The Vitrolite Glass Story

Vitrolite Glass

Vitrolite glass was widely used as a decorative material in architecture, particularly in the United States, from the 1920s to the 1950s. Vitrolite glass is characterized by its smooth, glossy surface and vibrant, solid colors.

The glass is made by fusing pigments with an opaque base glass during the manufacturing process. This results in a durable and dense material with consistent color throughout its thickness. Vitrolite glass panels were typically cast in large sheets and then cut to size for various applications.

One of the main advantages of Vitrolite glass was its versatility. It could be used for both exterior and interior applications, such as wall cladding, storefronts, interior partitions, and decorative elements. It was favored by architects and designers for its lustrous appearance and ability to create a sleek, modern aesthetic.

Vitrolite glass came in a wide range of colors, including bold hues like red, blue, green, and yellow, as well as more muted tones like gray and black. The glass panels were often installed using a metal frame system, which allowed for easy replacement if a panel was damaged.

According to Beach Combing Magazine, “The last two U.S. companies to make vitrolite were Libbey-Owens-Ford (formerly The Vitrolite Company—until the merger in 1935) and Pittsburgh Plate Glass, who both stopped production in the 1950s. Pilkington Brothers in the UK ceased production of vitrolite in the late 1960s. Only one German company was left to produce this once sought-after material until the end of the 20th century.

While Vitrolite glass was highly popular during its heyday, its use declined in the 1960s with the advent of other materials like aluminum and plastics. Today, surviving examples of Vitrolite glass can be found in vintage buildings, and it is sought after by collectors and enthusiasts interested in mid-century architecture and design.

Vitrolite bathroom below is in this Craftsman home.

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