Guillotine Glass Windows Spain
The guillotine glass system — panels that lift vertically and disappear into a hidden overhead cassette — delivers a completely unobstructed opening without a single profile in the view.
Get a Free QuoteHow Guillotine Glass Windows Work
A guillotine glass window — known as ventana guillotina de cristal in Spanish — operates on a vertical-lift principle. A single large panel of toughened glass (typically 10 mm or 12 mm thick) slides vertically upward within a pair of slim side channels and parks inside a slim cassette housing at the top of the opening. When fully raised, the glass panel is completely hidden in the overhead housing, leaving the opening entirely clear — no glass, no frame, just open air.
The lifting mechanism is electric, operated by a wall switch, remote control, or smartphone app. The motor system uses a counterweight or gas-strut assist to reduce power consumption and allow manual override in the event of a power failure. The system can be fitted with sensors to close automatically when rain is detected.
Unlike glass curtain systems — which fold panels to the side — the guillotine system is ideal for openings where there is no side space for stacking panels. A perfect example is a top-floor penthouse terrace where the side walls are occupied by structural columns, or a sea-view apartment where every centimetre of side wall is occupied by decking or furniture.
Ideal Use Cases for Guillotine Glass in Spain
Guillotine glass windows are not the right solution for every situation — but where they fit, they are transformative. Here are the scenarios where our Costa del Sol clients consistently choose guillotine glass over alternative systems.
Penthouse Terraces
Top-floor apartments with no side wall space for folding panels. The cassette sits above and out of sight, leaving the full opening clear.
Sea-View Balconies
Where preserving the view is the absolute priority. When the panel is raised, nothing obstructs the panorama — not even the narrow channel guides at the sides.
Restaurant Terraces
A single 3-metre wide guillotine panel can open an entire restaurant frontage in 10 seconds, effortlessly transitioning between enclosed and al fresco dining.
Pool Houses & Cabanas
A full-width opening between pool and interior creates the seamless indoor-outdoor flow that defines luxury Costa del Sol living.
Guillotine Glass Price Guide (Spain, 2025)
Guillotine glass systems are premium products, priced above standard glass curtain systems due to the engineering complexity of the vertical-lift mechanism and the larger glass panels required. Prices below are for fully motorised systems including manufacture, delivery, and installation in the Málaga province.
| Panel Width | Glass Thickness | Estimated Price |
|---|---|---|
| Up to 1.5 m wide | 10 mm | €2,800 – €4,500 |
| 1.5–2.5 m wide | 10 mm | €4,000 – €6,500 |
| 2.5–3.5 m wide | 12 mm | €5,500 – €9,000 |
| Multiple panels | 12 mm | Price per panel × n |
Installation of a guillotine glass window typically takes one full day per panel. Unlike glass curtain systems, guillotine panels require a prepared overhead housing, which may involve minor carpentry or masonry work at the top of the opening. Costa Glass coordinates all associated trades and manages the complete installation.
Installation Timeline
Free Site Survey
We assess the opening dimensions, wall construction, and overhead space available for the cassette housing.
Design & Fabrication
Custom cassette and glass panel manufactured in Estepona. Lead time approximately 4–6 weeks from order confirmation.
Installation
1–2 days on-site. Cassette installed first, then glass panel fitted and electrical connection made. Full function testing before handover.
Handover & Warranty
Full demonstration of operation. 2-year mechanical warranty included. Glass covered by manufacturer guarantee.
Enquire About Guillotine Glass for Your Property
Contact Costa Glass for a free site assessment. We'll advise whether a guillotine system is the right solution and provide a detailed quotation.
Request a Free Quote