Add a new dimension with coloured glass

Take a cue from the Victorians and add some coloured glass into your home

The Victorians could not get enough of stained glass and many of our older houses, loved and looked after over the years, still exhibit the masterful work of 19th Century glazers. The vibrant glass design is mainly found in the entrances and stairway windows of houses built during the Victorian and Edwardian period. The great revival was prompted by the arts and crafts movement with stained glass manufacture growing into an enormous and specialised
industry. Today there are novel ways of reproducing the Victorian look involving much less effort than our ancestors would have originally exerted.

Current trends have seen stained glass
appear in more unusual domestic settings, such as internal doors and
windows, roof lights or even as part of a feature wall. When considering designs it's wise not to go for anything too personal - whimsical 19th century coats of arms aside, some designs may make your property less desirable if and when you come to sell. It's also worth thinking about the amount of light you will have if you choose to install stained glass.

white door

(Image credit: TBC)

If you haven't inherited the genuine Victorian article in your property you can get your local carpenter to do the heavy lifting. A good carpenter will know of a well stocked glass merchant where Victorian replica glass can be found. He can then take out the panels of a new door and replace with the glass. Ensure you get a least three quotes and a recommendation before settling on the ideal candidate. Ebay is full of reclaimed Victorian and Edwardian doors, so another great place to scout.

horse

(Image credit: TBC)

There is an easier way to achieve a stained glass look with simple yet convincing adhesives that add colour, interest and privacy.This is an example of a period stained glass effect by Purlfrost. Designs are printed on non frosted film for added vibrancy, or on
frosted window film for privacy, using a UV resistant digital ink
for durability. Sizes can be ordered to exact measurements and Purlfrost says that application is simple using soapy water and a squeegee.

door with flowers

(Image credit: TBC)
Contributor

Tamara was Ideal Home's Digital Editor before joining the Woman & Home team in 2022. She has spent the last 15 years working with the style teams at Country Homes & Interiors and Ideal Home, both now at Future PLC. It’s with these award wining interiors teams that she's honed her skills and passion for shopping, styling and writing. Tamara is always ahead of the curve when it comes to interiors trends – and is great at seeking out designer dupes on the high street.