94 Transparency
The quality and quantity of light that passes through an object.
The spectrum between transparency and opacity offers a range of opportunities for the designer. Based on their role and function in an interior, transparent elements do not have to provide visual access or operability, but they still have functional purposes. Interior windows, partitions, and mirrors can offer strategic views into other spaces, obscure vision at key moments for privacy when needed (while still allowing access to light and views), and enlarge a room through reflection. Translucent surfaces can also have the illusion of depth, either through surface effects, or by backlighting or back painting.
Translucency The transmission and diffusion of light so that objects beyond cannot be clearly seen.
Opacity The quality, light transmission, or state of an object that makes it impervious to light.
| Types of Transparent Surfaces/Materials | |
| Hard Surfaces | Glass, Acrylic, Plastic, Fiberglass |
| Soft Surfaces | Scrims, Screens, Textiles |
A glass screen by Ronan and Erwan Bouroullec for Skyline Design provides visual privacy in this meeting area.
In the HE Art Museum in Guangdong, China, by Tadao Ando, an architectural screen is designed to divide space while maintaining visual access.
A translucent screen divides this office space while still allowing light to pass through.