Auckland’s bespoke architectural glaziers want you to think outside the box

For bespoke architectural glaziers Glass By Design, “If you can dream it, we can do it,” is a guiding philosophy. Dedicated to bringing unique glass concepts to life, the Auckland-based design support team have been working alongside architects to deliver stunning works of glass design for over thirty years. 

“Glass By Design offers custom design support for architects and high-end builders who want to push the boundaries of glass architecture,” says Henry McCambridge. 

Assisting with concept and design development through to engineering documentation, the team considers everything from the impact of seismic movement to extreme weather to create beautiful and functional glass installations for high-end builds. 

“The use of glass in homes and commercial buildings has always interested me because of the range of possibilities available. People often think glass is quite a fragile product, but you can make it exceptionally strong; you could build a whole house out of glass, including stairs and glass floors. It’s such a diverse product, and with the technology available now, it can really be used for anything.”

Thanks to the innovators working in this global industry, there is no shortage of technology available to Glass By Design. Regularly visiting Europe to stay up-to-date on new developments and trends, Henry is a wealth of knowledge for Kiwi architects and high-end builders who are willing to think outside the box. 

“There is so much research and development coming out of Europe — it’s like the interior design studio of the world — so we like to keep up with the trends as they emerge,” Henry explains. “For us, everything is possible. If you come up with a concept, we can get pretty close to what you would like to achieve. And, of course, if it has been done somewhere else in the world, we can definitely pull it off.”

The glass ceiling, and beyond

With over 30 years in the industry, Henry has witnessed the evolution of glass architecture from simple windows and doors to grand decorative installations.

“People are getting more creative with their designs. They want to increase the amount of natural light, thinking beyond the external envelope of their building to explore how they can incorporate glass into internal spaces. It’s not just using clear panels to divide hallways or rooms — now, people are turning these pieces into decorative elements that contribute to the interior design narrative.”

One notable approach is the incorporation of fabrics like pleated linen or mesh, inserted into the middle of the glass panels to match curtains or other furnishings in the room.

“We worked on a recent project where we added a linen layer to sixteen glass wardrobe doors, finished with a bespoke frame design that we made, and custom handles from London,” Henry says.

“Another project involved creating a structural glass canopy for a front lobby and pool area. The idea was to evoke the feeling of being outside, but with shelter from the rain and sun. We used glulam beams to create branches with the glass in between, which had never been done before.”

Drawing on technological advancements in the glass industry, Henry also worked on a project that used switchable glass to create a pop-out conservatory for an en-suite bath.

“The bath extended out from the rest of the en-suite on a slab, and we enclosed the sides, front, and roof with switchable glass panels. These panels can transition between clear and frosted at the flick of a switch by way of an electrical current that goes into the frosted inner layer, causing a reaction. The clients wanted control over their privacy, with clear glass for an evening bath under the stars, and frosted glass for when family or friends are around. People love to have these little wow factors in their home.”

Henry’s passion for architectural glazing is shared by the entire Glass By Design team, who proudly spend their days transforming New Zealand’s bold glass concepts into reality. 

“We encourage people to think outside the box. If you can dream it, we can do it. Put your idea down on paper, and we can work together to bring that idea to life.”   

Learn more about Glass By Design.