Windows of Future

Windows of Future is a circular design exploration that reimagines windows not just as passive architectural elements, but as active components in a building’s material and carbon loop. Developed under the “New Narratives for Circularity” studio, the project investigates how window systems can be modular, repairable, and reusable, extending their life span across multiple buildings and contexts.

Using Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) tools, the design team evaluated the environmental impact of various window assembly choices, focusing on material sourcing, embodied carbon, and end-of-life strategies. By comparing conventional window components with circular alternatives (e.g., bio-based insulation, demountable frames, recyclable glazing), the team was able to quantitatively reduce carbon emissions across the window’s life cycle.

The final proposal emphasizes:

Design for Disassembly: every part of the window can be removed, replaced, or reused without damage.

Carbon-Conscious Material Selection: minimizing high-impact materials like aluminum and maximizing low-carbon solutions.

Digital Fabrication & Traceability: embedding QR-coded lifecycle data for future reuse planning.

Through this lens, Windows of Future contributes to a broader shift in architecture, from static construction to adaptive circular ecosystems, where even the most overlooked components carry the potential for transformation and impact.