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The Many Uses of Rain Glass

Rain glass looks the way it sounds—as if streaks of rain are pouring down the pane. There’s a bit of a dreamy quality to it, yet the textured feel of rain glass is also the perfect complement to modern spaces that are grounded in earthy style. In today’s post, we explore the many ways you can use rain glass to enhance your home. Grab your umbrella, because the stylish design ideas below are sure to make a splash!

Decorative Flair

While rain glass has many practical uses, let’s begin with the decorative. Some people just love the way it looks, and they want to embrace the streaked style in all of its glory! Below we see a close-up view of rain glass, with the rivets on full display. Also note the privacy benefits of the glass, which we’ll discuss below. [from Shower Doors of Houston]

The textured quality of rain glass

Some incorporate rain glass to such an extent that they enjoy its presence all over the home, from the front door to the stairwell. A nice alternative to transparent glass, rain glass is also a welcome visual contrast to sleek modern interiors featuring smooth surfaces. [from Susan M. Davis/Spectrum Fine Homes via Houzz]

Rain glass stairwell

Concealing from the Outside

We now move from the decorative to the practical by highlighting one major use of rain glass: to provide a sense of privacy. On the outside looking in, it’s hard to get a clear picture of activity inside of the home. Which is exactly why many choose rain glass for the front door! [photo by Jason Hartog Photography, from David Small Designs]

Front door featuring rain glass

With privacy an issue in spaces such as the powder room, it’s no wonder so many choose rain glass for exterior bathroom windows. Never fear when you take a bath in the room below. Rain glass lets the light shine through, yet adds the perfect amount of concealment. [from PPDS Design & Interiors]

Rain glass windows create tub privacy

Concealing from the Inside

What about if you’re on the inside looking in? There are plenty of reasons to push for privacy inside of a home, such as transitions from one room to another. Rain glass is an ideal modern choice for double doors leading into a spa-style bathroom. [from Kitchen Studio: Kansas City]

Bathroom doors featuring rain glass

Below we see another powder room that makes use of rain glass, this time directly in front of a contemporary bathing area. [from Arnal Photography]

Modern bathrooom with a rain glass door

Powder Room Privacy

Notice how so many uses of rain glass involve the power room?! Let’s talk about ways to add privacy within the bathroom itself. Why choose a shower curtain that blocks all of the light when you can opt for rain glass? The texture provides plenty of privacy, yet the glass is sleek, modern and ideal for letting the light in. [from AKL Designer Kitchens via Houzz]

Rain glass creates shower privacy

Even a small pane of rain glass can allow for much-needed privacy in the toilet area of a large bathroom. It’s just the right amount of concealment, serving as a functional element that adds style without overpowering the room. [from Tervola Designs]

Rain glass provides privacy in a modern bathroom

Tidy Cabinets

Last but not least, we showcase the use of rain glass on cabinet and closet doors. A chic alternative to wooden doors, rain glass panels let you see into the cabinetry. Yet the rivets don’t provide a super-clear view, which means nobody will notice if your glassware isn’t in perfect rows! [from Genesis Kitchens & Design]

Rain glass on kitchen cabinetry

There’s something charming about glass doors, don’t you think?! But there’s nothing charming about clutter on display. Which is why rain glass is a popular choice. You get a sense of what’s inside the cabinet or pantry, yet you can’t see every speck of dust. It’s a win-win! [from Murphy & Co.]

Pantry doors with textured glass

If you’re not a fan of rain glass’ streaked appearance, there are plenty of other glassy alternatives, including frosted glass. Would you incorporate rain glass into your home? Share your thoughts by leaving a comment below…

Kate Simmons

Kate Simmons is a freelance writer and design blogger with a love of all things decor. She spent her childhood writing stories and working on interior design-themed DIY projects. Kate’s published writing reflects her special interest in how design has changed through the decades. Her blog Mirror80 ( http://mirror80.com/) explores the fashion and [...]

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