Despite increased demand, glass in the kitchen is relatively new to many customers, presenting challenges for glass suppliers and glass shops. The additional cost and time required for some glass products is a surprise to many customers, Jayson says. "Homeowners are very interested in customization, but there is relatively little education on the significantly higher costs and increased lead times associated with custom shapes and colors," he says.
The complexity of the full design process can also be a hurdle, particularly for glass shops that are working with homeowners directly. "We find that some customers like the look of [a particular design] but can't visualize the process," Chandler says. The variety of options can be daunting, as homeowners decide among options such as mirror, clear glass, low-iron glass, patterned glass, and laminated glass with fabrics and colors.
"Each decision is a crucial part of the design, and the selection process is also the most difficult," Chandler explains. "The possibilities are so vast that the selection process really needs to be controlled. I have found over the years, to make a great selection process, I control the conversation. I visualize what they want with a few selections and let them know with confidence this is going to look great."
According to industry representatives, one of the biggest challenges to bringing glass into the kitchen is the misconception that glass is easily breakable and unsafe, and susceptible to scratches and stains. "We don't mind 60-floor glass skyscrapers but we mind glass counters?" asks Núria Galbe, marketing manager for Sevasa.
There is a "preconceived notion that all glass is fragile and delicate, and can easily break. But this isn't the case," Elder says.
"Our biggest challenge is to educate people about glass and how durable it is in the kitchen, bathroom and even public places like bars and airports," Desjardins says.
