Challenge: Maximizing the Lakeview While Reducing Drawbacks of Old Glazing
Imagine a serene Italian landscape: a lakeside hotel nestled against calm blue water, framed by rolling green hills. This is Hotel Bellavista Menaggio Lake Como, literally “beautiful view,” where the lakeside restaurant offers guests a romantic, champagne-flecked panorama of Lake Como. The view is truly the hotel’s crown jewel.
However, the original folding-sliding glazing was falling short. It:
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Disrupted views with visible frames and unnecessary folding zones
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Compromised climate control, unable to seal out winter chill or summer heat
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Used up valuable space, requiring a stacking area that edged into the dining floor
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Presented a mundane appearance, unbefitting a premium lakeside location
The owners faced a clear question: How can they re-frame the space to accentuate the lake panorama instead of detracting from it—while simplifying operation, reclaiming layout flexibility, and preserving design integrity?
Solution: Libart’s Panora Vertical Retractable Door System
Enter Panora Vertical Retractable Door System, selected for its ability to make glass walls vanish on demand:
Key Features:
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One‑touch vertical retraction: Glass panels (approx. 3.75 m × 3.27 m) rise seamlessly into overhead pockets, eliminating all visible obstruction and creating a broad, open-air dining vista in seconds, libart.com.
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No frame intrusion: When closed, the unit offers a mullionless, sleek façade that maximizes transparency. In summer it disappears; in winter it frames the view cleanly.
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Insulated glass: Triple glazing—5 mm clear tempered + 10 mm air gap + 5 mm clear tempered—ensures thermal performance for year-round comfort.
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Space-saving design: Vertical retraction removes the need for floor clearance or stacking zones, maximizing seating capacity.
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Elegant profile: Minimal, custom-aluminum framing complements the heritage architecture and maintains design integrity.
This system addresses the limitations of the old folding-sliding setup and delivers a more refined, flexible, and view-first solution.
Outcomes: Visibility, Comfort, and Operational Synergy
1. Unparalleled Lakeside Visibility
With mullions removed and panels disappearing when open, guests are offered sweeping, uninterrupted views of the lake and hills. From sunset to moonrise, the horizon becomes part of the dining experience.
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In summer, the system vanishes entirely, dissolving the boundary between interior and terrace.
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In winter, clean lines, wide spans, and glazing maintain the view while securing thermal efficiency. Panora Systems4
2. Seamless Indoor-Outdoor Transition
With a simple press, the retractable wall transforms the dining room into an open-air venue. No thermal or acoustic compromise—just a fluid expansion of the seating area, perfect for weddings, aperitifs, or alfresco brunches.
3. Year-Round Comfort & Climate Control
The insulated glazing minimizes heat loss in cool months and retains temperatures efficiently when closed. For warmer seasons, retracting the panels invites fresh air, natural light, and a lively ambiance. The rooftop terrace now meets its programming potential year-round.
4. Enhanced Layout & Seating Capacity
By removing the need for stacked panels, seating can extend fully to the wall—even when open. No wasted space = more tables, more guests, and better flow. Operators can flex the space based on occupancy and weather without re-planning tables or corridors.
5. Efficient One-Touch Operation
Motorized controls simplify operation. Staff can respond instantly to changing conditions with minimal effort. The process supports smooth transitions—whether opening for service or closing for a storm.
6. Elegant Integration with Historic Identity
With discreet framing and custom finishes, the Panora system aligns with the Hotel Bellavista Menaggio Lake Como’s refined aesthetic—updating functionality without detracting from heritage architecture.
7. Brand Elevation & Guest Experience
By solving the original system’s flaws in a single elegant move, Hotel Bellavista Menaggio Lake Como solidified its positioning as a destination that deeply values its view. Guests remember the place not just for cuisine, but for architecture that foregrounds landscape—creating buzz-worthy moments and lasting impressions.
Summary Table
Challenge | Panora Solution | Benefits |
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Obstructive permanent different glazing | Vertical-retracting glass wall | Visitors enjoy a panorama on demand |
Folding-glass panels took space and disrupted flow | Panels disappear overhead | More seating / better circulation |
Climate insulation needed | Insulated glazing, sealed frames | Year-round comfort and climate control |
Bulky equipment and visual disorder | Minimal, custom aluminum profile | Architectural elegance preserved |
Manual fenestration impractical | Motorized one-touch operation | Quick response and energy efficiency along with convenience |
Final Word
In Menaggio, Libart’s Panora Vertical Retractable Door System solves the age-old challenge of framing views while offering flexibility, comfort, and aesthetic refinement. It allows Hotel Bellavista Menaggio Lake Como to open a door to the lake—always.
From champagne-speckled sunsets to serene winter light, the Panora wall adapts with ease, enhancing the dining experience, operational efficiency, and brand identity. It proves that when architecture makes space disappear, what remains is something unforgettable at Hotel Bellavista Menaggio Lake Como.