More than just a window
A conversation with Claus Schwarzmann about craftsmanship and his submission to Handwerk+Form 2023.
Further development, improvement, and high-quality standards are central values for window builder Claus Schwarzmann. With his company, he aims to provide a comprehensive concept. He thinks holistically because, without a house, there is no window.
As a window builder, his approach is strongly influenced by architecture, as there are always specific requirements that a window must meet. The “Krützstock HERE” was also designed as a suitable solution for an existing structure with special demands. Many sophisticated details make the window not only high-quality but also practical. Claus Schwarzmann emphasizes that the window already meets many requirements but also has room for improvement. He and his collaborative partners already have specific ideas for
its further development.
Claus Schwarzmann doesn’t shy away from challenges; his work is a constant learning process for him. The ability to think ahead and react flexibly is seen by him as a cornerstone of his work. He tests his ideas as prototypes in the workshop as quickly as possible. Often, this requires modifications to existing systems. With just a few resources, he can give a completely new character to both a window and a house. He emphasizes that a lot of emotion is involved in his work. For him, his windows represent not just a product but a philosophy.
Do you see yourself as a manufacturer or designer?
CS: I am a manufacturer, but not exclusively. I have to consider the architecture of the house when I develop a window.
“A window must suit a house and the people living in it. It has to feel right.”
Are you always satisfied with your objects?
CS: There is always something to improve. The “Krützstock HERE” is not finished yet; we just keep going. There is still much to develop. For example, the window shutter should also function as insect protection while remaining aesthetic. I don’t start from scratch every time; instead, I build on my pieces.
What is your most successful object and why?
CS: I greatly enjoy developing something new on projects for Handwerk+Form. I highly value collaboration with architects. And when something fantastic comes out of it, it’s also beneficial for the customers.
Krützstock HERE
Handwerk+Form 2023
Category: Excellence
Window
Spruce, oak, brass, vacuum glass, mesh fabric
210 x 210 cm
Submission: Schwarzmann Fenster GmbH & Co KG, Felix, Claus und Jan Schwarzmann, Schoppernau
Design: Architekturbüro Felder Geser, Egg
Partners: Figer Kunstschmiede, Peter Figer, Bezau
What would you love to realize in the future?
CS: There’s nothing specific. I see more the potential for further development of existing pieces or systems.
If you hadn’t become a craftsman, what would you have become?
CS: I would have become a pastor; that would have been a good alternative for me. I would have liked the profession, but today I am glad that I became a craftsman.
Is craftsmanship necessary, and what’s its purpose?
CS: In order to develop a good product, one has to learn something from the ground up. It takes more than just understanding – hands and mind must collaborate. There are complex processes involved. A craftsman who masters their trade also benefits in other aspects of life. And in a more general sense, without craftsmanship, products, and society would be dull.
What comes to your mind spontaneously when you think about the future of craftsmanship?
CS: We need to start with the younger generation. We need people who master craftsmanship, and for that, we need individuals for whom craftsmanship still holds value. The Werkraum Schule is extremely important in this regard. Parents need to understand that a craftsman’s apprenticeship is not just training but a well-rounded educational foundation and a solid starting point.
Why do you participate in the design competition Handwerk+Form? What motivates you?
CS: The beautiful thing about Handwerk+Form is that you actually implement things. Otherwise, many ideas just remain ideas and are not realized. It motivates me to work together with architects to advance something and break away from the everyday routine.
“We need people who master craftsmanship.”
This interview is part of the series “Experience Craftsmanship”.
The award-winning object “Krützstock HERE” is exhibited in the current exhibition.