Altherm commercial window systems installed in Nelson's Suter Gallery won the supreme award for manufacturer Design Windows Nelson in the recently judged Window Association of New Zealand Design Flair Competition.

The $12 million upgrade added new spaces as well as restored and strengthened heritage features of the original structure which dates from 1899.

Designed by architects Jerram Tocker & Barron and Warren & Mahoney Architects, the renovation has turned the Suter into a vibrant regional arts centre with new spaces that include a gallery, foyer, reception area, education room, and extensively glazed café which looks out to the ponds and trees of adjoining Queen's Gardens.

Awards judge, Tony van Raat, of the AUT University Architecture School, commented that Altherm manufacturer, Design Windows Nelson, took a "sensitive and very careful approach" to all aspects of the design, fabrication and installation of the window systems. The end result was "of the highest standard, fully worthy of the building complex in which it is situated."

Window ranges used in the Suter refurbishment included the APL Architectural Series, the 150mm Structural Glaze system and 100mm Flushglaze system with sun fins. The builder was Scott Construction Ltd.

Two other Design Windows branches won category awards for Altherm at the WANZ function in Auckland — Design Windows West Coast for the Brophy Knight building in Ashburton (Commercial, under $100,000) and Design Windows Central Otago for Domain Rd house (Residential, $75,000-$175,000).

Another manufacturer from the APL Window Solutions network, Whangarei Aluminium Ltd, a First brand supplier, won the Design Flair 'Residential over $175,000' category for a beach house at Taiharuru.