A Window Design for the Modern Home

Many are familiar with the observation made by Gordon Moore in 1965, where he posited that the number of transistors per square inch on integrated circuits would double every couple of years. He predicted that this trend would continue for the foreseeable future, and until very recently it did. Despite its recent redundancy as a guideline for computer processor manufacturing, it remains a shorthand definition for innovation at regular intervals, inferring that there is an invisible force driving technological innovation, productivity, social change, and economic growth.

When Moore made this observation, it is not unlikely that he was staring through the glass of clad windows – an entirely new window category at the time, combining the look of traditional wood on the inside and a weather-proof exterior that never requires painting. The last 60 years have since seen unprecedented developments that, at each point of inception, completely disrupted the industry.  Every innovation to window composition, thermal regulation, design, manufacturing, and so on, transforms the utility and function of what a window is, and with it, the way we design our structures which we live our lives in.

We are all aware of the extraordinary impact that glass has on an interior and for those that prefer a contemporary style, glazing plays a major role. The best way to achieve this modern look is usually to simply add more glass; either by increasing the number of windows over walls, or by reducing the size of the panes for that desirable seamless appearance. Windows are far from the light emitting holes in the wall they once were and can now be used as a load bearing material, making way for glass link buildings and similar glass-based structures. Thanks to advancements in technology and manufacturing, this style is no longer limited to industrial and luxury construction projects. As it has become more affordable, so too has it continued to pervade the mass market, providing a pleasant contrast to common traditional structures.

However, for most of the mass market the easiest and most affordable way to achieve more glass is to reduce the frames of existing windows as much as possible. This optimises the amount of natural light that can pass through while also maximising the viewable range from the inside. In response to the frameless reducing trend, Origin, a leading British manufacturer, have just unveiled the Origin Slimline Window (OW-70) in their latest product launch.

The new system is built with an impressively slim 65mm high grade aluminium frame with an external flush casement design that offers versatility in its ability to suit any property type. It has been introduced to the Origin range alongside the more beefily framed OW-80. Despite the significant frame reduction, Origin claim the new design is “as strong as it is sleek”, as it has passed extensive testing and as such is PAS24 accredited. It also features a polyamide thermal break and bespoke cavity basket, which contribute towards an impressive 1.2 U-value. This is in response to

the energy efficiency having an increasing influence on homeowners’ purchasing behaviour. Nonetheless, if you are in the market for a more traditionally functioning window, Ultimate Rose offer a sliding sash with a mid-rail of only 35mm.

As the age of glass continues to permeate modern architecture, the line between window and door continues to blur. In many cases, doors are becoming the new windows. This presents a new problem to the modern homeowner looking to reduce the visual impact and maximise the inside-outside feel as much as possible. If the main goal is to reduce the frame size, sliders are the obvious choice as they can overlap each other. This is in contrast to bi-folds, which are considerably less seamless compared to sliders when closed, but with the functional benefit of being able to completely remove the barrier between the inside and outside.

Origin aims to make the best of both worlds with their new slimline bi-fold doors with expansive glass panels, offering an exceptional blend between aesthetics and functionality. However, if reducing frame size is your key consideration, then their patio sliding door system will certainly not disappoint.

It ultimately comes down to individual preferences and the sense of volume that you want to create. Regardless of your situation, we at Unique Windows London are here to help you select a product that will produce the exact type of space that you want. Unique Windows London are a family business with one clear goal – to deliver the highest quality service with the highest quality materials.

For more information about us and our products, call us on 02087707397, email info@uniquewindowslondon.co.uk or visit https://www.uniquewindowslondon.co.uk/