Contemporary architecture attempts to maximize daylight, minimize ornamentation, and connect interiors to the outdoors (biophilia). Fenestration plays a great role in achieving this aesthetic. This course will discuss how to fill very large openings with mulled windows, punched-opening window walls, moving walls with large doors, and timber curtain walls. The course will identify window and door styles, design options, and performance measures that must be considered when specifying oversized openings for both residential and commercial projects.

Learning Objectives

  • Understand the importance of fenestration in contemporary and modern mountain architecture and how fenestration is used in these buildings for daylighting, views, and a connection to the landscape.
  • Examine the concepts of biophilic and sustainable design and why wood windows, doors, and curtain walls should be used to achieve these design goals.
  • Identify wood fenestration products that can be used to create walls of windows in both residential and commercial projects.
  • Explore design considerations, as well as glazing options that are imperative for occupant safety and comfort when designing with large expanses of glass.

Pre-Requisite: Basic knowledge of windows.