A simple two-step approach to the fabrication of VO2-based coatings with unique thermochromic features for energy-efficient smart glazing

•DC magnetron sputtering of metallic vanadium GLAD thin films on glass substrates.•Post-deposition oxidation in air to attain thermochromic VO2-based coatings.•Evaluation of the effects of Tr and τ on the modulation of optical performance.•Determination of two optimal pathways achieving good balances of Tlum, ΔTsol and Tc.•Relevant decreases in Tc (5–12 °C below the standard value for VO2) without doping.