Reynaers SL 38 proves versatile choice for renovations

The former Van der Elst cigar factory in Leuven has undergone a metamorphosis into an urban oasis. Where the roar of machinery and the aroma of tobacco used to dominate, Jaspers-Eyers Architects has now created a mix of residential units, offices and shops around a series of green outdoor areas.

The ‘7Even Gardens’ build makes use of slim line, steel-look aluminium windows from Reynaers, turning an old factory into a pleasant living environment.


The factory complex dates from 1875 and has been expanded many times over the years. A number of buildings have been demolished in order to create space for the gardens. These gardens are constructed around the three renovated buildings and a new-build block. Architect John Eyers made sure that both the business premises and apartments, ranging in size from 50 to 200 square metres, have strikingly high ceilings and an abundance of daylight entering the properties.


From an urban development perspective, Eyers was looking for a new dynamism while still trying to preserve the original character of the building. “We have left the existing column structure and the technical features as visible as possible with the intention of reinforcing the industrial look rather than eliminating it. After all, this is what distinguishes the building from new-build projects, and the reason why people specifically choose this spot.”

The slim line steel-look window product from Reynaers imitates the look of the original window frames. Slim Line 38 is one of the latest additions to Reynaers product range and an advancement of Reynaers’ original CS 38 window system, which is featured on 7Even Gardens. SL 38 has exactly the same aesthetic but benefits from even better performance. It boasts the look and feel of steel, supported by the superior qualities of aluminium.


Rebecca Cope, Marketing Manager at Reynaers, said: “With its highly desirable slender appearance and market-leading energy efficiency, the SL 38 has proved itself to be a truly versatile system.

“A perfect all-rounder, it is ideal for new builds and renovation projects alike, allowing the preservation of a vintage look or the creation of a fresh and modern build.”

A highly insulated system of inward and outward opening windows and doors, SL 38 combines lightweight elegance and comfort with a unique design. Combined with its stability and ease of production, this system offers an ideal solution for both new-build constructions and the renovation of steel-framed windows and doors. Whilst the original design is respected, a vast improvement on thermal insulation is achieved.


SL 38 is available in three unique design variants – Classic, Cubic and Ferro – with its slim lines allowing an abundance of light and large glass panes. This also makes the system ideal for steel replacement, providing a weightless frame whilst retaining its strength and enhancing its performance.

A special modification to the design also means the system is available with hidden hinges, whilst the use of glazing bars will achieve a more traditional design. The minimalistic frame is reinforced by an invisible drainage system, avoiding the use of drainage caps on the exterior of windows and doors.

The windows and doors can be provided with double and triple glazing with a glass thickness of up to 55mm without losing the ultra-slim look. In combination with its superior insulation capabilities, the system provides the perfect harmony between durable material, clean design and demanding architectural challenges.

SL 38 features a highly insulated three-chamber system with ultra-slim profiles for increased thermal characteristics. The solution is available in fixed, turn, and turn-tilt variations with Uw values of 1.4 W/m²K or greater depending on the configuration.

For optimum end user comfort, the SL 38 product offers excellent weather performance with air tightness of Class 4 (600Pa) and water tightness Class 9A (600Pa). This strong performance also extends to safety, with a burglar resistance class of 2 and fire resistance class EW 30.