Architectural Glass Art

ARCHITECTURAL GLASS ART, INC. is a unique glass studio, focused on expanding the role of glass in architecture. Combining emerging technologies with sophisticated design, Architectural Glass Art, Inc. (A.G.A.) provides distinctive custom work as well as an innovative standard series of architectural glass.
Founded in 1875 in Louisville, Kentucky by G.B. Alberts, the studio earned a reputation for its original designs and high level of craftsmanship. In 1991, the company was purchased by its former president, Kenneth F. vonRoenn, Jr., an internationally recognized glass designer. vonRoenn, who was educated as an architect (M. Arch., Yale U), combined his extensive experience in glass with his education in architecture to focus the company’s direction on new and innovative ways for glass to serve the broader needs of architecture. He expanded the staff of highly skilled artisans and experienced managers to attain this vision.

As a designer, vonRoenn has been noted for his unique applications of new technologies and the harmonious integration of his work into architecture. From his own practice of architecture, vonRoenn understands the needs of architects and designers. From this awareness, he has organized the company to address these concerns with the objective of making the inclusion of glass in a project expedient and cost effective, while maintaining the highest level of design and craftsmanship.

With its tradition of sophisticated design, highest standards of craft, and its innovative application of emerging technologies, Architectural Glass Art, Inc. is a dynamic resource for the design community.

	Kenneth F. vonRoenn, Jr. - President & Lead Designer Kenneth Frederick vonRoenn, Jr. began his career in glass in 1970. In 1981 he earned his masters degree in Architecture from Yale University, then went on to work as an architect and glass designer. In 1991, vonRoenn bought Louisville Art Glass Studio and renamed it Architectural Glass Art, Inc., where he serves as head designer and president, managing a staff of thirty. He expanded the company redirecting its focus on new roles for glass in architecture. The studio has become recognized for its innovative application of new technologies. vonRoenn has executed hundreds of projects nationally and internationally, including the world’s largest glass sculpture, which crowns the top of Wachovia Bank in Charlotte, North Carolina, USA. His work has been published in numerous books and in every major design magazine. Download resume and support materials
	J. Page von Roenn - Vice President, Marketing von Wheeler Architectural Glass Art, formerly Louisville Art Glass, has been in von Wheeler’s family since 1896, making her the fifth generation to carry on the tradition. She has worked at the studio off and on from 1991 in everything from production to marketing and design. von Wheeler holds her Bachelors of Science degree in Computer Information Systems. An avid lover of the Macintosh, she keeps the company in the current century with its technology through such things as this web site and the interactive CD. von Wheeler couples her knowledge of technology with her aesthetic sensibility and previous art training. She currently serves as the Vice President of Architectural Glass Art and Glassworks, focusing on sales, marketing, and design.
	Norris Barriger - Vice President, Operations Norris Barriger has over 25 years of experience in the glass industry, starting with Penco, Inc., a small manufacturer of custom curtain wall, skylights, and window systems, where he was Director of Engineering. In 1992, Norris joined Architectural Glass Art as Vice President, where his methodical, analytical nature and attention to detail have been instrumental in refining the studio's "infrastructure" to meet the challenges of a burgeoning work load. Norris' skills and personality are the perfect complement to Kenneth's design expertise, vision, and enthusiasm. Additionally, his extensive background in the design and fabrication of commercial glazing systems has enabled the studio to engage in a greater variety of complex projects that require sophisticated engineering and project management.
	Don Carlos Thomas - Designer Don Carlos Thomas has been in the architectural glass business for over thirty years. He earned his degree in Fine Arts and teaching from Western Kentucky University then went on to work as a craftsman at Louisville Art Glass, which would later become Architectural Glass Art. After leaving Louisville Art Glass, Thomas worked for River City Glass and then started his own studio, which he ran for twenty years. He returned to Architectural Glass Art in 2002 as a staff designer and craftsman. Thomas has extensive experience in both design and fabrication, specializing in glass painting. He is one of the most talented and accomplished glass painters in the country today. He focuses primarily on ecclesiastical commissions and offers unique interpretations of age-old themes.
	Charles D. Hansen - Senior Project Manager Charles D. Hansen's sense of detail and inquisitive nature makes him a creative force at Architectural Glass Art. His education in Fine Art at the University of Louisville and University of Kentucky gives him a strong studio foundation from which to build. Hansen continues to grow as an artist through his ceramic and photographic pursuits. As a designer at Whittle Architectural Art and Form, he created fine art serigraphs and produced architectural renderings. Hansen joined A.G.A. in 1995, establishing the studio's first computer generated drawings. He has developed several of the techniques and tools used in production to cast and slump glass. Hansen continues to educate himself and his staff of designers in the newest glass technologies. His supportive leadership and quest for innovative products and techniques helps design staff continue to excel.
	Trip Barriger - Project Development Trip Barriger has worked at Architectural Glass Art off and on since he was in High School. His first position with the company was as a craftsperson, where he quickly learned a variety of techniques. He has since worked as a Project Manager, where he has managed a multitude of large and complex projects. Currently, Trip works with clients on potential projects, where he provides pricing, creates 3 dimensional renderings, and answers technical and design questions.
	photos by Vivian Knox Thompson