Wooden Windows | Restoration at Plaza del Marqués de Salamanca

Restoring a historic building in the heart of the Salamanca district is always both a technical and aesthetic challenge. At Plaza del Marqués de Salamanca 11, the intervention transformed a classic property into a high-end residential complex, preserving the original façade while improving comfort, efficiency, and safety standards required in contemporary living.

The project was led by architect José Antonio Menéndez-Morán Reverte, along with a top-level development and construction team. Our role at Carinbisa was key in the wooden exterior carpentry, striving to blend the building’s original character with today’s technical demands.

The project: heritage, comfort, and technical precision

The building retains the stately character typical of the area —well-proportioned openings, moldings, and traditional woodwork— while incorporating a large-format residential program with high-end amenities. In this context, choosing wood for the windows was not only an aesthetic decision but also the way to preserve historical composition and simultaneously enhance thermal and acoustic performance.

Solutions applied by Carinbisa

For this project, we implemented a series of specific solutions:

• DJ68 Series windows in laminated pine.
  This system allows for slim profiles, high stability, and excellent performance against deformation and thermal bridging. Laminated pine —with selected and glued lamellas— reduces internal stress and increases durability.
• Two-tone varnish (exterior/interior).
  A highly practical choice in restoration: the exterior respects the urban tone and appearance of the building, while the interior adapts to the color palette of the spaces. The finishing system extends maintenance cycles and provides protection against UV radiation and atmospheric agents.
• High-performance acoustic glass.
  Significantly improves sound insulation from urban noise without compromising natural light. Combined with quality fittings and sealing joints, it delivers day-to-day indoor comfort.
• Fixed-louver shutters.
  Integrated into selected openings, they provide solar control, privacy, and ventilation. Moreover, they align perfectly with the historic façade’s appearance in the Salamanca district.

The result is carpentry faithful to the original proportions and textures but offering the same performance as a high-end new build: energy efficiency, tightness, safety, and acoustic behavior that makes a real difference in a central location.

Coordination with the construction team

Restoring a building of this kind requires meticulous coordination with the architect and construction management. From on-site measurements and the modeling of each opening to color testing and phased installation planning, our team worked closely with José Antonio Menéndez-Morán Reverte and the other professionals to minimize impact and ensure perfect façade integration.

Frequently asked questions about wooden windows in restoration

Why choose wood instead of other materials?

Wood naturally provides excellent thermal and acoustic insulation, is easier to repair and renew than other materials, and, in listed buildings, allows the faithful replication of original profiles and moldings. When properly designed and treated, it rivals any alternative in durability.

What advantages does laminated pine offer over other materials?

Lamination reduces knots and internal stresses, resulting in more stable pieces, less prone to warping, and with better long-term sealing. It also optimizes raw material use and supports high-quality finishes.

What is two-tone varnishing and how does it affect maintenance?

This system allows the exterior color to differ from the interior. It meets heritage requirements on the outside while enabling customization indoors. We use long-lasting finishing systems that extend maintenance cycles; when required, touch-ups are quick and non-invasive.

What does acoustic glass contribute in an urban environment?

It noticeably reduces traffic and city noise. Combined with a well-designed frame, joints, and hardware, it enhances overall insulation performance, making interiors quieter and more comfortable.

What is the purpose of fixed-louver shutters?

They control sunlight and thermal gain during peak hours, maintain privacy without fully blocking light, and promote ventilation. In restoration projects, they also respect the building’s traditional appearance.

What is the process if I want a similar solution for my project?

We begin with a technical visit and site measurement, propose samples and finishes, define glass and hardware performance according to your needs, and coordinate phased installation to minimize disruption during construction or renovation.