2021 ᐈ

Glass has always been a material that intrigues the imagination. From skyscrapers to buildings that are always at the top of the most futuristic architectural creations, such as the Brasilia Cathedral or the National Arts Center in Beijing, glass has been perceived as the main material of modern design in recent decades.

A very important benefit of glass is its ability to enhance natural light, creating a bright and positive design.

This feature made glass not only used for external architectural elements, but it quickly entered interior design as a material for furniture, usually in combination with other materials, but thanks to new technologies and as a unique material.

Glass is a modern and vibrant material, very suitable for small spaces, which it transforms into bright, airy and modern spaces.

Even in a not very modern home you can use glass furniture or decorations. The material is extremely versatile and can be used on walls, showers, stair railings, from a coffee table to a glass dining table, as lamps, trays and vases.

Peculiarities

The photo printed table is different from ordinary kitchen dining tables. Today it is an independent structural element of arrangement, distinguished by strength and aesthetic characteristics. It attracts the attention of those entering and looks expressive and impressive in the interior.

If you match it with chairs of the same style, this accent will become the highlight of any kitchen design. He is able to make any space special, regardless of its size.

The design is applied to the surface of the tabletop using special equipment that resembles a printer. During the printing process, manufacturers use inks that harden upon contact with ultraviolet light. This way the print turns out to be durable and durable, and it is applied on surfaces made of different materials.

The manufacturing technology allows for printing on MDF, chipboard, wood, ceramic tiles, plastic and mirror. Using approximately the same technology, the print is applied to fabric and glass. It is glass products that are in great demand among buyers today - glass has the ability to visually ennoble a space and give it a feeling of lightness.

Using another technology, the print is applied to a film glued to the back of the tabletop.

Also, the manufacturing method may involve applying a pattern between two glass sheets. In this case, the sheets are glued together, which increases the strength of the tabletop and its durability.

In some cases, after applying the print, it is laminated.

Materials

If we consider the ideal option in terms of picture quality, then this is glass. It is on this surface that photo printing lasts better and longer. If someone thinks that a glass table is not worthy of attention, then this opinion is wrong.

Glass countertops today are made of impact-resistant glass, the thickness of which varies and depends on the specific design.

In this case, the design is applied on the underside of the glass sheet, which is why it is not erased during use.

Plastic doesn't even come close to glass as it doesn't last long, although it does have a clear acrylic composite printed on the back. This table is prone to scratches, which quickly become filled with dirt.

Metal is used in design as the base of the table; its configuration can be very diverse. These are steel supports and fastenings, metal tubes with low weight.

Wooden tables often have a glass top with photo printing on top. In this case, the wood itself is varnished or painted.

MDF and chipboard are cheap materials with a short service life. Even at first apparent beauty, such tables are inferior to their glass or wood counterparts. They need to be treated with care, they are afraid of moisture, temperature changes and break under significant mechanical stress.

Usually they last no more than 5 years, and during this time the products have time to deteriorate considerably in appearance.

How to care for your table surface

Don't believe those who claim that glass countertops are easy to care for. To keep the product sparkling clean, it should be cleaned daily with special products. Of course, you can give up on this and just cover everything with a tablecloth. Well, why then spend a lot of money on glass? Daily cleaning procedure:

mechanical cleaning from crumbs and dust;
wiping the surface with wet glass wipes;
Apply glass cleaner and polish with a dry cloth.

To make the care procedure less burdensome, you can place a napkin under the appliance while you eat.

Important! Nothing can scratch the surface!

Glass tables are used strictly for their intended purpose, in this case the chance of spoiling the beauty is minimized.

Shape and dimensions

Depending on the type of design, kitchen tables with photo printing can be very different. Their shapes are round, oval, square and rectangular. Common options are products in the shape of a rectangle measuring 80x120 cm.

In general, the products can be designed for a number of people from 4 to 6 and fit perfectly into most rooms, regardless of their size and style.

Square-shaped analogues are presented in stores in two varieties: for 4 and 8 people. The sizes of these models are 80x80, 120x120 and 160x160 cm. Round tables with photo printing look more elegant in the kitchen interior than corner options and can vary in diameter from 80 to 160 cm. Oval modifications have greater capacity, they can be narrow and wide.

Is a glass table practical?

Glass, as a material, does not absorb liquid at all, which is why traces of dirt are immediately visible on it. On the other hand, dirt does not penetrate inside and is easily removed with detergents.

The tablecloth will slide off the glass surface; it is better to use special anti-slip napkins.
When using glass furniture, you must be wary of chips along the edges; they are dangerous for both adults and children.
To protect the countertop from dirt and scratches while eating, it is recommended to use a silicone protective coating.

What should the serving be like?

Why are we raising this question? The glass surface creates a special aura of peace. Several types of table settings are used for such furniture. For lovers of eco-styles, I recommend using fresh flowers and plants (ivy branches, small bouquets of flowers and leaves) in the summer.

This surface creates a special aura of peace

Minimalist and Japanese styles include bamboo or mat coasters. This option protects well from scratches and prevents dishes from sliding on the surface. Choose vases, tableware, and vessels for spices of a laconic form.

Classic interiors are complemented with exquisite candlesticks, napkin stands, and silver cutlery:

knives;
forks;
spoons;
salt shakers;
pepper shakers.

Plates and salad bowls figuratively float in the air and create an atmosphere of fabulous grandeur.

Tip Take advantage of the transparent surface feature. You can do without a tablecloth. The serving will be elegant. You need to choose dishes and cutlery that match the color of the interior style. They complement, and the tabletop becomes a sophisticated canvas for setting the mood.

It is not necessary to use a tablecloth

Advice For lovers of healthy eating and diets, glass with a greenish tint is a suitable option. This color calms and reduces appetite.

Shapes and sizes of glass tables

If the design or color of furniture depends solely on a person’s personal preferences, then when choosing the shape of the tabletop it is worth taking into account the area of the dining area in the apartment or house.

Oval

As a rule, oval dining tables are placed in dining rooms or kitchens. Tables of this shape look good in long, spacious rooms. The photo below shows options for placing an oval table in the kitchen of an apartment and a country house.

Round

Smooth lines in the interior are associated with a warm family atmosphere or friendly gatherings. Tables with a round top are ideal for square spaces. Compared to a square table, a round one can accommodate more people.

Rounded corners make the furniture safe for children.

Square

The square shape is suitable for small kitchens with symmetrical accents in the interior. At a square table, a person sitting has more personal space than at a round one.

Rectangular

Glass rectangular tables can zone rooms, separating the kitchen from the living room. Thanks to the visual lightness of glass, such zoning looks original and unobtrusive. If the table is not set daily for a large company, then one of its ends can be decorated with flowers or decor.

In narrow dining rooms, a rectangular glass table will fit neatly against a window or wall without cluttering up the space; this option is shown in the photo on the left. The photo on the right shows a fusion-style interior, a piece of glass is used as a protective cover over a carved wooden surface.

Angular

Corner tables are good when, if there is a shortage of space, you need to allocate space for working in the kitchen. Also, corner models are convenient when combined with kitchen corners, as in the photo below. A stylish corner table made of glass will decorate the room in a modern style, while maintaining the feeling of open space.

Triangular

If two or three people are dining in the kitchen at the same time, then you can use a triangular table. It is desirable that the sharp edges of the triangular tabletop be smoothed.

Semicircular

If you want to leave more free space in the center of the kitchen, then you should consider a tabletop in the form of a semicircle or semi-oval. This product configuration is suitable for a small room area.

Unusual shape

For those who love experimenting in the interior, designers offer furniture of unusual shapes, but at the same time comfortable and safe. CNC machines can cut glass parts of any shape.

Designer furniture is often made in a single copy and has a certificate of uniqueness.

Little ones

Compact tables will become a cute interior accessory that will complete the kitchen furnishings. Despite their small size, they can be original in design and execution.

A small table in the kitchen can serve as the main place for food or be a stand for dessert, fruit, or sliced bread.

Large

The large size of the tabletop will not be so obvious if it is made of transparent material. Despite their apparent fragility, glass tables are very reliable in use. It is also worth thinking about setting a large table, choosing stylish dishes, vases, and candles.

Glass type

A little more about the glass that is used to make tables. The thickness of the glass depends on its type. Hardwood is taken from 6 mm thick, triplex - from 8 mm. In appearance it can be:

transparent;
matte;
patterned;

Black glass - stylish, but very troublesome to maintain
plain color;
with a pattern applied using photo printing;
The design was made using sandblasting.

If we talk about practicality, then the easiest to maintain is a glass kitchen table with photo printing. The marks are not so noticeable in the picture. But such furniture does not fit into all styles. It is not too difficult to care for matte or sandblasted designs. Their “roughness” makes dust and fingerprints less noticeable. Plain and transparent countertops are the most demanding to maintain. But there are special products that, after treatment, do not leave fingerprints and dust does not accumulate on surfaces.

Colors of glass tables in the kitchen interior

For furniture, not only transparent, but also tinted, frosted and colored glass is used.

White

The main advantages of white in the interior are its versatility and impeccable compatibility with other colors. White furniture looks fresh and sophisticated. A white glass table can be decorated to suit any style. In a modern-style kitchen, bright dishes and vases will contrast effectively with the white surface.

A tabletop decorated with candles and transparent dishes will be a wonderful addition to a classic interior.

Black

The black glass surface has a deep mirror-like gloss. This texture is ideal for a luxurious kitchen interior in the Art Deco style or black and white classics.

Beige

The color has many shades from almost white to caramel. Beige is chosen by those who prefer a calm, relaxing environment at home. Neutral beige color is also suitable for tables that emphasize the original shape.

Transparent

Transparent glass tables are the most “invisible” option for kitchen furniture. Glass tables for the kitchen are often complemented by a set of transparent chairs. We must remember that the glass surface will look beautiful only with constant care and respect.

The photo below shows options for transparent furniture that seem to blend into the surrounding environment.

Red

Psychologists say that temperamental people prefer red in the interior. The bright color of the table is emphasized by white walls and accessories. To make red less dominant in the kitchen, you can use it only for table legs.

Orange

Color fills a room with warmth and energy; it is one of the most vital colors in design. It is recommended to place an orange glass table in the kitchen, as this color evokes appetite. In a small kitchen, you should not complement the orange table with a kitchen set of the same color, because too many bright colors can be annoying. The combination of orange and light green colors looks colorful.

Brown

The calm brown color is liked not only by supporters of conservatism in design. Brown tone is often found in lofts and in American classics. The glossy surface of the glass makes shades of brown more rich.

For the kitchen, you can choose coffee or chocolate brown options.

Stylish napkins

Glass, even high-quality glass, needs protection from scratches and chips. Wipes help neutralize the minor disadvantages of glass surfaces:

Wipes protect the surface

Softens the coldness of glass surfaces.
Helps keep surfaces clean and minimizes cleanup.
Avoid the squeaking and grinding noises that utensils make when moving across the table.
Napkins help to decorate the table setting: everyday or festive.
They visually hide the legs of those sitting, which ensures comfort.

Natural materials are trending this year:

linen;
cotton;
natural silk;
sackcloth.

An interesting effect is achieved by adding burlap napkins to a table top made of tempered glass in a greenish tint. They are decorated:

embroidery;
stitching;
lace;
hemstitch;
bows;
ribbons.

It is necessary to have several sets for different occasions: daily lunches, tea parties, meetings with friends, special occasions. However, there are limitations.

Tip: Choose the material and pattern of napkins in accordance with the basic style of the room. Otherwise, homespun napkins will become unnatural in grand neoclassical styles. Thin silk with lace looks wild in Japanese style.

Natural materials are trending

Let's talk about the sizes of napkins. There are no strict rules in this regard. Everything that comes to your heart:

round;
square;
oval;
in the form of a rhombus.

Rectangular, elongated, look good for serving for two. This technique unites two people and creates an emotional path from heart to heart.

Pros and cons of glass countertops

Kitchen countertops are made of tempered glass with a thickness of at least 8 mm. For household safety purposes, the edges of parts are ground using edge-processing equipment.

As an alternative to tempered glass, extruded plexiglass can be used, but it is less heat-resistant and is subject to abrasion.

Advantages

The glass tabletop is resistant to temperature changes. You can place hot dishes on it. Tempered glass is not afraid of accidental impacts; its fracture strength is 5 times higher than that of ordinary glass. When destroyed, it will break into small fragments without sharp edges.
The glass is scratch-resistant; if necessary, the gloss can be restored using polishing paste.
Glass furniture can be easily cleaned with household chemicals, with the exception of abrasive powders.
Glass furniture visually increases the space.

Flaws

There are traces of fingers and water on the glass.
If the light source is located above the tabletop, the reflection will be unpleasant to the eyes.
Glass reflects rather than absorbs sound. Glass dining tables will make more noise when in contact with dishes compared to regular ones.
The corners of rectangular or square glass tables are sharper than the corners of wooden furniture.
The glass does not heat up to room temperature, so there is a feeling of cold when in contact with the furniture.

Environmental friendliness

In terms of ecology, glass tables are impeccable. They do not absorb moisture and other foreign substances and wash well.

This feature of the products, as well as the airy and elegant appearance, covers the few shortcomings mentioned above.

Before you go shopping, it’s better to look at a photo of a glass table on the Internet and decide on the model that will fit best into your home and will fully meet your requirements in terms of functionality.

Photo printing method

How are such things created, and how complex is the process?

Manufacturing technology

The selected design is applied to the kitchen countertop using a special printer.
A modern kitchen glass table with photo printing takes on its final appearance after the image is applied to it using ultraviolet radiation.
After application, the special ink dries under the influence of ultraviolet rays.
The quality of the finished drawing directly depends on the printer model and its settings.
The technology is similar to drawing a picture on paper. The only difference is that the printing is done on glass.

The method has been so refined over time, and the process has been fine-tuned, that it allows you to achieve the most incredible results. For example, you can even put your favorite photo on the table area.

It would not be amiss to note that, at the request of the customer, craftsmen can make an imitation of wood, stone and any other surfaces on the kitchen countertop. Not only a beautiful picture can be contemplated while enjoying a meal.

Moreover, the form of a dining miracle can be completely different. Both classic - round or rectangular, and creatively bold in design. The trend to create unusual and stylish things is rapidly gaining momentum at the moment.

It is worth noting one more important point.

Drawings are usually applied to the glass surface in two ways.

The first is that a very thin film is glued to a table, door or window. It turns out a kind of stained glass window that holds tightly and reliably for a very long time.
The second method is to spray a thin layer of paint intended for this purpose onto a smooth surface. Of course, without special equipment it is almost impossible to create such beauty with your own hands. Many lovers of beautiful things often paint furniture by hand themselves.

This will, in part, be similar to photographic printing, and the final result depends on the skill of the painter. But the technology is still radically different, and well-established production is still in the lead.

Photo collage

Select the best family photos, place them on the table and cover them with transparent glass. Such a photo collage will remind you of pleasant events in your life during a meal or tea party.

If you wish, you can change the selection of photos and add new interesting pictures. Pay attention to the glass - its edges must be sanded to avoid cuts.

Photo: ars.ru

Photo: kalbenimkalbimde.blogspot.com

Design options and patterns on glass tables

Digital photo printing is the most progressive way of applying an image to a glass tabletop. In specialized workshops, a customized design will be printed. To easily find high-quality graphics or photos, you should use photo banking sites on the Internet.

Tables with photo printing

The most popular prints for the kitchen are orchids, marine themes, juicy berries and fruits. Geometric patterns are suitable for Scandinavian, country, and midcentury design. To ensure that glass furniture harmonizes with the eco-style, images with green leaves, grass, and wildflowers are selected for printing.

With frosted glass

Glass, devoid of gloss, captivates with its sophisticated appearance. There are different shades of frosted glass: milky, vanilla, ivory, with a blue or blue tint. In the kitchen, frosted glass may be more practical than clear glass because it does not show streaks or dried water stains as much.

Combined with other materials

Glass combines well with many materials. The shine of glass emphasizes the warmth of wood and harmonizes with cold metal or the gloss of stone. With the development of technology, artificial and natural leather began to be used more often in furniture production. Leather inserts add status chic to the product.

For visual lightness, the tabletop is made of glass, and the legs or base are made of another material.

With shelves and drawers

The design of glass kitchen tables often involves a shelf; it can be made of glass or another material. You can put a beautiful bouquet, decorative ornaments on the shelf, or use it for serving during meals. Some table models have a drawer for cutlery or kitchen utensils.

TV models for different styles

Modern TV models are relatively lightweight. Therefore, it is appropriate to install them on a glass table. It will not break and can withstand the weight of modern technology. Choose options with several tiers and closed drawers. It will not be difficult for you to place sound reinforcement equipment or other equipment necessary for watching films. Many options can withstand up to 60 kg:

Square.
With round edges.
Polygonal.
Rectangular.
Multi-tiered.
With several shelves.

Model for TV

Modern TVs are wall mounted. In this case, the table performs decorative functions.

Advice: Don't clutter your shelves. Magazines, boxes, vases, souvenirs, small figurines, a large number of photos visually steal the space, and the room takes on an unkempt appearance.

You can choose a product on wheels . This makes cleaning easier. The table can be easily moved and a new room interior design can be quickly created. It is acceptable to choose massive options for small rooms. Transparent surfaces dissolve in space.

Such furniture complements well the trendy slides and decorative hanging shelves this season, and harmonizes well with upholstered furniture. Sofas and armchairs can be chosen with any upholstery: leather, tapestry and other materials. Transparent or frosted glass does not “conflict” with different materials.

Modern TV models are relatively lightweight

If you want to emphasize the style direction, there is a little technological trick. Choose a tabletop that is decorated with a film that imitates the texture of wood.

How to choose?

Kitchen tables with photo printing need the right choice, so the buyer can take note of several useful recommendations:

The product must be in harmony with the overall background of the kitchen interior. It is important that the color of the drawing is related to one of the tones taken as the basis for the interior design.
There is no need to use tables with a print for kitchens that is inappropriate in a particular interior style. For example, you don’t need to take a table with flowers if the main style is modern or high-tech.
Before purchasing, be sure to determine the size of the table, this will allow you to choose the desired type of structure.
No need to overpay for product options. If you need a table for a small family, there is no need to purchase a model with a lot of sections.
The color of the product should be in harmony with the tone of the chairs. In addition, it is important to maintain the similarity of shape and design in general.
The height of the table should be comfortable, and therefore you can “try it on” in the store.
To decorate your kitchen, you need to choose an option with a picture that will lift your spirits or increase your appetite.
Three-dimensional images look impressive on the surface of tabletops.

The type of base for a dining table with photo printing can be different: metal, forged, marble and even made of wicker rattan. For modern design trends, it is worth taking a closer look at options with a metal base.

In country houses, a table with a rattan base looks good. These products are suitable for Provence and country styles.

The pattern of a specific model can be ordered in the same style as the print of the kitchen apron. These can be compositions in the center of the tabletop or a background image. Black and white graphics and geometric motifs are perfect for modern design trends. For eco-styles, a good image would be a photo print with a pattern of stone or wood.

When choosing a kitchen table model, you need to take into account the fittings of the existing furniture. For example, you need to pay attention to the similarity of the material of the legs, their linearity or curvature. It is important for some to buy a product with built-in lighting, which gives photo printing realism and depth.

Illumination from below can add uniqueness to the image in the form of candles, as well as city lights at night.

In general, you need to select an option that is not overloaded with the size and visual perception of the picture. Small photo prints or sketches along the edges of the tabletop often look better than huge lilies or orchids. If there is little space in the kitchen, you can buy a triangular model of a small table for it.

Leg ideas for glass kitchen tables

Glass table legs are made of wood, metal, stone. Sometimes they carry the main decorative load in the design of the product.
Wooden legs can be laconic or lavishly decorated with carvings.
A table on one leg can have a sculpture or a cubic stone composition at its base.
A few years ago, there was a fashion for forged products in the interior; iron legs with signs of aging decorate glass tables in steampunk or industrial style.
The most prestigious is furniture made entirely of glass from the tabletop to the supporting elements.

The photo below shows a dining group with forged elements; it is made as a replica of the furnishings of French bistros.

Photos of tables in various interior styles

For a kitchen in a high-tech or minimalist style, laconic-shaped furniture with a combination of glass and metal is suitable.
Adherence to the Art Nouveau style in furniture design is expressed in the predominance of curved, smooth lines. Tabletops in the shape of a drop, with bent or forged legs made of aged metal, are suitable for this style.
Tables made in a classic design have pronounced symmetry; the tabletops of classic furniture are made of the correct geometric shape.
Kitchen furniture with glass mosaic inserts will fit perfectly into an oriental interior.
Modern design style is characterized by the search for non-standard solutions for traditional pieces of furniture. Original designer kitchen furniture combined with ceramic

Drawing

Glass will be an excellent solution for qualitatively decorating your kitchen using a photographic image. For Provence, vintage, and shabby chic styles, you can choose floral appliqués, photographs of precious jewelry, and rustic motifs.

The entire composition will be decorated with a wooden base and sophisticated forged legs.

Wicker elements will be appropriate in a country style, even if you choose a glass table. In this case, the pattern will stand out with its aging effect and lace details. You can choose an image of pets (kittens, horses, dogs), rural themes, rainbow landscapes.

For classics, limit yourself to laconic, discreet photographs, portraits of celebrities, and newspaper prints.

You can approach the design of a glass dining table creatively if you place the emphasis in the interior on the design of the product. Photo printing can be made as a world map, botanical style with names and images of plants.

A photo print in the form of an economic game, a field with poker chips, a chessboard, or a “Field of Miracles” will not be boring to look at.

You can also resort to a plain surface, painting the glass in one of the trendy shades of our time: lime, emerald, vanilla, champagne, marsala, burgundy, Rose Quartz or Serenity. It would be appropriate to make the table texture look like gloss, wood, or velvet. You can play not only with palettes, but also with fashionable patterns, such as paisley, ethnic, pop art.

It will be interesting to see deep tones in light kitchens, and neutral tones (ivory, sand, beige, white, gray, etc.) in dark kitchens.

For modern loft, high-tech and fusion interiors, prepare models of tables with chrome legs. In combination with glass and a successful photo print, they will delight their household from morning to evening. In the kitchen you can easily make a “reference” to your favorite era.

Despite the classic interior, it would be useful to have a design with photo prints of famous people: historical figures, politicians, Hollywood stars of the 40s, posters of luxurious and sexy girls in pin-up style.

You can even create a real work of art on glass by “inserting” a photo from your personal archive here, decorate a bright family tree, time the purchase of a piece of furniture to coincide with the birth of your first child, or the purchase of a cat or dog.

Any ritual or Feng Shui symbols, patterns from fashion magazines, or anonymous slogans can be applied to the surface of the tempered glass model.

At the very beginning of the day, create excellent motivation for yourself by fixing a catchphrase, favorite quatrain, quote and any other inscription before your eyes. If your table is made of bamboo, it's time to include notes of the East in your interior design

. You can apply any Japanese designs to the surface of the glass: dragons, tigers, sakura sprigs, etc.

You can play with golden shades in the Art Deco style. A shiny glass table doesn't have to be all shiny and sparkly. A miniature gilded edging around the circumference or perimeter is enough. It is best to apply geometric elements in the color of gold, chrome or bronze.

Ornate geometric patterns are very much appreciated. For a young family, you can use wedding photographs as table decor. The tone should be consistent with the main colors of the kitchen. It will be nice if the design matches the image on the kitchen apron, on the floor or on a separate wall.

This can be a floral or animal composition. City panoramas, photographs of industrial, fusion, etc. are highly valued in the loft.

You can repeat the print both on the table and on the wooden facades of the kitchen. Themes of fashion, space, childhood, landscape lyrics and various inscriptions remain in the ranking of the most popular. They fit almost any direction of modern apartment design. The glass dining table should become an accent thanks to high-quality photo printing.

What exactly will you choose? A delicious macro shot of chocolates, cake pops, lollipops, a monochrome abstract image or a photograph of one of the world's landmarks?

Flaws:

The transparency of the glass is an advantage in terms of the overall atmosphere, but makes you very careful about the cleanliness of the floor. Guests can see very well what the carpet looks like under the table, so choose high-quality material and do not forget to clean it before guests arrive.
Like any glass object, this table is fragile. Of course, not as fragile as a decanter or vase, because we are talking about treated glass that can withstand high temperatures and is more resistant than regular glass, but there is a risk. In families with small children, glass dining tables should be avoided, as should glass coffee tables.