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S E P T E M B E R 2 0 2 4 | 17 Curtain Wall & Window Wall P H OTO G R A P H Y BY PAU L G R D I N A /CO U RT E S Y C A S C A D I A W I N D OWS & D O O R S Exploring the transformative trends reshaping curtain wall and window wall solutions by NATALIE BRUCKNER T he curtain wall and window wall industry has undergone significant changes in recent years. Just a few years ago, these elements were criticized as the weak points of a building envelope. Today, thanks to innovations and the commitment of industry professionals, glass is back in favour. Furthermore, the curtain wall market is estimated to expand at an unexpected CAGR from 2024 to 2032, reaching multimillion CAD by 2032 compared to 2022. Key experts in the industry are once again leading the way, providing solutions to meet increasingly stringent energy codes. ONE PIECE OF THE ENERGY PUZZLE In regions like Vancouver that have stringent energy codes, the focus on window performance has seen a massive shift, notes Michael Bousfield, technical direc- tor at Cascadia Windows: "Windows, especially their performance, is now a lever for code compliance and energy modelling, rather than a simple line item." Bousfield stresses the importance of considering glazing within the entire building envelope to meet energy targets effectively. "This way, a developer or building owner ends up with a more cost-effective building, with all the glass they want," says Bousfield. "They don't have to sacrifice any more; the design team just needs to make the whole building work." Bousfield also highlights increasing trends in deep retrofits and embodied carbon reduction, noting the industry's response to developing lifecycle assess- ments for windows. "At the beginning of this year, we welcomed the revised guideline for developing a lifecycle assessment for windows and we have our own window lifecycle assessment nearly complete, which may actually be the first one published under the new guidelines." These trends reflect a broader industry shift towards sustainability and energy efficiency, where windows play a crucial role in meeting regulatory requirements, while enhancing building performance and aesthetics. Discussing recent projects, Bousfield mentions Cascadia's involvement in the renovation of the multifamily tower Pacific Promenade in Vancouver. "The project used our Universal Series windows, contributing to high-performance window systems that positively impact property values," he says. "Long-term, such investments increase property value significantly, offering owners a substantial return on investment." Windows Of Opportunity Providence Health Center – Reed's Crossing, Hillsboro, OR