A few weeks ago, we got some steep quotes on windows...later realized they were for all-metal windows, from some pricier manufacturers. We actually prefer aluminum-clad wood windows (better insulative values, and a wooden sill on the inside is nicer, in our opinions). It's supposed to be tough to find clad windows with a contemporary style. Our architects will be looking, and we'll be looking. This is an on-going compilation of window supplier-related links; we'll update this post with more research as we go along:

Forum discussions:

• http://www.greenbuildingtalk.com/Forums/tabid/53/aff/16/aft/34885/afv/topic/Default.aspx
• http://www.greenbuildingtalk.com/Forums/tabid/53/aff/16/aft/31380/afv/topic/Default.aspx

Articles:

• http://diy-green-home-improvement.com/wp/2009/05/new-trends-in-wood-windows/
  An article on clad wood windows with a thorough critique of the major window manufacturers for the U.S.
• [added 2011-12-27] http://www.finehomebuilding.com/how-to/articles/understanding-energy-efficient-windows.aspx
  An article with guidelines to understanding energy efficiency for different window materials, etc. 

Manufacturers:

• http://www.sierrapacificwindows.com/index.cfm
  Supplies the western U.S. A member on one of the above forums mentioned that selection and pricing are really good. They have showrooms and vendors in the Bay Area.
• http://www.marvin.com/
  one of the big manufacturers—seems to have good quality, selections, and reviews. They do custom windows. Looks to be the most promising of the big manufacturers.
• http://www.jeld-wen.com/
  one of the big manufacturers—quality may not be as nice as Marvin's
• http://www.fleetwoodusa.com/
  1st company our architect got quotes from
• http://milgard.com/
  2nd company our architect got quotes from
• http://blombergwindowsystems.com/
  3rd company our architect got quotes from 
• http://www.sorpetalerusa.com/index.html
  German-based company that our architect mentioned

Vendors/showrooms:

• http://www.aaawindowsanddoors.com/
  Belmont, CA vendor—carries many manufacturers' windows
• http://www.windowsunlimited-sc.com/index.html
  San Carlos window & door company
• http://charleswindows5-px.rtrk.com/
  bay area retailer with a San Jose location. large selection