Slimline Bronze Doors, Thermabronze Fixed and Opening windows
ARCHITECT / CONTRACTORClient project / Murphy and Co Design
ABOUT PROJECTSurrounded by acres of land and swathes of forests in South Carolina, our clients were searching for the finest products and materials to build into their dream home, and their search brought them to England.
Their goal was to find windows and doors to complement the style and grandeur of the design as well as providing long-lasting proven durability.
The client was particularly keen to find companies he felt comfortable working with, to be part of his legacy in creating a home of beauty and that would stand the test of time.
“First and foremost, we wanted low maintenance and multi-generational longevity.
We also saw the material as having a superior appearance, especially with our stone veneer.”
“After researching the Internet, we found a small number of sources, both in the US and in Europe, for true full bronze framed windows and doors.
“We chose to work with Architectural Bronze because their frames had the best combination of classical style and modern thermally efficient construction. They also seemed to have the greatest portfolio of installed work.”
HOW DID YOU FIND WORKING WITH A COMPANY IN ENGLAND?“Initially, this was a concern, but it proved to be no more trouble, maybe less trouble than buying from a US maker or distributor.
“First, the British standard for service was better and second, we were dealing directly with the maker rather than with a distributor. Now after the fact, I realized a distributor would have created communication issues, would have had less product knowledge and would have added a layer of cost.
“Surprisingly, our overall costs including shipping and customs duties were no more than if we had purchased what I considered a lesser product here in the US.”
“Absolutely superior. First, everything they do is custom, or I should say bespoke. Second, they have the capabilities to create an extraordinarily wide range of window and door designs. And lastly, their shop CAD drawings were flawless.”
HAVE GOODS BEEN DELIVERED ON TIME AND IN GOOD ORDER?“Our biggest fears were around transport, port shipping and receiving, and import fees. Architectural Bronze connected us with an export contractor that handled all of the issues very professionally.
“The 50+ windows (frames and glass panels to be assembled on site) arrived in crates in a shipping container packaged like artwork, which we feel they are.
“Our contractors unloaded the many crates with a telehandler in several hours and we were very happy with the whole experience.”
At the time of writing this, our clients schedule has slipped due to extreme adverse weather conditions. Our Senior Bronze Project Manager will now be attending site later this year to work with our clients window installation team, to instruct and offer best advice on install practices and processes. We are all very keen to monitor the progress on this very interesting project, and to see the completed and landscaped construction.