Glass is the only material that creates surface area without visually diminishing the space. A glass table occupies space yet remains light. The trade-off is that every decision remains visible: tone, edge, and cleanliness.
Clear, Smoke, or Bronze
Clear glass almost disappears, revealing everything beneath it, including carpet patterns and cables. Smoke glass is tinted grey, calms the downward gaze, and appears significantly less technical. Bronze glass has a warm hue and complements brass and wood, whereas grey smoke glass pairs better with nickel and black. For display cabinets, the tone also determines how much the contents stand out: in clear glass, the collection is highlighted; in smoke glass, the furniture itself.
Safety Glass and Its Implications
Furniture glass is typically single-pane safety glass. It is thermally tempered, making it significantly more impact-resistant, and in case of breakage, it shatters into blunt crumbs rather than sharp shards. Two consequences follow: a tempered pane cannot be cut or drilled afterwards, and pinpoint impacts on the edge are more dangerous than broad surface pressure. Therefore, the edge is the most vulnerable part during transport.
Edges
The edge finish determines both appearance and safety. A polished edge is smooth and shiny, while a bevel is angled and appears classic, especially on mirrors. Raw or merely seamed edges are not suitable for visible furniture pieces. For display cabinet doors, it is also worth examining the hinges and stops, as these determine whether a door will close flush in two years.
Weight and Placement
Glass panes are heavier than they appear. A large-format pane should be carried by two people and always upright, never flat, as it would otherwise bend under its own weight. On the frame, the pane must rest evenly on all supports to avoid creating a point load. On uneven floors, glides should be placed under the frame before the pane is set down.
Streak-Free Cleaning
The most reliable method involves two steps: first, wipe with a slightly damp cloth, then follow with a dry, lint-free cloth. Use glass cleaner sparingly and never spray it directly onto the surface if wooden or metal frames are nearby, as alcohol can damage lacquer and display cabinet fittings. Limescale stains from hard water can be dissolved with diluted alcohol, but never use limescale remover near stone.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is single-pane safety glass?
Thermally tempered glass. It is more impact-resistant than regular glass and shatters into blunt crumbs if broken. It cannot be cut or drilled afterwards.
Smoke glass or clear glass?
Clear glass reveals everything beneath it and appears the lightest. Smoke glass calms the downward gaze and looks less technical. Bronze glass suits brass and wood, while grey smoke glass pairs with nickel and black.
How do you clean furniture glass without streaks?
In two steps: first wipe lightly with a damp cloth, then follow with a dry, lint-free cloth. Never spray cleaner broadly onto surfaces next to wooden or metal frames.
Consultation by an Authorized Dealer
Casa Luxury is the interior world of an established, authorized Eichholtz specialist dealer. We are listed in the brand's official dealer directory and provide advice on materials, finishes, and delivery times, both online and in our showroom in Essen. For questions about a specific item, please contact us at info@casa-luxury.de.
Glass by Eichholtz: Smoke Glass, Edges, and Safety: Models from the Collection
A selection from the categories discussed on this page. Each image leads to the product page.
Continue in the guide: Eichholtz Display Cabinets · Eichholtz Coffee Tables · Eichholtz Brass · Eichholtz Care