Glass News

As we quickly move into the winter months, many people feel the impact of the darker evenings with between 5% and 10% of the population suffering from a seasonal affective disorder.

Our bodies rely on the right light at the right time of day. In the morning, sunlight wakes us up and during the day, the light keeps us alert. Dimming the light in the evening allows our brains and bodies to relax and prepare for sleep.

Vitamin D

Vitamin D or the “sunshine” vitamin as it is sometimes called is crucial in keeping bones, teeth and muscles healthy. Difficult to gain from food alone, it is imperative that our homes and workplaces allow access to as much natural light as possible.

Fluorescent light

Working in dark areas and using a source of unnatural light such as fluorescent lightbulbs can have an adverse effect on both our mental and physical health.

Improved sleep

Increased exposure to natural light throughout the day, means for a better sleep experience. Studies show workers exposed to high levels of circadian-effective light report reduced depression and better sleep quality. (https://www.sciencedirect.com)

How can using glass in our homes and workplaces help?

We love this simple video which explains the science behind the transparency of glass. Using materials such as wood and brick to form partitions in our homes and workplaces reduces the flow of natural light. As a building material, glass is probably the most versatile that there is. It is strong, it can resist elements and can be resistant to both wind and fire and most importantly can make any space appear bright, tranquil and relaxing

Glass partitions walls are the perfect way to introduce light into a room but still retain some acoustic and thermal performance. Using internal sliding glass doors in a partition will save space and allow furniture to be placed alongside the glass walls.

Mirrors

Did you know that simply by placing a mirror at right angles or opposite a window, you can increase the feeling of light and space in a room? Just one of many tips in the Go Glass mirror brochure here https://goglass.co.uk/mirrors/

Increasing light in your own home or workplace

Keep windows clean, use a professional cleaner or make your own home-made window cleaner

Replace wooden doors with old wooden doors with interior glass doors

Hang mirrors at right angles or opposite windows

Remove partition walls and replace them with frameless glass partitions

Go Glass Design have over 43 years of experience in glass design and can advise on any project. Visit the website https://goglass.co.uk/ or pop into the Cambridge showroom.