Gone are the days when doors and windows were limited to a simple fusion of wood and frosted glass. From standardized versions draping high-rises with showy facades to bespoke offerings created to satisfy individual tastes, they are available in a myriad of materials and have become agents of well-being, energy efficiency and sustainability.
Windows and doors are important parts of any building and have a major impact on both the interior and exterior. Not only do they affect the overall look and feel, but they also play an important purpose in ensuring the safety and usability of the space. The material, color and pattern of the doors and windows have a huge impact on how the space looks and feels. The continuous evolution of trends and styles has led to many attractive, affordable and energy-efficient window solutions.
Even in the pre-high-rise era, there was a demand for beautiful doors and windows. Heritage and traditional Indian structures bear witness to this. We should also consider the colonial structures and buildings modeled on the lines of 19th century architecture that continue to grace our cities. In such buildings, solutions must be in sync with the original design.
Wood remains a favorite in such properties, but uPVC has also made an appearance. “The traditional aesthetic is as popular as ever, whether in a modern or traditional home,” said Khozema Chitalwala, Principal Architect, Designers Group. “Nowadays uPVC heritage windows don't look that bad anymore and are available in flat vent and storm resistant variants. The flat version has a smooth and sleek frame that mimics the design of 19th century windows. The storm-resistant glass offers comprehensive protection against the elements. Traditional joinery techniques are used and each joint is hand made for a unique look. Unlike wood, uPVC does not require frequent repainting, does not fade and is a more cost-effective solution.”
As our buildings grew in height, the methods of constructing and constructing them also changed and factors such as energy efficiency and HVAC came into play.
Since doors and windows act as means of ventilation, their impact on air quality has been the subject of constant debate.