Rahmenlos

Rahmenlos, a German term meaning "without a frame," is used as a design descriptor to indicate that an element lacks a surrounding border or visible framework. It conveys an edge-to-edge aesthetic and is applied across several domains where a minimal, unobtrusive appearance is desired. The term is common in consumer products and architecture.

In eyewear, rah­menlose Brillen (rimless glasses) use lenses connected with minimal hardware instead of a full frame. Lenses are mounted at the bridge and to the temples with small screws or mounts, leaving most of the lens surface exposed. They are lightweight and unobtrusive but require careful handling and precise maintenance due to reduced structural support.

In displays and screens, rah­menlos describes ultra-thin bezels or edge-to-edge panels. Bezel-free designs are marketed for smartphones, tablets, televisions, and computer monitors to maximize the visible area. Achieving frameless aesthetics involves tight manufacturing tolerances, advanced sealing, and sometimes higher cost, as well as considerations about touch sensing and image alignment.

In architecture and interior design, frameless glass elements such as doors, shower enclosures, and storefronts use minimal framing and rely on silicone jointing or clamp systems. This yields a clean, modern look but demands precise fabrication, safety glass (tempered or laminated), and meticulous installation to ensure durability, weather sealing, and load-bearing performance.

Usage of the term varies by field and is primarily descriptive rather than normative.