By Susan Kelly
There’s an art to creating a grand entrance. The elegantly majestic Imperial Pivot doors stand a towering 10 feet tall and five feet wide. They glimmer with a subtle aged-gold, slightly textured finish. Contemporary and unique in style, they might be mistaken for an art installation, but these are portals designed for real life.
“The effect is so dramatic, people literally stopped in their tracks when we displayed them at the 2024 Living Luxe Design Show,” says Norm Shubat, principal at Opulence Architecture Systems. “And they are just one example of the exceptionally beautiful and well-constructed doors and windows that we source from around the world.”
Opulence is the exclusive Canadian dealer for exquisitely crafted RK Pivot Doors, like the stately Imperial Pivot. Besides liquid metal, they may be clad in luxurious materials like stone, ceramic, wood or Venetian glass, each becoming a one-of-a-kind masterpiece. They are part of the wide range of prestigious custom window and door systems the company installs in homes and businesses across North America.
Such an aesthetically advanced collection deserves to be seen in an artful and sophisticated setting. Now open to industry insiders and the public, Opulence Architecture Systems’ 4,000-square-foot showroom is at 126 Tycos Drive in the heart of Toronto’s Design District. “We designed it to be like an art gallery, with room to take in the full effect under lighting that highlights the beautiful bespoke nature of the products,” Shubat says. All the better to appreciate the finer details and experience their exceptionally high quality.
The window collections include companies like Italy’s venerable and venerated Secco Sistemi. “They are renowned for the minimalist frames called for in fine contemporary architecture and for their exceptional craftsmanship,” says Opulence director Joseph Gerofsky. Today’s homes tend to feature increasingly large windows as well. One recent order called for custom windows that measured eight by 16 feet, made possible by the advanced materials used in Opulence windows, including the finest European triple glazing.
Opulence Architectural Systems products are also available in an exclusive selection of materials not found elsewhere. Look for sleek, modern options in aluminum, aluminum-clad wood or steel from manufacturers that include Reynaers, Cortizo, Schüco and Weather Shield. The company’s high-performance products may also be framed in brass or Corten steel to harmonize with the trend toward warm metals in home design while adding a stylishly luminous glow.
Opulence’s client list includes elite builders and contractors, along with homeowners who like to be in the know. All are offered personalized customer service at the new showroom, with design consultations with in-house experts available by appointment. “Homeowners typically are most concerned with security and comfort at home when it comes to windows and doors,” Gerofsky says. “Architects primarily focus on technical aspects and thermal efficiency. Builders want to make sure the products come in on time, and that we can handle installation. We have all aspects covered.”
“The greatest satisfaction comes from seeing the many architecturally significant and stunning projects that already feature our products,” Shubat adds. “Our new showroom provides opportunities for people who appreciate elegant and sophisticated design to experience our extraordinary products firsthand in an inspiring space.”