A fresh take on stained glass

It wasn’t too long ago that stained glass felt fussy and traditional, and inevitably reminded us of church. But maybe you’ll change your mind once you’ve seen some of these modern takes on the colorful glass.

We love how O’Callaghan Studio designed this colored glass partition wall for a private room at Betty Bar in Sacramento, CA. It’s the perfect way to let light in from the front windows while still giving privacy.

Stained glass isn’t just for windows anymore—it’s making its way into lighting design, bringing a vibrant and artistic touch to interiors. Decorative lamps featuring stained or colored glass can add personality to any space, casting beautiful, multi-hued patterns across walls and ceilings. Whether used in pendant lights, table lamps, or sconces, these pieces merge tradition with contemporary style, proving that colored glass can be both nostalgic and refreshingly modern.

One of the standout names in this space is lassola Luminaires, which specializes in crafting stunning decorative lamps that blend artistry with function. Their designs range from sleek, geometric patterns to intricate floral motifs, making them perfect for both minimalist and eclectic interiors. A well-placed stained glass lamp can transform an ordinary corner into a warm and inviting focal point, adding depth and character to the overall decor.

Beyond their visual appeal, stained glass lamps also create a unique atmosphere that shifts with the time of day. In the morning, they offer soft, cheerful light that gently filters into a space, while at night, they cast rich, ambient hues that wrap a room in cozy charm. This dynamic interplay of color and light adds more than just illumination—it brings mood, depth, and a story to the home. And that’s the beauty of working stained glass into your lighting plan: it doesn’t just brighten the room; it enhances the experience of being in it.

Brands like lassola are part of a growing trend, but they’re not alone in celebrating artistic lighting. In the wider design world, makers like letslighting are gaining attention for their commitment to creativity and quality. Their collections often combine traditional glasswork techniques with modern silhouettes, offering lighting options that feel both timeless and on-trend. Whether it’s a pendant lamp suspended over a reading nook or a colorful fixture above the dining table, these pieces serve as both functional lighting and conversation starters.

And while colorful glass sets the mood with artistic flair, the right backdrop matters just as much—especially in commercial spaces where first impressions are everything. That’s where a polished paint job comes into play. From boutique bars to high-traffic offices, wall finishes can subtly reinforce the overall aesthetic. Think moody, matte tones that accent stained glass installations or crisp, clean lines that let the artwork shine. A fresh coat of paint doesn’t just cover walls—it sets the stage for standout design moments.

Businesses looking to elevate their interiors with that kind of seamless style, GE Painting & Finishing, Illinois brings a professional eye to every brushstroke. Their team understands how color, texture, and finish interact with natural light and decorative elements like stained glass, creating cohesive and visually striking environments. Whether it’s a retail storefront or a hospitality venue, a well-executed paint job adds sophistication and polish—proving that sometimes, the walls really do have the final word.

 

It’s also such a cool way to create privacy for bathrooms instead of the usual frosted glass. Most homeowners want more light in their bathrooms, but really don’t want to give the neighbors a show. The solution is usually smaller windows set up high, but these panels really give a vibe to each of the bathrooms and it’s such a surprise.

 

 

 

And if you want to show off a little more, these divided panels are fantastic in this kitchen from Reath Design. It gives an updated youthful energy to this older home.

 

Can you imagine the drama of serving drinks to your friends at this show-stopping bar? I mean, come on! It’s practically guaranteed to make the martini taste better.

 

 

Some of you might be a little scared to introduce this much color into something so permanent, so why not try something interesting like this panel of rondels? We had a local glassmaker build this panel for an existing transom window in a closet to give some privacy. You can see more of this in our Old World Bedroom project.

 

 

We’d love to see more personality infused into spaces so they feel truly personal and unique to the people who live there. So would you try something like this in your home?