How Glass Features Can Transform Your Garden This Summer

It’s shaping up to be a promising summer with plenty of opportunities to enjoy our gardens, patios or balconies. The recent fine spell of weather might have prompted you to consider how to upgrade your outdoor space ready for social gatherings, or simply so you can enjoy the summer to the fullest this year. 

Here’s a look at how glass installations can provide both functional and aesthetically pleasing garden features that will stand the test of time. 

Why use glass in the garden?

Glass might not seem to be an obvious choice for the garden, but it has many advantages. Of course, we are talking about structural glass that has been toughened or laminated, rather than the more fragile glass that is used for bottles and so on. 

This type of glass is very strong and designed to withstand hard impacts, and in the unlikely event that it does break, it will fall into rounded pebbles rather than dangerous sharp shards. It’s suitable for use as balustrades, canopies, or even pergolas. 

When used instead of opaque materials, glass offers unobstructed views of the garden landscape and surrounding scenery, and creates a sense of openness. This helps to create a more seamless connection between the inside and outside space, and can increase the amount of natural light in your home. 

Glass is also highly durable and low maintenance compared to many other traditional garden materials such as natural stone, timber and metalwork. When used in conjunction with these materials, the beauty of both is enhanced by the contrasting textures, opacity, colours and tones. 

The importance of the right hardware

As we have discussed, structural glass is very strong and safe, but of course it’s crucial to use the right supporting hardware. For example, if you opt for frameless glass balustrades, they should be properly supported with a deep U channel for glass. The channel system can be recessed into paving if you want to create an ultra-sleek and minimalist look. 

Glass canopies or awnings should be fixed with high-quality glass clamps or brackets. This will ensure that the structure is secure, durable, and safe. Look for finishes that complement the overall style and tone of the garden, such as brushed brass, stainless steel, or matt black.

Popular garden features for summer 2025

Glass balustrades around patios, decks, and poolsides

It might be necessary to have a barrier around elevated patios and decks for safety reasons, but even at a lower level, it can provide a zoned garden that can be used as a multi-functional space. Traditional fences or walls can interrupt the view and feel too enclosed, whereas glass provides a seamless effect. 

Glass windbreaks for outdoor kitchens

Outdoor kitchens are a growing trend, as homeowners invest in premium al fresco dining options that are more convenient, sophisticated and functional than a traditional barbecue grill. Naturally, you will want to make the most of this feature even if it’s a little breezy, as it so often seems to be these days. 

Glass windbreaks provide an ideal way to stay sheltered and prevent stray gusts from cooling the food, without compromising the view or amount of natural light, especially as evening falls. They also provide a distinction between your kitchen and the rest of the garden, without being too disruptive. 

Glass verandas

Glass verandas are becoming increasingly popular as a way to create a blend between an indoor and outdoor space. They are essentially pavilions or awnings with glass sides and a glass roof that can be fitted to the side of your house, or even installed as a stand alone structure. 

They create a versatile space that can be used for dining, entertaining, or simply relaxing with a glass of something cold in the evenings.