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Projects Update

OpenAWD at the AD Design Show 2019

OpenAWD at the AD Design Show 2019

AD Design Show 2019 Happened in New York Between the 21-24 March

Now in its 18th year, the Architectural Digest Design Show drew approximately 40,000 design aficionados to interact with incredible design displays from more than 400 brands.

OpenAWD was at the event showcasing a few samples of new trendy, minimalism-inspired Window and Door Series in Wood, Wood/Aluminum clad and Steel, as well as Frameless Railings and the latest in Tilt and Turn windows and doors.

You can find our video here.

This event provided us successful and exciting experience. We can only wait for next year’s.

exclusive custom made furniture

Introducing: Open AWD’s Exclusive Custom-Made Furniture

Having originally started off as a seller of windows and doors, Open Architectural Windows and Doors has, over time, begun doing more and more bespoke work for its clients. From slimline railing systems, to custom-made furniture and specialized interior work such as fabricated medicine cabinets and even shower partitions, we have consistently provided unique products and services to meet the individual needs of everyone we work with. 

Often, many architects and homeowners we work with find that they need a product which simply doesn’t exist. Being problem-solvers, our goal has always been to ensure that we can help you, the client, come as close as possible to achieving your vision for your project. If we can help our customers create something unique, we will.

So, when a client recently asked us to design some custom made furniture for them, we were more than happy to offer our expertise and draw on our vast supply network to help them design a sideboard unit.

Check out the video below which details the ideas behind the design and the process.

Our Furniture Design Process

Our Furniture Design Process

Our idea for the piece was to keep it as simple and as elegant as possible. We used the same approach we take with our windows and doors–elegant, minimalist design and slim sight lines. 

As you might imagine, the design process is slightly different from windows and doors. There are subtleties of furniture design which don’t exist with windows and doors, and vice versa.

On the other hand, however, there are many commonalities. At Open Architectural Windows and Doors, all of our work must adhere to three basic principles:

  • Elegance
  • Functionality
  • Performance

The minimalist principle of ‘less is more’ underpins all of our work so we wanted to create a piece with minimal, high-quality material, smooth lines and no visible welding. Ease of use and practicality were also integral to how we approached the project.

Working alongside the client, we were able to come up with a design which they felt perfectly captured their idea.

Production

Below are some pictures of the production process which was handled by a furniture manufacturer according to our specifications.

Click to enlarge.

Contact Us Today

exclusive custom made furniture

So, if you’ve got an idea for custom-made furniture for your home, or would simply like to learn more about how we could help, please send us and email or give us a call today on 929-202-2558.

Open Architectural Windows and Doors can help you make your dreams a reality.

Commercial Windows: Choosing The Right Windows and Doors For Commercial Properties

Commercial Windows: Choosing The Right Windows and Doors For Commercial Properties

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 things to look out for when choosing windows for commercial properties–materials, aesthetics, and efficiency. We when we’re working with customers to help them figure out what what they need, we like to tell this: Form (material and style) should follow function (what do I need the window to do?)

Materials

The kind of material and style of commercial windows will largely depend on the kind of building and what it will be used for. Also, environmental factors, such as whether it is close to water or exposed to unusually high winds, and regional codes, such as whether the building or its surrounding neighborhood are historic landmarks, may also play a role in shaping your needs. For example, in coastal areas where there is both moisture and salt in the air, metal windows will hold up much better than wooden windows.

Choosing The Right Material

Corten Steel Windows on a Commercial Property
Corten Steel Windows on a Commercial Property

As we’ve said, there is no one right material to choose for commercial windows. The material you choose should be a combination of aesthetics and needs, and takes any environmental and regulatory factors into concern. Whilst wooden and vinyl windows have been a popular choice over the past several decades, more and more people are turning to materials such as aluminum, steel, and even bronze. The main reason for people choosing metals such as aluminum and steel is the fact that slimmer profiles are easier to achieve with those materials. Wood, however, remains a classic choice and is a particularly popular choice for traditional shopfronts. One increasingly popular look is wood-clad windows. This is a combination of wood and aluminum, which allows the client to keep the feel of wood indoors, and all of the protection of aluminum outside. You can learn all about these here.

Choosing The Right Glass

Choosing The Right Windows Glass
Choosing The Right Windows Glass

Of course, windows don’t just consist of frames– glass plays a very important role, too. Indeed, when it comes to choosing glass for commercial windows, two features are of paramount importance: impact and sound resistance.

Firstly, it should of course go without saying that commercial properties need to be safe and secure. After a property’s entry door, its windows are the most likely point of entry for anyone attempting to break in. With this in mind, it should be clear just how important windows are to any building’s security. Break-ins in any building can be very inconvenient for those involved. They can become even more inconvenient if there is cash or stock on the premises. Therefore, each client should also consider whether or not they will need reinforced, or breakthrough resistant glass for their property.

This involves tempered glass with extra layers of polycarbonate glazing on the exterior as well as in between each layer of glazing. When attacked with tools, the glass will never shatter, but only begin to crack under extraordinary pressure. You should also consider anti-burglary fittings on all windows. This will be more of a concern with ground level storefronts and much less so with multi-level units. You can learn more about all of these in our dedicated article on high-security windows and doors

Noise pollution can be an issue in urban areas. As a result, Open AWD strongly recommends investing in windows with quality soundproofing. Whether you own a small business, or a sprawling office development, noise pollution and soundproofing is something you need to consider. This is particularly important if a building is within earshot of traffic, car horns, low-flying airplanes, sirens, construction noise, or even loud neighbors, your home will be subject to much low-frequency (i.e. loud noises from a distance). Many windows are unable to withstand such low-frequency noise. If that’s the case, then your window might only let it unwanted noise, but could also cause vibrations, too. In this instance, you would need a lower STC rating. You can learn more about soundproofing in this article. You can also watch a video of our impact-resistant glass in action by clicking on the picture or here.

Commercial Windows Aesthetics

They say don’t judge a book by its cover. But, as we’re sure you’ll agree, many people will look at a property’s facade–specifically at its windows–and make assumptions about what the interior looks like. The kind of window you have, generally-speaking, should be a reflection of taste. As a result, they should provide ample natural light and comfort for those within the building. Natural light is incredibly important to any space, has many natural benefits, and can cut down on costs associated with artificial lighting. As a rule of thumb, larger windows will allow in more light and create a brighter, livelier and more inviting environment.

Style of Window

There are many different commercial window styles available. Each style comes with its own unique benefits. Some styles will suit more traditional homes better; whereas others will be more at home on more modern and contemporary buildings. There has been a trend towards more slimline windows in recent years. In our experience, this is a trend which has increased year on year. As a result of this, muntins—which were historically used as structural components to divide panels of glass within a window—have become slimmer. Ultra-slim profile windows will ultimately have quite a different impact on your facade than choosing slightly thicker, more traditional ones.

That being said, each project demands its own approach. Whilst steel is becoming more and more popular, some projects demand wooden windows. For example, we re-desisned and re-fitted this storefront in Manhattan’s East Village a few years ago. As it turned out, the building had been designated a landmark by New York’s Landmark Preservation Commission. Its facade, however, had been completely plastered over in a previous renovation. A previous contractor had replaced the once beautiful windows with cheap, low-quality windows. Open AWD were contracted to redesign these. You can see pictures below and read about the entire process here.

Explore Your Options For Commercial Windows With Oversized IGUs

Commercial Windows With Oversized IGUs
Commercial Windows With Oversized IGUs

Windows come in all shapes and sizes. Windows for a traditional storefront will, for example, look very different from the windows in a modern showroom.

As such, we recommend exploring all of your options for custom-sized IGUs (insulated glazing units). Standard-sized IGUs will suit many commercial properties.

However, when it comes to bigger buildings, oversized IGUS (also known as jumbo glass) are certainly more popular. This is true of buildings such as sky-scrapers, showrooms, museums, and many buildings which feature modern design. Oversized windows are often an integral part of modern architecture. They contribute massively to the overall appearance of a building. For example, take a look at some pictures of oversized windows we installed at a luxury car showroom in Manhattan. For more on oversized IGUs, read our article on them.

A showroom in Manhattan for which Open AWD recently supplied 15,000 sq. feet of unique paneling as well as a glass mullion system.

Color

Wood, aluminum, and steel can be finished in almost any color. This means that you can choose a color that either complements, or stands in contrast to, the building. Wooden windows can be easily painted in any color. They will, however, need to be repainted multiple times over the course of their life. Aluminum and steel are much easier in that regard. They can be finished in any RAL color. The finishing process is known as powder coating and powder-coated steel can last up to twenty years and will require much less maintenance. Metals such as bronze or copper need the least amount of maintenance. In fact, their patinated appearance will actually improve over time and continue to age gracefully.

Efficiency

Efficiency within commercial windows is always a real concern. As we pointed out, because people spend so much of their time at work, it’s important to ensure that windows are efficient. Efficient windows can maintain a cool temperature in warmer weather, and maintain a warm temperature when it’s cold outside.

U-Factor and R-Value

U-Factor and R-Value

U-Factor (also known as U-Value) is one of the most important aspects of choosing commercial windows. It measures how effectively a window can retain heat inside a home and reduce heat loss. The lower the number, the more heat it retains. So, a window with a U-Factor of 0.20 will retain heat better than one with a value of 0.5. The climate you live in plays a very big role in determining the U-Factor you’ll need your windows to have. More on this below.

Windows have an enormous effect on a wall’s R-Value. R-Value is the rate at which a material resists heat passing through it. A high R-Value means the material (e.g. insulation) is effective at resisting heat flow. As you can see from the diagram, windows with a lower U-Factor can dramatically increase a wall’s R-Value.

Solar Heat Gain and Coatings

Solar Heat Gain and Coatings

Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) is the amount of heat that enters a building via its windows. Most of this heat will be natural heat (radiation) from the sun. The lower the number, the less heat it lets in. Conversely, windows with a high SHGC level will allow more heat into the building. This is a very important factor consider–particularly when it comes to larger buildings with more (and bigger) windows.

Natural sunlight bring in some much sought after sunlight and heat. However, it also brings in ultraviolet rays which cause floors, walls, and fabrics (sofas; cushions etc.) to fade over time. These rays also can cause harm to our skin. To combat this, microscopically-thin, completely see-through, metal coatings were created to lessen the impact of this. Low-E (low-emissivity) coatings use silver to reflect heat. In summer, it reflects the heat entering a house; in winter, it reflects the heat leaving. So, in essence, it functions very similarly to a thermos–it allows you to maintain the desired temperature inside. Warm when you want it to be warm; cold when you need it to be cold.

Within Low-E coatings, there are a number of different ways to adjust the amount of heat which passes through your windows. This can be achieved by adding additional layers or by altering which panels are coated. The level of protection you need will depend on your environment. Also, it will really matter whether or not your house is in the shade.

Gases

Gases also play a very important role in the overall performance of windows and doors. Traditionally, the space between panes of glass was left empty. However, advances in technology have shown certain gases (which can be denser than air) can actually reduce heat loss in your home. The most commonly-used gases are argon and krypton. Of those, the most widely used gas is argon. Argon can significantly reduce unwanted heat loss. Argon has a thermal conductivity rate 67% lower than air. In windows with argon gas, argon usually makes up roughly 95% or more, with air usually comprising 5% or less. Double and triple-glazed, argon-filled windows are some of the best performing windows available on the market.

Contact Us

If you would like to learn more about commercial windows, please contact us at 929-202-2558 or email us here and someone from our team would be happy to talk you through your options.

OPEN Architectural Windows and Doors: Proudly making your architectural plans a reality for over a decade.

100 Vandam Old factory building

A One-Hundred and Fifty Year-Old Manhattan Factory Gets a Renovation

A One-Hundred and Fifty Year-Old Manhattan Factory Gets a Renovation

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

The Design Process​ - OpenAWD

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 and its proximity to the river, it made no sense to try and retain the original wooden windows. It was, however, possible to retain a similar aesthetic to wooden windows.

Our team also spent a considerable amount of time researching the best possible hardware for the units. Again, performance and durability were important factors in choosing these elements.

Production Process

The production process for this project was a particularly long and rigorous one. We needed everything to be perfect and there were many variables. We compiled dozens of possible models for the IGUs. Many of the units were oversized and each was custom-made to suit the building’s arched windows.

The muntins we used for this project, for example, were specifically designed for these windows only. We mocked up multiple models before settling on the exact ones everyone agreed on. Once everyone was happy with these, we finalized each unit and sent off our plans to the manufacturing company. You can see two pictures above of what remained after the old windows were removed. Below, you can see our windows installed.

Testing

After this, we had some mock-up sample units created, we water-tested them in the factory. This was done multiple times to ensure that they were adequately water-resistant. The installation team tested the units once they arrived in New York, prior to installation. Subsequently, they tested the units thoroughly post-installation.

The Units

We used a unique combination of materials for each of the units we designed. For example, we used a custom bronze profile for the ground floor storefront facade.

ground floor storefront facade

On the first and second floors we used cladded windows. These featured a teak interior and had bronze-clad exteriors.

On the third through sixth floors, we again used cladded windows. These featured white oak interior and a bronze-clad exterior.

We also created a number of custom-made bronze details and finishes to several of the units. They can be seen on the storefront above. You can look at them more closely below.

Contact Us

If you have a project in mind and would like to learn more about our windows and doors, please contact us at 929-202-2558 or email us here and someone from our team would be happy to talk you through your options.

OPEN Architectural Windows and Doors: Proudly making your architectural plans a reality for over a decade.

 
15,000 Sq. Feet of Custom-Made Curtain Wall System in Manhattan Showroom

15,000 Sq. Feet of Custom-Made Curtain Wall System in Manhattan Showroom

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

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 to withstand high winds.

While aluminum could be used for a project like this, it would not be possible to achieve the kind of slim profiles that would be possible if steel were used. For example, you might need a mullion with a depth of up to 12 inches to ensure that it is able to securely keep the IGUs in place. Even at that, aluminum would require steel reinforcements inside the mullion to provide the requisite strength. It would take far bigger and thicker aluminum mullions to keep the IGUs in place. In that sense, slim profiles are not easily attainable with aluminum.

Steel, on the other hand, is much stronger, and provides a wider range of possibilities. This becomes an important issue in projects where oversized IGUs (or jumbo glass) is used. The main challenge we had to overcome was achieving the requisite mullion strength in order to hold the IGUs in place and withstand high wind load. We were able to use 6 inch deep profiles for vertical spans of up to 24 feet.

After much discussion, our client was very pleased to go forward with a steel curtain wall system. In addition to this, they asked us to design all of the metal paneling around the showroom as well as two custom-made awnings for above the doors. Once the steel for the curtain wall went into production, we began finalizing the oversized IGUs.

What Are Oversized IGUs or Jumbo Glass?

Oversized IGUs, also known as jumbo glass, are simply IGUs which are larger than standard-sized IGUs.

They are often used in buildings with modern designs or in retail spaces, such as shops, museums, and showrooms because they offer better, uninterrupted views.

They provide greater freedom for the architect, far more natural light, as well as a greater sense of openness within a space. This is why they they are standard in modern showrooms.

On the technical side of things, oversized IGUs provide a greater degree of thermal resistance than standard-sized windows.

Larger IGUs mean fewer joints and weak spots (which allow heat to pass through). This means greater thermal efficiency and maximum comfort.

Oversized IGUs make it easier for the architect to achieve clean, beautiful lines within the overall design. While they also create more opportunity for exposure to sunlight, any unwanted heat gain can easily be avoided by adding coatings, such as Low-E. This also controls any glare from sunlight.

Oversized IGUs or Jumbo Glass Installation

While oversized IGUs are very visually impressive, they come with certain challenges and considerations. One of the most important is wind load. In our case, we worked closely with the engineer to determine the exact thickness to withstand high wind loads. We settled on 1/2 inch thickness, in certain areas, for the outside glass.

As of today, the largest IGUs produced in Germany are in sizes of up to 10.5ft x 61ft. Increasingly, more customers are requesting oversized IGUs for their projects. For more information on this, see our last article on them.

Designing The Showroom’s Awning and Paneling

The architect also asked us to design two awnings as well as the exterior paneling to complement the showroom. Undoubtedly, designing the two awnings made for some of the most interesting work on this project. As you can see below, we decided on a large pane of specially-designed tempered and laminated safety glass above each door. This ensured it could withstand wind-loads as well as any other unexpected loads, such as heavy snow. Encased in a steel frame, the canopy was a striking addition to the project. We used stainless steel spider fittings to hold in place each panel of glass.

To design the metal paneling you can see around the building, we spent hundreds of hours researching and mocking up samples. We used 3D modeling software to arrive at the exact look we wanted for the panels. You can view some of the drawings as well as the final product below.

Installing The Glass

oversized igu jumbo glass installation 2

Designing and manufacturing oversized IGUs requires specialized machinery; installing them requires the use of spider cranes and manipulator. Logistics are a problem. Entire streets must be shut down to allow for trucks to pass through and unload. To do this, you must obtain permits must from the regional authorities. Only experienced companies are equipped to design and provide oversized IGUs for you. Similarly, only certified and licensed installers are equipped to handle such projects. All of our projects are handled by an external licensed and certified installation team we cooperate with.

Contact Us

If you have a project in mind and would like to learn more about your options, please contact us at 929-202-2558. Alternatively, you can email us here and someone from our team would be happy to talk you through your options.

OPEN Architectural Windows and Doors: Proudly making your architectural plans a reality for over a decade.

Cooperstown: Where Upstate New York Meets Modern Design

Cooperstown: Where Upstate New York Meets Modern Design

When you mention Cooperstown, NY, a small town located just under 150 miles north of New York City, most people will know it only as home to the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum. Situated at the foot of the Otsego Lake, Cooperstown is an historical colonial town that is doing some modernizing of its own. We were pleasantly to work on a project with a local homeowner who wanted contemporary, aluminum-clad windows and doors featuring stained white-oak interiors for their home. When we learned more about the homeowner and architect’s plans, we were very excited to join the project.

The Project

For this project, we very pleased to work alongside with our Sales Engineer, Guy Messier, a window and door expert with over 15 years’ worth of experience in the industry. Through Guy, we were introduced to I-Kanda, a Boston-based firm that we have long admired. Sangsuri Chung, one of their project managers, worked on this one with us. The General Contractor was Will Dykstra, of Dykstra Construction, a local company.

As you can see from the pictures, the architect and homeowner’s vision were very unique and exciting so it was a really special project to work on. They wanted to design a minimalist, large, open-plan home with high ceilings to maximize light and space. While the house was not designed to be Passive House certified, they wanted to make it as comfortable, durable, and energy efficient as possible–particularly when you take the cold Cooperstown winters into consideration. The overhanging roof (pictured) offers shade also from the sun in summer, and has the added benefit of keeping the house clear of snow in winter. As it’s the homeowner’s primary residence, they wanted to invest in long-term comfort so, for a number of related reasons, they went with triple-glazed windows and doors.

After learning more about the plans, together with the design-build team, we immediately set to work on our proposal. After much deliberation and consultation with us, the homeowner and architect decided that powder-coated aluminum-clad windows and doors would best suit the project. The homeowner opted for red cladding to match the building’s exterior, and stained white oak for the interior. They wanted the reduced maintenance of aluminum-clad windows and with all of the warmth and feel of white oak wood on the interior. The white oak was finished to match the home’s custom cabinetry and other millwork. The architect chose the distinct red color for the building and cladding as an aesthetic reference to the traditional red barns commonly seen around Cooperstown and other rural areas in New York State.

Image by Sang Chun, courtesy of I-Kanda
Image by Sang Chun, courtesy of I-Kanda

Designing The Units

Windows and Doors

Undoubtedly, the most exciting and challenging part of the project was designing the three two-panel lift-slide door units with integral retractable screens. Each triple-glazed lift and slide sash weighs 840lb is 7.5ft wide x 10ft high.

Typically, European-designed tilt and turn windows have wide, or what we often like to call “heavy,” sight lines. With this project, however, we–along with the client and the design-build team–wanted something slimmer.

With that in mind, Open AWD developed a reduced-sightline aluminum-clad system with all of the well-known benefits (strength, security, and durability) of European-style aluminum-clad systems. Even with the size of the doors, we were able to design the doors with center mullions of just 3 ¼ inches (82mm). We used this custom system for the fixed and operable windows, also.

sightline aluminum-clad system
Cooperstown: Where Upstate New York Meets Modern Design

With Open’s heavy duty lift and slide roller system, even doors with 72 sq. ft. of triple glazing, operate smoothly and easily. Lift and slide door hardware lifts the sash a quarter inch off the tracks, and disengage the weather stripping, so the doors roll easily.

Cabinetry

The beautiful ash wood cabinetry was crafted by Geoffrey T. Foster. It perfectly complemented the white oak window frames.

Oversized Insect Screen

The client requested insect screens for the lift-slide doors. Open proposed a retractable insect screen that would be integrated and concealed within the opening. The frame of the insect screen was designed bo be concealed by interior trim work. The oversized insect screen had to be especially created for the house. You can watch a short video of Andrew, one of our project managers, demonstrating how to operate it.

Delivery and Installation

As with any projects featuring oversized units, delivery requires extra thought, care, and preparation. As the units were so large, we needed to consider how to safely deliver the the units to the job site. This included very basic but important considerations such as finding a truck large enough to transport the units, and for this project with a deck low enough to navigate low clearance areas (low bridges; power-lines; trees etc), as well as having the proper equipment at the job site to unload safely and securely. We used a lowboy trailer to transport the units to the job site in Upstate New York.

Delivery & Installation By OPENAWD

Once the licensed and certified installation team we work with, unloaded the units, they began installing.

The installation team used a vacuum glass manipulator to unload and move the windows and doors to their openings. From there, the installers prepared the openings and installed the frames before finally installing the sashes.

A video below shows the manipulator being used to move one of the lift-slide door sashes. A few more pictures of the installation process are shown below.

Click Images to Enlarge.

Contact Us Today

Image by Sang Chun, courtesy of I-Kanda
Open AWD Logo none Background

If you have a project in mind and would like to learn more about Open Architectural Windows and Doors’ products and capabilities, please contact us at 929-202-2558. Alternatively, you can email us here and one of our project managers would be happy to talk through your plans and ideas together with you.

OPEN Architectural Windows and Doors: Proudly making your architectural dreams a reality for over a decade.

innovative design and construction in the heart of brooklyn

Innovative Design and Construction in the Heart of Brooklyn

Nestled in the heart of Brooklyn, our recent project at property on the 2nd Place offers residents stunning views of historic Carroll Gardens, and is complemented by the tranquility of the area’s unique townhouses. We were delighted when asked to come on board and join the project. In collaboration with architects, our goal was to seamlessly integrate the windows and metal panels, and create a visually cohesive unit that blends harmoniously with its surroundings.

2nd place section panel windows

Innovative Waterproofing

The residents’ prior encounters with window leaks served as a strong reminder of the importance of delivering a high-quality solution. Given the house’s recent construction, our primary objective was to ensure a long-term resolution to this issue.

One of the key challenges during the project was placing all the windows outside the load-bearing walls. This engineering solution is designed to increase the structural integrity and aesthetics of the building. However, it required careful planning to ensure effective waterproofing and thermal insulation.

That dedicated team of engineers has carefully designed the waterproofing system, taking even the smallest details into account. Additionally, the aluminum wall panel located between the windows has a layer of 2″ extruded polystyrene foam for thermal insulation, which provides ample insulation.

2nd place installation detail

A typical window profile is made of Scandinavian pine with aluminum cladding. The windows, painted white on the inside, perfectly complement the interior. Additionally, this profile is highly popular among developers. The timeless black external aluminum overlays lend the building a classic feeling.

On the first floor, we have an arch-shaped window, adding a unique element to the facade.

2nd place arched window

The front facade boasts an elegant, minimalist entrance with an electric door closer.

2nd place elegant entry door

Contact us today to explore the possibilities of using our product in your project and embark on a path of architectural excellence.

exploring the innovative beauty of corten steel

Exploring the Innovative Beauty of Corten Steel

In the world of architecture, creating a distinctive and visually captivating building is an ongoing challenge. As a fenestration company, we understand the importance of finding unique solutions that set your project apart from the rest, which is why we would like to introduce you to an extraordinary material that can transform your project into a stunning masterpiece: Corten steel. Despite its complicated technological process, Corten steel is beautiful, innovative, and already revolutionizing the industry.

corten steel

Unveiling Corten Steel

Corten steel, also known as weathering steel, has gained recognition for its distinctive, rusty appearance and unmatched durability. What makes it truly remarkable is its ability to form a protective layer of rust that acts as a shield against corrosion, ensuring its longevity and structural integrity. This natural weathering process creates a dynamic and evolving façade that captures attention and adds character to any architectural design.

unveiling corten steel 1
unveiling corten steel 2
unveiling corten steel 3
unveiling corten steel 4
unveiling corten steel 5

Concept

We were asked to propose something extraordinary to transform the entrance of a building that was originally built in 1880. This historic building served as the first library in town, housing a gentleman’s reading room and even a speakeasy. Located in southeastern Westchester County, New York, the Village of Port Chester has a rich history of local industrial and commercial growth, with the town’s riverfront serving as a center for industrial activities.

Proposed Elevation

The challenge then lay in finding a way to combine our innovative design proposal with the building’s historical significance. We wanted to create a seamless integration that transforms the entrance into a true masterpiece, capturing the essence of the building’s past while infusing it with a contemporary touch.

first floor plan existing

As part of our creative process, we even experimented with painting wood in the style of corten steel to achieve the desired aesthetic effect.

Overcoming Technological Challenges

Admittedly, producing Corten steel coverings for the fenestration industry involves a complex technological process. However, we are committed to pushing boundaries and overcoming challenges to bring you the finest craftsmanship. We have the expertise and resources to work closely with manufacturers and engineers to develop customized solutions that meet your project’s unique requirements, ensuring a seamless integration of Corten steel with the distinct requirements of your project.

develop customized solutions - 4

A Rare Gem in the United States

While Corten steel has been embraced in Europe and other parts of the world for its aesthetic appeal and durability, its use in the United States has been relatively limited. This presents a unique opportunity for you to implement an innovative solution that will make your project stand out from the crowd. By incorporating Corten steel into your main elevation, you will introduce an element rarely seen in the American architectural landscape, making a bold statement that reflects your vision for cutting-edge design.

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Robustness

Imagine the possibilities of combining the strength and weathering qualities of Corten steel with the elegance of fenestration. By integrating Corten steel into your windows, doors, and other architectural elements, you can create a harmonious blend of innovation and functionality. The unique patina formed by the weathering process will add depth and texture to your façade, while the robustness of Corten steel ensures long-lasting performance.

Conclusion

When it comes to architectural design, it’s essential to embrace innovation. By incorporating Corten steel into your project you have the opportunity to create a visual masterpiece that will captivate and inspire. With corten steel we believe that the end result is worth the investment. Let us transform your vision into a reality that leaves a lasting impression.

Contact us today to explore the possibilities of using Corten steel in your project.

latest Projects OpenAWD 2023

Open AWD’s Innovative Year in Review (2023)

2023 presented Open Architectural Windows and Doors with many new opportunities and challenges, yet it proved to be an important year for our business. Further establishing our commitment to excellence.

High-end Project in Connecticut – Hilltop Elegance | Exterior Units

Situated atop a hill, this house, showcased our ability to marry architecture with nature. The house’s largest part cleverly concealed behind the hill unveiled a masterpiece with stone wall decorations, and windows and doors crafted from ultra-slim graphite steel profiles. The challenge of installing oversized units was handled by our certified installation company. A highlight of this project was the glazed hall, featuring one of the largest glass units, measuring an impressive 9 by 19 ft. In total, 39 windows and doors 2373 sq ft.

 

Corten Steel Portchester NY – Historical Transformation | Exterior Units

In Portchester, New York, we undertook the challenge of transforming a historic building originally constructed in 1880. The client’s request to replace the wood storefront with corten steel led to innovative solutions. Preserving the building’s historical significance while infusing contemporary design, we experimented with techniques like brashing from soft fibers. This transformation resulted in 7 windows and doors, covering 412 sq ft, showcasing our ability to harmonize innovation with historical detail.

Franklin Street – A Touch of History | Exterior Units. Landmark

The Astral Apartments, located on Franklin Street in the Greenpoint Historic District, Brooklyn, stand as a testament to architectural ingenuity and social consciousness. Erected between 1885 and 1886, this iconic structure was conceived by Charles Pratt to provide affordable housing for the labor force of his Astral Oil Works.

Spanning an entire city block, the Astral Apartments exude grandeur with their Queen Anne-style architecture, characterized by a brick and terra cotta façade. Noteworthy features include a prominent central section projecting outward, boasting a deep, three-story-high round arch recess, and a roof adorned with intricate decorative grotesques.

Beyond its architectural allure, the Astral Apartments once offered a host of amenities aimed at enhancing the lives of its residents, including a settlement house, library, and kindergarten. Additionally, it housed a branch of the Pratt Institute Free Library, serving as a hub of knowledge and community engagement.

We received a request to replace all the entry doors in this building. Some of the doors were rectangular in shape, but when viewed from the facade, we replicated the arch’s geometry, giving the illusion of them being arched from the outside. Accordingly, each profile width was adjusted to a specific opening. You can also notice that there are double-leaf doors and single-leaf doors, although their appearance is similar.

Special moldings were also used on the walls, along with additional linings. When you open the door from the inside, you do not see a bare wall but a wooden panel. All the units are made of wood and equipped with electric door closers and premium-quality hardware.

Nantucket Waterfront Residence – Coastal Elegance | Interior Units

Our project at Shimmo represented coastal elegance with a rare waterfront offering. This interior project, featuring white ultra-slim profiles (Presto XS), sliding doors, oversized fixed interior partitions, and triangle-shaped partitions, aimed to capture the breathtaking views from Nantucket to Great Point Lighthouse. Boasting 21 windows and doors covering 1250 sq ft, this project celebrated the fusion of design and functionality.

Columbia Pl - Modern Touches in a Brooklyn Heights Gem | Interior Units

Columbia Place is a regular stop on architecturally-oriented walking tours of Brooklyn Heights. It’s a quiet street, protected from the noise of the Brooklyn Queens Expressway by Alfred T. White’s apartment building.

We received a request for interior units in a single-family home that was built in 2003.

Among the units were a sliding window with fixed sidelites serving as a dining room partition and a single interior door. Units were made from Steelline profiles coated with VeroMetal. The customer opted not to install any guide parts on the tabletop, so a system of synchronous window opening was provided.

West Canton - Space-Saving solution for a Boston Brownstone | Interior Units

Our most common projects involve buildings with landmark status. Additionally, we specialize in manufacturing exterior windows, doors, curtain wall systems, interior partitions, and various types of doors.

For a recent project located on West Canton Street in a brownstone townhouse in Boston, there was a request for a folding door. The apartment owners wanted to separate the space between two dressing rooms using a partition. We crafted a folding door composed of three sections from a steel profile. The unit was powder-coated with anthracite paint and equipped with premium quality hardware.

Going Forward

As we move into 2024, Open AWD remains committed to pushing boundaries, embracing challenges, and delivering innovative solutions that outmatch our clients’ expectations.We would like to thank our dedicated team, valued clients, and partners for making 2023 a year of resilience, growth, and architectural excellence.

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