Doorway to exotica

The evolution of doors and windows and the style statement they make.

March 27, 2015 07:21 pm | Updated 07:21 pm IST

PUDUCHERRY, 20/03/2015: Stairs that lead to the terrace at the container house at Auroville near Puducherry. 
Photo: S.S. Kumar

PUDUCHERRY, 20/03/2015: Stairs that lead to the terrace at the container house at Auroville near Puducherry. Photo: S.S. Kumar

A residence is not just the four walls creating a living space. It is a doorway that welcomes, a window that frames the exteriors, an aesthetic vent that lets the air and sunlight into this living space.

The structure of these doorways and windows, their artistic depiction, functionality in terms of operation and maintenance are aspects that stipulate the final evolution of this residence.

Doorways in traditional residences took on an artistic form, the style varying based on local craftsmanship and inclinations, serving as a spectacular welcome feature. While windows were less spectacular in structure, the jaalis as well as openings in palaces and public buildings served as picture frames, capturing the exteriors in magnificent arches.

Windows and doorways continue to occupy their significant place in modern architecture, each depicting the theme as well as ideology of the design used. Thus, large doorways offer a majestic appeal, hinting at the opulence in store while expansive French windows bring in the outdoors effortlessly, especially if the windows are stackable.

Over the years, the rich wood such as teak and rose which dominated the doors and windows gave way to other hardwood options and later to metallic as well as UPVC replacements.

Interestingly, these options are now taking on a hue that replicates the aesthetics of wood while offering a more functional as well as greener option.

Windows are no longer mere openings to let in the air and sun but also serve as a picture frame of the exterior while sealing the external pollutants, the noise as well as the harsh climate. Double-glazed windows built in metallic or UPVC frames are popular options meeting this requirement.

Offering such sought-after solutions is Fenesta with its stunning range of windows, doors and conservatories. Coming in UPVC frames where each frame has a built-in steel reinforcement to give strength and longevity, these windows and doors are available in a variety of makes such as arresting composite doors in charming wood finishes and similar wood-simulating finishes for windows.

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