Heritage and flush casements to drive sales
Jeremy Phillips, MD of aluminium specialist CDW Systems, shares his insights into the product trends that look set to shape the aluminium fenestration sector in the year ahead.
The aluminium sector continues to evolve rapidly, and as we look ahead, several key products and trends are set to drive market growth and innovation.
As a specialist fabricator with decades of experience serving both commercial and domestic markets, we’re witnessing some fascinating developments that I believe will define the industry landscape.
It’s all about heritage
Heritage products remain a dominant force in both domestic and commercial applications, and this trend shows no signs of slowing.
Our Heritage range has proven particularly successful with trade customers across the UK, especially in regions like Gloucestershire where period properties requiring sympathetic renovation are abundant. The enduring appeal of heritage-style products lies in their ability to combine traditional aesthetics with modern performance.
One exciting development we’re seeing is the increasing popularity of Smart’s AluSpace internal screening system which complements our existing window and door ranges, offering a simplified version of the Heritage range that’s ideal for both residential and commercial applications.
Its sleek, elegant lines echo traditional steel doors and windows, making it particularly suitable for converted industrial buildings, where maintaining that industrial aesthetic is crucial.
Feeling flush
Perhaps one of the most significant trends we’re observing is the growing demand for flush casement windows. Since introducing the AluK 58BW flush window to our portfolio, we’ve seen remarkable interest from customers.
This system represents a significant step forward in terms of fabrication efficiency and thermal performance, achieving impressive U-values of 1.4 while offering straightforward fabrication processes. This combination of performance and practicality perfectly aligns with current market demands and regulatory requirements.
Our partnership with AluK has enabled us to meet this growing demand effectively. Their systems, combined with our fabrication expertise, allow us to deliver products that not only meet the aesthetic requirements but also achieve outstanding thermal performance and security standards.
Is black the new grey?
Interestingly, we’re also seeing a shift in colour preferences. While anthracite grey remains popular, black finishes are increasingly becoming the colour of choice, particularly in heritage applications but also across our wider window range.
This trend reflects a broader move towards bold, definitive aesthetics in both residential and commercial projects.
Looking ahead
I believe the key to success in 2025 will be offering versatile solutions that combine aesthetic appeal with practical performance.
Our strategic decision to incorporate AluK’s Part L Compliant 58BW/BD (HI) Window and Door System demonstrates our commitment to providing innovative solutions that meet evolving industry needs. The system’s versatility and energy efficiency make it an ideal choice for property upgrades, while its design aesthetics satisfy contemporary architectural preferences.
Our extensive aluminium range allows us to cater to diverse requirements while ensuring compliance with the latest industry standards. The ability to offer complementary systems – such as AluSpace for internal applications alongside Heritage products for external use – provides our customers with cutting-edge solutions to meet the evolving needs of any project.
As we continue to navigate changing market demands and regulatory requirements, our focus remains on delivering cutting-edge solutions that meet our direct customers’ needs and end-user expectations.
The trends we’re seeing suggest a market that increasingly values versatility, performance, and authentic design – areas where aluminium systems excel.
