By KATE BURNHAM

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Australia is experiencing a significant shift towards townhouses, dual occupancy and other medium-density housing options as an increasingly popular choice for families, young professionals, and downsizers; where maximising land use is critical to accommodating a growing population.

Medium-density living offers many advantages, including affordability, convenience, and proximity to amenities. However, it also presents unique challenges, particularly when creating a sense of place and individuality within a shared or compact environment. For homeowners and designers, the key lies in thoughtful architectural design that meets the site’s constraints and capitalises on its opportunities. Windows and doors, often overlooked as mere functional elements, play a central role in achieving this balance.

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How do I select the best types of windows and doors for medium-density living?

Begin by considering the site’s unique characteristics including solar orientation, local climate, and the surrounding environment. Strategically positioned windows and doors can frame views, enhance natural light, promote cross-flow ventilation and establish a connection to the outdoors, turning a compact living space into a bright and inviting sanctuary.

Selection considerations also typically include a focus on either noise reduction or space-saving requirements due to the compact footprint

Considerations For Embracing Higher-Density Living

Noise reduction

Leaky windows are a problem because improper seals invite suburban noise into the home. All Rylock products are tested for air tightness, which measures the amount of air infiltration under positive and negative pressure and is published by WERS (Window Energy Rating Scheme).

To reduce air infiltration, all Rylock products feature dual seals on all opening panels or sashes to help minimise noise. Hinged operation (awning and casement windows), with a compression seal, typically perform better for air tightness than sliding products, and they also feature secondary latches to draw the sash in tightly for exceptional results in Australian Standards testing.

Space-saving product solutions

Sliding and double-hung windows and sliding and stacker doors are often recommended to promote considerable natural airflow, with a slim profile that won’t protrude into surrounding spaces, when open. Rylock bifold doors and open-out hinged doors open to the exterior of the home, so they too can be considered a good option. Finally, highlight windows, either fixed or awning (electric operator) can also be a great space-saving solution whilst promoting ventilation.

Why is glass selection important?

Whilst double glazing has secondary acoustic benefits, there is a wide range of laminate glass solutions that are specifically designed for noise attenuation. Additionally, glass can be specified as translucent for a certain window or door for enhanced privacy and to meet regulatory council requirements. Also note, Rylock’s standard specification is double glazed high performance Low-e glass for increased ambient comfort.

What product security features should be considered?

Safety and security are important considerations in higher-density living, where homes are often located close to public areas or shared spaces.

Rylock frames are manufactured locally from extruded aluminium, and their glass can be specified with locally processed laminated or toughened glass solutions for enhanced protection against potential intruders.

Secondary latching multi-point key lock systems also provide an additional layer of protection, and Rylock has a range of security and barrier screens, that greatly exceed Australian Standards.

Is there anything else I should consider when selecting the right windows and doors for my dual occupancy dwelling?

In medium-density housing, optimising natural airflow and light is paramount to creating a comfortable and energy-efficient home. Carefully positioned windows and doors can encourage cross-flow ventilation to reduce reliance on artificial heating and cooling. Choose locally sourced, sustainable solutions and take a “whole of house” approach to delivering a sense of space and comfort.

For over 40 years Rylock Windows & Doors has been designing, manufacturing, and specifying high performance product solutions for Australian homes. They have worked closely with Victorian builder, Carter Grange, for nearly a decade, building more than 700 dual occupancy homes and have a detailed understanding of the requirements associated with medium-density projects

Rylock
About Rylock Rylock is an Australian designer and manufacturer of premium aluminium windows and doors, proudly operating since 1983. With decades of experience and a focus on quality craftsmanship, Rylock delivers high-performance solutions for residential and architectural projects across Australia, including energy-efficient and custom-built window and door systems. Find Out More
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