Founded in 2013 by Ajay Balakrishna, Schon Doorways combines German engineering with Indian innovation. Trusted by 5,000+ architects and 250,000+ homeowners across 200+ cities, they offer stylish, strong, and sustainable solutions—from ultra-slim aluminium doors and windows to custom railings, partitions, and shower cubicles.

In an interview for “American Aluminium Industry: The Path Forward” e-Magazine, Ajay Balakrishna shared how aluminium has evolved from a structural material to a design-forward, high-performance solution in modern architecture. He further highlights trends like slimline profiles, modular systems and energy-efficient façades and how Schon adapts Indian-made aluminium systems for international markets through co-engineering, customisation and compliance with global standards. The interview further emphasises performance-driven design, sustainability and the growing export potential of Indian aluminium fabrication in North America.

AL Circle: As a precision aluminium fabricator rooted in India, how do you view the evolving role of aluminium in modern architecture, both residential and commercial, particularly in Western markets like the US?

Ajay Balakrishna: Aluminium has witnessed rapid evolution from being just a structural component to a design statement in both residential and commercial architecture. In Western markets like the US, there is a high demand for aesthetics, performance. Given aluminium’s characteristics like lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and recyclable nature, makes it a preferred material. At Schon Doorways, we see aluminium more as a medium through which one can create expansive views, precision detailing, and thermal comfort that people seek. The demand for slimline, high-performance systems aligns with our expertise in engineering solutions, which is elegant & efficient as well.

AL Circle: With growing global awareness around energy-efficient façades and thermally broken systems, are you seeing increased demand for performance-based aluminium products from international clients or specifiers? 

Ajay Balakrishna: That’s true, these days it’s about high-performance aluminium demand. Today, clients don’t just ask for aluminium; instead, they will ask for what it can do. Thermally broken systems, multi-glazed configurations, and energy-efficient façades are becoming standard in RFQs from international markets. We’ve responded by upgrading our internal R&D capabilities, investing in performance simulation tools, and partnering with global suppliers of insulation technologies. Schon Doorways now offers systems that deliver U-values and acoustic ratings compliant with LEED and Passive House norms.

AL Circle: Thermal insulation, hurricane resistance, and soundproofing are key concerns in American construction. How is Schon integrating these performance features into its aluminium offerings while still maintaining slimline aesthetics?

Ajay Balakrishna: Schon systems are now being built with multi-point sealing, laminated acoustic glazing, thermal breaks, and impact-rated profiles. These elements are essential in meeting American standards without compromising aesthetics. Schon Doorways design philosophy revolves around maintaining clean lines and visual lightness even when high-performance cores are embedded within. We’re also exploring next-gen materials and hybrid assemblies to address future performance expectations in a discreet yet robust way.

To know more on the Indian aluminium industry and its emergence in North America, read the complete interview here.