A Full-Glass Environment for a Modern Volkswagen Dealership
When Vorderman Motor Werks set out to build its new Volkswagen dealership in Fort Wayne, the design called for glass to define the building's appearance. AGA (Architectural Glass & Aluminum) delivered a complete glazing package that creates an open, modern showroom while maximizing street visibility.
The Project
This ground-up dealership features an expansive glass exterior designed to showcase the showroom and vehicle inventory. AGA's scope included a three-sided curtain wall, storefront windows, entry doors, an interior glass partition system in the sales area, and decorative window film for the private offices.
The project combined multiple glazing systems across the building, requiring close coordination with the construction team to deliver the clean, modern appearance expected of a Volkswagen dealership while meeting performance requirements for weather resistance and energy efficiency.
AGA's Scope of Work
The exterior is defined by floor-to-ceiling curtain wall glazing on three sides of the building. The system uses a 2-1/2" x 10" aluminum curtain wall with custom-engineered brackets designed to support the dealership's exterior signage while maintaining the clean architectural lines of the facade.
Additional work included:
- Nine storefront windows in various sizes using a 2" x 4-1/2" thermally broken aluminum storefront system with a clear anodized finish and 1" Clear Low-E insulated glass.
- All exterior entry doors.
- An interior glass partition wall in the sales area featuring clear glass panels with a polished aluminum base channel.
- Frosted window film on five private offices, providing privacy while preserving the open feel of the showroom.
The insulated Low-E glass helps reduce solar heat gain, improving energy efficiency and maintaining a comfortable indoor environment year-round.
Installation in Challenging Conditions
Much of the curtain wall installation took place during the winter, adding another level of complexity to the project. Large, insulated glass units were set from boom lifts along the tall facade while crews worked in cold temperatures and changing weather conditions.
Winter installation requires careful planning. Cold weather affects sealant curing, creates slippery working surfaces, and increases the challenges of handling oversized glass panels safely at height. Through careful coordination and attention to detail, AGA's team kept the installation progressing despite the conditions.
The Result
The completed dealership delivers an open, contemporary appearance that has become a hallmark of modern automotive retail. Expansive glass creates clear sightlines into the showroom, while interior glass partitions define functional spaces without sacrificing openness. The finished project combines aesthetics, energy performance, and precision installation to create a facility that reflects the Volkswagen brand.
Project Details
Location: Fort Wayne, Indiana
Client: Vorderman Motor Werks (Volkswagen)
Scope: Curtain wall, storefront, entry doors, interior glass partition, window film
Systems: 2-1/2" x 10" aluminum curtain wall; 2" x 4-1/2" thermally broken storefront; 1" Clear Low-E insulated glass; clear anodized finish
See more photos from the Vorderman Motor Werks build in our project gallery → Vorderman Gallery
