Traditionally found in churches, the craft of stained glass was brought into homes about a century ago by Louis Comfort Tiffany, who developed new techniques that allowed for greater flexibility of design. In the 60s, the hippie movement claimed the ornate craft, but its popularity soon ebbed. Now, it seems, affluent homeowners are rediscovering the beauty of light filtered through colored glass for doors, windows, skylights, room dividers and as freestanding art pieces. Graceful lilies adorn the bedroom doors in the Sikkas' home. A wall of art glass in the kitchen cabinet doors along one wall or as a focal point using art glass in a beveled design.
Stained glass is available in a variety of patterns and styles, from traditional to abstract.
And new techniques make it stronger and more durable than ever. Patterns can also be beveled, etched, sandblasted or carved into either clear or colored glass for stunning effects. Most stained glass designers have pattern books that clients can look through to get ideas, which can then be mixed, matched and modified for size and color. Often, clients come in with their own designs, perhaps a swatch of wallpaper or fabric they want to recreate in glass. Using the sophisticated software now available, many people even bring in original computer designs.