Glass in the home – the movers, shakers and remainers
How we use glass in the home has changed a fair bit over the years.
It's increasingly central to the way we design spaces, whether for domestic or commercial application, glass is a key component as we move away from 'open plan' to 'broken plan' living, subtly zoning spaces using glass as the central anchor. Whether it's roof lanterns strategically positioned to define spaces or corner glass panels to create architectural features, how we use, specify and create with glass has never been more fluid.
Increasingly, we're seeing homeowners move away from traditional uPVC conservatories, instead opting for the modern variation of sophisticated, energy-efficient orangeries. Trends also continue for full-height glazed aluminium-framed extensions that feel like a natural continuation of the home.
We're also seeing a shift away from pitched designs to flatter, more streamlined architectural profiles, from flat glass roofs to lantern-style glazing or large architectural skylights. These installations are being designed to allow better control of light, improved insulation, and a more contemporary look that works with both modern and period properties.
Customer trends
A growing trend with bifold doors is the pairing of aesthetics with premium engineering, slimmer frames and larger glass panes combined with reinforced aluminium profiles and intelligent safety features.
Solar-control glass has therefore become a key specification for large sliding and bifold installations, reducing glare and overheating to keep expansive glass walls practical year-round. In urban areas, acoustic glazing is increasingly specified for noise reduction without compromising natural light, a trend that connects directly to Part O of Building Regulations, introduced in 2022 and increasingly relevant as homes become more airtight and heavily glazed.
The impact of industry regulation
The 2025 revision of Part L has raised the bar for energy efficiency across the UK. For homeowners, window upgrades are no longer just about style; they're about strict performance targets. We've long known that legacy double-glazed units often miss today's benchmarks, making advanced IGUs, low-E coatings, and triple glazing increasingly the go-to solutions.
Reports are also showing that anticipated Future Homes Standard updates are pushing the market toward triple glazing and Passivhaus-level performance. Demand is expected to grow in 2026 as homeowners look to somewhat "future-proof" against energy costs. The understanding is that consumers are buying fewer windows but spending significantly more per unit on premium materials and finishes.
The direction of travel is clear
Glass is no longer a passive element of home design; it's become a central point of design that balances aesthetic ambition, regulatory compliance, and long-term energy performance all at once. For homeowners, specifiers, and manufacturers alike, the conversation has shifted from 'what does it look like?' to 'what does it do?' and that's a change that's only going one way.