WARROAD, Minn., April 24, 2012 – The woods, lakes and fields of Northwest Minnesota have nurtured an impressive array of business visionaries. Among the giants was the late William S. “Bill” Marvin, who built Marvin Windows and Doors from a small lumberyard into one of the world’s premier window and door manufacturers.

Bill Marvin’s exemplary career will be recognized on April 25 with induction into the IDEA Hall of Fame. As the fifth inductee to the hall, Marvin joins previous honorees Andy Wells of Wells Technology; Edgar Hetteen of Polaris and Arctic Cat; and brothers George and Dennis Brazier of MATTRACKS and Central Boiler.

The IDEA Hall of Fame induction will take place at 5 p.m. in the Sanford Events Center in Bemidji, in conjunction with the fourth annual IDEA Competition. The IDEA Competition seeks to grow the economy of Northwest Minnesota by identifying the next generation of homegrown entrepreneurs and helping them develop their breakthrough ideas.

Bill Marvin joined his father’s Warroad-based lumber business as the eighth employee and led its entry into manufacturing. Today, Marvin employs more than 4,000 people in five states and is recognized worldwide for its innovative, high-quality products. Bill Marvin was named by BUILDER magazine as one of the U.S. building industry’s 100 most influential people of the 20th century. He died in 2009 at age 92.

“My father was a believer in the power of great ideas,” said John W. “Jake” Marvin, chairman and chief executive officer of the Marvin Companies. “He would take an idea from anyone, anytime — test it out and see if it made sense. And if it did, he wasn’t afraid to take a risk.

“My father had opportunities over the years to move his business away from Northwest Minnesota, but he valued the spirit, intelligence and frontier ingenuity of the people who make their home here,” Jake Marvin said. “He was proud of our region and a tireless promoter of it. We’re honored and humbled by this recognition.”

The IDEA Competition has already helped 10 startup businesses in Northwest Minnesota become commercially viable. This year’s winners will receive a $10,000 cash grant, along with services and direction from Northwest Minnesota’s leading business resources.

IDEA was made possible by a generous grant from the Blandin Foundation. IDEA sponsors include Bremer Bank (Crookston and Warren); Northwest Minnesota Foundation; 360 Degree Manufacturing and Applied Center of Excellence; Headwaters Regional Development Commission; Northwest Regional Development Commission; and the University of Minnesota, Crookston.

WARROAD, Minn., April 3, 2012 – The first week of April is National Window Safety Week. Marvin Windows and Doors hopes every family can be safer by following these simple tips.

Marvin is offering a new, factory-installed window opening control device on its popular Ultimate Casement line of crank-out windows, as well as a field-applied option on the Ultimate Double Hung. The window opening control device is intended to limit window openings to 4 inches, yet is easily opened by adults.

First, some common-sense window safety tips:

• Keep windows closed and locked when not in use.
• If you open windows for ventilation, choose windows not easily reached by children.
• Install a window opening control device to limit the window opening.
• Keep blinds, cords and drapes secured out of the reach of children.
• Don’t place furniture such as sofas, beds or bookcases under windows. Children can use the furniture to climb to the window opening.
• Never paint, nail or weatherstrip windows shut.
• Don’t rely on insect screens to prevent falls.
• Develop a family plan for escape during an emergency. In your plan, include two ways to escape from every room in case one way is blocked by fire or smoke.
• If windows are part of your escape plan, be sure to leave at least one window in every room unblocked by window insulating film, window air conditioners or other obstructions.
• Landscaping can provide a cushion to break falls should they occur. Consider landscaping beneath windows with wood chips, shrubs or other soft surfaces.

 
Marvin’s new casement Window Opening Control Device, which meets the ASTM F2090-10 standard, limits the window opening to 4 inches unless overridden in a two-step process. The limiter re-sets automatically each time the window is closed. Marvin already offers the device (field-applied) on its double hung products, but is now expanding that option to casements (factory-applied).

“We expect this intuitive device to be well received as a solution, whether legislation requires it or not,” said Christine Marvin, director of marketing for Marvin Windows and Doors. “We’re certain that builders and owners across the entire housing spectrum will appreciate the value of a high-quality, factory-installed window control opening device for casement products.”

Marvin dealers can offer complete information.

For more information on window safety, take advantage of two FREE printed resources from the National Safety Council:

• “Keeping the Promise of Safety” brochure provides helpful window safety tips. Individual brochures may be downloaded from the National Safety Council web site.
• For larger quantities (in quantities of 100), you may order from the National Safety Council by contacting NSC Customer Service at 800-621-7619. Ask for the “Keeping the Promise of Safety” brochure, product number 00006-6215.

• A free Window Safety Information Kit includes the “Keeping the Promise of Safety Brochure,” as well as Window Safety Tip Sheets, Window Safety Checklist, Window Safety Press Release, and Window Safety Activity and Coloring Book.

 
This kit is available free from the National Safety Council by contacting NSC Customer Service at 800-621-7619. Ask for the “Window Safety Information Kit,” product number 00006-6210. You may order these in any quantity.

WARROAD, Minn., March 13, 2012 – Architects from around the world have a chance to inspire and be inspired by the myMarvin Architect’s Challenge, which is accepting entries for its fourth annual competition.

The Architect’s Challenge is fast becoming one of the premier showcases in the architectural world. Winning projects in previous years have displayed the remarkable inspiration of designers in styles both traditional and contemporary, in both the residential and commercial arenas.

A previous Architect’s Challenge winner

Among the projects that impressed the judging panel were a San Francisco townhouse, a Minnesota hunting lodge, a Mediterranean villa and a Catholic church in Wisconsin. There are no limits to the creations you can enter; all that’s required is that they use Marvin windows or doors.

“Marvin is the preferred window and door of architects because we provide tailored solutions to a project to help achieve design objectives,” said Christine Marvin, director of marketing for Marvin Windows and Doors. “In that spirit, we’re proud to showcase the work of architects who have been inspired by Marvin to create some of their best work.”

Entries will be judged on solution-driven design, classical beauty, innovative use of windows and sustainability. William J. Devereaux Jr., Mark Scheurer, AIA, and David Furman, FAIA, will judge this year’s challenge.

Winners will be promoted through traditional and social media and will be featured in our permanent Winners Gallery. We invite architects to submit their best designs featuring Marvin windows and doors by May 31, 2012. Find complete entry information and contest rules at: http://www.marvin.com/window-door-ideas/mymarvin-project/architects-challenge

WARROAD, Minn., March 1, 2012 – In an unprecedented honor, the Builders Association of Minnesota has named Marvin Windows and Doors to the Minnesota Building Industry Hall of Fame.

Marvin is the first company to be so honored, joining 37 individuals who had previously been inducted into the hall.

“It’s an honor and it is humbling to be the only company to have received this award,” said John W. “Jake” Marvin, chairman and chief executive officer of Marvin Lumber & Cedar Co., the parent organization of all the Marvin companies.

“More than four thousand people have ‘thrown in’ with the Marvin companies and have stayed with us throughout these very difficult years,” Marvin said. “Many of these great folks have given us their very best years. So it’s on their behalf that I thank you for this wonderful recognition.

“We’ve always supported builders in Minnesota and across the nation with high-quality, innovative and beautiful products that will help bring their customers’ vision to life,” Marvin said. “We also believe in working together to advance the building industry, which provides high-skill, high-wage jobs for thousands of Minnesotans and millions of Americans.”

Founded in 1994, the Minnesota Building Industry Hall of Fame honors those “who make a significant and lasting contribution to the housing industry in Minnesota and to the Builders Association of Minnesota.”

Marvin was selected as the first company to be inducted because it is a Minnesota company that has consistently supported Minnesota’s home building industry and builders associations, officials said. With well-respected representatives across the state such as Daryl Doehr, John Taylor and Tom Sinning, Marvin has volunteered countless hours in support of the association and the industry.

“The Builders Association of Minnesota is proud to have Marvin Windows and Doors as a member and to have inducted Marvin into the Minnesota Building Industry Hall of Fame,” said BAM President Keith Kylmala. “Members of the Hall of Fame are the pillars of the residential construction industry in Minnesota, and Marvin fits that description perfectly. They so willingly volunteer time, energy and resources to the association and the industry statewide. Marvin is a model citizen of the Minnesota residential construction industry and the communities in which they do business.”

Warroad, Minn. – Marvin’s industry-leading Clad Ultimate Insert Double Hung products are now even more versatile with the addition of a new 14-degree frame bevel option.

The new frame bevel option gives builders and remodelers three choices for this popular product: 0 degrees, 8 degrees and 14 degrees. Now Clad Ultimate Insert Double Hung products can adapt even more tightly to the existing frames – providing a cleaner appearance and reduced jobsite labor.

The 14-degree bevel option is available on the following products:

• Clad Ultimate Insert Double Hung
• Clad Ultimate Insert Double Hung Transom
• Clad Ultimate Insert Double Hung Picture

Warroad, Minn. – There’s exciting news for residents of the Atlantic Ocean and Gulf of Mexico coastal regions. Marvin’s industry-leading IZ3 StormPlus Clad Ultimate Double Hung has been redesigned for a sleeker appearance – without sacrificing any of its high performance.

Both the standard and Round Top versions of this popular impact-zone window have been reengineered for strength and aesthetics. Features and improvements include:

• No visible reinforcement when window is closed and locked
• Elimination of pull-out clips
• Window meets rigorous IZ3 code requirements when closed and locked
• Improved check rails allow a strong interlock in center of window
• Tilt pins and tilt blades strengthened
• Stiles reinforced
• Sill brackets assist with bottom sash retention
• Elimination of exterior sash stays on bottom sash
• Design Pressure of LC +55/-65 on all sizes
• Annealed exterior pane standard, with tempered option
• Frame-to-frame mulling is certified on all sizes
• Offered in all 19 Marvin exterior clad colors, 7 wood species and 8 hardware finishes to complement other Marvin windows

“These are significant improvements to our IZ3 Ultimate Double Hung,” said Christine Marvin, director of marketing for Marvin Windows and Doors. “We’ve improved the aesthetics to closely match our non-impact zone products – while sacrificing none of the rigorously tested performance.”

Boyum has been with Marvin for nearly 15 years, most recently as director of marketing for both Marvin and its sister brand, Integrity Windows and Doors. He succeeds Tom Angelis, who is retiring. Boyum has achieved a record of success during the most tumultuous time in history for the U.S. housing industry.

“As a key member of our marketing team, Brett has led the development and implementation of many of our most successful products and programs,” said Susan Marvin, president of Marvin Windows and Doors. “Marvin has increased market share in the most difficult environment any of us has experienced.

“Now that Brett has taken a senior management role, we’ll look to his proven knowledge and abilities to continue moving our business forward in the brighter days to come.”

A resident of Rosemount, Minn., Boyum graduated from the University of Minnesota and holds a master’s in business administration from Walden University. He currently serves as vice president of the Board of Directors of the Epilepsy Foundation of Minnesota and will serve as board chair in 2013-15.

The new Ultimate Glider from Marvin Windows and Doors, already hailed as one of 2011’s best new building products, is now available in an all-wood version.

Marvin has re-invented the glider window with modern features and performance that breathe new life into this classic window. Previously available only in a clad aluminum exterior finish, the Wood Ultimate Glider now offers homeowners the beauty, warmth and performance of natural wood inside and out.

Marvin designed this versatile unit for elegance, durability and smooth operation. With its clean lines and recessed hardware, the Wood Ultimate Glider is sure to become a favorite of homeowners and builders alike.

The Clad Ultimate Glider, introduced earlier this year, was recently named one of the 101 Best New Products of 2011 by the editors of Professional Builder and Professional Remodeler magazines.

“Marvin reintroduced round tops to the homebuilding industry. Now we’ve reinvented another favorite,” said David Hipke, product planner for Marvin Windows and Doors. “This window is packed with features that add value. But perhaps its best features are its clean, elegant design and absolute ease of operation.”

The Wood Ultimate Glider features:

• One hand operation
• Patent pending handle and lock system
• Auto locking
• Low handle placement for ease of use – no reaching up
• Exterior of sustainably harvested pine
• Interior available in seven wood species: Pine, Douglas Fir, Cedro Macho, Mahogany, White Oak, Cherry, Vertical Grain Douglas Fir
• Interior also available in Factory Painted White Finish or Primed Wood
• Integrated weep system for drainage
• Several operating configurations

The Wood Ultimate Glider is the perfect choice for a host of building applications, including:

• Kitchen sink areas
• Decks and walkways
• Close lot lines
• Knee walls and lower levels
• Condominiums
• Multi-family units
• Assisted living

The Wood Ultimate Glider features a patent pending sash removal system built for easy operation. Plus, it can be seamlessly mixed and matched with other Marvin windows, such as the Ultimate Casement.

The Wood Ultimate Glider will give homeowners and builders a new reason to take a fresh look at gliders.

From coast to coast, Architect’s Challenge winners show beauty, creativity and sustainability

Warroad, Minn., August 29, 2011 – From a classic rural farmhouse in Maine to an ultra-contemporary mountain home in Oregon, the winners in this year’s myMarvin Architect’s Challenge vary widely in design.

What they have in common is beauty, creativity and sustainability – as well as windows and doors from Marvin, the nation’s leader in made to order wood and clad wood windows and doors.

Marvin Windows and Doors is proud to announce the winners of the 2011 myMarvin Architect’s Challenge, an annual contest recognizing the best in architecture.

This year, for the first time, the judges also honored an international entrant: La Reserva Villa, a majestic, four-story villa overlooking the Mediterranean Sea in Sotogrande, Spain.

“These winning projects are an inspiring display of architecture,” said Brett Boyum, director of marketing for Marvin Windows and Doors. “Whether a faithful historic restoration or a completely original creation, these architects show what’s possible with inspiration and a focus on quality.”

This year’s judging panel includes acclaimed architects Carson Looney, FAIA, of Looney Ricks Kiss, Memphis, Tenn.; William Kreager, FAIA, of AECOM, Seattle; and Mark McInturff, FAIA, of McInturff Architects, Bethesda, Md.

A brief list of winning projects follows. More complete 2011 Architect’s Challenge winning case studies are available at http://pros.marvin.com/window-door-ideas/architectural-windows-doors/, along with downloadable photos on Flickr at http://www.flickr.com/photos/marvinwindows/collections/72157627517310048/.

2011 ARCHITECT’S CHALLENGE WINNERS

• Amherst College Residences (Mayo Smith House, Seelye House, Hitchcock House), Amherst, Mass.: James McKinney (Sacco+McKinney Architects, Latham, N.Y.)

• Overlook House, Lexington, Mass.: Marcus Gleysteen (Gleysteen Design, Cambridge, Mass.)

• White Mountain View, Sweden, Maine: Jesse Thompson (Kaplan Thompson Architects, Portland, Maine)

• KK Residence, Santa Rosa, Calif.: Kent Chilcott (Kent Chilcott Studio, Santa Rosa, Calif.)

• Hunting Barn, Wayzata, Minn.: Jeff Murphy (2 Murphy & Co. Design, Buffalo, Minn.)

• Historic Vaucluse (restoration, renovation and addition), Machipongo, Va.: Stephen Muse (Muse Architects, Bethesda, Md.)

• Private Residence, Happy Valley, Ore.: Michael Barclay (Barclay Home Design, Clackamas, Ore.)

• Eagle Harbor Cabin, Eagle Harbor, Mich.: Nils Finne (FINNE Architects, Seattle)

• Dutchess County Farmhouse, Stanfordville, N.Y.: Douglas Larson (Larson and Paul Architects, New York)

• The Manor Garden, Hoboken, N.J.: Frank J. Minervini, Anthony Vandermark (Minervini Vandermark Architecture, Hoboken, N.J.)

• La Reserva Villa, Sotogrande, Spain: Francis Daniel Trico (McLundie Architects, San Roque, Spain)

Susan Marvin

Susan Marvin, president of Marvin Windows and Doors, received Bemidji State University’s 2011 Distinguished Minnesotan Award during commencement ceremonies today.

First presented by Bemidji State in 1981, the Distinguished Minnesotan Award acknowledges the contributions of current or former residents of the state who have performed exemplary service to the people of Minnesota or the United States. Susan Marvin’s father, the late William S. Marvin, received the honor in 1990. Other awardees include transplant surgeon Dr. John Najarian; polar explorer Ann Bancroft; and television journalist Don Shelby.

“Susan Marvin is a stellar example of what the Distinguished Minnesotan Award is all about,” said Richard A. Hanson, president of Bemidji State University. “A product of northern Minnesota, she has remained firmly rooted in her commitment to the area while generously sharing her leadership talents with state and national organizations.

“She is a superb role model for our students, leading by example and proving once again that hard work and commitment to community are keys to success,” Hanson said.

As president of Marvin Windows and Doors, Marvin oversees the window and door business of the Marvin Companies including the Marvin, Integrity and Infinity brands. Marvin serves on the boards of directors for Hormel Foods Corp., Marvin Lumber and Cedar Co., the University of Minnesota Foundation Board of Trustees and the St. Thomas College of Business Advisory Board of Governors. She is a member of the World Presidents’ Organization and Women Corporate Directors.

“I’m deeply honored to receive this award,” Marvin said. “This recognition reflects the accomplishments of a larger community — the amazing group of talented people whose goal is to lead an industry and have succeeded in doing so. So that’s why I am accepting this honor on behalf of my family and our community. The values I have lived by, the accomplishments, the success … they’re not mine alone. I am proud to share them with a long line of people who showed me that success is not an end in itself, but rather a means to an end. It is what allows us to make lives better for others.

“I’m especially proud to be recognized by a respected institution of higher education,” Marvin said. “Both my parents believed fervently that education, coupled with hard work, is the key to success in life. I’m confident that this year’s graduates will once again demonstrate the truth of that belief.”

Marvin has been an active member of various industry associations including the Window and Door Manufacturers Association and the National Council of the Housing Industry. She was a member of the Minnesota Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, and in 1995 served as board chair. In 1995, Minnesota Governor Arne Carlson honored Marvin for her contributions to Minnesota business.

Marvin is a 1979 graduate of the University of Minnesota, where she earned an undergraduate degree in journalism. She lives in Warroad and Minneapolis with her husband, Keith Schwartzwald.