Windows in urban design

Urban design concerns the planning and design of towns, cities and other forms of urban areas or zones in the built environment, whilst considering the needs for particular designs of buildings, transport systems and provision of essential services.

Over the years, the principles of what is considered amongst good urban design have evolved and it comes as no surprise that sustainability and smart solutions are at the forefront today. We’re taking a closer look at the role of windows in good urban design and how as a planning professional, you can make decisions that don’t compromise.

Thermal efficiency

Whether planning buildings for residential, commercial or mixed-use developments, high thermal performance is vital for meeting the modern standards of living, working and leisure, as well as ensuring sufficient weatherproofing.

At Clement Windows, we are continually developing our range to offer the latest thermally advanced glass and air/waterproofing technology, so that our steel windows meet high standards of performance required by Building Regulations and contribute to lower cost energy outgoings.

Plus, with the benefit of our slim sightlines and steel’s ability to create beautiful shapes, you can guarantee that our window ranges maximise thermal efficiency, as well as natural light.

Transparency and street appeal

Interestingly, a study conducted in 2015 found significant links between windows and street appeal or ‘walkability’. Streets with high-quality transparency, meaning the degree in which pedestrians can see what is beyond the street or contained within buildings, create better experiences for pedestrians. Therefore, buildings which feature floor to ceiling windows or highly transparent frontages play an important role in the overall appeal of street design.

Sustainability

Hot on the lips of professionals across almost every industry is, of course, sustainability. However, the good news where steel is concerned is that it’s one of the most recycled materials in the world and has no limits on the amount of times it can be recycled. All of the windows in our range are made from recycled steel and truly stand the test of time, often lasting for decades.

If you’re an architect, designer or planning professional looking to implement beautiful, high-performance windows within your work, get in touch today to see how we can help.