Crystal Windows Executives Unveil Statue of Claire Shulman, Former Queens Borough President
Crystal Window & Door Systems Chairman and founder Thomas Chen (center photo, left) and President Steve Chen unveiled a bronze statue in honor of longtime mentor and former Queens Borough President Claire Shulman. -Thomas and Steve Chen Honor Leader and Friend with Commissioned Artwork- QUEENS, NY, October 12, 2021 –Thomas Chen, founder and Chairman of Queens-based national manufacturer Crystal Window & Door Systems, and Steve Chen, Crystal President, on October 7unveiled a six-foot bronze statue honoring former Queens Borough President the late Claire Shulman. Thomas Chen personally commissioned the statue by award-winning sculptor Yutien Chang to celebrate Shulman as a true champion of business in Queens and a mentor to him and Crystal Windows as the company grew over the years. Over 40 members of the Queens business community, media, and elected officials attended the press conference, sharing their memories of working with Claire. Crystal President Steve Chen described Claire Shulman’s impact on Crystal, and media executive Vicki Schneps spoke of her 40-year friendship with the former Borough President. “When I was starting my window manufacturing company in Queens, Claire helped me avoid many of the typical setbacks immigrant entrepreneurs face,” said Thomas Chen. “She encouraged me to take executive business courses, engage reputable service providers and suppliers, and make Crystal Windows a good corporate citizen.” When Crystal was ready to expand in Queens, Borough President Shulman ensured New York City agencies worked effectively with Crystal as the company constructed and opened a large new factory. She continued to be a mentor, motivator, and friend to Thomas Chen and later to his son Steve Chen as he stepped into the leadership role at Crystal.Even after Shulman left public office in 2001, she and the Chens continued to be close friends. They shared a love of the arts and supported many cultural institutions throughout Queens. Several years ago, Thomas Chen was inspired to commission sculptures honoring notable friends who had contributed to his personal and business success. The statue of Claire Shulman is the first he commissioned and in 2019 internationally known Taiwanese sculptor Yutien Chang, was engaged to create the bronze statue. In the same year, Shulman met with the artist and the Chens to discuss the project and concepts for the statue. Crystal Windows founder and Chairman Thomas Chen (above, left) and former Queens Borough President Claire Shulman atCrystal Parkin 2019. Chen commissioned a bronze statue honoring human to be permanently exhibited at Crystal Park. The statue is a bronze six-foot tall lifelike portrayal of Claire Shulman. The artist, in collaboration with Thomas and those who knew Claire well, depicted Shulman in motion, as was characteristic of the formerQueensBorough President. The statue will only be displayed at Crystal Windows for a short time. Its permanent home will be Crystal Park, Thomas Chen’s private 200-acre art park and nature preserve in Dutchess County, NY. The statue will stand on an 18-foot by 8-foot metal pathway base in the shape of an infinity sign, symbolizing Shulman’s continuous drive forward and her boundless energy. “I was thrilled Claire was able to visit Crystal Park in October 2019 to see the location selected for her statue along a wooded path overlooking the lake,” said Thomas Chen. “Sadly, Claire did not get to see the completed work, but we are glad to share it with her many friends in Queens.” Shulman passed away in August 2020 at the age of 94. The Shulman statue is on temporary display at Crystal’s Queens headquarters and main production facility through Friday, October 22, 2021, and friends of Claire Shulman and members of the public are welcome to visit. Then the exhibit will be moved and installed permanently at Crystal Park
New Multifamily High-Rise Targets Sustainability with Crystal Vinyl MAGNUS Windows
Crystal Window & Door Systems recently supplied over 2,400 advanced MAGNUS Series 4500 uPVC vinyl commercial windows for the newly constructed multifamily development Archer Green Apartments in Queens, NY. The project is one of the tallest buildings in North America to use uPVC windows. -Queens NY Project is Among Tallest North American Use of uPVC Vinyl Windows- QUEENS, NY, September 30, 2021 –A newly completed sustainable mixed use multifamily high-rise project in Jamaica, NY, is using advanced uPVC vinyl windows supplied by Crystal Window & Door Systems to achieve their energy efficiency goals. The two towers of the Archer Green Apartments, rising 23 and 20 stories each, used combinations of Crystal MAGNUS Series 4500 uPVC windows to complete the 1,301 building openings. The new development is located in the heart of the Jamaica (Queens) neighborhood at 92-32 168th Street. The Crystal MAGNUS uPVC (unplasticized polyvinyl chloride) windows provide a remarkable balance of high commercial window structural ratings, great sound attenuation, and extraordinary thermal efficiency. All of these are important factors as the new building is seeking LEED Gold Certification and it is located just off a busy heavily trafficked Jamaica Avenue. At 23 stories, Archer Green Apartments is Crystal’s tallest MAGNUS window project to date and is one of the tallest buildings to use uPVC windows in North America by any manufacturer. The Crystal Archer Green project is a leading example of the increasing popularity of high-rise uPVC windows. In Europe, uPVC in tall buildings has been common for years. “After the architect considered a heavy-commercial aluminum window, Crystal showed them the MAGNUS uPVC window which offers strength and energy efficiency with a clean modern look,” said Steven Yu, Metro New York Sales Manager. “With advanced testing performed at an independent lab, Crystal demonstrated the MAGNUS would be the perfect solution and all project partners were convinced.” The remarkable Crystal MAGNUS Series 4500 windows offer the best of both worlds: structural performance equal to top aluminum window products while also providing the outstanding thermal performance of vinyl windows. With its European-inspired design, strong durable MAGNUS uPVC windows are especially suitable for large openings in multi-family, commercial, select high-rise, institutional, and even upscale residential properties. Crystal supplied a total of 2,444 MAGNUS Series 4500 In-Swing and Fixed windows outfitted with vision or HVAC louver panels and configured in mulled combinations totaling 1,301 units. Most of the MAGNUS units for the project consisted of reinforced in-swing windows mulled atop window frames fitted with louver panels, and in many cases alongside tall flanking fixed windows. The largest combined units spanned 72” wide by 96” tall. The MAGNUS 4500 In-Swing and Fixed windows both offer 3-¼” jambs, strong, energy efficient multiple cavity sashes and frames and boast an outstanding CW-PG95 AAMA structural rating. The In-Swing casement model’s standard features include quality hardware, multi-point locks, sash perimeter compression seals, and optional NY City code window opening control devices (WOCD). All the MAGNUS windows have a durable High-Definition Finish (HDF), with Anthracite Gray exterior and extruded white interior colors. All the glazed MAGNUS windows for the project used dual-pane 1-¼” insulated glass units (IGUs) fabricated with stainless steel Intercept Warm-Edge spacers and Vitro Solarban 70XL low-E coated glass. The IGUs were Argon-filled for enhanced thermal efficiency and used tempered or laminated glass where required for safety. Both the glazed In-Swing and Fixed MAGNUS window met or exceeded project specifications of U-value 0.26, SHGC 0.37, and VLT 43%. Sound reduction OITC rating specifications ranged from 23db to 33 db, depending on the floor. Another 960 MAGNUS 4500 fixed window frames were factory glazed with louvers and 1” insulated blank-off panels for mating at the jobsite with PTAC units supplying individual room HVAC. The Model AEL-42 aluminum louvers were supplied by Reliable Products of Geneva, AL. The Archer Green Apartments development is playing a key role in the redevelopment of its surrounding neighborhood. An interesting new property, Archer Green blends mixed-income affordable housing, ground floor commercial retail space, and a substantial community facility in the heart of downtown Jamaica, Queens. Totaling 420,000 sq. ft., the building offers 351 apartments in two residential towers and below-grade parking. The 23- and 20-story residential towers rise above a commercial 2-story pedestal which accommodates the retail space and community facility as well as a rooftop terrace and garden area. Targeting LEED Gold Certification, Archer Green features many sustainability features in addition to the Crystal MAGNUS windows, including a novel state-of-the-art on-site Resilient Power Hub (RPH). This micro-grid system combines solar, co-generation, and reserve battery storage to provide electric power for emergency use and to reduce daily operating costs. The Archer Green Apartments project was initiated through the close cooperation of three New York City agencies: the Economic Development Corporation (EDC), the Housing Development Corporation (HDC), and the Department of Housing Preservation & Development (HPD). The project is part of the City’s Jamaica NOW Action Plan to revitalize this bustling commercial and residential neighborhood in Queens. It is built on a site that once held aNew York Police Department parking garage. The owner’s representative was Renewable Construction/Omni NY LLC. Edelman Sulta Knox Wood (ESKW) Architects of New York, NY, was the project architect, and Lettire Construction of New York, NY, was the general contractor. The fenestration installer was Marvel Contracting Service of Queens, NY.
Crystal Windows Beat the Sun and Heat at New Phoenix Hotel
Crystal recently supplied new aluminum commercial windows with custom glass and frame finish for the latest Holiday Inn Express & Suites located in downtown Phoenix, AZ. Photos courtesy of Baxter Construction. -Custom Windows and Glass Offer Energy Efficiency, Beauty, and Durability- QUEENS, NY, August 20, 2021 –Crystal Window & Door Systems is pleased to report that its window systems have successfully met the challenge of Phoenix, AZ’s legendary heat and sun. The award-winning national manufacturer supplied 151 large commercial windows with a special low-E coated and tinted glass package from Vitro Architectural Glass and 119 HVAC panels for a new Holiday Inn Express & Suites in the heart of Phoenix, AZ. Located at 950 West Van Buren Street, the 119 room hotel is the latest addition to Crystal’s expanding portfolio of national hotel and hospitality projects. “Due to the extreme sun and heat in Phoenix almost year-round, we supplied insulated dual-pane glass units with tinted and low-E coated glass plus Argon gas filling,” said Frank Ganninger, Crystal’s Central West regional manager. “Together with the architect and GC, we selected the Pacifica Blue tint glass with a Solarban 60 low-E coating from Vitro Architectural Glass, which gives the building façade a really beautiful design, superior sun glare control, energy efficiency, and comfort for the interior.” The project exclusively used the Crystal aluminum Series 2100 fixed picture window which features a 3-¼” frame depth and narrow sightlines. With various test sizes, the window has achieved CW-PG 60, CW-PG65, and CW-PG90 AAMA ratings.In guestrooms, the Crystal Series 2100 window system utilized a continuous head and sill with an integral T-jamb mullion to combine two glass sash panels into a single 96” wide frame. The wide guestroom windows were then stacked atop similarly large 96” wide louver panels to accommodate individual room HVAC units. Crystal factory-installed the louvers in Series 2100 window frames and mulled these to the glass windows filling the vast 96” x 96” openings and providing expansive views for each room while maintaining a pleasant interior environment. Crystal sourced the AEL-42 Aluminum Louver PTAC panels from Reliable Products of Geneva, AL, which assure consistent performance and accurate HVAC unit placement. Crystal also supplied factory-mulled four fixed lite windows for hallway openings and single lite tall narrow stairwell windows to complete the façade. All the Series 2100 window frames were specified with nailing fins and Crystal’scustom-designed head panning drip caps. Crystal supplied the aluminum window and louver frames with a custom clear anodized Class 1 finish, which provides a brilliant shine and an even, consistent finish. This also makes the aluminum components very resistant to degradation by sunlight, wind, and other harsh Southwest climate elements. Key to Crystal’s success with taming the Arizona sun and heat is the insulated glass system used for the project’s windows. Crystal sourced aspecialPacifica Blue glass from Vitro Architectural Glass, which handles sun heat gain and glare especially well, while providing a distinctive and attractive rich blue tint. With samples approved by the project architect and general contractor, Crystal increased the IGU to 1” rather than the standard ⅞” thickness and fabricated the IGUs with tinted exterior ¼” low-E SB60 glass and clear interior ¼” glass, tempered where required, and with Argon gas filling. “The resulting IGUwith tinted Pacifica Blue glass, Solarban 60, and Argon filling delivers outstanding solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC) of 0.22, as well as a low U-value of 0.24 for the glass system,” said Ganninger. Baxter Construction Company, based in Fort Madison, IA, is a national firm with a broad commercial portfolio including hospitality and multi-family properties. Baxter was the general contractor for the Holiday Inn Express & Suites Downtown Phoenix project. The architecture firm was Orcutt|Winslow of Phoenix, AZ. The hotel has 119 guest rooms, on-site parking, business center amenities and meeting rooms, a pool, and a fitness center.It is conveniently located near the Phoenix government center and walkable arts district.
Bird-Friendly Glass Façades – How Fenestration Providers Add Value During Design
By Steve Chen, President, Crystal Window & Door Systems, New York By now, architects, building owners, and contractors are well aware that municipalities around the nation are implementing “bird-friendly” glass requirements for new and renovated buildings. For example, to reduce bird collisions with building façades, New York City enacted Local Law 15 (LL15) of 2020, effective January 10, 2021, requiring all newly constructed buildings and renovations of existing buildings involving replacement of windows and glass features to assess and utilize if required bird-friendly glass and other materials for the façade. Last November, the NYC Department of Buildings issued its guidance document for where on buildings bird-friendly glass is required and what documentation must be provided to demonstrate compliance with LL15. For new construction, exterior wall envelope and fly-through conditions up to 75 feet above grade must be 90% bird-friendly materials, and all other features such as vertical façades at any height adjacent to green roofs, glass railing systems, glass canopies, and other bird-strike hazards must be of bird-friendly materials. For existing buildings, alterations that include replacement of all exterior glazing must also comply with LL15. Architects and other design professionals must balance aesthetics, durability, and cost of glass options to arrive at the optimal solution for any project. With so many factors to weigh, architects, building owners, and developers would be well-served by engaging a fenestration manufacturer experienced in a wide range of glass options, including bird-friendly ones, during the design phase of a new project or planning replacement of existing fenestration. Design Considerations Foremost, architects evaluate the aesthetics and functionality of façade materials including glass windows, doors, storefront, and curtain wall on the overall design of a building. How much glass best suits the indoor environment and the occupants? How well will the glass complement other façade materials such as masonry and metal panels? Should tinted, reflective, or patterned glass be used? The façade appearance and outlook view must be considered from both the exterior and interior vantage points. Energy efficiency is another critical factor in selecting window and door systems. Myriad choices exist for dual- and triple-pane insulated glass units, surface coatings to improve U-values and to reduce solar heat transmission, and window frame construction and insulation to provide greater energy efficiency. Cost is of course a major factor in the design of any new construction or renovation project. Architects must work closely with building owners and developers to select fenestration and other glass design elements that fit the budget for the project while meeting the design vision and applicable building and energy code requirements. Now that bird-friendly glass is required on many projects in New York City (and in many other major cities in the country), there are additional factors that will greatly impact aesthetics, energy efficiency, and cost of every project. This is where an experienced fenestration manufacturer can add tremendous value, saving time and expense, and presenting many available options. Bird-friendly glass comes with various patterns that help deter bid collisions with glass facades. Fenestration manufacturers can advise architects and property owners on optimum choices during design phases of construction and renovation. Left: Guardian Glass bird 1st glass panes shown are coated with ultra-violet patterns which are visible to birds but nearly invisible to humans. Right: Typical bird-friendly glass patterns. Shading and contrast enhanced above to show patterns PHOTO COURTESY OF GUARDIAN GLASS, a national lass supplier to Crystal Window & Door Systems. Bird-Friendly Glass Impact on Design Bird-friendly glass is achieved in various ways. The most common options are ceramic or silicone frits, UV patterns, and acid-etched patterns, all applied to the surface of the glass. Each have advantages and tradeoffs for effectiveness and aesthetics, but there are other considerations, such as how the application works with other glass coatings, lamination, tempering, and long-term durability. Frits reduce visible light transmission (VLT) to the inside and are highly visible to humans as well as birds. UV patterns are less obtrusive to the view than frits but slightly less effective at deterring bird-glass collisions. Acid-etching is most durable and may be combined with the low-E coatings on the same surface. All these options affect the appearance of the building from the outside and the view from the inside, have different price points, impact energy efficiency coatings, and may affect glass warranties from the glass manufacturer. A knowledgeable fenestration manufacturer can review all these options with the building design team to select the best choice for the project. Glass units incorporated in window and door frames are fabricated from large sheets of glass. The fabrication process starts with cutting the glass sheets and is automated to minimize unusable portions of glass. As bird-friendly glass is only called for in specific instances, large window openings requiring bird-friendly glass can potentially generate a lot of waste of this specialized glass per sheet, if the maximum glass sheet size and cutting optimization are not considered in the project design and production planning process. This can add to the already higher cost of bird-friendly glass and the project’s bottom line. With a few modifications through value engineering, an experienced window manufacturer can advise the design team on the size, configuration, and placement of windows to achieve the project’s desired aesthetic and code compliance while minimizing material cost and waste. Crystal Windows’ automated glass production equipment handles all types of glass, Including bird-friendly glass options, Bring in the Experts Compared with conventional clear or tinted glass used throughout existing buildings in New York and other cities, bird-friendly glass can add appreciably to the cost of fenestration for new or renovated properties. Therefore, it is important early in the design phase for the architectural team to bring in a window manufacturer that is qualified and experienced to assist fenestration choices. A competent fenestration manufacturer should: Have a broad network of glass suppliers capable of providing many bird-friendly glass options to meet budget, energy efficiency, and other project requirements. Crystal has worked with many national glass
Crystal Brightens Outlook for Florida College Students
-New University of Florida Housing Sports Crystal Windows and Doors- QUEENS, NY, July 15, 2021 –Award-winning national manufacturer Crystal Window & Door Systems recently expanded its project portfolio with two new of state-of-the-art student housing properties in Florida. These projects are the first Crystal has completed in the state, extending the company’s Eastern US sales along the entire East Coast from Maine to Florida. Located just a few blocks from the University of Florida main campus in Gainesville, The Hub on Third and The Hub on Campus Gainesville each used a variety of Crystal window and door products. “ARCO National Construction, which we have worked with on prior projects, reached out to Crystal to provide windows and doors for these two new projects, and the Crystal team sprang into action for the opportunity to expand into Florida,” said Frank Ganninger, regional sales manager. “A lot of coordination and planning by Crystal engineering and production staff came together to bring these projects to fruition.” Due to the location of the new Hub buildings in Central Florida, which is subject to high winds, all façade materials including windows must meet stringent state building codes. Crystal’s Engineering Department submitted product structural and energy performance test results and drawings to the Florida Department of Business & Professional Regulation (DBPR), which approves construction materials for compliance with the state building code. All the Crystal windows and doors submitted attained approval for use across much of Florida and are included in the DBPR online directory. Crystal supplied over 2,100 new energy-efficient aluminum windows and doors for The Hub on Third (above) and The Hub on Campus Gainesville (below), the manufacturer’s first Florida projects. “ARCO National Construction, which we have worked with on prior projects, reached out to Crystal to provide windows and doors for these two new projects, and the Crystal team sprang into action for the opportunity to expand into Florida,” said Frank Ganninger, regional sales manager. “A lot of coordination and planning by Crystal engineering and production staff came together to bring these projects to fruition.” Due to the location of the new Hub buildings in Central Florida, which is subject to high winds, all façade materials including windows must meet stringent state building codes. Crystal’s Engineering Department submitted product structural and energy performance test results and drawings to the Florida Department of Business & Professional Regulation (DBPR), which approves construction materials for compliance with the state building code. All the Crystal windows and doors submitted attained approval for use across much of Florida and are included in the DBPR online directory. “Once our products were fully approved, our engineering team coordinated closely with ARCO during the design phase to optimize the placement of eight different Crystal aluminum commercial window and door products for the two Hub properties,” said Ganninger. The Hub on Campus Gainesville uses dramatic projected façade framing elements, most prominent on the building’s main northeast corner, to add three-dimensional interest to the structure. The building also provides some expansive views with nearly floor-to-ceiling window combinations over 80” tall. The Hub on Third uses an eclectic mix of façade materials and colors to add architectural interest and meld with the campus and neighborhood’s building character. The use of vertically stacked and horizontally ganged window combinations is common with the two Hub properties, along with fixed window sidelights and transoms for sliding glass doors on the private balconies. The Hub on Campus Gainesville used 814 Crystal energy-efficient windows and doors and The Hub on Third used 1,323 windows and doors for a combined total of 2,137. A wide variety of quality Crystal aluminum products were used for the buildings, including Series 2000A double-hung, 2100 fixed picture, Series 2300 and Series 5600 sliders, Series 8500 project-out awning, and Series 8500 fixed windows. The projects also included the Crystal Series 1240 2-lite sliding patio doors with accompanying transoms and sidelights, and the Series 1450 swing terrace doors. The Crystal Series 8500 and the Series 2100 were the most extensively used windows for The Hub projects, with 949 units and 473 units, respectively. The Series 8500 project-out awning (AW-PG80) and fixed (AW-PG85) were in many cases combined using the continuous master frame option. The Series 8500 features 2-⅝” depth frame, bulb double-weatherstripping, 1” insulated glass units (IGUs), and satin chrome locking handles. The Series 2100 is rated CW-PG65/PG90 and features 3-¼” frame depth, ⅞” IGUs, double-strength glass and continuous head/sill and T-jamb mullion options. All the Crystal products used ⅞” or 1” dual-pane IGUs specified with Vitro Solarban 70 coated glass and Argon gas filling for enhanced energy efficiency in the Florida sun. Where required, glass was tempered. Durable AAMA 2604 black powder coat paint finished all the Crystal windows, doors, and exposed mullions and installation accessories for both new buildings. The Hub on Third and The Hub on Campus Gainesville are part of the extensive portfolio of ARCO National Construction. Headquartered in St. Louis, MO, ARCO is one of the largest design/build general contractors in North America. The projects’ developer is Core Spaces, headquartered in Austin, TX, which specializes in off-campus state-of-the-art student housing. With nearly 350,000 overall square feet of living and ground-floor retail space, The Hub on Thirdfeatures 201 apartments in multiple student configurations. The Hub on Campus Gainesville has 109 apartments and 193,000 overall square feet of living and ground-floor retail space. Both properties boast sustainable design, fully-furnished apartments, group study and gathering spaces, rooftop pools, fire pits, and recreation spaces, fitness centers, high-tech security, and telecommunications throughout the buildings, and parking.
Crystal Windows Grace New Chicago-Area Development
Crystal recently supplied nearly 1,300 high-performance vinyl windows and patio doors for the new luxury development Uptown 500 in Wheeling, IL, outside Chicago (shown near completion). -Manufacturer Supplies Energy Efficient Products for Wheeling, IL Luxury Property- QUEENS, NY, June 25, 2021 –National manufacturer Crystal Window & Door Systems recently supplied nearly 1,300 energy-efficient vinyl windows and sliding patio doors for a major new mixed-use development just outside Chicago in Wheeling, IL. Located at 500 West Dundee Road, the new $90 million luxury multi-family and commercial property Uptown 500, is the latest development near the heart of Wheeling’s strategically planned transit-oriented center. “With our strong manufacturing presence in Chicago, Crystal is well known in the metro area,” said Frank Ganninger, Crystal Regional Sales Manager.“Early in the project, the developer KR Developments reached out to us to discuss fenestration options for Uptown 500, and we invited the firm’s project managers to tour our production facility in Chicago. They were impressed with our quality manufacturing processes.” Crystal worked closely with Uptown 500’s architect, BSB Designs of Chicago, to ensure the windows would meet energy and performance specifications for the region. “Our Series 300 windows offer great thermal efficiency, perfect for both winter and summer weather in Illinois,” said Ganninger. “We were also able to recommend our quality two-tone finish to meet the design aesthetics for the exterior and interior.” Once the approvals for Uptown 500 were in and construction underway, the project general contractor John James Construction of Chicago brought in regional building envelope specialist Denk & Roche Builders of Bensenville, IL to install the windows and doors. Crystal sales representatives met with the installation teams on-site to guide and expedite proper installation of the Crystal products. Crystal’s two-tone new construction Vinyl Series 300 windows and Vinyl Series 1500 patio doors are shown during installation(left and center) and completed (below) at Uptown 500. The Uptown 500 project utilized Crystal Vinyl Series 300 single-hung and fixed picture windows as well as Crystal Vinyl Series 1500 sliding patio doors. The Crystal Vinyl Series 300 windows were both factory- and field-mulled in large configurations, with some openings as large as 72” w x 84” tall, bringing nearly floor to ceiling daylight for the apartments. In some cases, Series 300 fixed picture windows were mulled in ribbon configurations up high on the walls to provide a clerestory window effect. Crystal supplied 2-lite Vinyl Series 1500 sliding patio doors for access to balconies or ground floor patios, and for select apartments, sliding doors were factory-mulled with side lights and/or transoms. The Series 300 vinyl windows, AAMA rated R-PG25/R-PG35 for the single-hung and R-PG45 for the picture, feature strong frames and sashes with full fusion welded corners, sloped sills, and integral nailing fins for new construction applications. The single-hung offers an easy-clean tilt-in sash and a full width ergonomic lift rail for easy operation. The window’s⅞” insulated glass unit uses Solarban 60 glass and argon gas filling, which adds to the window’s energy efficient performance. The Crystal Vinyl Series 1500 2-Lite Sliding Patio Door also features strong full fusion sashes and frame corners to deliver an AAMA SGD-R35/LC-PG35 rating. With tempered Solarban 60 coated glass and argon gas, the patio door’s dual-pane 1” insulated glass unit provides superior energy efficiency. The sliding patio door offers an integral nailing fin to speed and simplify installations, adjustable steel tandem rollers for easy operation, and a high glass-to-frame area ratio for great views. To enhance the modern exterior architectural design while still providing the clean and bright interior white window look, all the Crystal windows and doors for the project were ordered with a two-tone finish. The window and door exteriors were finished in a dark brown color and the interiors were kept white. Uptown 500offers 321 studio, 1-, and 2-bedroom luxury apartments, with 12,000 sq. ft. of commercial retail space on the ground floor. The development is just a few blocks from the Metra rail line, facilitating commuting to the Chicago area’s business districts and airports. The complex is also a block from Wheeling’s 100-acre Heritage Park nature and recreation center and the new Wheeling Town Center. The Uptown 500 campus features several common work and recreation spaces throughout the building and outdoor property, along with private meeting, dining, and entertainment areas, heated outdoor pool, rooftop deck, fitness centers, concierge services, and onsite parking.
Summer 2021 AIA Continuing Education Credit Webinar “Specifying Windows and Doors Using Performance Standards”
National manufacturer Crystal Window & Door Systems is pleased to offer another online learning opportunity for the design and construction community. Architects and specifying professionals can use performance standards for characteristics such as energy efficiency, strength, sound attenuation, and light transmission to specify windows and doors for any project. This webinar will provide attendees with an understanding of standards and codes and how to apply them. Objectives of the webinar: Understand the evolution of window and door standards and code references Learn how to use the standard to specify product type, performance level, and key performance attributes Analyze special requirements for different window and door types Learn to use the short form specification A certificate of continuing education credit will be issued to attendees completing the webinar. The next Crystal Windows webinars are scheduled for June 30, 2021, July 14, 2021, & August 25, 2021 at 1:45 PM EST. To register for the webinar, contact Crystal Marketing Department, Amanda Li, AmandaL@crystalwindows.com Or call 800-471-9988 x 3250
Crystal Windows Presents at Mid-Atlantic Architect Workshop
Crystal will be a featured speaker in an upcoming continuing education forum on facades for architects and other design professionals. The forum is part of The Architect’s Newspaper CE|Strong continuing education platform. -Manufacturer a Featured Speaker at Virtual CE|Strong Forum on Façades- QUEENS, NY, May 3, 2021 –National manufacturer Crystal Window & Door Systems will be a featured presenter at a virtual workshop for architects and other design professionals focusing on the Mid-Atlantic region. Hosted by The Architect’s Newspaper, the forum is part of the media outlet’s online CE|Strong series of continuing education programs, including live virtual workshops, online courses, and other resources. The June 16, 2021, workshop theme is solutions for High-Performance Facades. “During 2020, Crystal really ramped up its online program delivery to architects, engineers, and others in the design community to stay connected with our market,” said Steven Yu, Marketing Manager for Crystal. “The participation has been tremendous for each webinar and has enabled us to reach many more architects across the country. This CE|Strong Virtual Workshop is another great way for Crystal to communicate critical technical fenestration information to architects and specifiers.” Vincent Grieco, Crystal’s Technical Sales Manager, will present Specifying Windows, Doors, and Skylights Using Performance Standards. He will cover how to use window and door standards and codes to specify product type, performance level, and key performance attributes. Grieco brings his extensive experience with major commercial fenestration projects, installation techniques, and product specification to his educational presentation, giving architects participating in the workshop many examples and addressing common challenges they are likely to face. The CE|Strong Mid-Atlantic Virtual Workshop is scheduled for Wednesday, June 16 from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM (ET), with the one-hour Crystal presentation beginning at 1:00 PM (ET). Participants in all sessions earn AIA continuing education credits with five presentations and interactive discussions on a variety of façade materials, including windows. While the forum focuses on the Mid-Atlantic region, participants from all regions are welcome. For more information on registering for the workshop, visit www.cestrong.com/workshops
Crystal Windows Steps Up Proactive Pandemic Response
-New York Production Facility Offers Free On-Site Testing for Employees- QUEENS, NY, March 17, 2021 – Crystal Window & Door Systems’ New York City headquarters and production facility continued its aggressive business response to the COVID-19 pandemic by implementing weekly employee testing. The voluntary, no-cost testing will be available to all 370 Crystal New York employees during work hours on Tuesdays for the next several weeks. This self-administered testing is coordinated with the New York City Health and Hospitals Test & Trace Corps. “These new Crystal efforts, along with government vaccination programs, are aimed at finally stamping out the COVID-19 threat in the community,” said Isabella Leung, HR Manager for Crystal. “We are glad to offer this convenient testing for the benefit of our dedicated valuable essential workers, which provides an important public service limiting community spread of the virus.” Over the past year, since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic in March 2020, the national manufacturer has gone to great lengths to protect the health and wellbeing of its employees, suppliers, and customers. This has been especially true at Crystal’s New York headquarters and lead production facility located in northern Queens, NY, an area particularly hard hit by the first and subsequent waves of the pandemic. The on-site employee testing is the latest of many measures the company has taken, which include mandated face masks, face shields where needed, physical distancing between employees, barrier installations, automated temperature checks, enhanced cleaning and disinfecting, and remote working for manyof the staff. Last year, the Crystal New York operation’s proactive response to the pandemic was recognized by two leading national trade magazines. US Glass in their October 2020 edition designated Crystal a 2020 Best Company to Work For and Window & Door in their November 2020 edition feature article Innovation in Crisis detailed key pandemic responses from leading national manufacturers, including highlights of Crystal actions. “I am extremely proud of how the employees and managers at Crystal have risen to the challenges raised by the COVID-19 pandemic,” stated Steve Chen, President of Crystal Windows. “By safely working together here in New York, they have continued to produce Crystal windows and doors for critical, essential building projects throughout the region and across the nation, contributing greatly to the economy of the city, state, and the nation.”
Crystal WindowsEnters Second Decade of Harbor Point Project
-Firm Supplies High-Performance Windows for OngoingStamford, CT Development – QUEENS, NY, March 11, 2021 –For over 10 years, developer Building & Land Technology has continued to tap the product design and manufacturing expertise of national manufacturer Crystal Window & Door Systems for its expansive upscale waterfront development Harbor Point in Stamford, CT. To date, Crystal has been selected to supply thousands of energy-efficient aluminum windows and doors for many new high-rises and mid-rise luxury apartment buildings throughout this development less than 40 miles northeast of New York City. Entering the second decade of its involvement in the project, Crystal has recently added several new buildings to itsHarbor Point completed portfolio, and more are in the construction phase. Crystal Window & Door Systems supplied high-performancealuminum windows and doors in expansive configurations for high-rise The Allure (above), one of three new projects at one of the largest developments in the country, Harbor Point in Stamford, CT. “It is a testament to Crystal’s capabilities that we continue to partner with Building & Land Technology as a key supplier for this premier development,” said Blaise Benevenga, Crystal’s New England Regional Sales Manager. “The Crystal window and door products selected for each building offer sleek, contemporary styling, superior energy efficiency and sound attenuation, strength and durability, and effortless operation. They are the perfect choice for the high-end Harbor Point development.”To date, Crystal has supplied over 16,000 high-performance windows and doors for 12 buildings, and more Harbor Point buildings are under construction. The three latest buildings completed are NV@Harbor Point, Allure, and Escape to Harbor Point. All the buildings are high-rise, twin-tower complexes ranging in height from 16 to 22 floors with extraordinary views, courtesy of nearly floor-to-ceiling Crystal window and glass door combinations. Crystal supplied several of its newer high-performance products as well as the company’s popular classic product lines for these residences. For the new projects, Crystal supplied aluminum Series 5600 sliding and Series 5100 fixed windows, along with its aluminum Series 8600 windows in casement, fixed, awning, and hopper styles. Most building openings used large expansive continuous head and sill master frame ganged and stacked configurations. A combined total of 7,155 Crystal windows were supplied for these latest three luxury apartment buildings. Crystal supplied high-performance heavy-commercial windows and doors for NV@Harbor Point (Stamford, CT), one of three new projects recently completed at this major development. The Series 5600 and 5100 windows feature 3-¼” jambs, with AAMA ratings of AW-PG40/50and AW-PG100, respectively, as well as a unique self-mulling jamb feature. The sliding windows feature stainless steel sash rollers, full height sash clip lock pull rails, and interlocking meeting rails. The AW-rated Series 8600 windows complement other Crystal products supplied, with 3-¼” depth frames and continuous master frame and mulling options. Casement and projected windows feature European-style hardware and multi-point locks. For access to balconies and outdoor spaces, Crystal provided a total of 1,502 heavy-commercial Series 1280 aluminum sliding patio doors and heavy-commercial Series 1450 outswing aluminum terrace doors. The Series 1280 sliding patio door features a 4-9∕16” frame depth, heavy-duty adjustable stainless steel quad rollers for operation ease and durability, as well as a contemporary-style locking handle. It is AAMA rated AW-PG50. The Series 1450 outswing aluminum terrace door is rated AW-PG75 and features a 3-¼” frame depth, multi-point locking system, and a European-style locking handle. Both door styles are available with matching side and transom glass units and ADA compliant sills. All of the Crystal window and door products supplied used 1” dual-pane insulating glass units with Solarban 60 Low-E coating and Argon gas filling, and tempered glass panels where code required and for doors. All frames are finished in Crystal’s no-VOC environmentally-sustainable simulated anodized silver AAMA 2604 powder coat paint. “Crystal fenestration products are the perfect choice for a location such as Harbor Point, with its bustling waterfront environment that challenges building materials,” said Benevenga. “Our strong, durable products withstand the windy marine climate, and provide weather resistance, energy efficiency, and sound attenuation creating the most comfortable living spaces for residents. Crystal Windows and doors at Harbor Point’s many luxury apartment buildings will provide long-lasting beauty and stunning views for many years to come.” Harbor Point in Stamford, CT, is one of the largest mixed-use brownfield redevelopments in the country. National developer Building & Land Technology of Stamford, with architecture and planning firm EDI International of New York, designed this $3.5 billion master-planned, LEED Gold Transit-Oriented Development project with five distinct neighborhoods on 177 acres to rejuvenate this neglected area of Stamford and reconnect residents with the waterfront. Harbor Point features millions of square feet of commercial and residential space, many outdoor recreational park areas, a full-service marina, shops, restaurants, and convenient public transportation. Construction of new residential and commercial buildings in the development continues. The three latest luxury apartment buildings supplied by Crystal have over 400 apartments each and offer rooftop and ground-level terraces with pool, grill, firepit, and lounge areas, fitness and gaming centers, garage parking, concierge services, and pet-friendly options.
