Homes and Interiors
glass as a load-bearing medium, we can do away with frames and edges and create these aesthetically amazing living spaces of seamless glass which connect directly with the building, becoming an intrinsic part of the design.” In terms of thermal qualities, the ‘u’ values of structural panels are superior to traditional framing systems, meaning that your home is fantastically insulated and stays nice and toasty. “The reasoning for this is that the centre of the glass has the best insulation,” Kristian continues. “The minimum is by the frame joints, so by avoiding any frame joint, we can provide the maximum overall ‘u’ value to the installation, and many of the properties we work on perform to German Passivhaus standards.” Another great appeal of structural glazing is that it gives the feeling of bringing the outdoors inside, and creating a connection which hasn’t been possible until now – an especially appealing prospect during the winter months when we’re cooped up indoors (and perfect for watching the snow fall without catching a chill). Formed in 2007, Clear Living has become a market-leader in the design, supply and installation of structural and frameless glass, with two of its projects listed for the RIBA House of the Year 2015 award, and another on the shortlist for 2016. The Company, based in Wincham, Cheshire, was brought in by architects to provide bespoke glass frontage and minimal windows for properties in Formby, Liverpool, and in Criccieth, Gwynedd. “Our prime motivation at Clear Living
“The design world has woken up to the qualities of glass as a structural material” is to provide a first class service to all our clients,” Kristian adds, “and we do this using our superior design concepts and expert engineering skills.” Clear Living Limited, Ellesmore House, Wincham Ave, Wincham CW9 6GH (01606 45109, www.clear-living.co.uk)
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