3 proven tips for European windows meeting US preservation standards – case study
place
New York
,
USA
We know from our clients’ experience that meeting the requirements of a preservation commissioner can be a challenge. Discover a success story of an architect Christoper who improved solutions for a historic project located in Brooklyn.
Learn how we found a balance between aesthetic requirements and cost-effectiveness. I can tell you already that there was a happy end to this challenging project thanks to a few clever ideas!
What did Christopher and his company gain?
OPTIMIZING SOLUTIONS
We increased customer profitability thanks to optimization: finding a balance between requirements and cost-effective solutions
UNDERSTANDING ARCHITECT`S NEEDS
We ensured a smooth project consultation process thanks to the engagement in details
FIT IN TIGHT BUDGET
Competitive prices and a large selection of European windows were much more attractive than those of local suppliers
About Model Practice
Customer: Christopher Lee, architect at Model Practice Architecture firm Project: historical residence Location: New York, United States of America Experience in the field: over 20 years Experience in importing windows: No
The challenge: how to meet historic regulations being on a tight budget and timeliness?
Our customer Christopher had an interesting project with a historic residence in Brooklyn. Brooklyn is known for its unique historical significance, however, tight budget and tight timeliness together with preservation commissioner requirements were challenging.
He was searching for a solution and fortunately, his architect friend recommended he work with debesto. – My trust in debesto was reinforced after speaking with another architect who was very satisfied with the products – says Christopher. He contacted us and we set up a business consultation.
During the video meeting, Chris shared with me his project requirements:
historical compliance: the building had to meet preservation commissioner standards
thermally broken window frames with insulated glass units, and Low-E performance coatings
tempered glass (as required by local code)
compatible bug screens for all operable window units
The solution: smart optimizations
For debesto simply preparing a quote for windows that meet specifications is not enough. As a business consultant, I care about the profitability of the solution proposed for the client.
Therefore, in Chris’s project, we looked for optimizations that would allow him to meet the conservationist’s expectations and at the same time fit within the budget:
false arches,
tilt & turn, sash-style windows,
steel-look windows.
debesto engagement in fine-tuning details, like window profile colors and handle types, made the work much smoother.
This was particularly important since our projects often involve both historical and modern requirements.
Christopher Lee, architect
The project called for several windows to be arched. We achieved this with a clever solution: a false arch was creatively used in the façade.
We could meet requirements without increasing the cost of the entire project.
That way Chris could meet historical look regulations and also have high-standard operable European windows.
Tip #3: aluminum, steel-look window
Instead of expensive steel windows, use narrow-frame aluminum windows in color that mimic steel.
For this window project we recommended a hidden sash to increase the effect of a modern, narrow window. Meanwhile, by setting the anthracite color of the aluminum window, we gained the look of steel that the client wanted
– says debesto technologist Agata Toczek.
The result: saving money on a historical project
The challenge in the project with Chris involved finding suitable architectural solutions for a historical building. We skillfully balanced aesthetic requirements with practical and cost-effective solutions. All technical requirements have been met and Chris has gained financial savings.
People at debesto are knowledgeable about the product and what concerns architects have.
debesto consultants showed great flexibility in helping us meet requirements,rnespecially in historical projects that required specific window profiles.
Christopher Leee, architect
Our goal at debesto is to increase client profitability. In 9 out of 10 projects, we find profitable optimizations for our clients. This was also the case for a project in Brooklyn.
For a US client, the search for a custom solution would have involved hundreds of phone calls and emails failing or a very high price from a local supplier. Because we are a window broker with access to more than 3,000 manufacturers in Poland and have no loyalty agreements with any manufacturer, we can choose the optimal solution for almost any project.
Historic-style windows were carefully secured for the shipping from Poland to the U.S.
How does Christopher feel about working with debesto?
debesto doesn’t just give the window but figures out every accessory and every detail that comes with the window so that it meets the design intent of the architect. And they can coordinate that level of detail from across the globe.
People at debesto are knowledgeable about the product and what concerns architects have. debesto consultants showed great flexibility in helping us meet requirements, especially in historical projects that required specific window profiles.
What I value the most in working with debesto is the communication and support. I think that’s very important, especially when projects are on tight timelines and tight budgets. Despite the time difference challenges, consistent presence and responsiveness are key.
debesto’s assistance with logistics was also significant for me, especially support in coordinating door-to-door delivery was incredibly helpful.
Christopher Lee, Architect and partner at Model Practice
Discover how you can lower the costs of your building project. In 9 out of 10 cases, we find profitable optimizations. Join US customers who have already saved millions of dollars!
As a Key Account Consultant at debesto.com, I specialize in the aluminum windows and patio doors, with 7 years of experience assisting US building companies.
I’ve completed over 700 orders, showcasing a hands-on understanding of big business needs. I offer practical expertise alongside a proactive approach to meet project goals.
Outside of my professional life, I’m an enthusiast of sports, especially soccer.
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