Design Assist 101
Part of our service when supplying windows and doors means providing design assist. Design assist gives people the tools to examine what is achievable in the context of their design concept, and how it is achievable. It’s much more than providing the thinnest frame, or low threshold sliding doors. Janela doesn’t just supply windows and doors. When taking on a project, we are also helping clients realize their goals in comfort, function and aesthetic in conjunction with all other aspects of construction or renovation. The question isn’t just can we give you the latest design, the newest, thinnest window - but, how can we integrate your windows and doors into the overall scheme of the home?
When taking on a project, we are also helping clients realize their goals in comfort, function and aesthetic in conjunction with all other aspects of construction or renovation.
Similar designs, different scenarios
Imagine you are building a cottage with a glass gable end. You want a spectacular view of the lake, and a glass facade that wow's passersby. These are your design requirements. You want to have an opening for fresh air and functionality. These are your performance requirements. You have one issue - there are several structural beams that sit in the way of your glass facade. How do you achieve the look and feel of your dream cottage?
You could opt for a complete glass facade in front of the structural beams, outfitted with curtainwall sitting atop a structurally reinforced sliding or folding door. This would be a suitable option for someone with minimalist and austere design requirements. From the exterior, you will have the glass facade look, however from the inside, sight-lines will be busy with beams and transoms, obstructing your view.
An alternate route would include integrating the window and door units with the structural makeup of the cottage. Though less glass coverage, sight-lines are less busy , and there is more uniformity in the design. This would be a fine option for someone trying to achieve a balance between traditional and modern cottage design.
Both options have roughly equal visibility of the outside from the interior. The complete glass facade offers more opening for functionality, which may be desirable for a cottage. However, with expansive sliding doors requiring structural reinforcement, and intricate profile connections to curtainwall, the budgetary strain of a more complete glass facade is much greater than a more transitional design containing a standard sized patio door and several picture windows. For example, a 20 foot wide folding door could cost twice as much as an 8 foot wide patio door and two picture windows, covering the same width.
Essentially, you have 2 similar designs for different tastes and different functional needs, with completely different budgetary outcomes. Let’s see how these gable ends compare on the exterior.
Two cottages with similar design concepts. Completely different glazing packages. Similar sight-lines, an exterior that conveys the same design intent, yet completely different budgetary impacts.
Design assist is not just about providing the thinnest frame or lowest profile door. It’s about helping clients achieve a vision - working in conjunction with other design and structural elements in the home. Achievement is reached by making extravagant design accessible.
