Case Study:
DECO handmade glass splashback

The Brief

We were first approached to consider producing one of our handmade glass splashbacks to compliment not just a new kitchen and some of the interior styled furnishings but also the very Art Deco inspired building that this apartment was within.

“We would like to engage you to design a suitable splashback in an art deco style. Attached are 3 pictures: the building, view and the curtains adjoining the kitchen. A couple of words which sprang to mind are seaside and geometric.”. Hmmm. A rare challenge indeed.

We followed up with a meeting to talk over the images, materials, design possibilities and getting to know and understand what options we could explore. At this point it was agreed to move forwards to the design stage for the commission.

Planning

As the kitchen was itself in a progressed design stage, we knew where it would go, the size and shape. Drawing inspiration from the unique curtain material, we embarked on the design phase, carefully considering every detail to ensure it aligned with the client’s vision.

While the initial two designs adhered closely to the brief, Ian decided to step out into the unknown with something of a ‘wild card’ design. He wasn’t sure it would be a design they would be interested in, but he did feel it would provide something a little more unusual yet still very much ‘on brief’. Designs were sent over to the client for deliberation, discussion and consideration.

Action

‘Wild card’ turned out to be a resounding success. Husband and wife both opted for it as their preferred design of the three. They called us and announced their decision, “we both love your design and concept”. We were off. Before heading into the making stage, we arranged a final meeting to look at colours. Using our colour swatches, we brought out the material we had, and references to the kitchen materials, to pick a range of colours to use within the design.

As with all our personalised commissions we took a 50% deposit so we could begin ordering in the glass selections and additional materials needed to get started. A date was booked in to begin the intricate work required for this construct.

Ian uses a very complex build for this style of design. While some colour elements had already been decided upon, 80% of the colour is chosen as the build comes together and the handmade glass splashback matures. The craftsmanship and creativity reflect Ian’s signature blend of artistry and precision.

Result

After the glass splashback has completed its various firings in the kiln, it is then carefully checked for squareness, as the firing process takes the glass to its viscous stage and can sometimes cause some re-shaping to occur. Refined and cleaned it is ready for delivery to the client. This splashback was to be fitted by the kitchen installation team for the client – with feedback that it fitted perfectly.

It was great to then go back, meet the client again, and hear how happy they are with the final element installed into their new kitchen. Serving as a striking homage to the Art Deco aesthetic, the fused glass splashback received many compliments with some recognising the building in the design immediately, while others were amazed when it was pointed out. Most important of all, the clients were loving their glass splashback addition and another new Galiani Glass design was settled into its new home.

Interested in adding a touch of bespoke elegance to your kitchen? Contact us and begin your journey to having your own handmade glass splashback incorporated into your new, or refurbished kitchen. It really does make a stunning addition to the kitchen and home.

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