As commercial architecture grows more complex, the role of windows and framing has evolved far beyond basic functionality. Modern solutions must balance visual appeal, thermal performance, structural integrity, and occupant comfort, all while meeting strict compliance requirements.

Whether it's louvres optimising airflow, frames reducing energy loss, or fire-rated windows improving safety, making the right choices in windows and framing can have a huge impact on the final product of a commercial structure. In this article, we look at some of the leading products in this space, and how architects and specifiers are using them to design efficient yet aesthetically pleasing commercial spaces.

Louvre systems

Known for their ability to provide natural ventilation, thermal and solar control without compromising on aesthetics, louvre systems have become an increasingly popular addition to commercial structures. More advanced systems, like opposed-opening louvres, are particularly known for their ability to allow ventilation without sacrificing views. This is especially desirable in high-end commercial or mixed-use structures where aesthetics and occupant experience are closely linked.

One good example is EBSA’s MP2-FL-OP opposed-opening louvre system. Unlike conventional louvres, the MP2-FL-OP system features an opposed-opening blade action, meaning the top blade opens upwards while the bottom blade opens downwards. This unique motion significantly improves airflow and ventilation while maintaining unobstructed views.

Above: Seafarers, Melbourne, a mixed-use project designed by Fender Katsalidis and developed by Riverlee. / EBSA.

According to EBSA, the MP2-FL-OP louvre system was custom-developed for Seafarers, Melbourne, a mixed-use project designed by Fender Katsalidis and developed by Riverlee. The project brief required a bespoke louvre solution that maximised natural ventilation and avoided water ingress without obstructing views from the nearby wintergardens.

After working closely with the architect and developer to understand their requirements, EBSA collaborated with builder Icon to deliver the system and seamlessly integrate it into the Seafarers project. Given the precision required for installation, the louvres were assembled off-site to allow structural sealants to fully cure in a controlled environment, ensuring long-term performance and durability when installed into the commercial curtain wall system.

Based on the project’s requirements, EBSA engineered a solution that combines innovative blade movement with a high-water rating. Tested to AS/NZS 2047, the system has 1000Pa water penetration resistance. Inspired by previous earthquake testing, the company also refined the drive system for simultaneous or separate operation of top and bottom blades. The two-year development journey resulted in the installation of 111 MP2-FL-OP louvres covering 201.67sqm, creating a functional yet eye-catching facade.

Windows

Windows have a vital role to play in all buildings, but especially in commercial structures, where performance requirements tend to be higher. Not just a means of letting in light, windows are an essential component of occupant wellbeing, energy performance and architectural identity.

It may not be the first thing that comes to mind, but windows are also a crucial component in fire-proofing a building. According to Greene Fire, manufacturer of Aluflam fire-rated windows, there are several types of fire-resistant glazing, each with its own set of benefits and limitations.

Above: Melbourne Central / Greene Fire.

Historically, wired glass was commonly used for fire protection, especially until the 1980s and 90s. While this could provide some fire resistance, it is generally considered the weakest form of fire-resistant glass because it is prone to cracking upon impact.

Ceramic glass is a more advanced option. It is crystallised glass that becomes strong and thermally stable, able to withstand temperatures up to 680 degrees Celsius. While effective in fire scenarios, ceramic glass offers limited insulation. In the event of a breakage, it also shatters into large pieces. For these reasons, ceramic glass is typically used in applications such as log or wood burners.

Tempered or safety glass is another common option. It is produced through a heat treatment process that creates tension and compression within the glass. While it is relatively strong and shatters into small, less dangerous pieces when it breaks, its fire resistance is generally lower than other materials, making it less suitable for high-risk fire environments.

What sets Greene Fire’s Aluflam fire-rated windows apart is their use of a multi-layered intumescent design. This system includes two external layers of toughened safety glass, sandwiched around an intumescent interlayer. When exposed to fire, the glass is designed to break, but the interlayer immediately begins to form an opaque, insulating protective barrier that resists further penetration of heat and flame. The more layers present, the greater the protection and insulation the system provides, ensuring higher levels of fire resistance.

Architecturally, the Aluflam fire-rated windows offer several advantages. For example, they allow the creation of open, airy spaces that are flooded with natural light, contributing to a more pleasant and productive environment. They can also help reduce noise from the surrounding area, making them suitable for offices or commercial spaces situated in busy environments.

From a safety perspective, the transparency of these windows enhances visibility and sightlines, particularly into hallways and stairwells, which is crucial in emergency situations.

These fire-resistant windows are especially beneficial when used in fire doors, which play a vital role in compartmentalising fire and ensuring safe passage for building occupants. They provide a combination of fire protection and transparency, enhancing both safety and visibility.

Framing

When it comes to windows, glazing is often the focus, but it’s worth remembering that framing is equally important. Using the right framing can have a significant impact on the performance, appearance, and longevity of windows in commercial structures. More specifically, framing has a role to play in thermal performance, structural support, air and water tightness, sound insulation and of course, aesthetics.

Different framing products will fit different purposes. For example, AWS Australia’s Thermally Broken 150mm FrontGLAZE framing (Series 826), is an advanced aluminium framing system designed for commercial applications. The system incorporates ThermalHEART technology, which means it includes a polyamide insulating strip between the inner and outer frame elements.

This thermal break effectively reduces the transfer of heat and cold, enhancing the building’s energy efficiency. According to AWS, the use of this technology provides up to 33 percent more energy efficiency compared to standard double-glazed windows, resulting in significant energy cost savings.

Above: Western Sydney University’s Macarthur Clinical School / AWS / Credit: Marcus Clinton.

Another factor that makes it particularly well-suited for commercial buildings is its ability to support large expanses of glass, delivering a sleek and modern appearance that enhances natural light penetration. The system’s thermally broken design also ensures that interior environments remain comfortable, regardless of external weather conditions, which is important for commercial spaces aiming to deliver optimal working conditions.

This product was used in Western Sydney University’s Macarthur Clinical School, a multi-storey building that provides a simulated hospital environment for students, as well as office space for researchers. The building has a striking facade that is essentially made up of two ‘skins’, with parametrically designed cladding that was fitted into AWS ThermalHEART commercial framing, supplied and installed by Evolution Windows.

“We did something quite unique with this window system,” says architect, Chris Aucott.

“We actually reversed it so that we had more depth in the mullion on the outside to help us create a bit more light and shadow on the façade.”

ThermalHEART Series 826 framing was used to house both wall panelling and glazing throughout the building, while the interior walls consist of insulation and pin board that can be utilised by teachers in their classrooms.

“I’m really proud that we’ve created a building for the users so it’s not only just a great piece of

architecture delivered on time, within budget, but it’s a space for people, and a space where people can grow and interact and learn,” adds Aucott.

“We’ve created spaces where people can engage with each other, and hopefully it benefits their education.”

Another framing solution is Alspec’s ThermAFrame Thermally Broken Framing. According to the company, its windows and doors are capable of the highest thermal performance of any locally supplied aluminium windows and doors. Combined with an improved Insulated Glass Unit, this can result in super low U-Values, unheard of with traditional aluminium systems.

“Thermally broken windows and doors help control the indoor temperature in both warm and cold climates, and they can be especially beneficial in controlling the temperature balance in a building,” says Ross Baynham, national specification manager at Alspec.

“In commercial spaces, there are often many people who feel the temperature differently and therefore, inconsistent facade temperatures can cause huge air-conditioning balance issues.”

Alspec’s ThermAFrame Thermally Broken Framing was used in Salisbury Community Hub, a multi-purpose facility built to serve the growing city of Salisbury, just north of Adelaide. Designed by Hassell Studio, the space includes the Salisbury Council administration offices, library and information facilities, education, training and meeting spaces, and exhibition and performance spaces.

Key to the building’s design is the representation of its four levels in a series of staggered layers with floor-to-ceiling glazing enclosing the spaces. According to Alspec, its ThermAFrame 150mm Flush Glazed Thermally Broken Framing was chosen for a significant portion of the facade for its ability to maximise natural light while providing exceptional energy performance.

Above: Salisbury Community Hub (external) / Alspec. Credit: Lillie Thompson.

As it was expected that the building would have significant design loads, Alspec’s team worked with the fabricator, Aluco, and the architect, Hassell Studio, to develop a custom-made structural mullion for the ThermAFrame. Designing and extruding the mullion specifically for this use case ensured that the framing would be able to accommodate the calculated building loads and glazing spans.

The result is a modern, open structure with expansive views of the surrounding greenery — an inviting space that draws people into the rejuvenated town centre for everything from community gatherings to business events.

Main image: Salisbury Community Hub/ Alspec. Credit: Lillie Thompson.

SUPPLIERS

Stephanie Stefanovic

Let’s connect!