Award-Winning Installation in Cambridge
When this project first came to us, it wasn’t a simple window replacement.
It was a complete architectural glazing transformation, combining steel-look aluminium windows, Origin OB36+ external doors, internal steel-look door systems and a contemporary canopy, all required to work together as one cohesive design.
The architect’s render was confident and balanced. Georgian symmetry above. Slim steel-look glazing below. A clean canopy projection tying the elevation together.
The brief was simple:
Deliver the vision. Without compromise.
The Brief
From the outset, Our clients were clear about what they wanted:
- Slimmer sightlines
- Maximum natural light
- Authentic steel-look glazing bars
- Improved thermal performance
- Exact colour consistency across systems
- A canopy that felt integrated, not added on
This wasn’t about buying products, it was about building an elevation.
Early Design & Technical Collaboration
This project required close coordination between:
- Client
- Architect
- Building control
- Multiple aluminium system manufacturers
Several key technical decisions shaped the final result.
Triple Glazing vs Sash Weight
The client wanted to reduce U-values and improve thermal efficiency.
Triple glazing was approved for all aluminium windows, delivering stronger thermal performance for a modest uplift.
However, when assessing triple glazing for the larger Origin OB36+ door sets (2320mm high x 2477mm wide), we identified a critical issue:
Triple glazing would push the sashes beyond the manufacturer’s maximum weight limits.
Rather than forcing the specification and risking long-term performance issues, we advised a balanced solution:
- Triple glazing for all windows
- Improved specification Double glazing retained on larger sliding and French door sets
The result achieved improved energy performance without compromising smooth operation or system integrity.
Experience makes the difference here.
Building Regulations & Egress Compliance
Initial discussions suggested certain windows may need to comply with escape requirements due to the loft conversion.
We proposed alternative transom positions and glazing configurations to maintain compliance while protecting aesthetics.
Following liaison with the architect and building control, confirmation was received that the creation of a protected stairwell removed the requirement for egress-compliant windows.
The original heritage proportions could remain untouched.
Design integrity preserved.
Showroom Visit & Final Specification
A visit to our Norfolk showroom allowed the finer details to be reviewed in person.
Our client selected RAL 7021 (Black Grey) a refined alternative to pure Jet Black, offering depth and architectural softness.
We confirmed with Aluco that RAL 7021 was a standard finish, with no cost uplift.
Glazing bars, frame profiles, hardware and finishes were reviewed side by side to ensure alignment across:
- Origin external doors
- Aluco heritage windows
- Internal Aluco steel-look door systems
When multiple systems meet on one elevation, alignment must be exact.
Origin OB36+ Steel-Look External Doors
The rear elevation features multiple Origin OB36+ steel-look French doors.
Chosen for their ultra-slim 36mm sightlines, these doors deliver a contemporary industrial aesthetic without overwhelming the brick façade.
Key detailing included:
- Additional vertical glazing bars for symmetry
- Horizontal bar alignment across adjacent openings
- Bespoke externally glazed Juliette balustrade to the first-floor bedroom
- Carefully balanced panel configurations to avoid weight limitations
The result is structured, refined, and architecturally grounded.
Triple Glazed Steel-Look Aluminium Windows
The upper elevations and key openings were completed with Aluco heritage-style aluminium windows.
Specification highlights:
- Triple glazing for improved U-values
- Slim heritage glazing bars
- Carefully positioned transoms
- Concealed drainage
- RAL 7021 Black Grey finish
The Georgian-style windows crown the property with symmetry and traditional proportion, while maintaining modern thermal performance.
Internal Steel-Look Doors – Cohesive Design Language
This project extended internally with four bespoke steel-look door systems, including:
- 2500mm wide glazed French doors with sidelights
- Two pocket sliding door systems
- Mirrored utility room sliding door
- Consistent horizontal and vertical glazing bars throughout
Maintaining bar alignment internally and externally was critical to achieving a unified architectural language.
The interior now mirrors the exterior, uninterrupted light, consistent geometry, clean linear structure.
The Canopy – Structural Subtlety
The architect’s render featured a slim contemporary canopy projecting over the terrace.
Multiple systems were assessed, including our Prime and Cubo veranda options, balancing:
- Roof incline
- Structural integrity
- Future adaptability
- Visual bulk
- Budget considerations
The final specification delivered a cubic aluminium roof system that integrates seamlessly with the rear elevation while maintaining architectural lightness.
Challenges & Solutions
Premium glazing projects are defined by how challenges are handled.
Balancing Performance & Operability
Large-format doors and triple glazing can conflict. We specified intelligently to improve thermal performance without exceeding sash weight limits.
Protecting Architectural Proportion
Early egress discussions could have altered window symmetry. Direct liaison with building control preserved the intended design.
Multi-System Alignment
Different manufacturers require careful coordination. Colour, bar placement and sightlines were aligned through detailed survey and showroom confirmation.
Canopy Integration
Selecting the correct roof system ensured incline, structure and aesthetics worked together, not against each other.
From Render to Reality
Architectural renders are aspirational, execution is everything.
Brick openings were prepared with precision. Sightlines were balanced. Bar positions were cross-checked across systems.
The completed installation mirrors the original render, but with added depth, texture and presence.
Installation of the Month – December 2025
This project was awarded Origin Installation of the Month.
Recognition was based on:
- Technical execution
- Design integration
- Proportional accuracy
- Quality of installation
Origin described the project as:
“Georgian-style windows crown the home with symmetry and traditional proportion, while Soho-inspired OB36+ bifold doors below introduce slim sightlines and Jet Black contrast, grounding the elevation with a refined, modern architectural edge.”
For us, the award reflects the unseen detail, preparation, coordination and installation precision.
Project Summary
Location: Hills Road
Scope of Works:
- Origin OB36+ steel-look aluminium doors
- Triple glazed Aluco heritage aluminium windows
- Internal steel-look aluminium door systems
- External glazed Juliette balustrade
- Contemporary aluminium canopy installation
Thinking About a Steel-Look Aluminium Transformation?
This project demonstrates what’s possible when:
Architect, Client and Installer Work collaboratively from day one.
If you’re planning a steel-look aluminium renovation, loft conversion glazing package or complete rear elevation transformation, early technical input makes all the difference.
Design is in the detail.
And detail is where we thrive.
Ready to Transform Your Outdoor Space?
Azure Outdoor Living can help design and install the perfect outdoor solution for your home.
Call us today on: 01362 470770
Email: info@azureoutdoorliving.com
Or visit our Norfolk showroom to see the Lusso system in action.
