Glass Structures, Skylights, Windows & Doors

As an eco-friendly manufacturer of American made folding glass walls, doors & windows, skylights, and glass structures for over 20 years, Solar Innovations is committed to educating the professionals (and up-and-coming professionals) within our industry. Our team provides ongoing AEC training, please submit your request by clicking here for more information.

Folding glass walls have been a signature product of Solar Innovations® for over 15 years. These systems offer a flexible and customizable opening that can be incorporated into any residential or commercial project, including covered patios, living rooms, decks, enclosed porches, and pool houses. Swing doors can be integrated into the folding glass walls, allowing you to easily enter and exit a room without opening all of the panels. The endless possibilities - including custom color finishes, custom hardware, and high impact ratings - make folding glass walls the perfect opening for any application.

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Our Slide & Stack System is designed to accommodate multiple panels and typically ranges in sizes over 48 inches wide. While the wall is open, the panels stack into a parking bay. Panel parking bays can be parallel or perpendicular to the track, feature multiple bays, exist at one or both ends of the wall, or stack into a pocketed area. In addition, custom bays can be designed to make the most out of any project's spacial constraints. Slide & Stack Glass Walls are top hung systems requiring headers to bear the weight of the unit. Any engineering questions can be discussed furthermore with Solar's in-house engineering team.

Slide & Stack Glass Walls can be utilized for straight, angular, multiple face, and curved openings. In a twin trolley configuration, the dual trolleys are located above the vertical rails of the glass panels, allowing them to slide with greater ease along the track. The 60 degree design of this panel parking bay allows for one hand operation of the stacking panels. Solar Innovations® also designs and engineers custom trolley and stacking configurations.

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Our clear glass walls create a clean and seamless wall with uninhibited views. The unit's non-thermal design makes it a great choice for interior room dividers, but Solar Innovations® can engineer the clear glass wall for exterior use as well, making it an ideal product selection for stadium suites. Panels are typically top hung, however, bottom load sliding options are also available.

Solar's clear glass walls can be designed to operate with multiple configurations. The non-thermal clear glass walls are typically used for interior and light exterior applications. No vertical frame is required, but Solar Innovations® offers mono seal and dual-seal insulating frames that are recommended when the clear glass wall system will be utilized for outdoor applications.

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Solar Innovations® Aluminum Sliding Glass Door Systems expand the view of any living space or commercial area. These systems can be used as external entryways or transitions between two interior spaces. Solar's acoustical sliding glass door systems are the ideal solution for projects that have high sound transmission class (STC) requirements. Although acoustic values are typically specific to the glazing selection, the construction of the frame can greatly influence the acoustical performance. Solar's acoustical sliding glass door systems allow for a 1 3⁄8-inch insulated glazing unit and are a standout product in the industry because they combine enhanced acoustical performance, superior thermal performance, and outstanding functionality.

Available in:
Dual Track Sliding Glass Doors | Multi-Track Sliding Glass Doors | Pocketing Sliding Glass Doors | 90 or 135 Degree No Post Sliding Glass Doors | Motorized Sliding Glass Doors | Oversized Sliding Glass Doors.

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Lift slide doors by Solar Innovations® are your one-stop solution for strength and durability. With panels that rise off the track and move with ease, these doors are an upgrade from your traditional sliding glass doors. The door handle is the home of our lift slide technology; the gaskets in the door are lifted when you turn the handle, which then lifts the panels and allows them to smoothly travel across the track. Once the panels are in place, you turn the handle once more, and the door locks into place.

Standard lift slide units consist of two, three, and four panel units, with a maximum panel size and weight of 440 pounds and 50 square feet. Despite the size, these doors can still be opened with one hand and closed with just the push of a finger. With the best seals available on the market, you won't have to worry about water or harsh winter drafts entering your home or business. In addition, the aluminum profile of the lift slide system allows these doors to provide superior thermal performance.

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Solar offers several side-hinged swing door options that can be customized with decorative glass or wood veneer and are ideal for interior and exterior applications. While swing doors may be one of the simplest and most common door systems, they should not be overlooked when designing and planning out a residential or commercial space. Solar's swing door systems are ideal for front doors, patio doors, entry doors, interior doors, and can also be retrofitted into an already existing structure. With numerous custom decorative glazing options, finishes, matching sidelites, and transom options, these swing doors can either blend in with the aesthetics of a surrounding structure to act as a pragmatic entrance, or they can be the star of the show with the grandeur of a true entry door.

Available in:

Single Doors / Terrace Doors | Double Doors / French Doors | Single Dutch Doors | French Dutch Doors.

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Solar Innovations®' thermally-isolated aluminum pivot doors are ideal for over-sized openings in interior and light exterior applications. The “hinges" - also known as the pins of the pivot door - are located at the top and bottom of the door, allowing the unit to pivot instead of swing open. Customers can choose to have a center-pivot door or have a custom pivot point.

Pivot door pins are located at the top and bottom of the frame, allowing the door to pivot. Each door's pivot point is custom located by request; center and off center pivot locations are available (subject to engineering approval). The pivot door matches that of our folding glass walls. This allows for transoms and sidelights to be constructed from the pivot door frame, creating the same sightlines for each unit.

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Tilt Turn windows utilize the same profile system as our window systems. As a result, the seamless integration of windows provides a uniform appearance and customization beyond compare. Solar Innovations' tilt turn windows are a unique and functional European window, applicable in endless applications. While these windows have been manufactured for almost a hundred years, starting out in Europe in the early 1900′s, they have only recently become popular in the United States.

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Awning windows by Solar Innovations, Inc. provide exceptional performance for an economical price. This type of window hinges at the top of the frame, allowing the bottom to be pushed outward. There is a lock on the interior, which can be unlocked and the window will push to the outside. Screens can be applied on the interior so you can still enjoy a fresh breeze of air without the intrusion of insects.

All awning windows manufactured by Solar Innovations, Inc. are constructed out of durable aluminum. There are six standard finishes and two anodized finishes available, along with any custom color your job may require. The look of a wood window is available with the use of a veneer applied to the frame. Various wood species are available, including mahogany, pine, birch, and Douglas fir.

If you already have awning windows, but they are in some way damaged, Solar Innovations, Inc. offers repair services. An install team can come to the job site and are typically able to repair the awning window. Awning window replacement is also an option if the windows are beyond repair.

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Casement windows are one of the most popular window styles in the world today. This system has been in existence since the beginning of the 18th century. First constructed out of iron and true leaded divisions, the casement window was only for the very wealthy. However, the industrial revolution changed this due to the introduction of mass production of glass and wooden frames. Today wooden casement windows are still very popular, but will rot, warp, possibly succumb to termites, and require stain or paint maintenance. To avoid these flaws all Solar Innovations® casement windows are made from an aluminum thermal frame, which helps with insulation and protection from the elements.

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Hopper windows are hinged at the bottom and tilt in to offer increased ventilation. Hopper windows are often paired with other fixed or operable windows and doors or incorporated into transoms. Basement windows are another popular use for hopper windows. Windows in basements are essential for light and ventilation, and the hopper window fulfills both needs in the limited space typically provided by basements.

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Folding windows by Solar Innovations® are almost identical to folding doors. These windows can be utilized for both commercial and residential applications. The appeal of folding windows is the ability to completely open a view. There are no bars or mullions obstructing the windows when they are open, which allows for a beautiful view. Various sill options can be utilized for each application and to meet design and performance requirements.

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Stacking glass windows by Solar Innovations® are a smaller version of a stacking glass wall and are used in similar applications. This window system is suitable for residential use but is more commonly found in commercial applications. Stacking windows are often found in stadiums, used to divide conference rooms, or placed on the exterior of a restaurant or hotel. A stacking window system slides along a track and stacks into the wall at the end or makes a turn and then stacks into a remote location. This allows you to achieve breathtaking views without mullions or bars interrupting the sight line.

Also, there are no standard sizes; all stacking windows are custom design to fit your opening. Furthermore, the number of panels the project requires and size of each panel will determine the dimensions.

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Curtain walls are an excellent way to bring natural light into a room while remaining protected from the elements. All curtain walls manufactured by Solar are constructed out of durable aluminum. The benefit of an aluminum curtain wall is the reduction in required maintenance. Aluminum curtain walls will not rot, rust, warp, expand with heat, or require constant finishing. Curtain walls are listed on the
Construction Specifications Institute website under the MasterFormat. All Solar Innovations® curtain wall frames are custom built to meet the exact dimensions of your opening.

Solar Innovations® offers eight standard frame finish colors and unfinished aluminum; custom finish options are available at an additional cost.

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Our Wood Curtain Wall system has been skillfully created to accommodate all design conditions, whether they be vertical, sloped, or custom skylight. Consistent with all of our quality products, Timber Walls dependably maintain a high level of performance through their positive drainage principles and thermally-broken aluminum profiles. The innovative wood curtain walls combine the warmth and beauty of a natural wood interior with the durability and longevity of an aluminum exterior to create the perfect solution for those seeking a high-performing, green building system.

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A greenhouse is a glass or polycarbonate structure that is primarily used for growing plants. High quality greenhouses are a staple in Solar Innovations
®'s manufacturing portfolio. Solar's durable aluminum greenhouse structures are built to last a lifetime and can be engineered in any size, shape, and configuration to fit every individual's needs. Solar Innovations® can customize and design greenhouses for everyone from backyard gardeners and urban plant-lovers to professional horticulturists alike.

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A Conservatory is a glazed structure with a glass roof and walls that serve as a charming solution for enjoying the outdoors without having to leave your home. Conservatories can be attached to existing buildings or manufactured as standalone structures. Conservatories can be used year-round for entertaining and dining or designed as commercial showrooms. Solar Innovations
®'s classic conservatories are custom designed unlike any other with elegant lines and superior detail. Solar has the in-house production capabilities to create custom elegant structures in any size or configuration with no limit to the amount of windows, doors, or decorative elements.

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Sunrooms are the perfect four-season addition to increase the view and create a focal point for any home or business. Solar Innovations®'s custom designed structures include durable aluminum framework. They are tailored with the most comprehensive line of aluminum accessories in the industry.

Solar Innovations® can design aluminum structures with various options for solid wood or wood laminate interiors. Glazed structures combine the strength and quality Solar Innovations® is known for with the warmth that makes a house a home. Our structures can also be outfitted with heating and cooling units, which will allow you to enjoy your addition year round.

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Solar Innovations® conservatories are available in beautiful custom wood interiors. Our designs pair the beauty of Traditional English wood conservatories with the durability and dependability of aluminum exteriors. Traditional rafter profiles, moldings, trims, and decorative elements can be added to create a historical atmosphere, or a modern look can be achieved with simple decor and clean lines. Moldings and trims on the structure can be formed to match existing architectural elements on your house. The same is true for wood interior panels, which can be customized to virtually any design selected.

Wood possess a warm visual appearance and physical touch; it also acts as an excellent insulator. Wood conservatories can be used for multiple applications. Common uses include dining space, work areas, or a gathering space. The space's use will create the function of the interior. A wooden conservatory will provide a classic English element to your home.

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Nothing can beat the warmth and grace of a warm natural wood interior in your sunroom. Solar Innovations® offers a wide variety of options in wood sunrooms to create a summer feel all year round. Whether you want traditional or modern, Solar can customize all wood interior panels to match existing architectural elements on your house.

Thermal efficiency tends to be higher with a wooden structure because wood allows for lower U-values. The lowered U-value means that the room will maintain a more even temperature and will not lose as much heat in the cold winter months. All of Solar Innovations® systems are thermally isolated which prevents the metal frame from touching the glass at any point.

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Canopies typically consist of an overhead aluminum awning with supporting posts and exposed sides, or completely free span. Canopies can range from a simple overhead barrier to an elaborate radius barrel vault design, both of which ward off rain and snow. Solar Innovations® designs canopies for both commercial and residential applications.

Solar Innovations® creates durable aluminum canopy systems that will withstand exposure to the elements for years to come. Unlike wood canopies, aluminum will not warp, rot or require constant finishing maintenance. We offer standard, designer, and custom color choices for ultimate design customization, or to match your building's existing facade. The shape and size of each canopy is completely custom. We are able to design to virtually any specification including hurricane requirements and high snow loads.

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People across the world spend countless hours opening, closing, and cleaning their pools and spas. You can devote more time enjoying your pool or spa by surrounding it with an enclosure by Solar Innovations®. Creating a custom enclosure allows you to enjoy your pool or spa year round. The combination of our talented design team and our superior structures makes Solar Innovations®
the glass and polycarbonate pool and spa enclosure manufacturer of choice.

With experience spanning over five decades, our superbly designed, thermally enhanced aluminum system provides a comfortable, sheltered environment for year round enjoyment of your pool or spa. The choice of various glazing options allows the charm and beauty of Mother Nature to enter, while keeping out snow, wind, rain, leaves, and insects. We use a non-corrosive aluminum framework and stainless steel fasteners that withstand the test of time in the high humidity, chemically filled environment of a pool or spa enclosure.

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A pool house (also known as a pool cabana) is an alternative to a pool enclosure, it is generally a small structure that sit near the pool and can serve as a multi-purpose space for users. Almost any of Solar Innovations®'s products can be incorporated into of a pool house. One of Solar Innovations®‘s glazed structures can be used as a free standing pool house, or any operable door or window system can be added to a conventional construction pool house to enhance function and aesthetics.

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Glass walkways are typically pathways enclosed on all four sides which connect two buildings or provide a sheltered walking area directly from the street. Glass Walkways can range from a simple lean-to attachment to a free standing decorative thoroughfare. Solar Innovations®' walkways can be used for both commercial and residential applications. Common uses for commercial aluminum walkways are healthcare facilities, schools, hotels, and businesses. Residential applications include passages between a home and pool enclosure or the home to a detached garage. All of these applications provide shade and protection from the weather as people pass from one location to another, while enjoying the view around them. Solar Innovations® offers many cost effective options for both residential and commercial walkways which can be customized to meet each project's requirements.

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Solar Innovations® offers fixed skylights in virtually any sizes and can accommodate a wide range of design requirements, including impact certified options and Florida Product Approved options. Because Solar Innovations®
has designed several different style tube skylight systems, virtually any roof glazing need can be met. Attaching to virtually any substrate, Solar Innovations®'s structures are suited for both residential and commercial applications without size or design limitations.

If you would like to have your new Solar Innovations® fixed skylight installed or have a fixed skylight in need of repair, the Solar Innovations® service and installation crew will be able to help you! With over 16 years of experience, the installation and service team can service or replace any fixed skylight.

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Operable Skylights provide the benefits of increased natural light and ventilation. With a variety of operation possibilities, including Venting, Retractable, and 90 degrees Operable, the design possibilities are endless; each skylight is designed and built completely custom to fit your project.

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A 90 degrees operable skylight lifts the glazed unit or “lid" 90 degrees from the plane of the curb. This type of skylight has different applications and specific functions, one being ventilation. A typical ridge vent or standard operable skylight only opens a few degrees, allowing small amounts of ventilation. The 90 degrees unit fully opens, allowing optimum amounts of ventilation into a space. Daylight is a desired effect of all skylights, and the 90 degrees series allows ample levels of daylight.

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Welded Curb Skylights are uniquely designed to eliminate water penetration. These units are attached through the side of the curb, not the top, as is typical of many other industry skylights. By attaching at the sides, the chance of long term water penetration through the sill pan is minimized.

Every Welded Curb Skylight base is constructed of durable aluminum, which will endure exposure to the elements for years to come. Solar Innovations®
can provide an ornate wood interior if desired. Various metal cladding options are available as well. All skylights can be customized to virtually any size, shape, and specific design requirement, such as snow, wind, water, and even hurricanes. Any industry glazing can be utilized in your skylight, including high performance glass and polycarbonate. Shading options are also available to reduce heat gain and adjust lighting as desired.

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Walkable Skylights by Solar Innovations® are the ideal solution for any roof top or decking application. Made from sturdy aluminum, Solar's in-house engineering team will provide details and point loading specific to each customer's situation.

Walkable skylights by Solar Innovations® provide the same natural daylighting solutions as a traditional skylight, while serving double duty as a walkable surface. They are custom engineered to meet the end user's specific requirements and provide unique architectural appeal. Although walkable skylights can be used for exterior applications, they work best when located below a cover roofer. For natural daylighting options, placement below an existing skylight is ideal.

Because of the custom nature and engineering requirements required for these skylights, Solar Innovations® suggests contacting a sales designer in the early stages of your project to ensure all requirements are met.

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Solar Innovations® provides the finest aluminum roof lanterns available in the industry today. Initially popular in the Victorian, Edwardian, and Georgian eras, roof lanterns can add an exciting feature to any location.

“Roof lantern" is commonly used to describe a glass structure that sits atop a roof and features custom integration. Roof lanterns are a daylighting architectural element that are located atop a roof to provide a natural lighting element to the space below. Roof lanterns provide natural light comparable to some low voltage/wattage alternatives, while also providing ventilation (with the proper accessories) to ensure adequate flow and efficient air circulation. Roof lanterns can be constructed completely of aluminum, or include a warm wood interior.

Roof lanterns are generally installed above the main roof line. Each system can be incorporated into glazed structures or conventional construction.

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Venting skylights are used to bring fresh air and circulation into a room and operate with the use of a continuous hinge, similar to a ridge vent's function. A venting skylight has a higher profile than that of a ridge vent and offers better air and water performance along with a higher thermal value. Like a ridge vent, venting skylights can be utilized in any glass structure, such as greenhouses and sunrooms. Whereas ridge vents are typically used in-system, an operable system can also be attached to an existing traditional construction roof as a standalone unit. If providing fresh air or extra daylight to a room is your objective, an operable skylight, whether manual or motorized, is a very good solution.

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Solar Innovations® skylights are available in custom wood interiors. Wood skylights pair the beauty of classic wood interiors with the durability and dependability of aluminum exteriors. Moldings and trims on the interior can be formed to match existing architectural elements on your house.

Thermal efficiency tends to be higher with a wooden skylight because wood allows for lower U-values. The lowered U-value means that the room will maintain a more even temperature and will not lose as much heat in the cold winter months. All of Solar Innovations® systems are thermally isolated which prevents the metal frame from touching the glass at any point.

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First of all, when designing a greenhouse, it is probably most important not to overlook items like storage space, shades, and walkways, because they also can be critical to the success of a greenhouse. While it is important to address the use for air circulation for plants, storage space for greenhouse necessities, and ample walkways so you can access your plants.

Glass, acrylic, and polycarbonate compare for use in greenhouse applications. Polycarbonate tends to be less expensive than glass but typically does not maintain as well as glass in the long term. A glass/acrylic structure is more aesthetically pleasing than a poly greenhouse and will as a result blend better with a home's decor. Also, there is also more flexibility in plant growth while using glass. Also, depending on the exact specimen of polycarbonate/acrylic, tit may restrict enough sunlight to diminish growth and blooms in plants. As a result, of selecting glass, the intensity of light can be controlled due to various types of LowE glazing and shading options.

Also, automating your accessories can be as simple as utilizing single stage thermostats and as sophisticated as installing a fully integrated greenhouse automation system. Regardless of the level of automation you choose, since the accessories are therefore designed to work in stages.

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Solar Innovations® will also always strive to meet your specific design needs. Therefore, our goal is to create what you imagine and more. In addition, if you do not see the accessory you are looking for, please contact us directly to further discuss your vision. We can accommodate your every desire, whether it is either for an existing structure or a new, Solar Innovations® creation.

Solar Innovations® decorative elements are also available in our six standard Duracron colors, unfinished aluminum, and two corrosion resistant anodized colors. In addition, any custom paint finish can also be matched to ensure seamless integration of the decorative elements of any greenhouse, conservatory, skylight, or door.

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We offer a wide variety of different shades that can suit the needs of any window configuration you are trying to achieve. Solar's vertical integrations means we are able to supply most items necessary to complete the window and door package needs of our customer completely while our other competitors only will supply simply just the windows. We have a variety of styles and choices when it comes to shade systems and each one has its own benefits and situations where it's more advantageous to use.

If you have questions on any of these systems we provide we encourage you to speak with one of our knowledgeable sales representatives so they can assist you further in choosing the right shades for your situation. Below you will find our list of shade systems we offer but if you do not see a shade system listed your after simply ask us and we would be happy to point you in the right direction.

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Screen systems have been around for a long time and in instances where the harsh elements of insects and light cause a burden on your wonderful new set of Solar Innovations® window and doors products, a screen option is a nice addition. Below you will find a list of different types of screen options for different products we offer here at Solar headquarters. If you do not see a screen option you are searching for, don't hesitate to contact one of our local representatives to get more information.

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Complete Glazing Packages

Curtain Walls

Doors

Skylights

Structures

Windows

Easy Access to Outdoor Areas Without Detracting From the Spectacular Views

The developers of a luxury condominium building in the Ben Franklin Parkway area of Philadelphia, PA wanted to take full advantage of their proximity in the historic city. From the Art Museum, downtown skyscrapers, surrounding parks, and the Rodin Museum located directly next door to the property, unmatched views from each unit was a primary goal of this new construction project. The team at Cecil Baker + Partners Architects designed each of the 27 units to have at least one large opening to a private balcony. Floor-to-ceiling operable glass walls, each over nine ft. tall and varying in widths from six ft. to 18 ft., were chosen for these openings. In addition, two openings, one on the street level and the other on the penthouse level, were situated on an outside corner, creating openings that spanned over 33 ft.

Protecting Guests During Cocktail Hour

Located on the outskirts of Pittsburgh, PA near the Ohio border rests a rustic, log-constructed wedding venue and bed and breakfast. The wedding venue features a main hall, which is fully-encased with operable glass walls, an adjacent, open-air pavilion , that includes a bar and gathering space, and a lakeside gazebo. The owners wanted to expand the versatility concept of the main entertainment space to the bar pavilion with operable glass walls . It was imperative that the space maintained the open-air feel and views of the lake when the weather was cooperative, but could also be protected with glass walls on three sides during inclement weather. The glass walls would also have to match the aesthetics and functionality of the main hall.

Extend the Growing Season

Suburban properties seldom have the yard space to cultivate a vegetable garden and those in the Northeast only see a short, five to six month growing season. To enjoy the fruits of their labor year-round, the owners of this Connecticut residence contacted Solar Innovations® to design, fabricate, and install a stand-alone greenhouse. The structure would need enough space indoors to maintain plants year-round with easy access to an outdoor vegetable garden during the normal growing season. Because of the weather extremes in the Northeast, the structure would need to be equipped with systems to maintain an ideal growing environment year-round.

Finding Operable Walls that Won't Disrupt the Spectacular Scenery

This beautiful, Morganton, NC lakeside home features three large openings that face a serene lake and connect to outdoor living spaces. The homeowners desired a seamless connection between the indoors and outdoors while optimally maintaining the gorgeous views when the openings are closed. Working with the team at Cottonwood Development Company, they agreed to incorporate the largest possible sliding glass doors in their design, to keep the number of vertical stiles to a minimum, and preserving the scenic views.

Building an Attached Glass Enclosure Without Dividing Outdoor Entertainment Areas

When the homeowners were planning to build their dream home on a mountainous, wooded-parcel outside of Colorado Springs, CO, they called on the architects at Design Renaissance to design a home that would take advantage of the gorgeous surroundings. In addition to large window and door openings, the homeowners desired an indoor dining space where they could be enveloped by nature from nearly every direction. The design called for the dining space to have a fireplace, that serviced both the glass enclosure and outdoor patio space, to keep the occupants warm when the weather got cold. In addition, there needed to be multi-directional access from the outdoor kitchen and covered patio area that flanked the enclosure, as well as the main indoor kitchen.

Keeping Fresh Air Circulating All Year Long

When the Spiezle Architectural Group set out to revitalize an aging Senior Living Community, improving the overall quality of life of the residents was the overarching goal of this project. Located in a community with a suburban atmosphere, but within the city limits of Philadelphia, PA, this sprawling retirement community includes 133 apartments that range in size from a 340 sq. ft. studio to a 1,500 sq. ft. two-bedroom, deluxe apartment. Much of the property includes a covered walkway between the units that was exposed to the elements. To increase the energy performance of the buildings and give the residents an enclosed corridor to traverse during inclement weather, the architects planned to incorporate operable doors and windows in the walkways that not only would create a thermal barrier between the units and the outdoors, but also allow fresh air to circulate when the weather is nice.

Consistency Without Sacrificing Quality

When Architect Zachary T. Clanahan designed this beautiful, three-story contemporary home in an exclusive Long Island, NY neighborhood, consistent sight lines and finishes, modern design and an abundance of daylighting were at the forefront of the plan. With 4,390 sq. ft. of glass needed for the fixed and operable openings in this structure, it was imperative to have an architectural glazing system supplier who could design and manufacture all the components, allowing for complete cohesion throughout the project.

Making a Statement in a Historic Building

When the designers for a global co-working and flex space company set out to transform one floor of a historic building into a flexible office space with event and lounge areas, it became apparent that the plan called for an extraordinary solution to divide two of the open spaces. Set in one of the country's first department stores, the Wanamaker Building in Center City Philadelphia, PA, this 42,000 square foot area houses a large dining hall adjacent to an even larger common space. The plan called for a 35 ft. x 10 ft. operable partition between these two spaces that maintained an open-feel for the entire floor.

Adding Dining Space for All Seasons

Restaurant owners from Washington D.C. decided that they wanted to construct an addition to their existing dining area where patrons can engage in the outdoor dining experience while the weather is pleasant and also stay comfortable during the coldest winter days. The owners gave specific requests that the structure includes an insulated roof to keep patrons warm in cold weather while also providing ample ventilation and shade in warmer weather.

Comfort in a Limited Space

In 2014, clients from Bethlehem, Pennsylvania reached out to Solar Innovations to inquire about building a structure surrounding their endless lap pool. There were a few obstacles that had to be considered during the planning and installation process. One being that the clients wanted the ability to utilize their pool during all four seasons and in any weather condition, including the hottest summer days. Also, the structure had to ventilate the humidity that is persistent with pool enclosures. Lastly, there was limited space in the backyard area allotted for the structure, that would also serve as an entertaining space that connects directly to the home.

Unimpeded Views

When building on a property with such an amazing landscape as this Greenwich, CT project, preserving views was crucial. While many would choose to utilize large traditional windows, these homeowners wanted to take advantage of the largest spans of glass possible for their project. Prutting and Company Custom Builders sought the help of Solar Innovations® to incorporate both fixed and operable glazing solutions into this 2015 new construction project. Consistent sightlines, architectural uniformity, and simplicity were the most important design parameters.

Daylighting and Ventilation

New York City's exclusive Ludlow House offers members a luxurious space to dine, enjoy live performances, or share their talents with other like-minded professionals. The goal of this 2014 Soho renovation was to help stimulate the mind and foster creativity by creating a well-ventilated space with the benefits of sunlight, while maintaining the prestigious feel of this establishment. However, achieving proper ventilation in a big city, especially in a structure that has been standing for nearly a century, was no easy task. Stack ventilation, which utilizes a combination of low and high openings to provide excellent air circulation to a space, was the desired outcome for this project. To maximize the existing space and reduce structural changes, their team of designers reached out to Solar Innovations® for a solution.

Up-Scale Dining Under the Stars

Architect Angelo Francis Corva & Associates and the owners of Rare650, a high-end restaurant in Syosset, NY, approached Solar Innovations® with the idea of creating a jawdropping dining experience with a unique atmosphere. This statement piece would have to provide year-round dining, in an up-scale environment that the Long Island steak and sushi restaurant had become known for. The primary goal of the project was to incorporate large spans of glass that would allow patrons to enjoy natural lighting and bring the outside in. In an establishment where a “full house" is common, proper ventilation was imperative.

A Cohesive Look Between Door and Window Systems

The owners of this Long Island, NY beach home came to Solar Innovations® in search of doors and windows that would create a consistent look and feel across their home. They also wanted many of the window systems to be operable. The finishes, hardware, operation, glazing type, and other features would need to be uniform. When doors and windows are ordered from different suppliers, the slightest difference in appearance can destroy the overall aesthetics of a building. A single-source provider would be needed for this job in order to succeed.

Finding Additional Space

Expanding the space in a commercial restaurant setting can be critical to provide excellent service in a crowded environment. This is exactly why the owners of this Brooklyn, NY restaurant and bar approached Solar Innovations® for their 2017 renovation project. Operable walls were in the scope of the project from its inception, but providing ideal operation and meeting accessibility requirements, while maintaining the aesthetic of the existing structure, presented an interesting challenge for the Solar Innovations® design team.