Elegance meets innovation during projects handled by the Gatsby Glass of Northwest Indianapolis team. "Our expertise in designing and installing various premium glass products aims to recast the look and functionality of our clients' spaces into welcoming retreats," says Steve McKinley, franchise owner. "We help transform properties with refined and elegant custom glass solutions."
McKinley says replacing shower doors and shower remodeling is a large base of their business. For homeowners, they also are creating privacy for home offices through glass applications. His team also works with custom homebuilders to place special touches within new houses.
In fact, McKinley says they specialize in providing frameless, walk-in shower doors and dual-sliding or pivoting doors for offices to partition spaces without sacrificing natural light or interior aesthetics.
He says he's often asked about the decision points between framed and frameless doors.
Frameless shower doors offer a clear view into showers, showcasing stunning tiles or brickwork, rain shower heads and other high-end fixtures. They're made of strong glass panes that don't need metal frame support. The absence of a visible frame creates a clean, modern appearance. Some advantages of frameless shower doors are the range of customizable designs, a sense of airiness in bathrooms, even in small ones, and easy maintenance related to cleaning because the lack of a frame reduces corrosion and the accumulation of soap scum in the crevices, which also collect mineral deposits. Chic, frameless designs use airtight and watertight seals to prevent leakage.
McKinley says some homeowners still prefer the framed shower door type due to its timeless charm, versatility and compatibility with most home or office designs. However, he adds that both shower door options are safe and stylish.
"Whether accentuating a residential area or revamping a commercial setting, we're dedicated to creating unique and striking environments using the finest glass products," he says.
McKinley relishes applying the pioneering aspects of using Gatsby's advanced glass technology. "Our team leverages cutting-edge technology to realize clients' visions with unmatched clarity. Our 3D digital renderings allow them to preview projects before installations, guaranteeing everyone's satisfaction," he assures.
Gatsby's virtual showroom uncovers endless possibilities and inspiration. The online visualizer can be located at GatsbyGlass.com/Visualizer.
In the commercial area, this Gatsby Glass team works with retailers to create or repair spaces. "Two of my favorite recent projects were helping a veterinary clinic inside a shopping mall to add glass doors that pivot, and placing a see-through training room for a hair salon to separate it for noise control," McKinley states.
For safety reasons, McKinley says they apply tempered glass at certain thicknesses: 1/4-, 3/8- or 1/2 inch for glass at certain heights. Tempered glass works by creating internal stress, locking the outer surfaces in compression and the core in tension, making it four to five times stronger than regular glass, according to industry sources. This treatment is achieved by heating glass and then rapidly cooling it (quenching) with air jets, which causes the outside to harden faster than the inside. If it breaks, the tension releases, causing it to shatter into small, blunt, pebble-like pieces instead of large, sharp shards, making it a safer material for windows, shower doors and car windows.
For mirrors, McKinley says they apply a safety backing.
"Glass custom projects are not the easiest. We have to be careful to properly design and precisely measure. We work seamlessly with remodelers and have good relationships with other home design consultants, such as tile installers," McKinley says.
For tile-driven projects, he explains that they may start with hardware options and considerations, such as selecting specific handles. Then hardware colors are typically finalized, followed by face-to-face discussions.
Regarding current trends, McKinley says clients recently are switching to polished nickel products. He adds that matte black is returning as a favorite choice, along with aureate tones. "Gold colors are coming back, often with brushed satin finishes."
Gatsby Glass also offers Ultra Ice Pro, a glass and shower door cleaner, through an exclusive, four-step application, backed by a limited lifetime warranty. The process first removes surface contaminants before applying a two-step sealant. The last step cleans the surface with an eco-friendly, water-based Ultra Gentle Wash cleanser to protect it from damaging contaminants.
"We're happy to provide complimentary consultations. Simple changes can have remarkable impact, often described as clean, polished and refined," he says.
After launching this business during August 2024, McKinley says one of their new goals is to support more Habitat for Humanity projects. Gatsby Glass is part of the Howie Family of brands, which collaborates with Habitat for Humanity by donating significant funds and supporting affordable housing efforts.
Gatsby hours of operation are Mondays through Fridays, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. This team covers projects in Carmel, Lebanon, Noblesville, Sheridan, Whitestown and Westfield.
"Our home or office glass services include shower and bathroom enclosures, railings, room enclosures, countertops, custom mirrors, glass partitions, walls and stair rails. Check out our visualizer tool to start."
Precision is paramount to Steve McKinley, franchise owner of Gatsby Glass NW Indianapolis, previously an auto/aerospace engineer for 30 years. As a Westfield resident, he appreciates having five grandchildren within 3-hours driving distance. He also enjoys delivering custom glass solutions!