I see some pretty stained glass films at Target.
http://www.target.com/p/first-stained-glass-window-film-24x36/-/A-10647380?ref=tgt_adv_XSG10001&AFID=Google_PLA_df&LNM=|10647380&CPNG=Home+Decor&kpid=10647380&LID=PA&ci_src=17588969&ci_sku=10647380

I have heard great things about window clings, one thing...you want to be sure that the glass is very clean before application, it effects how well it clings.

You could... dress it up with a window treatment. I still like glass block and the filtered light it brings.

There is a spray paint that is used to frost glass. I'm not sure if it would work on this specific glass, but it is worth a shot! I hope this helps.

Also concerned that glass block is not a totally smooth surface (even the joins) so I am not convinced that glass film will work. What do you think you will achieve by adding film? You will still have the glass block showing through that you said you think is dated?
1. Change it out for a window 2. Work with it by ramping up an art deco theme - you already have some lighting and colours that could be nudged in that direction.

Looking at this room, it has quality, beautiful components.............flooring, lovely bath, counters, etc.

However, in my opinion, it is the dark vanity, and possibly the lighting above them that date the room.

The use of the small, glass tiles, as backsplashes, and carrying them into the tile design in the bath just does not work. The large cabinets and mirrors dwarf the narrow strip of small tiles, the places they stop and start, and carrying them into the design of the tub, is kind of confusing.

It would have been better, and maybe worth removing that tile, to carry the counter material up onto the wall as a backsplash.

You have all these heavy large rectangles. I think maybe changing the mirror frame to a rubbed gold, or silver, using the tile from the tub to cover the whole wall would make the tub and glass block look like one unit, and be pretty cool.
Adding some artwork to the two large walls would work to carry the eye around the room.

HELLO!

I hope you dont feel I trashed your beautiful bathroom in my last comments, with suggestions that would be almost impossible to fix. I keep looking at it because it is so pretty, and I've had remodel projects that I had spent SO much focus on, I needed and outside opinion.

It is obvious a lot of thought went into this design, including how to incorporate an architectural element that you could not change, designing a room that has so many technical details and has to provide several functions. You used beautiful materials, that will stand the test of time, the gray walls contrasting with the warm beige/gold tile, and the dark wood is timeless, practical and beautiful. I can see now, why you also wanted to use a little bit of dark trim detail with the backsplash tiles.

But I still believe the glass block is NOT the problem, and you actually used it well. I think it could end up looking really nice, and adding continuity to the design!

One thing I have experienced, is trying to cover a detail I did not like. I could say I have learned my lesson, but I'm sure I will do it again................and again. But what I have found, is that the more you try to cover it, the more of a problem it becomes.

What I see as the only challenges in your bathroom is not the glass block, but that the finish details that cause the whole far wall to feel out of balance, and the two large vanity areas overpowering the beautiful tub right now. But I see a fairly easy fix. This beautiful space is worth it.

Any kind of treatment to that window would be a mistake. Lets USE the glass block.

What I see now that would be the simplest way to solve several challenges, tie this beautiful bath together, and really give it the "oasis" status it deserves, is some fairly simple finishing that would balance the far wall, eliminate the appearance of "orpahned" design elements, (glass tile) and raise the status of the beautiful tub in this space, giving the room a beautiful focal point.

The glass tile splash is on one side of the far vanity, and not the other. They end "orphaned" on both sides, and in the narrow space of wall between the mirror and the glass block, on the rght, and are a little longer than the mirror.

I can see how you tried to maintain continuity without a splash on the right side, continuing the design in the tub area, and on to the other vanity, but the interuptions, and the imbalance, just make it not work.

This is the crucial design problem in this space. You have the mirror edge, the tiny strip of wall, the tiles ending past the mirror, the glass block, the counter height, and the height of the tub surround, coming together in that area, but not meeting.

If you remove the glass tile, and use the countertop, or similar material, you would have a solid piece to put a splash on both sides, and do the same with the other vanity. It would also serve to visually give some separation for the tub area.

Then extend the tile surround in the tub area on both walls, high enough to frame the entire glass block, making it almost the same height as the mirror. You could then add another matching lighting fixture to completely balance that wall.

You could do a design in the tile on the right wall, but with the tile raised, the tub would appear "lifted", and be the beautiful ""anchored" focal point, that would incorporate the glass block perfectly, and would not really need it.

Then all the places on the far wall that did not meet would be eliminated, because the counter would blend with wall tile, and the glass tile in the tub would not be that big a deal. I've seen glass tile used as baseboard, crown moulding around the ceiling, but I reall don't think from what I see, you need it. You have a lot of room for artwork on the left wall, plants, or maybe a persian rug with some beautiful colors, if you want detail, and softness added to the room.


Okay, you are most certainly sick of me by now. Again, beautiful job, and thanks for letting me comment................and comment.....................

Hi Stacer, nice bathroom! May I ask, in your lighting fixtures, what kind of light bulbs do they take ? Do they take LED bulbs ? Thanks.

I think this is a beautiful bathroom, and I love the glass blocks. What I would suggest-- and I think other people might have mentioned this-- is put in a round mirror there beside those glass blocks, instead of the rectangle-- just to remove some of the angularity (squares and rectangles). Otherwise, I honestly wouldn't change a thing.

I will add a disclaimer that we just re-did a bathroom, and we have a wall of glass blocks just like that. They pull in light from a window in the adjoining bedroom. We gutted this particular bathroom, and the glass blocks are the ONLY thing I kept, because I liked them so much. The wide grout was sort of recessed, though, which allowed the tiler to grout over top of what was there, with matching grout from the new floor and walls-- made a huge difference in that the glass looked fresher and newer somehow.. But I can't tell you how much I love the glass blocks and the soft light they offer. The light dances on the floor, prism-like, because of the design in the glass.

And I think yours looks terrific. I'll add that the very idea of putting some film over the top of beautiful glass like that is really bizarre to me. I also think that the photo above, where someone has put curtains around glass blocks-- also bizarre. Well, not so much bizarre as ridiculous-- comparable to putting fabric on piano legs. That glass needs nothing-- it's just there, looking beautiful and gleaming-- and bringing in light. It needs nothing. I suggest simply adding round mirrors, though, and perhaps some artwork. Otherwise-- it's a gorgeous room. Well done.

Have you heard of Lumicor panels? They are architectural resin panels that are made from recycled products. Lumicor panels are two resin panels that have sandwich almost any material that is flat in between them; such as grasses, leaves, fabric, metal, rice paper, linen, wood veneers and more. Lumicor is available in a variety of surface finishes to provide different levels of opacity and in almost any size. These panels can be incorporated into so many applications.

I have specified Lumicor panels in several of my bathroom projects. One application I have had great success with is to have a custom made framed boxes with the Lumicor panels insert. Then install or hung in front of a bathroom windows and glass block wall. It is a great way to help disguise a bad view from a window.

http://www.lumicor.com/portfolio/wall-applications

Hi there Wyland - very interested in the product Lumicor, had also heard of 3form. Have you used them for exteriors as well? Would be interested in your opinions - we can take this to pro-to-pro if you wish, but perhaps regular Houzzers would also like to know. Many thanks

As others suggested, adding wall art would distract from the windows and bring interest to the space. Not sure what kind of art you enjoy but you can check out our page for art ideas. Also, our art can be printed not just on paper and canvas but also on acrylic which should work well in your room... Raisa

I agree that the problem is not the glass block window, but rather the black framing of other elements in the room. It's as if the tub and glass window are separate and lighter than the heavier elements of the cabinets and the framing of the mirrors. Because I like the tile around the tub, I suggest painting out all the dark elements to a nice pale cream color. Somehow the height of the mirrors must line up with the top of the window--maybe this can be accomplished with framing around the window.

I should add a personal recollection. As a 5-6 year-old child in the 1940s we lived near Hibbing MN for a few months. I was excited to hear that there was a glass school and that we were to drive by it when my relatives visited. Imagine my disappointment when I saw that the school was made of glass block. Since that time I have grown to appreciate its Art Deco flavor and its paractiality in situations in which one wants light but not transparency. Does anyone know if that school in Hibbing still exists?

To Houzzers and ASVInteriors- The other company that you mentioned, 3Form, manufacturers a very similar product. You know, I have no idea whether they can be used in a exterior application? I would contact both companies and check with their tech departments. Boy, would that would open up many other ideas.

What about hanging an off-white or colored sheer piece of fabric panel hanging straight down from the top? That would not be outrageously expensive. No gathers, just a hemmed flat piece of fabric hanging from a rod, and then maybe another rod at the bottom for weight. Just an idea that may be worth a shot that won't break the bank! :)

In my opinion the best choice is Soft Roman Blinds. Because visibility is not an issue you can go with sheer fabrics and you really won't have to use lining. Furthermore Soft Roman Blinds do not require large amount of fabric and are easy to sew and less expensive than Roman Blinds. Another way to reduce costs is to choose the static option (it won't go up) and instead of expensive roman blind track you can use plain Velcro rail – it will be our secret.

Most likely this is a fire rated glass block window. Film would not adhere to the block anyway, but it could pose as a huge danger should there be a fire. Fire rated windows are required on houses that are built in a zero lot line. Because she said, looking at a brick wall, and it appears that the window is either on the second or third floor of the home, and no other windows on that side of the wall, leads me to believe its a fire rated window. Leave it, enjoy the window, enjoy the privacy, but mostly enjoy the light! Congrats on your new home!

love the glass blocks!

I think you're stuck with custom window treatments. A roman shade or valance would be appropriate as others have said. I would save up and buy them when you have the budget. It's better to do the right thing once in my opinion as a professional. Don't try to reinvent the wheel. Sometimes the wheel is expensive, but worth the money. Save up or honestly, I don't think you need to put anything there, just put a beautiful piece of artwork on the adjacent wall so it's not so empty. I think sometimes we try so hard - we over think things a bit.

You have multiple options here. You can choose to use drapery for privacy or to bring in a new color/pattern (sheers would be great to still diffuse light through the room). You can also use window treatment such as shutters (outside mount) or pretty much anything from the Hunter Douglas line.

As others have mentioned, I love the glass block. It not only looks good, but it's functional, too. Consider changing the mirror to an oval, otherwise, attractive bathroom.

What is missing here is a top treatment which would make the window appear taller than it is. To continue the geometry of the glass block a rectangular cornice board with straight edges covered in fabric or faux textured leather with the squares continued with nailheads on the face of the cornice. Bring it up just above the light fixture and down enough so you can't see the edge of the block where it starts. There are such glamorous faux leathers some with bling some with shine and some with reptile print.

I like the glass blocks and would not add a window treatment. I agree with one of the comments above that you need some circular elements. You have some Great wall space.....above the blocks, above the tub, and to the left in your photo. Look for wall decor with curves. Add some softscape and I bet the space will be killer.

I like the ideas of a window treatment. Lutron has a motorized cellular shade that is wireless which would give you remote control access to raise and lower the blind without having to get into the tub. It is battery operated and installs as easy as a mini blind. Batteries last average of 3 years. You only need about 3" of depth in the window for it to fit nicely inside. Retail price starts around $300-$500 for a standard size 3 x 5 window. Tons of fabric options available. A sheer fabric would still let a lot of the light in. Check out the link below for some nice application shots.

http://www.lutron.com/en-US/Products/Pages/ShadingSystems/SerenaShades/Applications.aspx

What about something similar to what this window has below?



( read the details about this on its page)

I'm a fan of glass blocks. I find them both beautiful and practical, and until someone comes up with a better solution for exactly your situation (letting in maximum light while restricting view), I don't see them going out of style.

I love glass blocks! But if they bug you, how about a framed piece of stained glass hanging in front of them?

I also like the glass block. I am afraid your cabinets are to much of a contrast. Paint the cabinets and mirror frames the trim color and add great cabinet pulls. I think you need a rug, some art work and accessories in a bright color, orange,salmon or ochre, and your bath will be beautiful!

How about a fret work screen? There's multiple styles and size holes available. My add some architectural interest to the room and should be an easy fit in front of the glass block.

How can I update my glass trimmed glass bocks? thinking of painting them an oil bronze to update the outdated gold.

I have the same situations with 2 glass block windows over the corner tub. Window treatments-bleh, nothing original there. How about painting the glass directly? It could produce a neat watercolor effect like a Monet.

-enidave I was thinking of the same thing!! I was thinking of painting the grout/caulk lines to mimic the steel loft windows. I've read that Urbane Bronze from SW is a good bronze/black-ish color to use. Latex paint or a sharpie, either way there is no going back once we do it!

Whenever we have used film on a glass blocks it has only been on the inside face of the block (not the raised edge around the perimeter).

^^enidave...what you have, or sounds like what you have is an IBP grid window. While it is a very good window if installed correctly, we often hear that homeowners want to do away with the gold tbars. and with South Texas Glass BLock, we can do that and leave the window intact. We remove the glass block, remove the aluminum tbars and install new block with our exclusive internal componets and you get the same look on both sides of the window, But we are located in the Houston area

I too like my glass block for the light and privacy. My problem is that I need to update and the exterior window has white in between the blocks and my shower wall has ugly gold metal in between! Can those be

easily changed out? Or painted? Is this a DIY or pro job?

I came across this post because I am looking to cover my glass block. I live in Phoenix, AZ and the glass block is in the master bathroom and is heating my entire room up. Its also affecting my electric bill. I had covered it with blinds and the blinds started to warp. I just do not know what to do. I wish Jesus would of gave me an inventor's mind so I could come up with a solution where I could block the heat from the outside with something easy and DIY.

Help! Hate this window I’m my dining room! I’ve had a few estimates to get rid of it and it’s very expensive. Need new window and would have outside brick work to fix. Any ideas how to make this better?

Im also lookkng for ideas to upgrade/provide more privacy in this glass block shower!!?

Kylie - if you wanted more privacy in this wall (before) it was installed there are higher privacy blocks (like the Iceberg pattern) or the blocks can be sandblasted. Since the blocks are already put in maybe you could look at using window film on the 'bathroom' side of the shower. The question though I would ask the window film supplier would be how well would this film stay adhered in a humid environment like a shower

While many consider glass block to be “dated“ ( a word I hate ), I still remember one of our wealthy relatives custom built home, a 1930’s ”moderne” that had an entire wall of glass block in the dining room., I thought it was beautiful.

I don't understand the hate on glass block. It can be really cool.

If you want more screening, maybe put up a couple of glass shelves in that window frame and put some pretty plants on them? Not ferns or other "sheddy" plants, but orchids or something similar that are tidy in habit.