USA

Black aluminum windows in a historic townhouse in Manhattan – case study

place

New York, Manhattan , USA

Preservation commissioner requirements often limit the range of types, designs, or materials for windows and doors. This issue is well known in Manhattan’s townhouses, where many historic buildings are located.

However, the story of my client Jack from Black Square Builders shows that the restoration process doesn’t need to be a nightmare if you have access to a wide variety of custom windows at affordable prices.

About the client

debesto’s client: Jack Szewczyk, Project Manager at Black Square Builders


Project: historic townhouse
Location: New York, United States of America

visit Black Square Builders website

historic townhouse project in New York with European windows from debesto

The challenge: Combining historic design with cost-efficiency

Jack has extensive experience in installing European windows in the U.S. With over 20 years of expertise, he has successfully managed a wide range of residential projects.

We’ve been collaborating for several years now, and this time, Jack’s company is working on the reconstruction of a beautiful renaissance revival townhouse in Manhattan, not far from Central Park.

The project requires meeting strict technical specifications, particularly in designing windows that fit within the historic character of the building, while still delivering strong thermal performance and cost-efficiency.

black aluminum windows and doors with grilles from Aluprof

Project requirements

  • Meet preservation commissioner requirements for historic buildings
  • Meet the investor’s usability, design, and budget requirements
  • Ensure cost-effectiveness to achieve higher project margins
  • Use high-performance products

The solution: black aluminum windows at the back wall

To bring everything together—cost-efficiency, high performance, a modern-historic design, and compliance with all formal requirements—the building will have several types of windows installed: aluminum windows on the rear façade and wood windows on the front.

In this case study, we’re focusing on the rear. We’ve chosen to use Aluprof frames there, which provide excellent value for the money, along with grilles to mimic the building’s historic design.

black aluminum windows Aluprof tilt and turn

Products chosen for the project:

Custom options:

  • black matt frame color
  • hidden hinges
  • glued grilles (muntin bars)
  • tempered glass
  • opening limiters

The results: a modern historic design that meets formal requirements

Every architect, contractor, or design-build professional who works with heritage buildings knows how challenging it can be to bring everything together without excessive costs or poor design results.

During my time at debesto, I’ve gained experience with similar projects and always strive to find cost-effective optimizations for our customers. Additionally, through consultations with our technologists, we ensure that the selected windows meet all essential requirements.

Project gallery of black aluminum windows and doors:

What did Jack and his company gain?

Meeting the requirements of the preservation commissioner

A wide variety of custom products in one place

Cost-efficiency without losing design quality

How does Jack feel about working with debesto?

I decided to work with debesto thanks to Patryk, who quickly earned my trust. He was very responsible and responded to my questions promptly. 

In this industry, this is important because time is money. Any delay in responding to our clients can result in them going to another contractor.

As for the European windows themselves, their quality is higher, and the prices are lower. The difficulty level of installing European windows is different; they are heavier than American ones and require more precision. However, in the end, if I can pay less and get better quality, I choose windows from Poland over American ones.

Jack Szewczyk, Project Manager at Black Square Builders

Patryk Lakucewicz debesto

about author

Patryk Łakucewicz

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.



Connect with me

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