In 2019, Open Architectural Windows and Doors was contacted by a team of architects to design a curtain wall system, as well as windows and doors, for a project in Manhattan. The project, which consisted of 15,000 sq ft of glass, was for a car showroom. We had completed a wide range of commercial, residential, and high-value projects before, but never a car showroom. After we met with the client and got a better understanding of what they were looking for, we were very excited to join the project. Choosing The Perfect Showroom Windows When we first met with the client, they had originally been looking for an aluminum curtain-wall system. Aluminum systems are relatively common for showrooms. However, because the showroom was located at the edge of Manhattan close to the water, it was subject to more stringent guidelines. New York City has specific guidelines governing a structure’s capacity…

In 2018, Open Architectural Windows and Doors was delighted to be asked to join a team of developers and architects who sought to redevelop a 19th century industrial warehouse into a modernist masterpiece.  Located in the heart of Manhattan, the project involved the gutting of a large, historical redbrick building and its complete renovation. Open AWD was asked to design custom window and door units for the building. Because the development fell under the Landmarks Preservation Commission, it was subject to strict guidelines governing the type and style of windows and doors. The Design Process Our team spent thousands of hours researching, planning, and modeling different types of windows to suit the unique look of the building. We not only wanted to retain the historic look and feel of the windows, we wanted to modernize them and ensure they were as energy efficient as possible. Because of its Manhattan location…

When it comes to designing, building, or even renovating a commercial property, it is important to ensure that you have everything covered. More often than not, windows will represent the second greatest expense to a new-build, so it’s important to ensure that you pick the right ones. Whether you want to fit a series of wooden windows to re-invigorate your storefront, or have a series of custom-made bronze, copper-clad windows designed for your multi-level boutique hotel, there can be many things to choose from. And with so many Americans spending so much time at their place of work, it’s important that windows strike the right balance between comfort and performance. From shops to hotels, from car show-rooms to museums, we have done it all here at Open Architectural Windows and Doors. So, we decided to put together a short article for you giving you insight into the three most important…

Here at Open Architectural Windows and Doors, providing our customers with premium quality windows and doors has always been our top priority. As a result of this, we are always trying to improve the range of products we offer to our customers. Over the years, we have designed custom-made skylight units for some of the many unique projects we worked on. After many requests from architects, contractors, and homeowners, we have decided to make skylights available to all of our customers. There are many reasons why skylights are beloved by architects and homeowners alike. Not only do skylights receive up to three times more sunlight than windows, skylights can drastically improve the aesthetics of a space, reducing the need for artificial light. Skylights offer views of the sky, impressive both during the day and at night. They completely redefine the aesthetics of a space and contribute positively to the resale…

As we’re sure you’re probably aware, the construction industry is still reeling from the effects of the pandemic. Shutdowns, supply chain disruptions, delays, rising transportation and energy prices, as well as labor shortages have all come together to result in the perfect storm for construction-related industries. Basic construction supplies such as concrete, bricks, cement–not to mention wood, steel, aluminum, or even copper piping–have seen significant price hikes over the past year. On top of that, shortages and delays in delivery time have added additional costs to contractors, architects, and homeowners. Although job sites are back up and running, contractors, as well as everyone else in the industry, are now left struggling to stay on top of these issues. Because much of the work within this industry is directly linked to the construction industry, and we deal in many of the same raw materials, the fenestration industry has been dealing with…