The Main Entry Deadline for Architizer's 2025 A+Product Awards is Friday, December 6. Get your brand in front of the AEC industry’s most renowned designers by submitting today.
When it comes to a glass façade, architects often desire an entirely seamless, completely transparent wall so precisely detailed that not even a mullion can take away its sheer clarity. But not all buildings are completely made of glass, nor should they be. Most, however, do include the translucent material in some form or another, and that form usually takes the shape of a window.
It may sound basic, but windows actually give us access to life (i.e., air), arguably making them one of the more important elements of architecture. Windows shield us from harmful conditions outside, allow light into our living spaces and help ventilate airflow. They do this through an oddly complex composition of hardware, glass and framework all put together with ultimate precision. Think of windows as a miniature — or in some cases, massive — part of the uber-detailed building envelope. You must pay attention to every square inch of the design and its capabilities in order to achieve the smoothest and safest external barrier.
Basic components of a traditional double-hung window; image via A+ Construction Pro
One brand that’s zeroing in on the future of window performance, not to mention beauty, is Marvin Windows and Doors. A Minnesota–based manufacturer, the company offers made-to-order custom designs with exclusive features and high levels of energy efficiency. They’re constantly challenging the industry standard for windows of all sizes and shapes. To better understand the latest trends in window design and what architects need to know about detailing them, Architizer spoke with Marvin’s senior product manager Kris Hanson.
Sydney Franklin: What is your most popular product, in terms of sales, to date?
Kris Hanson: Casement and double-hung windows in wood-clad remain some of our most popular styles. We find that homeowners, architects and builders alike still gravitate towards the beauty of natural wood to bring warmth and character to interior spaces. At the same time, we’re seeing a desire to take traditional window styles, such as the casement and double-hung, and modernizing them using finishes, sizes and options. Homeowners are selecting double-hung, but in larger sizes with a narrow frame and dark colors, putting a modern twist on a classic design.
Marvin Ultimate Double Hung Next Generation
Section operating detail of Marvin’s Double Hung Windows; image via Marvin
Our Marvin Ultimate Double Hung Next Generation is available in sizes up to 5 feet wide and 10 feet tall and can be paired with our Matte Black Hardware and Designer Black finish for a cleaner, simple aesthetic. We also offer the industry’s largest wood-clad casement windows — the Marvin Contemporary Casement, the Marvin Ultimate Casement and the Ultimate Replacement Casements — available in sizes up to 8 feet tall and 4 feet wide.
What is a key piece of window hardware that you think architects and homeowners underestimate?
Hardware in general is undervalued because many people tend to look at a crank or lock only as a functional piece instead of a design element. Hardware can really change the look of a window and should be viewed as an important part of the overall design aesthetic, an opportunity to make a statement. Hardware styles are going one of two ways: Blend in or stand out. Our Marvin Black Hardware subtly blends into our Designer Black finish, but if you are looking for more contrast, it looks equally as good on a standard white finish.
Marvin’s Matte Black Hardware
What is Marvin doing to promote energy efficiency within architecture?
Architects are seeking windows and doors that make customization standard practice and meet the growing demand for big views. However, performance is not negotiable from an architect’s perspective. They need products that have strong performance ratings and thermal performance.
Marvin offers the widest selection of oversized windows and doors featuring clean lines and lots of glass without sacrificing energy efficiency or high-performance-grade ratings. The Marvin Contemporary Casement features a flush exterior frame and sash as well as a narrow frame for massive views and streamlined sight lines but with up to a PG50 performance rating. Our new Clad Ultimate Bi-Fold Door is available with a standard .28 U-Factor rating (number indicating the rate of heat loss) and a performance sill option that achieves a PG40 rating. We believe that stylish design and high performance can go hand in hand, and we’re regularly proving it.
Marvin’s Clad Ultimate Bi-Fold Doors
Marvin’s massive collection of window products — from their traditional designs to their stunning, singular corner window — offers architects the chance to practice precision when detailing the right aperture for their design. Not every wall can be clad in glass, so beautifully encased window systems are the next best thing that shines a light on the importance of this architectural element.
The Main Entry Deadline for Architizer's 2025 A+Product Awards is Friday, December 6. Get your brand in front of the AEC industry’s most renowned designers by submitting today.
Images via Marvin