Our Blog | GBA Architectural Products + Services

Why Build with Glass Bricks?

Glass bricks offer a unique blend of style and function that few materials can match. They bring in natural light while preserving privacy, adding texture and dimension to spaces—without the need for heavy framing or window treatments. Whether you're designing a modern loft or updating a traditional bathroom, glass bricks provide a clean, architectural look that elevates any space.

At GBA, we work with builders, designers, and homeowners to create glass brick features that are both beautiful and practical. From creative room dividers to bold exterior accents, there’s no shortage of ways to make this timeless material your own.

Why Choose a Glass Block Shower Half Wall?

If you're looking for a bathroom upgrade that blends timeless design with everyday function, a glass block shower half wall is worth considering. This feature offers the best of both worlds—open and airy like a frameless panel, but with far more privacy, strength, and style flexibility.

Unlike full glass enclosures, a glass block shower half wall adds architectural interest and natural light without feeling intrusive. It's an ideal option for bathrooms where you want to maintain separation without closing off the space entirely. And because each glass block wall is built piece by piece, there’s plenty of room for customization to suit your bathroom’s layout and your design preferences.

Whether you're remodeling a small bath or building a spa-inspired space from scratch, a glass block shower half wall provides a clean, upscale look that never goes out of style.

A New Standard in Glass Block Performance

Glass block has long been celebrated for its ability to blend privacy, light transmission, and timeless design—but performance standards are evolving. GBA’s newly released DuraTherm Energy Block meets this evolution head-on. Engineered for high-demand environments, it delivers the rare combination of exceptional strength and advanced energy efficiency—without compromising aesthetics.

Whether you're designing for a school, a transit facility, or a commercial project in a hurricane zone, the DuraTherm Energy Block offers a forward-thinking solution. It reflects GBA’s ongoing commitment to solving real-world architectural challenges with innovation that’s practical, code-compliant, and visually refined.

In modern architecture, glass facades represent elegance, functionality, and innovation. From maximizing natural light to creating visually striking designs, facades that feature glass are transforming the way humans interact with experience structures. At GBA Architectural Products + Services, we specialize in architectural glass products that elevate the aesthetic and structural integrity of your projects. Whether you're designing a glass facade building or incorporating unique combinations like brick and glass facades, GBA offers solutions tailored to your needs.

Below, we’ll explore the many facets of glass facades, including their uses, benefits, and the exceptional products available from GBA that can help you bring your vision to life.

When a residential or commercial project requires both a high level of impenetrability and plenty of natural light, architects and designers rely on glass block. Security and detention glass block windows are superior to other types of windows in terms of the security and privacy they provide - that is, protection against break-ins, fires, and high winds - and constantly-evolving specialized products, such as security glass block, fire-rated glass block, and glass block designed to be hurricane resistant provide even greater protection, code compliance, and peace of mind for your clients.

The Standard of Fire Rated Windows

In architectural design and construction, every aspect affects the safety and welfare of the people who use or live in the structure. A crucial element of commercial building safety is the incorporation of. Fire-rated windows are meticulously engineered and built to provide a barrier against fire and smoke for a predetermined amount of time. All parts of the window must meet fire-rating requirements.

Fire-rated windows help to compartmentalize fire and impede its advancement. The construction of fire-rated windows adheres to rigorous standards, involving materials and designs subjected to testing and certification for specific fire resistance criteria and construction codes. These windows play a pivotal role in safeguarding occupants and preserve property integrity during a fire emergency.

Why Are Office Buildings Made of Glass?

Glass has become a hallmark of modern office buildings due to its unique combination of aesthetics and functionality. Office glass fosters productivity and collaboration by creating open, airy spaces filled with natural light. This light enhances employee well-being, boosts mood, and leaves a strong impression on clients. Beyond its visual appeal, advancements in glass technology, like low-emissivity coatings, improve energy efficiency by regulating indoor temperatures and reducing the need for artificial lighting. The result is a workplace that blends style, sustainability, and practicality, making glass an essential component of contemporary office design.

The Benefits of Custom Glass Walls

Custom glass walls provide a perfect blend of functionality and style, offering a unique solution for enhancing security without compromising on aesthetics. These walls are designed to deliver several key advantages:

• Improved Security: Modern glass technology makes custom glass walls incredibly strong and resistant to impact, helping to protect against unauthorized access.
• Visibility Without Vulnerability: Unlike solid walls, glass walls provide clear sightlines, which can deter intruders while maintaining a sense of openness.
• Sleek and Modern Design: With customizable options, these walls seamlessly integrate into various architectural styles, offering a polished and contemporary look.

Enhancing Hurricane Resilience with Glass Block: A Guide for Builders and Architects

Hurricane blocks are an effective solution for buildings located in areas vulnerable to severe weather. Built to handle the impact of high winds and flying debris, these glass blocks offer a strong blend of protection and style. They give builders and architects a dependable option for improving both safety and design in hurricane-prone regions. As more projects prioritize resilience and modern aesthetics, this durable material is becoming a popular choice for long-term protection.

Understanding Hurricane Glass Block:

Hurricane glass block, also known as impact-resistant glass block, is specially designed to resist the destructive forces unleashed during hurricanes and severe storms. Composed of durable, fortified glass, these blocks are engineered to withstand high-velocity winds, debris impact, and extreme weather conditions that accompany hurricanes. The construction involves layers of tempered and laminated glass, creating a robust barrier that enhances both the structural integrity and safety of buildings.

Key Features and Benefits

Impact Resistance

Hurricane glass block is crafted to withstand impact from airborne debris, a common occurrence during hurricanes. The multi-layered composition, typically including tempered and laminated glass, ensures that the blocks remain intact even when subjected to strong forces, preventing breakage and maintaining the structural integrity of the building.

High Wind Resistance

Engineered to resist high-velocity winds associated with hurricanes, these glass blocks provide an effective barrier against wind-driven rain and debris. This feature is crucial for preventing water infiltration and maintaining the building's envelope integrity during a hurricane.

Natural Light Integration

Despite its robust nature, hurricane glass block doesn't compromise on aesthetics. It allows the seamless integration of natural light into interior spaces, creating a bright and open atmosphere. This feature is particularly appealing for architects looking to design hurricane-resistant structures without sacrificing the benefits of daylighting.

Energy Efficiency

Hurricane glass block contributes to energy efficiency by reducing the need for artificial lighting during the day. The translucent nature of the blocks allows sunlight to penetrate while maintaining thermal insulation, creating a comfortable and energy-efficient environment.

Hurricane Glass Block from GBA

When architects and builders need to plan for the worst nature has to offer, GBA sells and installs Lightwise® High Performance Glass Block systems. Lightwise® is renowned for its reliability and flexibility to create innovative and beautiful spaces that stand up to hurricane-force winds and impact from flying debris. The window assemblies are recognized and approved by Miami-Dade County (Florida), the Texas Department of Insurance, and the state of Florida. GBA can deliver, ship, and/or install the units as preassembled glass block windows. Lightwise® glass can be customized for transparency or privacy. Furthermore, the finish of the aluminum framing is also customizable. Three glass patterns are offered: Nubio, Clarity, and Endura.