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a leather substitute for book covers, packaging and decorative elements through the
application of specific surface treatments. Meanwhile, recycling itself has a positive
connotation. Interior designers, in particular, use sound-absorbing wall elements. The
material refines surfaces for doors, tables and floor coverings with its unique feel.

r In 1960, the company started to use plastic injection moulding to manufacture
heels. Today, Salamander Industrie-Produkte GmbH is a leading European system
provider of uPVC window- and door systems, and a partner to window manufac-
turers. What can customers expect from Salamander myWindow?
Salamander myWindow is by far our largest business area. My brother and I set out
to turn the uPVC window, which had been spurned by architects, into an “awesome”
product. Firstly, we analysed and rethought the window based on typological deve-
lopment. This means that our window systems are not only technically innovative,
but also fit into the dimensions and design of the architectural styles of the last 100
years. Secondly, we are working on new sustainable materials, where we elevate
specific haptic properties of recycling and natural products to a design principle, as
in leather fibre. An example of this is our 100% Proud recycled Greta window. With
Greta®Fenster_loop, we have won several awards. Thirdly, we are rethinking win-
dows – with our straight window, for example, we have created a hybrid of aluminium Umweltfreundliche Stromgewinnung durch eigenes Wasserwerk • Environmentally friendly electricity generation
and uPVC window combining the advantages of both worlds as to statics, optics,
thermal insulation and durability. And fourthly, we are trying to establish design stan-
dards in our company, because we believe that this has an effect not only on the Till Schmiedeknecht: Architekt und Salamander Co-CEO, ... • Architect Till Schmiedeknecht: Salamander Co-CEO, ...
outside but also within the organization. But that is a long way off.

r Architects are interested in the quality and appearance of long-lasting products.
What role do the already mentioned sustainability and the circular economy play
for the brand in terms of optimizing resources?
As already mentioned, sustainability is part of Salamander’s DNA, we are proud of
that and we use it as a driver of innovation and an integral part of an overall concept.

r You studied architecture at the Karlsruhe TH, the ESTAB in Barcelona and the
AA in London. As an architect, you are able to communicate with your colleagues
on an equal footing. What other advantages does this bring in terms of product
development and project execution?
As far as I know, none of the owners of other window-profile suppliers is an architect.
This simplifies direct communication. It is easier for me to find common ground with
architects. As a former investor, I am also familiar with the requirements of property
developers and asset managers. In my view, both aspects are extremely helpful when
it comes to developing real solutions with added value.

r Being able to keep pace with the demands of the times as a company with a
long tradition requires a high degree of adaptability and innovative strength. What
measures does Salamander use to stay up to date or even stay ahead?
We use what many have learned in their architectural studies. We try to understand ... Bruder und Co-CEO Götz (r.), CSO Wolfgang Sandhaus • ... brother and Co-CEO Götz (r.), CSO Wolfgang Sandhaus
interrelations fundamentally in order to then systematically question them so that
space for new ideas is created.

r The family-run group of companies is still based in the rural area of the Allgäu.
What role does this location play and how important is the company as an em-
ployer in this region?
Salamander is the largest employer in Türkheim and many employees can look back
on a Salamander family history. This naturally comes with a responsibility. As a me-
dium-sized company, attracting talent to rural areas is not that easy – but the good
infrastructure and proximity to Munich help us.

r At which trade fairs will Salamander be present this year?
Salamander will be at BAU 2025. We are looking forward to meeting many new and
interesting architects, project developers and construction companies. We are also
launching our own series of events for architects this year. We want to encourage an
open culture of debate and discuss new ideas for urban and rural architecture, in an
open and open-minded, pluralistic and provocative, emotional and eventful, as well
as sustainable and neutral way. We are celebrating the premiere of OPEN on 6th Fe-
bruary in the former Gasteig in Munich.

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