Business Details
50 Years
experience
Custom Architectural Stained Glass by Frank Close
Frank Close has dedicated his career to architectural stained glass artistry, collaborating closely with architects, designers, and clients to create site-specific works that harmonize with light, space, and architectural intent. Since beginning his journey in the 1970s under influential mentors like Ludwig Schaffrath, Close has developed a distinctive approach using blown glass rondels and linear design elements to craft dynamic light installations. His portfolio spans residential, corporate, religious, and public spaces, including notable projects at the International Monetary Fund and IBM Data Center. With decades of experience across major U.S. cities and international locations, Close emphasizes client collaboration to ensure each piece reflects both the environment and the patron's vision.His work has been featured in prestigious venues like the Salk Institute and Pace University, demonstrating technical mastery and artistic depth. Committed to quality, Close adheres to traditional craftsmanship while innovating through partnerships with contemporary architects. The studio maintains transparency in its creative process, focusing on delivering timeless art that enhances architectural spaces. This dedication to excellence has established Frank Close as a respected figure in the field of architectural glass art.
Services
Residential Stained Glass
Corporate Stained Glass
Public Art Installations
Rondel Series
Custom Glass Design
Details
- Year established: 1976
Highlights and features
- We have over 50 years of combined experience in architectural stained glass
- Our studio collaborates directly with architects and designers on every project
- We use traditional blown glass techniques with modern design innovations
- Our portfolio includes prestigious projects at the IMF and IBM Data Center
- We create site-specific installations tailored to each space's unique characteristics
Services
Residential Stained Glass
Custom stained glass installations for private residences enhance living spaces through tailored designs that interact with natural light. Our process involves direct collaboration with homeowners to create art that reflects personal tastes while complementing architectural styles. Each piece utilizes high-quality materials and traditional techniques to ensure lasting beauty and functionality.
Corporate Stained Glass
Architectural glass solutions for commercial spaces integrate artistic expression with brand identity and workplace culture. We work with business owners and designers to develop installations that create welcoming environments while maintaining professional aesthetics. Projects include corporate headquarters, financial institutions, and healthcare facilities across major U.S. cities.
Public Art Installations
Site-specific glass art for public spaces combines functionality with cultural significance through collaborative design processes. Our public works respond to environmental factors and community needs while maintaining artistic integrity. Completed projects include libraries, hospitals, and transportation hubs, enhancing communal spaces with permanent artistic features.
Rondel Series
Handcrafted blown glass rondels arranged in geometric patterns create dynamic light effects in architectural settings. This technique draws from Venetian glass traditions while incorporating contemporary design principles. The series offers versatile applications for both modern and historic buildings through customizable color palettes and configurations.
Custom Glass Design
Full-service design and fabrication of unique stained glass solutions for specific architectural requirements. Our team develops concepts through detailed consultations, creating prototypes and scale models before final production. The process ensures seamless integration with existing structures while meeting functional and aesthetic objectives.
People
Frank Close
Founder & Lead Artist
Architectural glass artist with over 50 years of experience creating stained glass installations worldwide. Studied under Ludwig Schaffrath and developed techniques combining traditional craftsmanship with modern design. His work appears in major public and private collections.
Questions
What types of stained glass services do you offer?
We specialize in residential, corporate, religious, and public stained glass installations using custom designs and traditional techniques.
Do you work on restoration projects?
While our focus is on new installations, we have experience with historical glass conservation through collaborative partnerships.
How long does a typical project take?
Project timelines vary by complexity but generally range from 6-12 months including design development and fabrication.
Can you create custom designs?
Yes, all our work is custom-designed through collaborative consultations with clients and architects to ensure site-specific solutions.
What materials do you use?
We primarily use hand-blown glass, lead cames, and traditional soldering techniques with modern structural reinforcements where needed.
Where are your projects located?
Our installations span major U.S. cities including New York, Washington DC, and Lexington, with select international locations.
