For our March issue, we asked local design professionals if glass dining tables are a classic or a craze. Here’s what they had to say.
Classic
“Knoll is reintroducing the iconic Warren Platner collection in 14k gold. Originally introduced 50 years ago, the base of the table consists of vertical steel rods connected by a horizontal band and topped by none other than a glass top. Glass tables are extremely versatile because they sanction any kind of base that will hold a top; giving you the option for both modern and traditional flavors. However, glass tables may not be for the skittish; fingerprints and scratches are inherent flaws and not everyone likes having their legs visible at the dining table. In my opinion, the pros outweigh the cons, and I give this a classic stamp of approval.” Joni Spear, Joni Spear Interior Design.
“Glass has staying power and is even gaining more clout as a material with endless possibilities. You will see the future is made of glass, but like almost any material it will follow trends in design. When you have a very interesting, architectural table base, glass is an excellent way to show it off. The translucent quality of clear glass helps us create a sense of more space or makes a space feel light and airy. Glass tables are here to stay.” Dana King, NEXT Project Studio.
“We get a lot of requests to cut glass to fit wood tables. People want to protect their wood surfaces and recognize glass is a great solution to protect and also show off the wood. We also get a lot of requests for glass tabletops to be custom cut for table bases. I think the primary reason is glass is durable, beautiful and antimicrobial. I believe it is here to stay, and I don’t see any evidence of glass waning in popularity.” George Manlove, Mod Glass.
“It is definitely not a fad or craze, but a timeless design in an elegant look for the contemporary and even transitional customer. Glass-top tables, either in dining or occasional, have been in the market place for the last 50+ years. Glass will be there for many years to come as glass has more characteristic than ever before. Shape and edgework is in the demand with the more sophisticated designs. One thing I am very grateful for is the glass that has been fused and attached to the base. Years ago it was always lay-on glass, which moved causing things to spill on the table top.” Ross Anzalone, Amini’s.
“Most definitely a classic! Every family and friend I can think of (myself included) either has a glass dining table or has had one at some point. They are so versatile. They can be paired with nearly any base and work with most all styles of decor. Plus as an added bonus, they are easy to clean and show virtually NO signs of wear and tear. A glass top can also serve as a protective surface to a more delicate material beneath. I'm also a fan of back-painted glass if you do not wish to see through it while you are sitting at the table. It conceals fingerprints more efficiently too!” Emily Koch, JCR Design Group.
Craze
“While glass dining tables offer a stunning and clean look, they are more of a craze than a classic. There is a place for them in the right environment, but the timeless option will always be a sleek wood table. With the right stain, design and accents, a wood table will fit into any room and create a classic look that will never go out of style.” Shanna Shamblin Wilson, Wilson Lighting.
