Pass-Through Windows: Inspiring the Design of Easy-Open Spaces

The desire for fluid integration between spaces has become increasingly relevant in contemporary architecture. This reflects a search for more connected and harmonious living experiences, especially in urban environments, where the cityscape can saturate us. By transcending conventional boundaries and blurring the lines between interior spaces and the vast outdoors, living environments can be created to celebrate connectivity, sustainability and the well-being that comes from being alongside nature. These types of integration not only make it possible to unite spaces with their surrounding contexts, but also to segment indoor environments when necessary, maintaining a visual connection while keeping them functionally separate. By creating these integrations, architects and designers allow spaces to merge with each other or with nature, promoting a sense of tranquillity, balance and rejuvenation, as well as integration and fluidity—a seamless transition that blurs the distinction between the two. This is achieved through architectural elements such as large windows and doors, which dissolve barriers through the simple action of opening and closing.

Through innovation and the continuous development of products, we can highlight examples such as the Series 7665 Pass-Through Awning Window, produced by Western Windows Systems, a manufacturer of aluminum windows and doors and part of the PGT Innovations family of brands. The product seeks to evoke a feeling of expanding space, with its continuous top hinge and hidden gas struts that guarantee a smooth operation and minimal visual obstruction. In short, by opening or closing the window one can completely transform the space and its boundaries, providing a unique and dynamic experience of opening up to the outside or another room. For example, by installing the pass-through window above a worktop in the kitchen, residents can easily extend the cooking environment to an outside space, allowing for a seamless transition during outdoor meals or entertaining events, encouraging free circulation and promoting a sense of unity in the home.

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Cortesia de Western Window Systems

Its versatility is remarkable, adapting easily to a wide range of architectural layouts, from contemporary homes to more traditional properties. Regardless of the construction style, these windows provide fluidity and integration between spaces, ensuring a cohesive and rewarding experience for residents. Visually, this is a window with frames only at the ends, with the hinge allowing an upward movement and locking in the upper position. In other words, even when closed, the window allows the full passage of light and views, without visual interruptions due to frames and parts. 

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Cortesia de Western Window Systems
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Cortesia de Western Window Systems

The product is part of the Performance Line, a collection of aluminum windows and doors designed to meet stringent building standards and energy codes, including California's Title 24 requirements. Its pieces are therefore more energy efficient and durable and can support larger dimensions. With custom sizing options, it can be adjusted to perfectly fit any project, maximizing both functionality and aesthetic appeal. Whether in contemporary or traditional homes, dimensions range from 24" to 96" wide and 36" to 60" high, providing design flexibility to meet the specific needs of each space.

Some aspects of the product are important to ensure optimal performance and proper functioning. The continuous hinge and pressurized gas struts facilitate the smooth operation of the window, which not only guarantees practicality in everyday use, but also gives the product durability and reliability over time. As for its functionality, the window has been designed to withstand adverse weather conditions. When Sill Option is selected, the design allows it to receive direct rain without compromising its operation, effectively functioning as an awning when necessary. With a standard sill, the window offers water resistance up to the maximum industry standard, guaranteeing protection against infiltration and preserving the integrity of your home.

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Cortesia de Western Window Systems

The product offers a variety of finishing options to complement the style of any room. From Dark Bronze and Satin Anodized finishes to custom options, the window can be adapted to the aesthetics of each home, ensuring perfect integration. Establishing direct connections between internal and external spaces, these innovations in window operation promote a feeling of spaciousness and freedom, facilitating the entry of natural light and the circulation of fresh air throughout the home. Their presence not only enhances the functionality of the environment, but also evokes an atmosphere of serenity and well-being, creating a refuge where the boundaries between indoor and outdoor life dissolve into a harmonious fusion, as well as opening up possibilities for integration between the internal spaces themselves.

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Cite: Souza, Eduardo. "Pass-Through Windows: Inspiring the Design of Easy-Open Spaces" [[pt] Pass-Through Windows: Inspiring the Design of Easy-Open Spaces] 29 Mar 2024. ArchDaily. Accessed . <https://www.archdaily.com/1013884/pass-through-windows-inspiring-the-design-of-easy-open-spaces> ISSN 0719-8884

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