Premium fenestration market in India has come a long way. The doors and windows market, essentially comprising the fenestration market, has had major challenges due to the lack of industry ‘standards’ in terms of the materials and sizes. It was the introduction of uPVC systems some 2 decades ago which was amongst the first steps towards making the Indian fenestration industry move towards standardisation. The premium players in the Indian fenestration market have been raising the bar for quality of materials and the wonders that standardisation offers to the customers in the building materials market. In our series ‘Industry Talks with B&I’, we speak to some of the key stakeholders in the premium doors and windows (systems) market to understand the direction the Indian market is taking.
Premium Fenestration Market in India – Brand Perspective
Ravi Balakrishnan, Managing Director, aluplast India
“In coming years, several factors will drive the demand for premium uPVC fenestration in India:
- Urbanization and infrastructure development: Due to rapid urbanization and increase in infrastructure development projects across country, there’s a need for modern, energy efficient fenestration solutions that offer better thermal insulation, noise reduction & security.
- Focus on aesthetics and customization: Homeowners & architects are placing greater emphasis on aesthetics and customization, driving demand for high end systems like lift and slide, Tilt & Turn, Slide & fold with larger openings.
- Wide variety of colour choice: The recent increase in demand for colours & finishes that match the interior and exterior has led to increased demand for our woodec and aludec uPVC doors and windows. It is gaining popularity among homeowners who don’t want to use wood or aluminium as uPVC windows/doors are free from termites, rotting, rusting and corrosion.
- Increase in awareness for energy efficiency: With increasing awareness of environmental sustainability and energy efficiency; there is a growing demand for aluplast uPVC fenestration solutions that offer better insulation and thermal performance.
- Integration with BMS: Premium customers are looking for advanced features like Biometric locks and remote operation of windows & doors to enhance convenience and safety. We see a shift towards digital locks and increased use of sensors in the upper segment of the market.”
Dr. hc. Mario Schmidt, Managing Director, Lingel Windows and Doors Technologies Private Limited
“Innovation is the key that leads to a successful future for the premium fenestration market in India. With many players in the market, one must provide niche and sustainable products to customers.
At Lingel, we continuously introduce new collections of innovative German fenestration solutions. Our Lingel Panzer Glazing (LPG) and Lingel Safety Box (LSB) represent a perfect blend of glazing and hardware. Customers can entrust us with their most challenging projects, and we’re ready to take on the challenge.
This driving factor of providing technically superior products to customers will help sustain us on the road ahead.”
Anjan Putatunda, Chief Sales Officer, Eternia Windows
Despite an estimated market opportunity of 20,000 crores, only a small percentage of households in India currently use certified windows. However, this trend is rapidly changing due to growing customer consciousness about safety and energy efficiency, coupled with the booming construction industry in residential and commercial sectors.
In recent years, trends in the premium fenestration industry include expansive views with slimline frames, minimalist designs with clean lines and sharp angles, and technological innovations focusing on energy efficiency, smart technology, acoustic performance, and sustainability. Consumers are also prioritizing convenience and seeking solutions that integrate various features for safety, comfort, and durability.
Eternia offers innovative and high-performance fenestration products that blend protection and aesthetics. Products like WiWA-certified windows and doors offer comprehensive defense against cyclonic winds, rainfall, noise, pollution, and dust. Their windows are crafted from a special aluminium alloy called “Duranium,” developed by Hindalco Engineers, which offers distinct advantages such as cyclone resistance, slimness, strength, and durability.
Eternia’s commitment to environmental sustainability is reflected in their IGBC green pro certification, making it the only aluminium system window company in India with this international recognition. With cutting-edge technology and tools like ForesenseTM, customers can make informed decisions and visualize customizable products before purchase.”
Premium Fenestration Market in India – Architect Perspective
Ar. Seeja Sudhakaran, Studio Emergence, Mumbai
“There is a substantial growth in the fenestration market in India due to rapid urbanisation and increasing incomes. The need of the hour is high quality customisable fenestration products. Consumers are increasingly prioritizing both aesthetics and energy efficiency along with customisation which in turn increases the interest in premium options. Looking ahead, as infrastructure projects and real estate developments continue to flourish, the market will witness sustained growth. As architects, we see a shift in the consumer mentality which is currently heading towards bespoke and sustainable options for their homes, ones that also resonate with their personal life ethos.
Due to a huge disparity in the quality as well the cost of commercially available fenestration products available in India, we see a dynamic landscape filled with both challenges and opportunities. Balancing aesthetic preferences with functional requirements can be challenging, but we see design engineering and parametric modelling as a solution for this. Leveraging parametric design tools allows for intricate customization, enhancing both form and function. Moreover, integrating sustainable practices into fenestration design aligns with India’s growing focus on environmental conservation. By addressing these challenges and embracing opportunities for customization and sustainability, we as architects can co-create fenestration options with different manufacturers that can elevate the spaces we design and make them more eco-conscious as well as visually stunning.”
Conclusion
The suppliers in the premium fenestration industry are quite excited by the action in this market. Though challenges remain, the concerted efforts of the entire value-chain, right from the systems providers, fabricators to architects and quality seeking customers are taking the industry and the market towards maturity. As volumes rise for this segment, it sure is going to make it’s good effects being felt and absorbed by other segments of the industry.
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