Framing the view with an alternative window solution

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07 March 2017

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3 min read

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Windows generally open out from a space; framing or capturing a connection to the outdoors and a particular element of the view. They’re not necessarily the most versatile part of a building’s envelope, but with developments in technology, that’s changing and allowing designers a new level of creative freedom.

Windows generally open out from a space; framing or capturing a connection to the outdoors and a particular element of the view. They’re not necessarily the most versatile part of a building’s envelope, but with developments in technology, that’s changing and allowing designers a new level of creative freedom.

With the creation of the Shugg window system, a system of vertical sashless sliding windows, openings to the outdoors can now be that little bit more unobtrusive than the traditional opening window. “The Shugg vertical sliding system is a way to achieve unobstructed access to the outdoors, or create any number of different scenarios between spaces,” Shugg Window’s Philip Charlton says.

There are infinite situations where the need for an unobtrusive sashless window system is required. “We are seeing these specified into schools, for walkway areas, and in situations where you don’t want elements protruding into a space,” Charlton says.

They’re also popular in restaurants to create the feeling of being outdoors, with the bottom pane remaining fixed but the top pane sliding down to develop an illusion of being within the natural environment.

“Because it’s a sashless system, it means you’re not looking at aluminium or timber frames and obstructing the view in any way. Shugg windows offer a clean, minimalist look that can’t be easily achieved with any other system.”

Motorised Shuggs can be a practical solution to many ventilation problems
Motorised Shuggs can be a practical solution to many ventilation problems

Shugg windows are being specified for all manner of applications, including as a protective barrier on decking areas, for reception areas and operable windows in apartments without deck areas. They can be created so just one pane moves while the other remains fixed, and can also be tailor-made to fit specific shaped or sized joinery. Shugg windows can also be used as a door, which operates as a cavity slider.

“Because they are a completely bespoke solution, they can be made to order and to fit an area of any shape or size.” The Shugg window system can be developed for any application, offering a variety of sizes, shapes and finishes to complement any architectural design. “Shugg units can have curved raking or arched heads with powder coated, anodised or timber finishes.”

Their bespoke nature means that they can be developed with any type of glass also, allowing a higher level of creative freedom than with traditional joinery. The new range of Low-E insulated glass works well with the Shugg system because it doesn’t require frames as double glazing does.

As many residential and commercial project designs look to incorporating more smart elements, the Shugg system can be worked into an overall smart design or operate independently via a motorised system, as well, of course, as the standard manual options.

If you’re in need of a versatile, bespoke solution for unobtrusive access to the outdoors, get in touch with Shugg here to discuss your next project.

Single hung vertical sliding window system that has one pane fixed (generally the top) and one sliding
Single hung vertical sliding window system that has one pane fixed (generally the top) and one sliding