Innovative aluminium solutions in architecture – the use of aluminium windows and doors
EXCELSIOR WORKS, Manchester, United Kingdom. Systems used: MB-Slimline
The contemporary construction landscape, increasingly oriented towards energy efficiency and sustainability, demands innovative design solutions. These solutions must deliver not only superior technical and insulating properties but also the flexibility to shape structural models that fully meet the project’s needs and style. Aluminium windows and doors are among those special task solutions that cater to even the most demanding of projects.
The push towards zero-emission buildings and reducing energy consumption in existing structures is driven by legal requirements. The Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD), under review by the European Parliament, lays out the energy efficiency expectations for structures in the EU. Adhering to sustainable building practices is essential to effectively combat the growing problem of global energy poverty.
Aluminium: the multi-tasking material
Aluminium began its journey in construction in the early 20th century. Its notable use includes the well-known Empire State Building in New York. Architects A. Lawrence Kocher and A. Frey also recognized its potential, designing the Aluminaire House, the first metal home in the USA composed predominantly of aluminium and glass.
4 WELLINGTON PLACE, Leeds, United Kingdom. Systems used: MB-77HS, MB-86 Foldline, MB-SR60N, MB-SR60N HI
Aluminium owes its popularity in construction and architecture to a host of properties. Its light structure, moldability, and resistance to varying temperatures are only some of the highlights. Innovative systems developed from this metal cater to all modern construction market demands.
Aluminium is an exceptional material. Its flexibility allows it to meet specific project requirements, and its lightweight nature facilitates the most spectacular glazing projects – says Tomáš Buček, Project Manager at Aluprof System Czech s.r.o. – Combined with high insulation properties, it’s an excellent choice for modern, energy-efficient buildings, both residential and commercial – he adds.
Aluprof stands as a leading manufacturer of aluminium systems in Europe and the US, consistently innovating in aluminium construction solutions for over 70 years. The company fully exploits this metal's capabilities, including its recyclability. By 2022, the recycled aluminium content in Aluprof products reached 65%. Reuse of this metal significantly cuts the energy required to produce primary aluminium by up to 95%.
Aluminium and glass: the perfect pair
Aluminium systems are an ideal foundation for creating impressive and energy-efficient glazed structures. The adaptability of these solutions to user needs is remarkable. Consider the MB-79N aluminium windows and doors, distinguished by their high insulation and versatility.
The MB-79N system supports fixed, hinged, tilt, tilt-turn windows, tilt-sliding windows, as well as single and double external doors and storefront solutions with doors – outlines Tomáš Buček.
Aluprof’s aluminium windows systems meet the expectations of many user groups, whether seeking cost-effective energy-efficient solutions like the MB-79N US, or focusing on design. For design enthusiasts, the slim-profile MB-Slimline windows, featuring minimal external frame width, are ideal. These models integrate seamlessly into both new buildings and those originally equipped with steel-profile windows. This solution was effectively implemented at the British Excelsior Works, where hidden-profile windows complement the building's aesthetic. Of course, besides design, they offer high thermal insulation, water-tightness, and air permeability.
Jana Babáka Office, Brno, Czech Republic. Systems used: MB-86 SI, MB-SE 75
Solutions for residential buildings…
Aluminium windows and doors have become integral to residential architectural design. Aluprof provides systems that serve excellently as entries to terraces or winter gardens. The MB-86 FOLD LINE HD folding doors, which open inward or outward with any wing configuration (up to 8 wings), are both functional and striking.
Another noteworthy solution is the MB-Skyline Type R sliding doors with hidden frames, known for their sliding mechanism and large-scale capacity.
In the MB-Skyline Type R, construction heights can reach up to 4m, and wing weights (with hidden actuator use) up to 1200 kg. Despite the weight, opening the doors requires little effort, and the system operates silently – says Tomáš Buček.
…and commercial buildings
Aluprof makes no distinction between individual and corporate clients. Any solution offered is equally applicable to projects of varied nature. A testament to the efficacy of aluminium windows and doors in public utility structures is their implementation in the UK’s 4 Wellington Place (MB-86 FOLD LINE HD) or Poland’s Nobu Hotel (MB-Skyline Type R).
Nobu Hotel, Gdańsk, Poland. Systems used: MB-78 EI, MB-86 SI, MB-Skyline, MB-SR50N EFFEKT, MB-SR50N EI EFFEKT, MB-SR50N OW
Furthermore, Aluprof aluminium windows and doors cater to office building construction, with possibilities for interior architectural applications. The MB-Harmony Office internal wall systems offer a lightweight, easy-to-install single-glazed structure ideal for creating additional rooms in office spaces. Acoustic insulation, a crucial element for offices, is a notable advantage.
This system is tailored for clients needing quick and simple spatial division in their offices – says Tomáš Buček. – That doesn't mean the MB-Harmony Office can’t be used in homes, for instance, to separate kitchen and dining areas. It all depends on the architect's creativity and the real needs of building users – he adds.
Let’s Build a Better Future!
Aluminium window and door systems have established themselves firmly in global architecture, offering light construction, modern design, and superior insulation properties. Utilizing such solutions in both private and commercial construction allows for the realization of sustainable and energy-efficient building principles. Aluminium system manufacturers are keeping up with market demands, continuously enriching their offerings with solutions, including those for passive building. All of this with a focus on energy savings and creating a better world for future generations.