When a window is more than a window

EuroStar windows grace this renovation by Lagois. See "Rose-Coloured Looking Glass".

Christina Colavizza-Beckstead, the primary point of contact for Lagois Design∙Build∙ Renovate at EuroStar Windows and Doors, likes getting to know people. She likes being able to understand who they are and how they live.

“We try to make sure every single client is happy and satisfied,” she says. “It may sound like a cliché, but when someone signs an agreement with us, we treat them like part of the family.”

This is because EuroStar Windows and Doors is more about making a home feel right than it is about measurements and materials. Christina explains it’s a collaborative process bringing together product knowledge, personalized service, and thoughtful design.

In Ottawa, the company has built a reputation for quality products and customer service for more than two decades. 

Renovation design and homeowner expectations

Christina works closely with Lagois team members including Project Development Manager Sophie Villeneuve and Production Manager Darren Vander Meer, to ensure selections align with renovation design and homeowner expectations.

Typically, either Sophie or Darren sends her a copy of the renovation plans or information about the homeowners and what they want. Christina asks about their style (modern, mid-century modern or transitional, for example). She learns about the colours they want and a description of the project.

“Sophie has a lot of knowledge about our products,” Christina says, “so by the time she gets to me she knows what she and the homeowners want.”

State-of-the-art showroom

Sometimes Sophie brings the homeowners into the showroom so they can see the products first-hand. They can operate the windows, touch the doors, study the colours, stand back and look, and if they want, ask Christina questions.

“It’s fun for all of us,” Christina says. “It’s always rewarding to see things through a homeowner’s eyes.”

The type of windows available at EuroStar is vast. You can choose both Canadian-made and European products, ranging from tilt-and-turn windows to lift-and-slide patio doors as well as custom specialty installations. When full window replacement isn't necessary, however, EuroStar helps you to blend new selections with existing ones. Christina says this is important to “visual harmony and performance continuity”.

Commitment to excellence

EuroStar does little advertising because they work almost exclusively from referrals, repeat clients, and strong industry partnerships such as the one with Lagois. This kind of partnership is built on mutual respect, clear communication, and a shared commitment to excellence.

With locations in Ottawa, Toronto, and Burlington, EuroStar is a family-owned business led by David Shubat at the Ottawa location. David brings decades of hands-on experience to the company. He began his career on the factory floor, manufacturing windows, where he developed an in-depth understanding about how high-quality window and door systems are built from the ground up. Over time, he expanded his expertise beyond production, learning the intricacies of installation, customer service, supply chain logistics, and the operational demands of running a successful company.

Christina explains his leadership has shaped EuroStar's culture, one that values “long-term relationships, honest communication, and an unwavering commitment to doing things right the first time.”  It's this philosophy, she adds, that continues to guide the company's work from product selection through to final installation.

Lifestyle and aesthetics

EuroStar’s approach is simple, she adds. The company takes the time to understand each client’s lifestyle, aesthetic preferences, and long-term needs. She says whether it’s a modern renovation or a classic addition, EuroStar helps ensure the windows and doors are not only beautiful but functional, durable, and suited to your home’s character.

To an ordinary onlooker, a purchase from EuroStar might just be a window or a door. But to Christina and the team at Lagois Design∙Build∙Renovate, the best windows and doors are a reflection of a life well lived.

Workplace culture and spirit

The employees at EuroStar, a relatively small company, have been there for many years looking after day-to-day operations. Christina says that shows a workplace culture and team spirit that drives them.

“We focus on customer service,” she says. “It’s the most important to us. Because without our clients, who are we?”