A window with a view

Why aren't window frames actually made entirely out of glass? From that thought stems the idea for the Clara window. Classic windows consist of up to 35 % of frame, which greatly reduces the amount of incident light. The unique, sashless design of the system of the Clara Fenster AG, developed in cooperation with the research department of the AGC Group, lets in up to 15 % more light. This revolutionary solution, which also excels in terms of insulation, acoustics and safety, was introduced 5 years ago in Switzerland and is now conquering other countries, including the Benelux countries.

'Other people dream of flying, but our dream was to create an unrestricted view to the outside' - with these words Philippe Boudot, Managing Director of the Clara Fenster AG, gladly opens the presentation of his unique product. The expert worked quietly for many months with a number of industry partners to finally present a true world first: the Clara window.

The wingless design of the Clara windows lets in up to 15 % more light. The continuous glass surface provides a boundless transition between inside and outside.

"In our current architecture, windows must be large and transparent. They must let in as much daylight as possible, reduce heat loss in winter and be sound insulating. Moreover, they must not give burglars a chance," says Johan Vancoillie, product manager for Benelux.

"Window technology has evolved to the point where thermal insulation, energy efficiency and acoustic attenuation are self-evident. However, it came down to making every window a panoramic window without frames, intermediate uprights and intermediate bars, which obstruct the view to the outside and limit the amount of incident light. Therefore, we essentially reinvented the window and developed an absolute global innovation: Clara windows or the first windows with an all-glass sash."

A window with a view

Clara windows combine the transparency, accessibility and openness of a glass window with all the advantages of a tilt or turn window, with a single or double sash. "Classic wood, plastic or aluminum windows and paired windows comprise up to 35 % of frame, and this obviously has a major impact on light incidence. The unique, sashless design of the Clara windows lets in up to 15 % more light, and the continuous glass surface also provides a boundless transition between inside and outside," Vancoillie continued.

"But there is more .Clara windows are extremely energy-saving and meet all low energy and passive house standards. Depending on the window construction, they achieve maximum thermal insulation of 0.75 and 0.5 W/m²K for window (Uw) and glazing (Ug) respectively. They also provide excellent sound insulation Rw of 41 dB. Moreover, they are made of special tempered glass and, thanks to the continuous glass surface and hidden fittings, they cannot be lifted out of the frame, resulting in excellent burglary resistance." 

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