Nothing adds power, light and color to your architectural vision like stained glass. The endless array of colors, textures and images made possible through this medium can dramatically affect the way people interact with your building or home.

Interview
The process begins with an initial interview between the client and the studio. In this interview, general information is discussed regarding the scope of the job (i.e. location, content, style, budget, framing, etc.). This is considered a brainstorming session in which all the ideas and expectations are laid out on the table. It is important at this stage to determine the design style, subject matter and an appropriate budget for the project. Different styles, such as Gothic Revival or American Opalescent, require different complexities, which directly affect the budget. The budget in turn can help determine which design approaches are possible.

Design
The design phase begins after the initial meeting between the client and the studio. Several small pencil sketches are presented to the client based on the initial conversation. The design phase generally takes place over the course of two to three contacts. It is common for revisions to be made in the interim or for certain elements of each sketch to them be compiled into one final design. When appropriate, a 1":1' scale watercolor sketch is then presented for final approval of the design.

Fabrication
After the approval of the watercolor sketch, a full size drawing is created. This is a black and white pencil or charcoal drawing called the Cartoon. The Cartoon defines the lead lines and painted details. Working drawings and patterns are made from the Cartoon and these are used for glass cutting, painting and assembly of the window. This marks the beginning of the fabrication phase and any design changes made to the working drawings would be considered a change order and additional design time required. The window is then fabricated and installed by the artisans of Maher Stained Glass or it is shipped to your location.

Costs
There is a $1000 minimum cost for a custom designed stained glass window. The range of costs varies greatly depending on the size and complexity of your window. Please visit our Price Guide to view the approximate square footage costs for the various styles of windows we create.

If you are interested in commissioning a window or finding out more about the commission process, please contact us and we would be happy to discuss your project with you. Visit our gallery page to view images of the custom designs we have created in the past.

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500 Medford Street, Somerville MA, 02145
617.623.8600 (phone) 617.623.8602 (fax)
info@dmstainedglass.com

All images are Copyright ©2005 Daniel Maher Stained Glass and may not be reproduced without permission.