No building is an island — architecture only exists in the context of its setting. With that in mind, navigating the dynamic between indoors and outdoors becomes an important part of the design process. Is there a great tree (or, if you’re lucky, a full forest of them) to the east? That seems like a great spot to go big on glazing — provided you pick a solution that’s ready to control solar gain and prevent heat loss. On the other hand, as anyone who lives next to a boisterous neighbour can attest, there’s also a certain appeal to being able to close a sturdy front door and completely seal off the outside world. Below, we showcase a selection of standout windows and doors that are carefully customized to their context.

Windows

1

Hummingbird Laneway by Thermal Aluminum & Glass

Window placements in laneway projects can require some serious architectural acrobatics — and this Calgary project by Bold Workshop was no exception. “We designed the craziest thing — a wall-to-ceiling-to-roof window in a trapezoidal shape along the roofline — in order to get the most beautiful view of the trees,” says principal Kayla Browne. A custom triple-pane solution by Thermal Aluminum & Glass enabled the inventive end result, complete with red frames to match the building’s red exterior.

2

CrystalClear by Guardian Glass

Promote transparency in the workplace with the neutral tone and radical clarity of this Guardian Glass glazing, offered at a lower price point than other low-iron solutions. Choose from thicknesses of six, eight and 10 millimetres, all available with low-E performance coatings.

3

CW50 by Tiltco

Shown in a Muskoka cottage designed by architect Trevor McIvor, a thermally broken aluminum curtain wall from Tiltco frames the surrounding forest in a clean grid. Facades can be built in double or triple-glazed glass with four standard (and many custom) frame finishes, plus standard, SlimLine, structurally glazed or fin designs.

4

RealTone by SageGlass

This electrochromic glass from SageGlass changes its tint throughout the day, avoiding the need for curtains or blinds. Unlike earlier iterations, the dynamic glazing shifts to a neutral grey rather than a cool blue, rendering views closer to reality. Gradient tinting and a Saint-Gobain coating can be added as optional features.

5

Series 8660 by Western Window Systems

Part of the Vantage Line from Western Window Systems, featuring ultra thin frames and thermal break technology, this hinged awning design opens outward from the bottom to let breezes in while keeping fluke rainstorms out. Dual-paned and low-E argon-filled glass are two potential customizations.

Doors

1

Monolith Series 1000 by Bigfoot Door

The wood-grain finish of this Bigfoot Door design matches the natural character of its home’s setting. A thermally broken frame is fitted with multipoint locks for added security, and a fingerprint scanner can be installed for anyone prone to forgetting their keys.

2

Veris Hinge by Therma-Tru

Therma-Tru opens up to the contemporary possibilities of traditional French doors with this entryway duo featuring etched satin privacy glass. (Those who opt for clear, low-E glass instead can also add an optional coating to hide water marks.) Choose from single- or double-grid configurations with standard finish options in white, black and clear anodized aluminum.

3

MultiSlide by Loewen

Smooth, quiet operation defines Loewen’s quad roller-powered doors. The range allows for straight-stacking, bi-parting, pocket and corner configurations that can reach widths of up to 14.6 metres. Frames combine a fibre-glass substrate and aluminum cladding, while the minimalist sills can be installed with a drainage system.

4

Generation 4 MultiSlide by NanaWall

Unveiled at February’s International Builder’s Show, NanaWall’s latest boasts ADA-compliant, lip-free sills that are “barefoot-friendly” and prevent water buildup. Operated on Gothic arch rollers, doors can be opened in all directions.

5

V2 Swing Door by LaCantina

LaCantina streamlined this silhouette to maximize views, reducing stile and rail thicknesses to just 5.4 centimetres while enabling large panels of up to 1.2 metres wide and 3.7 metres tall. Along with aluminum and real wood interior finish options, the design also offers magnetic lock capabilities.