At Your Service: The Glass Ceiling
09/01/2008
Classical design is a source of inspiration for William Fussner, founder and owner of Solarium Design Group, a company that conceptualizes and builds custom stained-glass domes. With more than 30 years’ experience, as well as a myriad of projects under his company’s belt, Fussner sees no end to the endeavor.Collaborating with both architects and designers, Solarium prides itself on working closely with clients. "We’ve done all kinds of specific requests—from the family monogram in the center panel to different types of etchings that portray the four seasons," says Fussner. While most of their domes are made with clear glass, so as not to inhibit changing paint or furniture schemes, Solarium has also crafted color domes, including one for the Falls View Casino in Niagara Falls and another for a Staten Island residence.
An Ohio native, Fussner is self-taught. He now works with a team of seven in Ontario, Canada, but still oversees all projects. In addition to round, rectangular, and oval domes, Solarium creates custom stained-glass windows and flat lenses: planes of safe leaded glass and aluminum framing that act as a ceiling panel or skylight.
"Domes are often the main feature of the house," says Fussner. And generally, "Each design is one of a kind."
Solarium Design Group, 416.535.1419, www.solariumglassdomes.com