Pillars of glass - Curved glass pillars by Glasshape stand in the Auckland Art Gallery's reception

Even the permanent fixtures at the Auckland Art Gallery take on a sculptural presence. And this is particularly evident in the main reception area, where a series of illuminated, curved-glass pillars introduce a futuristic note.

The glass for the pillars was supplied by Glasshape, a company that specialises in the manufacture of toughened and laminated curved glass products. The company says that while the project presented its own unique challenges, the collaborative, problem-solving approach taken by Glasshape is typical of the firm's work.

Glasshape worked closely with the architectural team to provide a solution to a very complex brief. Essentially, the company had to curve sheets of glass, which were more than 2.5m high, to a very tight radius of just 275mm. The glass also needed to play a structural role, so the glass was laminated into a Grade A safety glass there are no visible fittings to the pillar subframe.

Glasshape also worked closely with the pillar fabricators to ensure the architectural brief would not be compromised.

Tempershield toughened curved glass is used regularly for similar high profile projects around the world. This glass has high structural strength while still providing very good light transmission. Used in many commercial and residential projects, the glass is available in a wide range of sizes and thicknesses, and can be used to create seamless curved picture windows, including double-glazed windows.

A member of the Glass Association of New Zealand, Glasshape also manufactures other specialist glass products, such as StormShield a storm and cyclone resistant product; ArmourShield a bullet and intruder resistant product; and DuraShield SuperYacht glass.

To contact Glasshape, 65-67 Woodcocks Road, Warkworth 0910, phone (09) 422 2565, fax (09) 422 2566. Email: info@glasshape.net.nz. Or visit the website: www.glasshape.co.nz.

Story by: Trendsideas