Vitro Architectural Glass has been recognised by Architectural Record as a Product of the Year for its innovative BirdSmart® Bird Safe Glass, reinforcing the growing importance of bird-friendly design in contemporary architecture.

Selected as part of Architectural Record’s annual Record Products of the Year programme, BirdSmart® glass was chosen by a jury of U.S.-based architects and engineers for its inventiveness, sustainability, functionality and performance. The competition highlights standout building materials, systems and technologies introduced to the market globally.

Launched in March 2025, BirdSmart® glass combines first-surface laser-etched patterns with a Solarban® solar-control low-E coating on the second surface, achieving effective bird deterrence without compromising façade performance. The system delivers strong Visible Light Transmittance (VLT) and Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) values while maintaining architectural clarity and aesthetics.

BirdSmart® is available in 6mm thickness and features four dot pattern options, 2×2 square, 2×4 rectangle, 2×4 diamond and 2×2 diamond, offered in both directional and non-directional layouts. The glass can be applied to clear, Acuity® and Starphire® low-iron substrates, and paired with Solarban® 65, 70 or 72 coatings.

Manufactured at Vitro’s Wichita Falls facility, BirdSmart® glass supports an efficient supply chain and is available in sizes up to Titan™ glass (130 × 240 inches). The non-caustic, chemical-free etching process further strengthens its sustainability credentials, making BirdSmart® a practical and scalable solution for bird-safe façades worldwide.