equipment or skills - just simple accuracy and patience, as well as some materials that can be found in any hardware store, will suffice.

You will need:

• glass blocks of the right size;
• special glue or glue for tiles.

  You can use other solutions, but it is better to use moisture-resistant and refractory mixtures;

• mounting crosses, suitable in size;
• reinforced stainless bars for a stronger grip;
• level;
• grout for seams;
• transparent silicone sealant;
• rubber mallet.

In the photo, laying glass blocks with your own hands

Before starting work

The first step is to determine the dimensions of glass blocks, mounting crosses and rods using the example of masonry walls. Standard sizes of glass blocks are 19cm x19cm x8cm or 24cm x24cm x12cm.

Thanks to the standard dimensions, building a wall is much easier and more convenient. Mounting crosses are also divided by size: 2, 5, 10 and 16 mm. For the wall fit the smallest - 2 mm. It is better to take rods with a diameter of 4-6 mm.

Note!

Before starting installation, the floor on which the wall will stand must be thoroughly cleaned of dirt and dust so that debris does not get into the adhesive solution.

It is worth preparing all the materials in advance and stocking up on time: you will need to wait for the glue to completely harden.

Measure 1 centimeter from the wall in advance and draw a line - the entire wall that you build with your own hands will pass along it.

Glass blocks in the wall

Please note that glass blocks usually come with a protective film that protects their wide sides from adhesive and damage.

It should be removed only after the adhesive solution has completely dried. If there is no film, it is recommended to make it yourself using adhesive tape.

When choosing an adhesive, give preference to the adhesive of the same brand as the glass blocks.

This will make the installation process easier and faster, and will also have a positive effect on the quality of the result.

Glass blocks in the bathroom

Let's get started

Before starting laying, do not forget to wrap each glass block in film on the flat sides so as not to spoil their appearance.

You need to start by laying out the first layer of blocks. Check the evenness of the surface with a level and correct if necessary. Insert mounting crosses between the seams to make the glass block partitions even and beautiful, and continue laying the second layer. Also check its level and put the third layer. Stop.

Now it will be necessary to leave the masonry for a while so that the glue has time to harden properly. Check the setting time on the packaging: usually an hour is enough, but some mixtures take longer.

Glass block partitions

Before moving above the third layer, it is worth strengthening the partition.

Take a reinforced rod and carefully place it on the crosses, being careful that it does not come into contact with the glass blocks - this will avoid rust. Recheck the evenness of the wall and continue laying.

This is the laying of glass blocks with your own hands.

Having reached the very top, leave it for the night, and preferably for a day, and why cut off all the extra corners and grout the seams. After the solutions have completely dried, you can carry out wet cleaning and remove the protective film from the blocks.

Illuminated glass blocks

Even though the glassblock adhesive cures fairly quickly, within a couple of hours, it is best to leave it on overnight.

Thus, he will have time to firmly grab the blocks, and the wall will become much stronger.

Glass blocks in the interior video:

About 30-40 years ago, the window openings of school gyms were “decorated” with clumsy glass blocks, where they honestly carried out their service: to the best of their transparency, they let in light and withstood a direct hit by the ball.

Glass blocks in the interior of the apartment: original ideas for your home

Time has gone forward, new technologies have come, and glass blocks have changed with them. They still let in sunlight and can protect against ball impacts, but the variety of shapes and shades has greatly expanded the scope of this building material.

Material Features

The variety of shapes and colors, coupled with the lighting characteristics of this material, are complemented by such important properties as:

• strength;
• incombustibility;
• moisture resistance;
• heat and sound insulation.

Important factors when choosing a material are also the ease of maintenance and the relative cheapness of glass "bricks".

The combination of the above qualities attracted close attention of architects and designers to glass blocks.

The updated material began to be actively used in the construction and decoration of cottages, apartments, offices ... Of course, it is not possible to build a load-bearing wall of glass blocks, but any other partitions are quite suitable for this material. Glass blocks in the interior of the apartment can also be used to fill window openings and as an element of decor.

Scope of glass blocks

Most often, glass blocks are used in the design of the bathroom, where they decorate windows, enclose areas of showers or hide piping.

The glass squares of the blocks have something in common with the squares of ceramic tiles, and the presence of inserts of a different shade or texture in a homogeneous wall made of glass blocks gives the interior a unique individuality.

Another direction in the use of the material is panoramic windows, which looks especially good when creating verandas in country houses.

Another original solution for a cottage is a flight of stairs fencing, and both the space under the stairs and the walls of the staircase can be finished with blocks. The material is also suitable when creating a pool bowl ...

However, glass blocks are also used in small apartments.

The material is especially relevant when redevelopment of internal walls: by decorating a corridor with glass blocks, you can give it an elegant look and let in natural light, or by combining a room and a kitchen into a single space, using a wall of blocks, you can zoning the space.

And you can also support the glass wall by using glass blocks to decorate the bar counter.

The breadth of the assortment allows you to buy glass blocks that are suitable for your style of the room.

Properly selected glass blocks will give the interior lightness and add sunlight to the room.

Glass blocks in the interior: application

When it comes to glass block, we sometimes recall the nostalgia of obsolete porches of old houses, public canteens, hospitals and baths of the Soviet era.

Today, glass blocks in decoration are not uncommon, but they are already showing themselves in a new quality and in a modern style, gaining their popularity in the industry of decoration and interior design, as they say, everything new is a well-forgotten old.

In a modern apartment, glass blocks have found application in the interior design of a bedroom, kitchen, bathroom (shower), as well as for zoning rooms indoors, in the form of walls and partitions, giving the interior of a room in an apartment a fabulous atmosphere and additional comfort.

In this article, we want to tell in detail the areas of application, installation and installation technology, as well as the advantages and disadvantages of glass blocks, supplementing and commenting on the material with photos and videos with recommendations, where you can pick up some interesting fresh ideas and solutions for interior design and zoning your apartment.

The use of glass blocks in the interior of the apartment

The idea of ​​using glass blocks in the interior was born not so long ago, although they have been used as a building material for half a century.

Today, interior designers do not miss any even the smallest opportunity to translate fresh ideas into their projects, one example of this is the use of such material in a living room.

Thanks to new technologies, glass blocks have found their second wind, corrugated, frosted, colored, as well as glass blocks with inserts of various shapes and sizes have appeared, which can transform any interior beyond recognition, give freshness, lightness and distinctive beauty.

Glass blocks in the bathroom.

Glass blocks in the interior of the apartment photo

Thanks to its light-toning insight, letting in only particles of light and diffused colors, decorating the interior with glass block bathrooms has become very popular and fashionable now.

On the other hand, it is a convenient material for zoning and dividing space, creating an atmosphere of privacy and comfort, this method is especially suitable for dividing a shower or bathroom.

In addition, glass blocks are a very safe and smooth material, that is, it is impossible to get hurt on the edges. There can be no question of moisture resistance, since it is made entirely of glass.

In the kitchen. Along with a large number of options for colors, shapes and sizes, glass blocks are successfully combined in the interior space of any kitchen, even a very small one.

Above the sink, a glass block panel of three-dimensional dimensions will look great, and above the gas stove, a mosaic of small squares.

In the interior of the bedroom. Interior designers do not stand still, they use every opportunity and zest to realize their design ideas and fantasies.

Glass blocks in the bedroom not only harmonize with the overall interior of the room, scattering or refracting light, but also give a certain kind of soothing coolness and silence, having such characteristic properties as soundproofing.

In addition, such fire glass blocks are safe.

If you have a large kitchen, then this material can be considered as a good option for zoning the room itself into the dining room and kitchen, while not depriving the adjacent space of light.

Glass blocks in the hallway. The entrance hall is considered one of the small and narrow rooms, the design of the hallway with frosted and corrugated glass blocks can visually increase the area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe room, and inserts from colored blocks can complement the interior, making them like a decor element.

A great option in the apartment and the idea of ​​​​creating a glass block arch instead of a door between the living room and the hallway.

In the interior of the living room and hall. Modern glass blocks allow you to give the interior of the living room and hall an unusual beautiful and cozy look, using multi-colored inserts.

In addition, some windows can be laid with matte views, while they will let in 50% of the light, and between the living room and the hallway, you can design a partition with bends from transparent or corrugated glass blocks, which will naturally give the interior of the rooms an exquisite style.

Glass block walls and partitions

In order to rationally plan the space of an apartment, many owners take such radical steps as rebuilding non-load-bearing walls or erecting various kinds of partitions.

In some cases, depending on the material, this is advisable, for example, as for zoning a bathroom.

Commonly used materials for such structures are brick, wood, drywall sheets, aerated concrete blocks, glass and glass blocks. This article will focus on one of the most optimal and aesthetic material for such purposes as glass block.

The use of glass blocks in the interior as a wall and in partitions has its advantages:

1. Excellent material for decorating walls and partitions.

   The distinctive quality of glass blocks from similar materials is the presence of a variety of shapes, colors, textures and patterns.

2. It has excellent light transmission and light scattering effect.

   Before choosing a glass block, you should accurately determine their future purpose. That is, blocks with a glossy surface transmit light well (translucent), matte ones muffle, and glass blocks with a corrugated surface have good light-scattering effects.

3. High strength.

   Walls and partitions built from glass blocks are so strong that they can only be broken with a sledgehammer. But even if, for some reason, several blocks break, it will not be difficult to replace them with similar whole blocks.

4. Thermal and soundproofing. Due to the internal sealed air space, glass block walls perfectly absorb noise, and also perfectly retain heat.
5. Fire resistance.

   They are considered one of the fire resistant materials as they can withstand direct fire for up to an hour without melting or cracking. Tellingly, the walls of glass blocks in a fire situation can serve as a reliable barrier against fire until the arrival of firefighters.

6. Ecology.

   Glass blocks are an environmentally friendly building and finishing material. In fact, they are made from pure natural raw materials (quartz sand processed into glass) that do not emit or accumulate toxins, odors and harmful substances.

7. And a few more advantages of using glass blocks in the form of walls and partitions, that they do not need to be painted and plastered, and it is also convenient to give unusual shapes and curves to walls and partitions.

Technology of installation and laying of glass blocks

Installation and laying of such material is undemanding and quite simple, if you follow the technology and make a little effort, then you can do it yourself with laying, for example, a small partition, in an hour.

For laying and mounting glass blocks, it is preferable to use a special glue, but if for some reason it is not at hand, you can use ordinary masonry mortars such as tile adhesive or, on the very edge of the cement-sand mortar, but taking into account that the composition does not there were large grains of sand.

The base before laying glass blocks should be cleaned of dirt and dust, if necessary, leveled.

In advance, you need to prepare mounting plastic crosses (standard sizes 2.5,10 and 16 mm), reinforced stainless steel or galvanized rods (4–6 mm in diameter) to reinforce the masonry, a rubber mallet, level, colored grout for joints and silicone sealant, preferably transparent colors.

The very first block (standard glass block dimensions 19x19x8 and 24x24x12 mm) is laid from the side of the wall, taking into account that the expansion joint between the wall and the block does not exceed more than one centimeter.

Next, the following blocks are laid so that the seams between the blocks are even, use mounting plastic crosses, preferably 2 mm, since the wall or partition made of glass blocks in this case will look very rich and beautiful.

Please note that every third row must be reinforced with reinforced rods.

Reinforced rods must be laid on mounting crosses and in no case should they come into contact with the glass block, in order to avoid rust and corrosion.

After each laying a row, it is required to check the level for evenness. For a better fight of the whole structure, after the third row, let the solution dry. If this is an adhesive mortar, then an hour is enough, and for a cement-sand mortar it will take at least a day.

After all the work done on building a wall or partition from glass blocks, it will be possible to chop off the protruding outer plates and rub the seams with colored grout.

Basically, many glass blocks already come with a protective film against the protection of the adhesive composition of the mortar and physical impact during installation. The protective film should be removed only after the completion of all the work done, and best of all during wet cleaning.

Glass blocks are called hollow sealed materials in the form of bricks, which consist of two half-blocks of glass. Use this material for decorative decoration of the room. Partitions between rooms, decorative inserts and other elements are made from it.

Glass blocks are durable, environmentally friendly, and fire resistant material, light passes through them freely, which makes the room more spacious and open.

Glass blocks can be of different colors and structures, this allows you to combine different types of material and get an original surface. In care, the material is not picky, it can be washed with water or glass products can be used.

standard glass block size

Glass blocks of a standard type have a thickness of 7.5-10 centimeters, its weight can reach 4.3 kilograms.

The shape of such material can be rectangular or square.

The dimensions of a glass block of a standard type can be 19 * 19 * 8 centimeters or 24 * 24 * 8. Also, the material can be purchased in the form of halves, which have dimensions of 19 * 9 * 8 centimeters or 24 * 11.5 * 8.

Glass blocks in the interior: glass block partitions, laying, installation, photo

Glass blocks can be triangular or angular in shape, they are used to decorate decorative columns and other elements.

Proper installation of glass blocks

Glass blocks are laid in two ways: cement and frame. The first method is used when it is necessary to equip a large and strong structure or partition, that is, when building walls or window openings.

The frame laying method is more complex and expensive, but has a spectacular appearance, unlike the cement method.

With this method, cement is practically not used, this greatly facilitates the entire structure.

Cement method of glass block laying

With the standard laying method, a special type of cement is used, which has a uniform and high-quality structure, it does not contain large grains of sand, since these elements can leave scratches on the block.

For work, it is necessary to prepare spacer crosses and metal rods that have a cross section of up to 6 millimeters.

With the help of spacer crosses, the same distance is obtained between the stacked blocks. Also, cross elements help to make the wall stronger and more rigid. The rods serve as a reinforcing element that strengthens the entire structure.

First of all, the initial row of glass blocks is laid, then the cement composition is spread, the metal rod is laid, and the following glass blocks are installed.

If the area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe structure being erected is too large, then the rods are laid not only horizontally, but also vertically.

Crosses for spacers are placed between the blocks, in their connections.

The caps of these elements should look out, and after the material is completely dry, they are removed by chipping. When laying glass blocks, it is necessary to use a building type level so that the structure is even.

Laying is carried out in three rows with breaks for a day, while the cement composition has time to harden and harden well. If this is not followed, and more than three rows are laid, then the structure may shift or fall apart.

Laying glass blocks in a frame way

First, determine the size of the glass block partition.

Then a frame of wooden elements is installed in this place. During the manufacture of the frame, all cell sizes must be accurate, glass blocks will be placed in them.

The frame is fastened with glue or twisted with special hardware. The frame is painted in the desired color, and left to dry.

The frame can be made separately, and then installed in finished form in the intended place, secured with dowels or anchors to the wall, floor and ceiling.

After that, they start laying glass blocks, they are placed in each cell from bottom to top.

When all the cells are filled with glass blocks, they are fixed with silicone. It is applied to the junction of the glass block and the wooden frame, while the elements will not fall out of the main structure.

The silicone type sealant is colorless, so the colored elements do not deteriorate. After eight hours, this is the time during which the silicone dries completely, the partition is considered ready.