Stained glass windows bring magic into houses of worship, offering a beauty that ties literal and spiritual surroundings together. The creation of these windows—which requires tremendous skill—is not just for decorative purposes but is an intricate art form that communicates a broad swath of messages.
Thanks to innovations in architecture, stained glass had a practical function as well, enabling many church-goers to understand and take away a message of religious themes, while enjoying the beauty of color and light, that they may not ordinarily comprehend so profoundly.
Although windows have evolved because of technology, builders are inspired by churches that were built hundreds of years ago. With the ethereal effect of sunlight pouring through glass, whether in hallowed halls of churches and temples or modern spaces, churches, businesses and even homeowners are creating their own dramatic spaces.
Church.Design profiles several companies with a consistent presence in the church market, highlighting what they report makes them a good fit for selection and specification in house of worship projects.
Historic renovation in New York
After 100 years serving as a place of worship for the community, St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Potsdam, N.Y., was in need of an historic renovation. When it was discovered that many of the church’s windows were deteriorating, the intention was to recreate 15 Gothic revival windows and refurbish and reglaze the stained glass, especially the 23-foot-high Gothic unit with a magnificent Rose Window, above a new entrance.
In 2010, stained glass was carefully removed from the original windows. Built in three layers of old-growth pine, they were replicated by Marvin Windows and Doors of Warroad, Minn., with six layers of Honduran Mahogany, plus staggered finger jointing for a strong and layered profile of the 15 windows, including a 15-foot x 23-foot Rose Window. Marvin was not just replacing, but restoring to maintain the history of the windows and frames.
Over a century of gathering, shifting and settling, measurements for each window needed to be exact to accommodate fixed stone and glass dimensions. Marvin brought in architects to capture measurements digitally using BIM and CAD/CAM technology. Cyber models, cutter models and cutter designs downloaded directly to Marvin’s CNC equipment allowed the window fabrication to be a paperless process.
Another factor that made this process a smooth operation was the collaboration among the Marvin Signature Services team, the contractors, architects and the parish, enabling the church and its members to enjoy services and continue their worship without disruption. (visit link)
St. Mary's Catholic Church, Marvin Windows
Stained glass, old and new
From historic restorations to 3D renderings, High Point, N.C.-based Church Interiors can handle the installation of all types of windows for any church renovation. Its area of expertise is installing new stained glass windows as well as restoring historic stained glass, and also providing many of its customers with new stained glass window protective coverings.
One of the leading trends that reflect the company’s work is removing old and dilapidated double-hung windows in older sanctuaries and replacing them with new stained glass. What’s appealing to its customers, according to the company, is that new stained glass windows cost about the same as new double insulated windows. Add to that the fact that many parishioners are carried away by the beauty of spiritual symbols and artwork that can attract even more members.
Restoration is an essential part of the process. If a church client already has stained glass, Church Interiors can restore the window to its original beauty. They remove the windows intact, transport them to their studio, make a pattern for the glass, and then dismantle the windows piece-by-piece. The window is then reconstructed using new lead and reinstalled in its original opening. This process preserves the legacy of not only the window, the artist and the church, it also provides the window with an additional lifespan of 75-100 years of service.
Protecting glass from future damage
One of the greatest challenges in conserving stained glass is protecting windows from the natural environment, Church Interiors staff reports. Customers will have beautiful windows, but they may not be protected properly. Church Interiors’ studio designed a special “Storm Window” or “Protective Covering” that includes a breathable aluminum frame and laminated or tempered glass. These frames allow air to transfer out from between the window and the new protective glass, thus providing a properly insulated, energy-efficient barrier—while protecting the glass from future damage.
Custom windows
The impact that this type of window work has on congregations is immeasurable, the company reports. The windows emanate historical and spiritual beauty, create dramatic impact and, most importantly, protect a church client’s precious artwork for another century. (visit link)
Kolbe Windows & Doors of Wausau, Wis., is yet another solutions provider for religious projects. Hung windows are available for more traditional churches; conversely, direct set windows are oftentimes right for contemporary church architecture. The company’s breadth of products and options means that they have products to fit nearly any house of worship, regardless of the design.
Kolbe reports that a current trend is to use custom windows to illuminate worship spaces. Oversized double- and triple-hung windows, in custom shapes, maximize light while improving airflow. Distinctive details, such as custom divided light patterns, can provide a one-of-a-kind look. In addition, specialty shapes add architectural interest, allowing every house of worship to maintain a signature style. (visit link)
