Architectural Record's annual contest spotlights the top new doors, windows, glass, and hardware. [Back to Record Products 2017]
Words from our Judges:
Anne Fletcher, AIA, LEED AP
Record Products 2017: Best Windows, Doors, & Openings
PlybooDoor
Krownlab and Smith & Fong have collaborated on a complete sliding-door system of decorative bamboo. Available in six premium finishes, PlybooDoor panels feature a linear pattern and are made in the U.S. from either bamboo or 100% FSC-certified bamboo to help toward LEED certification. Krownlab’s standard finishes are petroleum-free, contain no heavy metal compounds, and emit no odor once dry.
Houdini Unlocked
Bendheim’s Houdini Unlocked Architectural Glass can now be specified in hundreds of colors and styles, including several with an added acoustic privacy benefit of 4 STC (Sound Transmission Class) points. Available in panels up to 23' high, the micro-fluted, daylight-friendly texture of the privacy glass allows light through but prismatically bends it, obscuring objects from view. It’s a cost-effective alternative to complex daylight-control devices.
ViuLite Fire-Rated
This system of hermetically sealed blinds from Unicel Architectural provides privacy and shading for windows and doors while protecting against dirt, germs, and weather conditions. It is now available in a UL-classified, fire-rated version using Pilkington Pyrostop glass from TGP, which has fire ratings of 45, 60, and 90 minutes. Unicel provides various aluminum framing systems, glass stops, and door-kit options to glaze Viulite into interior partitions, sidelights, doors, windows, or curtain walls.
Hydraulic Patch Fitting
This system features a hydraulic self-closing mechanism that is integrated into a sleek, minimal patch fitting, eliminating the need to cut into the floor to accommodate a floor closer. Instead, it only requires a simple anchoring of the base plate to the substrate, which simplifies and speeds up the door-installation process and reduces the amount of visible hardware, such as cover plates and overhead closers.
CLR | multi slide Door System
Panels in Slide Clear’s new minimal-frame, high-performance multi-slide door can be moved to the left, right, or center, providing flexible opening and storage options. The rail track also offers both four- and six-wheeled roller carriage systems, spreading the load. Integrated handles blend into the stiles to reinforce the clean, contemporary look.
PanoramicView Lift & Slide
Updated with greater design flexibility, slimmer frames, and improved airtightness, Zola Window’s PanoramicView Lift & Slide also offers a completely frameless fixed-glass portion and an operable sliding sash. The sash is only 3.5" wide but can carry an 8'-high x 11'-wide glass panel. A quadruple compression seal along the sides and head of the sliding sash offers Passive House–level airsealing and gasket design.
Envy
Overhead Door’s first seamless glass garage-door model is made of ¼" tempered glass attached to a hidden aluminum frame. A translucent glass option is ideal for spaces where some visibility from the interior is desired, such as restaurants, auto dealerships, and retail settings, while opaque glass can be used for spaces where privacy is a priority. The door is available in a maximum width of 18'2" and maximum height of 14'1".
INOX Barn Door Lock
The INOX Barn Door Lock provides privacy for barn doors in residential or commercial interiors. Installed inside the door jamb—instead of on the door itself—the bolt slides securely into the barn door’s discreet strike. A thumb turn (with an ADA option) allows the door to be locked from inside the room, while a release button installed on the outside enables emergency access.
WhisperShade DC
The MechoSystems WhisperShade DC Electronic Drive Unit is a powerful low-voltage motor for shades that are compatible with the MechoNet operating system. The motor offers superior lifting capability (40 pounds, with the shade at a maximum height of 24') while remaining extremely quiet. It also enables shade automation in spaces where the installation of line voltage motors is difficult due to professional labor expenses or construction issues.
Anne Fletcher, AIA, LEED AP
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