From the May issue: For years, glass curtain façades have been de rigueur for hot new condos. While they have not faded from view, more affordable and traditional-looking glass bricks are coming back in fashion. Architects are including clear bricks in new condominiums where traditional masonry is desired, or required, making thinner glass unsuitable — as well as using them on projects for which providing security and natural light are priorities. Glass bricks or blocks cost considerably less than tempered sheet glass and vandal-proof specialty glass windows. In some cases, glass brick can be installed without professional glass specialists. Architect Adam Meshberg sees glass block turning up on newer condominiums in Williamsburg. [more]