Our Victorian Licensee and longest standing fabricator has been awarded twice for the amazing Alvie House at the 2023 Australian Glass & Window Industry National Design Awards! Alvie House was awarded National Highly Commended and People’s Choice Runner Up. An outstanding result for what is such a special project to us here at Thermeco.
European Window Co. Award Entry:
Alvie House is a testament to our commitment to sustainable living, highlighting the importance of quality craftsmanship, cutting-edge design and innovative techniques. The project met the brief by creating a home that balances comfort and functionality, embracing the warmth of familiarity whilst offering a defined connection to the natural surroundings.
The project achieved 7.5 stars, thanks to the performance of the thermal break windows, which achieved an average of 2.2 U-value across all the windows and doors. The 3.5-meter-high sliding door was physically tested at that height to ensure compliance with AS2047.
Compliance with the Australian Standard was addressed by using First Rate software, which allowed us to comply without requiring a Deem to Satisfy. Safety was also a top priority, and the building was scaffolded for access to the upper levels, and cranes were used to lift the heavy glass into place, ensuring that no heavy lifting was required.
One of the standout features of Alvie House is the use of Thermally Broken burnished Brass window profiles. This material not only provides extreme longevity but also a unique and elegant appearance. The profiles were imported from SECCO Sistemi in Treviso, Italy, and tested to AS2047 and WERS manufactured locally in Australia. The production involves, cutting, milling, welding and burnishing the Brass profiles.
Double glazed low ‘e’ glass was used throughout the home, in addition the west-facing windows were tinted, chosen to reduce heat transfer during summer. Manufactured in Queensland, motorised micro venetian blinds have been installed in the wet areas so that no window coverings were required in damp places. Pleated block out blinds have been installed inside the double-glazed units in the bedrooms, they are perfect for the bedrooms as they provide full block out and functionality.
“The comfort of living in a home where the frames and glazing have been carefully considered is something that too many people overlook, it makes all the difference.” Carl Costabile.
The connection to the peaceful surroundings where the city lights can be seen in the distance through the treetops are amplified through the beautifully engineered and graceful hand-crafted windows and doors.
As the owner of the company and the client for this project, this is something that I will be forever proud of and grateful for. I believe that it sets a new standard for excellence in window and door manufacturing in Australia and I can bring this experience and passion to future clients and continue to improve and add value to the industry.
