When it comes to making an entrance, nothing captures old world charm and elegance quite like stained glass. Stunning in doors and amazing at adding a splash of colour to windows, stained glass is such a versatile medium with which to express the feel of your home or business. How then do you go about getting the perfect piece for you? Well, Louise van Niekerk of Aladdins-de-Light says that it all starts with finding the right artist…
“My very first tip is always to find a stained glass artist whose work you like and identify with. With stained glass design and conceptualising there comes a stage in the whole process where the only place the design is alive is inside your designer’s head.
A good designer will listen to the client’s ideas, use reference materials provided and interpret these within the scope of what is possible in stained glass and the client’s budget (Yes, sometimes a bit of marriage counselling when faced with opposing ideas is necessary).
So what do you need? A near accurate measurement is helpful in establishing a quote. I always like to visit my clients’ houses as far as possible. Palermo may be a bit challenging, but if you are willing to fly me out, I am open to persuasion...
If not, then photos, especially of the style of the house, the interior and the exterior to gauge the client’s taste and style, swatches and other samples are useful.
It is a good idea to look at examples of the artist’s work and to look through design books to give you an idea of what is possible. Most people do not realise that stained glass can be traditional or timeless and elegant or modern and minimalistic.
Once you have decided on a design, your quote can be done and you will be required to pay a deposit. In my mind, doing the design and choosing the glass is the most important part of the job. If you get that right, making the panel is just hard work until you are finally rewarded when you lift the assembled panel and see how your vision turned out!”
