THE dictionary defines ‘Calibre’ as the quality of something or someone, especially when it is good - which makes it a fitting name for Calibre Systems, the new name in bespoke glazing solutions for domestic and commercial windows and doors.

Founded two years ago by Jamie Nelson and Sam Myler – joiners to trade and friends who have worked together for many years – they spotted a gap in the market to make the most innovative, high-quality glazing and door systems on the international market, available from one source, here in Scotland.

Now, Sam and Jamie have opened the doors (glass, naturally) to Calibre Systems’ new showroom on Middlesex Street, in the Tradeston area of Glasgow.

Natural light is fundamental to human health but as many people nowadays spend more time indoors than out, it can be difficult to access the amount and intensity of light required to maintain a healthy body and mind.

While glass has been a staple material in construction and manufacturing for centuries, innovations in glass technology in recent years are pushing the boundaries for this endlessly fascinating material – and architects, designers, self-builders, and homeowners are realising the benefits from living in homes that are flooded with light… and equally important, sunlight, giving the added advantage of solar gain and energy efficiency.

(Image: Colin Mearns)

When it came to housing and designing a showroom neither Sam nor Jamie wanted to take the conventional route of displaying a maze of freestanding products.

Attracted by the vast expanse of space available in a former paint factory in Middlesex Street, they set about incorporating a range of window styles and doors within the fabric of the building. “We were attracted by the building’s size and character, exposed red brick internal walls, and huge arched doors,” explains Sam.

“We could see the potential to create a welcoming loft-style space in which to incorporate and showcase some of the many new and exciting applications for glass.”

Laminated safety glass, energy efficient (low-E) glass, self-cleaning glass, mirror glass, smart glass that changes from transparent to opaque in an instant …these are all here and now, while ongoing technological advances promise glazing that will further enhance heating, energy efficiency, and sound insulation, in the near future.

(Image: Colin Mearns) But while this highly sophisticated  sustainable material has come of age, the range of products available can be bewildering: advanced double-or triple glazing, aluminium, wood, steel, composite or PVC frames – and design options that include traditional-style sash and case, pivot, flat-roof windows, top hung, balcony windows, large size windows, curved  and unusually shaped windows and more, from leading manufacturers with a strong emphasis on design, aesthetics and performance.

As specialists in this fast-moving industry, the Calibre Systems’ team is best placed to guide you from an initial telephone enquiry or informal visit to the showroom to working in partnership with your architect/designer/contractor to ensure smooth manufacture and installation of the most advanced, bespoke glazing systems for your project.

(Image: Colin Mearns)

Someone who has first-hand experience of Calibre Systems is Glasgow-based architect David Dick. “I have had the pleasure of collaborating with Sam and Jamie at Calibre Systems on several projects,” he says, “and their personal service and products are outstanding. The new showroom is testament to their dedication and quality, offering an impressive display of their capabilities and attention to detail.”

Book an appointment to visit the showroom at www.calibresystems.co.uk or call 0141 459 1395 and see glass in a different light.