Reasons behind the aluminium window and door systems trends in modern architecture, and why it’s not going away soon
Understanding the market
Aluminium has a steady upward trend in the UK Market. In this article, we are going to discuss the current trends of aluminium windows and aluminium doors and why they are the product of choice when it comes to extensions and renovations in London and the whole of the UK.
We had the pleasure of speaking to Pencil and Brick architect Liv Staff, who shared his expert opinion on the benefits aluminium systems provide to homeowners. But first, it’s important to understand how the demand for aluminium systems created the opportunity for suppliers in the last 20 years, 63,5% of which have included aluminium systems in their portfolio compared to 27,7% in 2006. We should also take into consideration how many new glazing companies were established in those years.
Aluminium systems now hold 28% of the entire UK home internal and external door window market in residential homes alone. With its consistent growth, it comes to now surprise that the market share for aluminium window and door systems is predicted to grow even more over the coming years.
What are homeowners really buying?
One of the biggest reasons aluminium systems have become so widely used is that homeowners are not just buying the frame. The interview with Pencil and Brick, the design and build architect in London, helped us to understand what clients really want and the reasons behind it. It was easy to understand from the architect’s opinion that clients are really looking to maximise the light coming through, openness, and visual simplicity because aluminium systems also let you connect old and new parts of the house without making the extension feel heavy.
We asked the architect, Liv Staff:
How does floor‑to‑ceiling glazing change the perceived size of a home?
Pencil and Brick: How large a space feels doesn’t necessarily need to align with how large it actually is in square metres. As architects, we know that how a space feels depends on many aspects, some of which can come about through creating optical illusions, using contrasts of scale and careful consideration of light. Large, glazed units can make a space feel bigger in a similar way to a mirror can; they extend your home out beyond the walls into the garden, making the house feel spacious without necessarily having the additional square metres.
Interview with architect Liv Staff, Pencil and Brick
For the homeowner, the benefit is immediate. A kitchen extension can suddenly feel bigger and brighter simply because the glazing has been better considered. The great thing about aluminium as a material is that it can come in hundreds of colours and be matched with the colours of walls, making the transition between the wall and the window even more seamless.
Beyond just looking modern, how do slimline profiles allow architects to play with the proportions of a period property?
I was once told by a conservation officer that large areas of glazing on extensions to period properties (in particular glazed links connecting the original dwelling to an extension) are generally deemed appropriate because glazing is effectively ‘invisible’ and therefore something you can’t see can’t cause harm. Whilst this doesn’t mean everyone should add large glazed boxes to the rear of their property to guarantee planning permission (looking past what a thermally uncomfortable/ space to be in it would be), it does mean glazing allows you to create optical illusions, playing with solids and voids. The thinner the frames, the more this illusion is achieved.
We also wanted to understand the importance of sustainability, especially for architects, so we asked Live Staff, how does the 100% recyclability of aluminium fit into the philosophy of your designs?
I think the 100% recyclability of aluminium is something that really draws us to the material, as sustainability is something we care a lot about and prioritise where we can. Knowing that something you specify won’t just go straight into a landfill gives us peace of mind.
The whole interview with and more insight from the architect Liv Staff can be viewed on the Pencil and Brick’s website.
These answers from the architect again show the versatility of the material and why it’s gaining popularity amongst architects and homeowners.
Why has the market shifted?
In the past, UPVC was chosen for more budget-led projects, and timber was more for traditional residential homes. Aluminium systems now stand in another space where it offers a more refined appearance than standard UPVC and require much less maintenance than timber. For those reasons alone makes the aluminium windows more attractive option for someone who wants something more practical.
In the last decade, it’s changed how people do home renovation in London. It’s been estimated that around 30,000 small home planning applications for things like extensions, conversions and lofts are being submitted. This just shows that aluminium systems are not just a decorative but an essential part of the home expansion landscape.
Bifold or sliding doors for your space?
Choosing between bifold doors and sliding doors will be one of the key decisions on how your extra space feels. Trends show that these aluminium systems are clearly dominating the fulfilment of kitchen and rear extensions, delivering that indoor-outdoor connection that the London homeowners want.
Not all extensions are the same, so it’s important to understand the key differences between these systems. Sliding doors have seen steady growth due it’s ability to offer clearer sight and better performance. Bifold, on the other hand, are extremely popular amongst homeowners who want maximum openness. Together, they outsell traditional patio or French extension projects in London.
Aluminium window trends that will not surprise you
As aluminium windows steadily conquer the window market, there are several styles that are leading the way. Slimline minimalist windows remain the top trend for their incredibly narrow frames that will maximise light coming in and delivering almost frameless appearance. Flush casement windows are also growing in popularity for their sleek architectural finish. Tilt and turn windows are taking their fair share in the market due to their functionality and will not be going away soon.
Black and grey are still dominating the market, whilst other tones like terracotta and olive green are gaining more traction in recent years. The great thing about aluminium systems is that certain brands offer a dual colour. This is a great benefit in managing interior design without compromising the external look.
Aluminium windows and doors - a trend that became a standard
Aluminium door and window systems have moved far beyond a simple trend as they have become a defining architectural element in modern London renovation and extension practices. These systems deliver a minimalistic aesthetic to architects, which is trending and is highly appealing to architects and homeowners.
The future looks exciting, and it seems aluminium is not going away anytime soon. With the technological advances and profiles getting even slimmer, glazing will continue to push the limits of what’s possible in extensions and renovations. It’s important to understand your needs and choose the right system as this investment will serve for at least 30 years.