Last updated on January 18th, 2021 at 07:48 am
How to Buy a Custom Glass Countertop
This blog will help you Buy a Custom Glass Countertop, and is an extract of a well-written piece on Christie’s (The Auction House) website. It has interesting guidelines that will assist you when commissioning a custom piece for your home or business. I have added commentary to make it particularly helpful for buyers of custom glass countertops.
- Trust your instinct
If a thing touches me, intrigues me, or fits my style, I am drawn to them. Trust your eye. You already know much more than you realise about what you like or don’t like, whether something feels and looks well made, whether you actually love it. Especially important when deciding upon the highest-value surface that will attract the most use, each day, all day. We can show you ways to pair a Glass high bar that is very fun (especially at night) with e.g. White Glass that looks very elegant…but at ⅓ the cost per sq ft on average. We recently documented a long-distance relationship with a couple in Scottsdale, Az. It was clear we were on the exact same page from the get-go, and it set the table for a beautifully designed and furnished modern kitchen remodel.
- Develop your knowledge
Go to craft fairs, meet makers and look at their work. Very good advice. We have invested in a fully outfitted Glass Design Center in Tampa, FL. Please visit. Please see what the experience is like. We are happy to serve wine to insure an authentic evening experience bathed in the ambiance of our gorgeous illuminated high bar.
- Buy something you need
A good place to start is with something you use every day. Why go to Home Depot for countertops when you can meet someone who actually makes them from scratch and start a friendship? When you’ve built up your confidence, you can commission something.
- Take a leap of faith
Familiarise yourself with a maker’s style. If you love it and ask for something in the same style you can’t go far wrong. If you see something you like ask if the maker would consider doing something especially for you. You can be specific on certain details, such as height and colour, but you need to factor some quirkiness in. Some artistic processes like making glass are a bit unpredictable. But that’s all part of the charm, the individual personality of a piece.
- Certain things are worth paying for
Some people have the idea that hand-made is not well made and will not last, but I think the opposite. Modern makers are highly trained and create high-quality pieces with high-quality materials. By buying from them you also support the artists so they develop their skill. Bespoke doesn’t have to cost an arm and a leg, but commissioned art is about making a connection with both the person that makes it and the object itself, and that is priceless. You might also be buying or commissioning something that will appreciate in value. Artists note: Probably only after Im 6 ft under…
- Be patient
Things may take several weeks to make depending upon the scale of the project. They’re worth it.
- Enjoy the process
Artisans are intelligent, approachable, sympathetic and creative. People who work with their hands have empathy and compassion. They have created an artistic bubble that is beautiful and purposeful, and by buying and commissioning their work you can be part of it. These things will enrich your life. See examples of our work here.
We are always ready to serve you. Give us a call…lets discuss your ideas…see where it goes.
Jeff Downing
(813) 784 5211
Jeff@DowningDesigns.com
1.5″ Thick Blue Glass Countertop atop floating cabinet