Advice

Regional Home Décor

How styles differ by region and how best to tailor steel to each style.

Each region in the UK has its own preferences when it comes to home décor; the shopping trends vary from region to region. For example, the South West enjoying a coastal appearance, London preferring a traditional/vintage look, Scotland liking a scandi design, and the midlands choosing a modern glam look.

This article explains each style and how steel-framed glazing can be incorporated into each successfully. Steel has an array of benefits, both aesthetically and performance-based. The strength of steel allows for intricate designs, smaller sightlines, and larger amounts of glass in the frame. additionally, steel has a large range of finishes and colour options. Steel can be the perfect option for almost all glazing installations if designed correctly to complement the existing space.

South West – Coastal

Slim Steel Framed System

The Southwest of the UK has a coastal style. Coastal décor is beach-inspired and relies on a soft neutral palette, with the addition of pale blues. It is also defined by incorporating driftwood and woven rattan furniture; striped details can be used simultaneously to create more of a comprehensive “beach” design. 

Another defining feature of Coastal décor is the reliance on natural light; the design is bright, clean and creates the illusion of a larger space. In addition, there is a focus on the use of natural colours, fabrics and designs.

Incorporating steel-framed installations into this type of design would require the use of large panes of glass; glazing bars would not be present.  As coastal décor focuses on natural colours and light, there are two main options to integrate steel successfully; the first would be to have minimal sightlines allowing for more glass in the frame. The Second would be choosing a neutral RAL powder paint coating for the frame so that the colour can match the room’s interior design.

London – Traditional

The traditional style takes cues from the 18th and 19th centuries; it incorporates furniture that reflects historical design elements using natural materials and colours, with warmer, darker tones. It is elegant, trying to highlight many of the most desirable styles that have existed throughout history. Regularly looking busy, the traditional design takes this inspiration from the Victorian era’s desire for decorative items as it reflected status. Large, heavy curtains are a classic design choice in traditional designs.

 

 Using steel frames in traditional homes will bring natural light into the darker space; as the design is busier, it allows the brightness to protrude into the space and open up the area. Lead glazing bars were originally used in windows as the glass panes could not be made very large due to the way glass windows were manufactured. Steel glazing bars imitate the lead glazing bars, breaking up the windows creating a more traditional appearance; these could be implemented. Using a dark RAL colour would benefit create a seamless transition from the traditional design of the room to the windows and doors.

Scotland – Scandi

Scandi style is shortened, meaning Scandinavian style. The main features that define Scandinavian style are muted, light colours, natural materials, clean lines and organic shapes. The use of Scandinavian style results in the space appearing brighter, lighter and overall, more sophisticated.  The use of light colours throughout the room allows for the illusion of a much larger space; the light can flow into the space and reflect off of the lighter coloured walls.

Interior steel framed partitions or windows/doors would fit well into this type of design because steel’s strength allows for large panes of glass and significantly smaller sightlines. The large panes of glass would elevate the level of light able to enter to room, working in conjunction with the light, mute colours to create an open and bright space.

The benefit of using steel is that there are almost endless options for the RAL powder paint. The array of choices available means that it can be tailored to the pre-existing Scandi-style throughout the rest of the property.

Midlands – Modern Glam

Modern glam is a toned-down version of Hollywood glam or Hollywood Regency style; it is less dramatic whilst having contemporary features and detailing. Most commonly, the furniture will have a minimalist twist with glam detailing. The use of jewel colours and gold accents are very common, as is the use of symmetry. The materials used are velvet, satin and silks; the texture is an essential feature of modern glam. The modern design aspects would be monochromatic colour schemes, clean lines, a significant amount of white space and geometrical designs.

As minimalist design is a prominent feature within the modern glam style, one way to compliment this style would be to maintain the minimalist theme with the steel-framed windows and doors. Large panes of glass with minimal sightlines would benefit the pre-existing design, allowing for a bright, open space.

 

 

Mondrian Glazing is passionate about creating bespoke, exceptional glazing solutions for both residential and commercial projects internationally. If you are interested in steel-framed glass installations for interior or exterior use, then please get in touch with the sales team at Mondrian today.

 

Internal Mondrian Glazing System Advice

The Benefits of Using Steel-Framed Internal Glass Doors

Internal glass doors have many benefits, but why choose steel-framed doors?

 

Steel framed systems have an array of different qualities that make them a very suitable option for internal walls and doors. The internal steel systems are most commonly used to break up spaces that still require access to light, being used as partitions, doors, and windows.

Indoor glass box, steel doors wine storageThe popularity of steel can be attributed to its strength; it allows very intricate designs as the frames can support heavy panes of glass. Furthermore, due to its robust nature, it requires little maintenance and as it is an inorganic material, it will not suffer from pest damage.

Another quality of steel is its sustainability. Due to its high raw material costs, steel is commonly recycled and can be recycled almost infinitely with an almost 100% return rate. It also has a longer lifespan than other materials, especially with specific finishes. For example, galvanised steel can result in a lifespan of up to 170 years. Steel is also non-combustible; this means that it does not add to the fire load of the building.

Mondrian’s internal glazing solutions have flexible designs, allowing them to be specified to suit specific project requirements whether it’s for a residential or commercial space.

Natural light

Steel-internal-room-partitionsMany homeowners struggle with a lack of space in their homes. With factors preventing them from building an extension, it can be challenging to understand how to adapt the property to provide the illusion of a larger living area.

This issue can be solved by creating a lighter, more open space; harnessing natural light is a critical tool to creating the illusion of a much larger living space. This will reduce the need for artificial light, consequently reducing electricity bills. Other options are reducing the amount of clutter and creating open plan designs.

 When creating a lighter space, one fantastic alternative to the traditional internal wall is incorporating steel framed partitions into the home. The steel-framed partition allows natural light to flow through the glass wall. Another option is a steel-framed internal door; this functions similarly to the partitions allowing for a brighter space and reducing the need for artificial lighting.

 

Heat transfer

fluted glass in mondrian steel systems

Steel is a naturally conductive material, so heat can travel through the metal with ease; this can be beneficial when trying to heat the home. Many residential home designs utlise non-thermally broken steel doors as they allow the heat to spread throughout the home efficiently rather than creating cold spots in the home.

For commercial spaces such as offices, non-thermally broken systems are often specified as having steel framed internal glass doors with thermally broken framing and a high thermal performance is unnecessary and costly.

 

Aesthetics

 Interior box partition for commercial building Many people choose steel-framed doors, windows, and fixed screens for their appearance. The strength of steel allows for minimal sightlines, meaning more glass in the structure and, as a result, more light. In addition, the use of installations with high amounts of glass allows for a very contemporary, sleek aesthetic.

Like a wall, the steel sections of the partition can be painted any colour the homeowner desires. The polyester powder coat paint can be chosen during the manufacturing process so the colour of the steel can perfectly match the design of pre-existing design of the home. Of course, not everyone would like polyester powder paint, so there are also options for the steel to be treated with a tinted lacquer or chemically blackened.

Glazing bars are also a popular design option for steel-framed installations; they offer a vintage aesthetic. The glazing bars break up the panes of glass into smaller sections of glass.

For residential projects, the internal glazing allows spaces to be segmented without fully closing them off. This is ideal for those who work and exercise at home.

The elegant and timeless design of steel-framed glazing makes it a popular choice for commercial spaces, with many office buildings using steel-framed glass doors or partitions around offices and meeting rooms.

 

Mondrian Glazing is dedicated to creating exceptional bespoke steel framing options.  If you are interested in steel-framed glazing solutions, please get in touch with our sales team; we offer glazing for both residential and commercial projects internationally.

 

 

 

Arched steel exterior door on farm house Advice

What are the benefits of steel framing?

What are the differences between uPVC and Steel Framing?

 

One of the most popular framing materials for doors and windows on the market is uPVC. It has many great characteristics, but how does it compare to steel framing? This article will compare the characteristics of both framing materials. The characteristics that will be focused on are aesthetics, lifespan, accessibility and maintenance.

At Mondrian Glazing, we produce steel framing. Although we do not manufacture uPVC framing products, we believe that you deserve to make an informed decision about your windows and doors.

uPVC framing is a synthetic polymer and stands for unplasticised polyvinyl Chloride. It is a very popular option for framing because it is the most affordable option. However, it has fewer aesthetic options and has a shorter lifespan than steel.

Aesthetics

uPVC can be found all across the UK; arguably they are the most common but monotonous window frame. uPVC has improved recently with the expansion of colour options but still does not compare to the vast array of colours available with RAL powder coat finishes on steel. The lack of shaped or asymmetrical design options further adds to the repetitious nature of uPVC framing.

Glass box extension in chelsea

Steel is significantly stronger than uPVC and as a result, the steel has much smaller sightlines which are more aesthetically pleasing. uPVC windows can have a bulky, large framed design that reduces the amount of glass and, therefore, the amount of light entering the property. The lack of strength means that there are much fewer shaping and design options.

Over time the sun may begin to discolour the uPVC – a white frame may become yellow. Unfortunately, altering uPVC with paint to prevent this from being visible can influence the efficiency of the window as the protective coat is sanded, it can alter the appearance (chipping or cracks), and potentially void the home insurance policy.

Due to the contemporary appearance of uPVC, it is not very suitable for period properties, the design contrasts the dated appearance of the property. However, steel is a much better option with the use of glazing bars it can provide a vintage look for the framing system.

 

Accessibility

Indoor glass box, steel doors wine storage

One of the main benefits of uPVC is that it can be a suitable option for projects concerned about accessibility. uPVC is a lightweight material so it does not take much strength to open and close doors and windows. The use of uPVC means that if people have reduced mobility or strength it may not have such an influence on their daily life.

Steel is a heavier material, and although many argue that nothing beats the weight behind high-quality bespoke steel, it may be harder to open and close. Steel is still a suitable option for these types of projects as although steel may be heavier, by utilising modern advances in hinge and framing technology, our systems can still be opened smoothly and with ease.

Maintenance

uPVC is non-corrosive, meaning it will not rot or rust. It needs little maintenance – soap and water normally will be sufficient. Around the end of their lifespan, they will begin to crack or swell. The frames may show more subtle hints like the house being harder to heat and being able to feel drafts around the window.

Steel is very similar in the fact it requires very little maintenance, soap and water are all that is required. Although steel can be susceptible to corrosion, this can be prevented by adding a protective finish. The addition of a protective coating increases the lifespan up to 170 years.

 

Lifespan & Sustainability

The lifespan of uPVC is around 30 years; compared to other options like steel (up to 170 years), it is very short. The plastic can be recycled up to 10 times with minimal material degradation. However, as the uPVC needs to be recycled so often it is not as sustainable as steel.

Sash windows on a semi detached homeCheaper materials like plastics are more likely to be remade than recycled as there is not a significant difference in the cost, so just because it is recyclable, it does not necessarily mean it will be recycled as many times. The other reduction in sustainability can be accounted for by the recycling process, it requires high levels of energy consistently every 30 years.

Comparatively, steel is recyclable with almost a 100% material recovery rate. Steel is also more likely to be recycled as the raw costs of the metal are higher due to extraction and the formation process. It also needs to be recycled significantly fewer times in the same lifespan as the plastic from uPVC.

Both materials discussed have their benefits and setbacks; Mondrian Glazing offers steel framing and focuses on providing exceptional quality products that last a lifetime.

 

For those working on a budget, uPVC may seem like the obvious choice, but at Mondrian, we strongly believe that glazing is not something that should be sacrificed within a project’s budget as it can have a significant impact on the look and feel of the home, as well as the homes thermal efficiency and carbon footprint.

Steel may be more expensive initially, but the benefits of steel-framed glazing are well worth the additional costs.

We offer bespoke glazing systems for both residential and commercial products; if you are interested, contact the team at Mondrian Glazing.

 

arches with still framed doors News

What are the benefits of steel framing compared to…

What are the differences between Wood and Steel Frames?

When completing home renovations or a building project, you will need to consider what window and door framing materials to use. There are four main options, although this article will focus on two: wood and steel framing. Both are popular options offering an array of great characteristics.

 

Slim Steel Framed System

At Mondrian Glazing, we produce steel and aluminium framing. We are passionate about glass and creating beautiful, bright living spaces. Although we do not manufacture wooden framing products, we believe that you deserve to make an informed decision about your windows and doors.

 

The popularity of wooden frames has persisted throughout history to the modern-day, formally through necessity (as the only option for many), latterly through its respected characteristics. However, does it compare to steel?

 

 

Aesthetics

Steel-internal-room-partitions

One of the most defining features of wood is its appearance; it has a natural, organic look. Due to its prevalence throughout history, it is considered useful when completing renovations on period properties as it maintains the dated aesthetics of the building. This is also similar to steel, it is also a very suitable option as it has been used throughout history, albeit a more recent history – it can still provide a vintage aesthetic.

 

Overall, steel offers more aesthetic options because of its strength. It allows for more intricate designs with more glass and smaller sightlines in the frame. The use of glazing bars offers a vintage look that will last significantly longer than wood.

 

 

Thermal Efficiency

Wooden frames are natural insulators due to the air pockets in their cellular structure. They prevent the heat from transferring quickly. Steel is naturally a conductor of heat, which means that heat will transfer from one side to the other.

This is not the most useful for exterior use; however, Mondrian have thermally broken steel glazing systems that utilise the lasted advance in thermal break technology to offer a much higher thermal performance than timber. 

Thermal break technology means that an insulating piece of plastic is installed into the frame, preventing heat transfer and substantially improving the thermal efficiency. Thermal break technology can perform better than other options like wood.

Both systems have a high thermal efficiency when steel is thermally broken. Steel is more effective when reducing the use of extra energy and is better for the environment thanks to its recyclable nature.

 

Lifespan

glass and steel framed staircase

If wooden frames are treated with stain or paint and installed in a favourable environment, they can last up to 60 years. Sixty years is an impressive amount of time, however, it does not compete when compared with the lifespan of treated steel (up to 170 years).

Wood also needs significantly more maintenance and care. Many problems arise in wood that are considered “silent killer,” which is discussed in the next section.

There are three main issues with wooden frames: rotting, insects, and warping. Stains and paints chip or wear away over time which can cause significant issues for the integrity of the frame.  Steel is not influenced by warping or insects but experiences a particular type of degradation called corrosion.

 

Rotting

Wood is the only framing resource harvested from a living organism; the fact that it is a soft tissue means it is susceptible to being broken down by bacteria over time and rotting away. The best way to prevent that is to treat the wood; this can be done by painting or staining the material. One of the most significant issues with rotting is that it could be breaking down the structural integrity from the inside, meaning it is not always noticeable until the frame has been compromised.

 

Insects

As mentioned above, wood originates in an organic environment; this results in many insects relying on wood for habitation or consumption. There are an array of beetles, termites and ants that will damage wooden frames creating inconsistencies in the frames. Any holes created will result in reduced thermal efficiency and could influence the quality of the structure.

Warping

The final disadvantage of using wood is that it is more prone to warping over time due to moisture. The wooden fibres in the window frame do not always dry collectively; some take extended periods of time. When moisture is reduced, the fibre begins to shrink. This causes tension and results in warping. Overall, wood is not as weather-resistant as other options. The environment has a direct influence on the lifespan of wooden frames.

Corrosion

Corrosion is caused by wet conditions and oxidisation. The process breaks down the steel over time and negatively influences the structural integrity. Corrosion can be prevented by treating the steel; one of the most popular is galvanisation, it is steel with a zinc coating that extends the lifespan of the steel up to 170 years.

 

 

Many people like the look of timber framed glazing systems but with the issues of maintenance and potential issues later down the line, steel is by far the better option.

fixed screen to reception area

Both materials discussed have their benefits and setbacks; but the benefits of steel framed glazing outweigh the benefits of timber by far. Steel is not only more durable, but does not encounter any of the ‘silent killers’ that can ruin wood framed glazing.

 

The steel aesthetic is also extremely flexible in design. Mondrian can utilise glazing bar designs and frame finishes to create systems with an elegant or industrial design depending on the type of project and its requirements.

 

Mondrian Glazing offers steel framing and focuses on providing exceptional quality products that last a lifetime. We offer bespoke glazing systems for both residential and commercial products; if you are interested, contact us at Mondrian Glazing.

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