PROJECT OF THE MONTH

Project name: Villa Eglau
Location: Waldkirch - Germany
Number of elements: 125 shutters / 54 frame elements
Type of shutter: Sliding shutter
Model: Model A with complete frame element
Initial contact: 2008
Implementation: First delivery: March 2009; main delivery: April 2009 - July 2009

"3 multiple dwelling units were developed here within the historical context of the Villa Eglau. The buildings are additionally connected by a communal courtyard. The plots are largely open plan and provide a generous individual open space."

That is the description of the property involved in this project which was implemented with AST sliding shutters. Architects and client sought a solution which, although harmonizing with the facade, would still be accentuated in the design as a whole. For this reason, participation of AST technical staff at a very early stage in the planning process was indispensable. By this means it was possible to develop the system step by step using the plans provided by the architects, until finally a finished solution, having complete frame elements incorporating sliding shutters from AST, was arrived at. The ideas and aspirations of the customer were integrated into the design:

• All-round frame casing
• Sliding shutters, slidable on one as well as on two sides
• Integration of roller blind boxes
• Motorisation of the sliding shutters
• Quick installation

The design of the Model A shutter elements provides optimal privacy from the exterior, keeping heat and solar radiation out too, whilst still allowing a certain amount of light into the interior. In this case, depending on the size of the frame, either one sliding shutter was used, or two sliding shutters consecutively. Where two shutters are used, each slides from the centre to the opposite side at the touch of a button. The space revealed behind, is matched exactly to the frame element by an aluminium sheet coated in the same colour as the shutters.

The frame elements were supplied as whole elements, or in two parts for the 3m x 3m size, and installed. The frame casing runs around the whole of the window element and covers the complete embrasure. Due to the differing colours of the facades of the three buildings, the solar protection solution from AST always provides the facade with a different appearance.

A significant advantage for installation on site was the pre-assembly of all hardware (slide rail, running gear, motor, bottom guide etc. ) on the bulkhead frame and shutter. As a result, installation on site could be carried out by the customer in a considerably shorter time. By this means it is possible to achieve significant reductions in fitting costs, particularly where such large elements are concerned.

More information on the model that was used can be found under the product heading “Sliding shutters" and "Sliding bi-fold shutters".