What exactly are Steel Crittall windows?
Medieval blacksmiths were the first to forge steel doors and windows, unfortunately, the wrought iron they used was an expensive luxury reserved only for religious buildings and homes of the elite. Thanks to controlled production, cast iron became popular in the mid-18th century. In those days, however, windows were more sensible than stylish – cast iron frames were preferred at schools and shelters because they were very secure, and the somewhat stark view to the outside they offered was not remarkable.
Thanks to the Industrial Revolution, mass-produced steel has become an easily-available and affordable choice for a wide variety of materials for hard work, from warehouses to factories. It was only after World War I that steel-framed windows found widespread use at homes, as their linear aesthetics were perceived as strikingly modern, reflecting the Art Deco era's love of minimalist decoration and unnecessary materials.
Today, the popularity of warehouse redevelopments and loft-style apartments has made steel windows popular again. Technological innovations mean the frames can be lighter, stronger and thinner than ever before, offering a cleaner, more modern look than traditional wooden alternatives. The thinner profiling blurs the line between the interior and exterior, creating the illusion of more living space – perfect for convincing your neighbors that your home is bigger than theirs!
You can choose from a wide range of crittal style doors: