What is next for windows?
As we look to tackle climate change, improve safety, and make properties more sustainable, we need to think carefully about the performance of different products. One that is firmly in the spotlight is the windows. They are traditionally essential for lighting and ventilation, but also have new challenges to deal with such as energy efficiency and solar gain. So, they need to evolve. We want to have a closer look here to see what could be next for them. Then, if you want help to design high end residential architecture in London, including beautiful feature windows, we can help.
Tradition
For thousands of years the main priority for humans was shelter. As a result, we didn't really think about the need for windows. Then, we came to understand we need light and ventilation, especially to get rid of stale air. Initially, all we did was cut openings in the exterior, sometimes covering them with shutters or skins if we had to keep wind and rain out.
Glass production, particularly during the Roman era, brought the first big change. Most crucial was the discovery and development of glass blowing. As a result, it became popular to have glass windows on important buildings as a sign of their status. They also began appearing on some homes as a showcase of wealth.
Over time, glass production continued to improve and we evolved. Crucially, we began to see windows as an essential feature of buildings. We also got even more knowledge about the impact on health and wellbeing. Now, it's rare to see any building at all without some form of windows.
Today
We're at a very interesting time now where the focus is on the environment. It brings new challenges, including social and political pressure. This results in technical changes, new legislation, and higher demands for things like airtightness. It's important to think carefully when you are designing a building, especially residential architecture in London.
The main thing today is we want higher living standards and sustainability. The windows play a surprising role in this. Choosing the right ones will have an impact on lighting, ventilation, noise, energy bills, security, and even things like views. Generally you'll want high quality double or triple glazing with reliable frames, air vents, and other features.
Global warming is one of the biggest challenges we have to deal with at the moment. The problem in the UK is most buildings are built for a cooler climate. As average temperatures rise and we get more heatwaves, overheating becomes a bigger issue. Windows need to evolve to help deal with it. One of the most interesting developments is smart glazing and integral shading so windows can automatically adjust to minimise solar gain.
There is also a big push with many different goods to give them a longer life cycle. The right to repair with white goods is a great example. It means manufacturers must provide spare parts and facilitate repairs for 10 years to reduce waste electrical goods. We could see similar with windows, including manufacturers needing to provide replace parts such as ironmongery.
Discuss high end residential architecture in London with us
Coffey Residential is the perfect team to help you design your home. Whether you're dreaming of a quaint, luxurious escape or a large, contemporary property with all the mod cons, we can help you create it. We'll look at everything, including essential features, layout, and materials.
One thing you can do with us is explore how to make sure your home is comfortable and energy efficient. Looking carefully at the windows is important here. Their placement and the style have a significant impact. It will help to shape the atmosphere in different parts of the building as well as overall performance.
So, get in touch and talk to us about residential architecture in London. We're happy to discuss any details with you, including new legislation, design ideas, and more.