Building A Better Boathouse

Reynaers Aluminium’s SlimLine 68 system has been specified for a new waterside home in Exeter, combining slim sightlines with high levels of weather resistance.

The high-performance Slimline (SL) provides great weather protection and thermal performance as well.

Installed by Reynaers at Home Partner, Aspect Windows, the windows were selected to meet the environmental conditions of this exposed riverside location while supporting the architectural vision for expansive glazing, minimal sightlines and a strong connection between the home and its surroundings.

Natural light

Built on the site of a former boat pavilion, the Riversmeet Boathouse is a new-build private residence set within the grounds of the Grade II-listed Riversmeet House.

Located at the meeting point of the River Exe and River Clyst, the property was designed to maximise its exceptional waterside setting, capturing panoramic views across the estuary and adjacent RSPB nature reserve while flooding the interior with natural light.

A key requirement for the project was to create a comfortable and energy-efficient living environment while withstanding the challenges of its tidal location, including exposure to strong winds and wind-driven rainfall.

Sightlines

With slim aluminium profiles and minimal sightlines, SL 68 helps reduce the visual separation between inside and outside, allowing the surrounding landscape to become an integral part of the living space.

Larger panes

Ryan Darby, the marketing manager at Aspect Windows, said: “As a new-build property of contemporary design, we needed a window system that could deliver a full technical specification for a waterside location while providing a stylish solution that maximises daylight.

“With slimline aluminium frames allowing for larger panes of glass, SL 68 proved an ideal match to the look and feel of the property while helping to make the outdoor areas the focal point of the rooms.”

Climate resistance

Alongside delivering the minimal sightlines required for the project, SL 68 supports high levels of comfort through excellent acoustic, thermal and weatherproof performance.

The system has been designed to deliver climate resistance and excellent insulation properties. It is rated Class 4 for air tightness, tested at a pressure of 600 Pascals (Pa). This helps to reduce draughts and energy loss, even in locations exposed to high winds.

The window has also been tested to resist water penetration at a pressure of 1200Pa, crucial for exposed locations that can be subject to wind-driven downpours. It has achieved a Class C5 wind load resistance rating, maintaining structural integrity under extreme wind speeds up to 2000Pa.

It also meets PAS 24 certification for enhanced home security.

UV resistance

Specified with a pre-anodised finish, the protective coating helps maintain the long-term integrity of the system, offering improved UV resistance, colour retention and protection against environmental factors.

Scott Yates, the commercial sales manager (south & south-east) at Reynaers Aluminium UK, said: “Riversmeet Boathouse is a fantastic example of how selecting the right window system can really maximise the natural features that elevate a property, creating a stronger connection between the outdoors and the indoors.

"Working with our Reynaers at Home Partner, Aspect Windows, this project has delivered high levels of weather resistance, security and insulation while meeting the architectural intent of making full use of the estuary views."