Every technological advancement is born from the meeting of intuition, experience, technology, and expertise. For Astec, research and development in architectural bronze systems is above all a human journey—one built on listening to market needs, collaborating with internationally renowned designers, and innovating without ever betraying the essence of a noble and timeless material such as architectural bronze and copper alloys.
From origins to early evolutions
Astec’s path in research and development began in 1997 with the creation of the ABX® system, initially a cold-cut solution without thermal insulation, in line with market demand at the time. Five years later, in 2002, growing attention to energy efficiency led the company to introduce the thermal-break evolution for doors, windows, and sliding systems—a transformation that required new certifications and an expansion of in-house expertise. It was during this period that Astec established its technical department, which has since become the engine of continuous research and innovation.
International experience: 25 Bond Street
The strength of this vision took shape in 2008 with one of Astec’s first major international collaborations: 25 Bond Street, a luxury residential building in New York’s NoHo district.
Here, Astec’s architectural bronze—with its Classic patina—was featured prominently in the façade and in more than 80 parallel sliding windows produced with the thermally broken ABX® W65 series. The project, tested according to ASTM standards in Pennsylvania, confirmed Astec’s ability to guarantee the highest levels of quality while adapting to prestigious contexts and engaging with complex architecture.
Thinness becomes innovation: ABX® D45
In 2012, Astec launched the D45 series, distinguished by slimmer profiles that allow for larger glazed surfaces—an ideal response to contemporary architectural trends. One of its most striking applications is found in the Petite Afrique project in Monte Carlo, designed by Brazilian architect Isay Weinfeld.
Here, Astec supplied D45 doors and windows as well as bronze-clad façades, skylights, and custom canopies: a complex and prestigious project that demanded both technical excellence and flawless project management—proving once again that human expertise is as decisive as product quality.
Towards new dimensions: ABX® J15
Astec’s innovation journey continued in 2020 with the launch of the J15 series, designed for oversized, motorized lift-and-slide doors. This solution combines the strength of bronze with the ability to create monumental openings, ensuring comfort, performance, and contemporary aesthetics.
One of its most significant applications can be seen at the Rolex Headquarters in Milan, where motorized sliding and lift-and-slide doors add a touch of modern innovation while preserving the overall elegance of the space.
Numerous projects currently underway also feature the ABX® J15 series—particularly in France, where Astec is contributing to several private residences, delivering architectural solutions that combine grandeur and functionality, achieving the perfect balance between imposing design and cutting-edge performance.
Research and development: the value of expertise
From cold-cut to thermal-break systems, from international certifications to bullet- and fire-resistant properties, through to the latest large-scale solutions, Astec’s history demonstrates a constant commitment to creating tangible value. It is a research path driven by people—designers, engineers, technicians, and craftsmen who, day after day, translate market needs into innovative solutions.
Human expertise remains the beating heart of Astec’s evolution: a heritage that safeguards tradition while opening the way to new challenges, ensuring that architectural bronze continues to embody strength, beauty, and relevance in the world’s most ambitious architectural projects.
