"plastics films applied to glass window films"

On this office refurbishment the original windows were non-thermally broken aluminium and for that reason not suitable for a residential tenancy.With the windows being on the 12th floor it would have been extremely difficult and expensive to replace them - due to scaffolding etc. Therefore, after a recommendation, the client decided to source Incarnation secondary glazing.As an office refurbishment in a busy built-up area, noise reduction was a key consideration. Using a hidden coupling bar between two units was a key feature, allowing the secondary glazing to match the sightlines of the original windows perfectly. By installing the secondary glazing with an air gap of 150mm between it and the existing window resulted in an impressive decibel reduction.

Profile 22’s award winning optima suite of casement and Tilt and Turn Windows along with matching PVCU doors were specified in the refurbishment of two tower blocks in Walsall, West Midlands. The windows are designed to deliver increased insulation and weather protection, which makes them the perfect choice for high-rise, exposed locations. Increasing energy efficiency was one of the key drivers of the refurbishment. They are capable of achieving WER of A++ and U-values of 0.8 W/m2K. Indicative performance measures are 600Pa for air permeability, 600Pa for water tightness and 2400Pa for wind resistance.

The VELFAC composite system has been installed in two award-winning student halls built for the University of St Andrews. Designed by HLM Architects, Powell and Whitehorn Halls provide comfortable and stylish accommodation for over 380 undergraduates and postgraduates, with VELFAC windows providing excellent thermal insulation and maximum natural light. VELFAC units are also integral to innovative architectural façade features, including dramatic glazed screens and angled window pods.

Orbis OS211 Glass Infill Top FixThe Birkenhead Community Fire Station was completed in 2013, as part of the North West Fire PFI scheme, a framework of 16 fire stations across North West England. The client’s main objectives were to provide a safe and healthy environment with improved facilities for firefighters and other personnel.Following demolition of the existing fire station, the design and construction of this multi-appliance station, led by Balfour Beatty Construction, included community orientated facilities, training facilities, rest rooms, additional office space and two communal staircases. At early design stages, Delta Balustrades worked closely with Balfour Beatty to meet the client’s objectives of creating well designed facilities to a high architectural standard. The Orbis system was chosen as a cost-effective, high-quality tubular balustrade solution for both staircases.The main stair boasted a brushed stainless steel finish with unique Banjo glass fixings. Savings were made on the rear stairs by selecting powder coated uprights and D type glass fixings.

Duo D411 Glass Infill Top FixOrbis OS230 Perforated Infill Side FixThis project included a high spec balustrade to feature stair including extra height glass to waiting areas. The choice of DelamereX gave a natural hardwood look along with durability and low maintenance. An additional three staff staircase balustrade and handrails in standard HiBuild finish and perforated infill panels were also included.Throughout the project, close liaising was needed with the Architect to ensure all necessary design requirements were adhered to and approved. Delta Balustrades installation of the feature stair and balustrades was phased to synchronize with the onsite program.

Case Study: Heritage Sash Windows Installation in a Listed BuildingIntroductionWelcome to the case study showcasing the installation of heritage sash windows in a listed building. In this study, we explore the significance of preserving the distinctive appearance of historic structures while simultaneously achieving modern performance standards through the use of heritage sash windows. This case study highlights the challenges faced in finding the perfect balance between tradition and functionality, and how the installation of heritage sash windows proved to be the ideal solution. Join us as we delve into the successful integration of heritage aesthetics and contemporary performance in this remarkable project.The Project: Updating a Historic Private SchoolAt the heart of this case study lies a compelling project that took place at a historic private school near Derby. As architects and specifiers, you understand the unique challenges that come with renovating listed buildings while preserving their distinct character. In this particular undertaking, the goal was to update the school's windows while seamlessly blending traditional aesthetics with modern functionality.One of the critical aspects that architects and specifiers face when working on heritage projects is finding windows that honour the building's historical significance while meeting contemporary performance requirements. It is a delicate balancing act that requires meticulous attention to detail and careful selection of materials.In this context, the Gowercroft Heritage sash window range emerged as the ideal solution for this project. Designed with a deep understanding of heritage architecture, these windows offer a perfect fusion of traditional charm and cutting-edge performance. They have been crafted to match the aesthetics of historical buildings while incorporating modern features that enhance energy efficiency, thermal insulation, and acoustic performance.Architects and specifiers involved in heritage projects are constantly seeking solutions that seamlessly integrate traditional elements with advanced technologies. The selection of Gowercroft's Heritage sash window range for this project demonstrates how these windows can meet and exceed their expectations. By providing a harmonious blend of heritage design and contemporary functionality, these windows offer a compelling proposition for architects and specifiers seeking to enhance the value and performance of historic buildings.Throughout this case study, we will delve into the intricacies of the project, explore the challenges faced, and highlight the successful integration of Gowercroft's Heritage sash window range. Join us as we uncover the remarkable transformation of this historic private school, offering insights and inspiration for architects and specifiers engaged in similar endeavours.Meeting the Requirements: Gowercroft's Heritage Sash WindowsAs architects and specifiers, you understand the importance of selecting the right windows that meet the specific needs of heritage projects. Gowercroft's Heritage sash window range stands out as an exceptional choice in striking the perfect balance between preserving traditional aesthetics and delivering enhanced performance. Let's delve into the features and benefits that make these windows an ideal solution for heritage projects.1. Exquisite Design and Craftsmanship:Gowercroft's Heritage sash windows are meticulously crafted, paying homage to the architectural styles and detailing of historical periods. From ornate Georgian designs to elegant Victorian styles, these windows seamlessly integrate with the existing character of heritage buildings. Architects and specifiers can be assured of windows that exude authenticity and showcase exceptional craftsmanship.2. Superior Materials and Durability:To ensure longevity and resilience, Gowercroft utilises premium-grade materials in their Heritage sash window range. The windows are constructed from high-quality Accoya®, selected for its strength, stability, and natural beauty. This not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also guarantees durability and longevity, vital considerations when working with historic structures.3. Enhanced Performance Features:While honouring tradition, Gowercroft's Heritage sash windows also incorporate modern performance enhancements. These windows offer improved thermal insulation, effectively reducing energy consumption and creating a comfortable indoor environment. Furthermore, they excel in soundproofing, ensuring peace and tranquillity within the building despite its external surroundings.4. Customisable Options:Recognising the diverse requirements of heritage projects, Gowercroft provides architects and specifiers with a range of customisable options. From timber selection to glazing choices, hardware finishes, and architectural detailing, these windows can be tailored to meet the unique specifications and design vision of each project.5. Preservation and Conservation:Gowercroft's Heritage sash windows are designed with the utmost consideration for the preservation and conservation of historical buildings. By seamlessly blending traditional aesthetics with modern technology, these windows allow architects and specifiers to honour the past while embracing sustainable practices for the future.In summary, Gowercroft's Heritage sash window range offers architects and specifiers a compelling solution for heritage projects. These windows combine exquisite design, superior craftsmanship, enhanced performance features, and customization options, all while preserving the architectural integrity of historical buildings. By choosing Gowercroft's Heritage sash windows, architects and specifiers can confidently create spaces that celebrate the past while meeting the demands of contemporary living.Overcoming Challenges: Window Profile in Ancient BuildingsWhen it comes to fitting new windows in ancient buildings, architects and specifiers face unique challenges that demand careful consideration. Preserving the architectural integrity and historical significance of these structures while upgrading their performance requires a delicate balance. Let's explore the challenges faced and the importance of finding a suitable solution that respects the building's style and heritage.1. Unsuitability of uPVC Double Glazing: One common approach is to consider uPVC double glazing as an alternative. While uPVC can be made to resemble timber, attempting to replicate the appearance of traditional windows is often unrealistic and unsatisfactory. The use of uPVC frames can compromise the authenticity and character of these structures, detracting from their historical charm. Architects and specifiers are thus faced with the challenge of finding window solutions that maintain the visual harmony and historical authenticity of the building.2. Thickness Issue with Traditional Timber Windows: Another challenge arises with traditional timber windows, particularly in listed buildings where the original windows would have been single glazed. Standard double glazing units are often too thick to meet planning permission requirements for such buildings. This presents a hurdle when seeking to improve energy efficiency, insulation, and acoustic performance. However, the development of heritage windows with an 8mm thin profile of vacuum glass has provided a solution. These windows eliminate the double reflection issues associated with standard double glazing, allowing them to pass planning permission while maintaining the appearance of original single-glazed windows.Respecting the style and heritage of ancient buildings is paramount in any renovation or restoration project. It is crucial to find a solution that seamlessly integrates with the building's architectural features, materials, and design aesthetics. In the next section, we will explore how Gowercroft's Heritage sash window range addresses these challenges by offering a seamless integration of heritage aesthetics and contemporary functionality while meeting planning permission requirements for listed buildings.The Setting: Repton School's Historic SignificanceRepton School, located near Derbyshire, holds a rich historical significance that dates back centuries. Established in 1557, the school is situated on the grounds and buildings of a 12th-century Augustinian Priory, adding to its unique charm and heritage. While the original church on the premises was destroyed in 1553, fragments of its existence can still be found amidst the structures that have withstood the test of time. Most of the school's current architectural composition is from later periods, with careful additions made in keeping with the original buildings.Efforts have been meticulously made to preserve the traditional and grand atmosphere that defines Repton School. Even modern additions, such as the Science Priory constructed in 2013, harmoniously blend with the existing structures, maintaining the overall historical integrity. The cohesive effect of the school's design creates a captivating ambience that is both traditional and grand, captivating visitors and inspiring awe.The historical importance of Repton School extends beyond its architectural splendour. Exciting archaeological discoveries have emerged during recent digs, revealing traces of Roman occupation, adding yet another layer of historical significance to the site. These findings provide valuable insights into the region's past and deepen the appreciation for the school's surroundings.Repton School has also nurtured and educated numerous notable individuals throughout its illustrious history. Among its alumni are legendary Olympian Harold Abrahams and renowned writers Christopher Isherwood, Edward Upton, and Roald Dahl. In more recent times, distinguished figures in the world of entertainment, including Top Gear and The Grand Tour producer Andy Wilman and present

Described by architects Proctor and Matthews as a ‘courtyard oasis for later living’, large fixed VELFAC windows combine with smaller units and doors, all with uniform sightlines to create glazed screens fronting all 38 apartments. The internal timber frame also creates a ‘domestic’ interior finish’.

In 2014 landmark building No1 Aire Street underwent a dramatic transformation. The Grade II listed, 1930s Art Deco property is in Leeds City Centre Conservation Area. Significant consultation with Leeds City Council planning department and the owner Network Rail’s planners was carried out to ensure the proposals were historically compatible with the existing building. Almost a hundred original steel windows had to be replaced as sympathetically as possible but with a product which would bring improved thermal efficiency. Clement EB24 suite of bespoke steel windows was specified for the project offering high specification along with elegant, robust frame sections.

This seven-storey buiding in Soho, West London claims some impressive history: dating from the 1930s, it was the former London headquarters of Paramount Studios. Now in a conservation area, its transition to 15 luxury apartments needed to be handled with sensitivity by TF Architecture, to preserve the building’s external appearance. We were delighted to design, manufacture and install 83 traditional box sash windows for the project, made from Accoya. This high-performance timber is created using a patented chemical process to dramatically increase its strength, stability, durability and insulation, while still maintaining the beauty and character of timber.

Orbis OS211 Glass Infill Top FixOrbis OS200 Vertical Bar Infill Side FixThe main NHS hospital for Blackpool and the Fylde Coast, Blackpool Victoria Hospital has undergone a £16.4 million upgrade to create a new main entrance and a multi-storey car park.The new entrance includes a pharmacy, retail units, café, main reception, waiting area and office accommodation. Featuring extensive curtain walling, the new main entrance has been designed to maximise natural light and provide a feeling of openness. The use of glass for the balustrades helped to enhance this design style throughout the main feature areas and voids, using Delta Balustrades’ Orbis system.Delta Balustrades also supplied the balustrades and handrails for the main and rear staircases in the new multi-storey car park. Delta Balustrades calculated the loadings for all areas of the hospital installation and specified multiple fixing details for the atrium to accommodate variations in floor levels and construction.

Traditional Windows and Doors for a Historic Pub Renovation and Executive Housing DevelopmentThe Melbourne Arms, a cherished historic pub near Derby, underwent a remarkable transformation into a prestigious executive housing development. To preserve the charm and character of the old English pub, bespoke traditional windows and doors were essential.Restoring the Melbourne ArmsThe Melbourne Arms, a listed building with a rich 228-year history, had fallen into disrepair until Stanton Developments acquired it in 2018. They embarked on a comprehensive restoration of the pub and the creation of five additional houses on the site. Unsuitable extensions were removed, allowing the pub to be transformed into two linked detached four-bedroom family homes. The restoration honoured the original features, including the iconic stacked chimneys and distinctive inglenook fireplace."From the double-height skirting to the reinstated upstairs fireplace, we feel privileged and proud to have renovated this historically significant building," expressed Andy Turner, Stanton Developments.Creating an Enclave of HousesIn addition to the pub restoration, Stanton Developments built five new properties on the site, forming an enclave that harmoniously complemented the landmark pub. Each house was individually designed while respecting the aesthetics of the original structure and blending seamlessly within the local conservation area. The houses were named after former proprietors and notable figures associated with the property's history.Award-winning architect Matthew Montague designed the properties, adding his touch of excellence to Stanton Developments' vision.Gowercroft's ContributionGowercroft, known for their expertise in traditional windows and doors, was selected to provide the windows and doors for the Armsgate Development. The focus was on combining historic styling with modern performance, using the finest materials. Accoya® Windows from the Hardwick Range, featuring flush casement windows, and a selection of Accoya® doors from the Melbourne Range were chosen.To maintain individuality, each house had subtly different front door designs and colours, tailored to the specific property. Elaborate ironmongery and Accoya surrounds distinguished the larger properties, setting them apart.Attention to DetailPreserving the authenticity of the original window design was crucial for the plot that once housed the pub. Gowercroft crafted traditional Georgian bar windows, while also introducing unique triangular-shaped windows that added a touch of originality to the development.The combination of Stanton Developments' commitment to historic restoration and Gowercroft's expertise in traditional windows and doors resulted in a remarkable housing development that seamlessly merged the past with the present.

It was a pleasure for all involved to work on this outstanding project, an original Arts and Crafts home which has been impeccably refurbished.The recent works included extending the house, as well as opening up and changing the layout. The interior has been modernised with a contemporary touch, but cleverly retains and enhances the home’s character. The interior design of the whole home is stunning. The bedrooms and bathrooms have been individually designed and are unique to their user. Mural wallpapers, vibrant pops of colour and striking, high quality fixtures and fittings help achieve this.A combination of leaded EB20 steel windows and W40 steel doors with genuine T bars were chosen to replace the external fenestration. The new windows and doors have slim, elegant frames but bring the benefit of improved thermal efficiency and security. Internally, a bespoke W20 door screen has been used to divide the kitchen and dining area.Both the client and architect are delighted with the outcome. Steven Harp from Harp and Harp said: “This project involved a delicate balance of modernising a home that had been barely touched in a century for 21st Century family life whilst trying to retain the beautiful Arts and Crafts character and charm of the original house. The new doors and windows by Clement were a perfect product to fulfil this brief, providing modern standards or thermal comfort with an aesthetic and quality that blended seamlessly with the elegance of the original metal windows that were still on the house.”The client said: “I was initially unsure about changing the fenestration and doors in our property, as they are such an important part of the building’s character, history and aesthetics. However, from our first meeting with Clement Windows, who were recommended by our building surveyor, I knew I needn’t have worried. They talked us through the different options in detail, provided extensive designs (and were always prepared to amend and refine these subject to our thoughts!) and also worked seamlessly with our architects to ensure that all we asked for was delivered and more. The finished product far exceeds any expectations that we had for windows and doors that matched our original steel windows and doors, now giving us the perfect look for the house with the added bonus of double glazing and additional safety and security. Their communication throughout has been excellent and we have felt looked after every step of the way. Installation was done ahead of schedule and the only issue we’ve had post installation has been dealt with efficiently and they have always had someone available to pick up the phone to us and come to site when needed. Really cannot recommend this wonderful company enough, for both their products and the overall experience. Thank you!”

With 37 high-rise buildings within its remit, Solihull Community Housing (SCH) is responsible for the upkeep of more than 1% of the UK’s entire high-rise stock. Part of a stock of 11,000 properties that SCH manages and maintains on behalf of Solihull Council. A window replacement programme on this scale – and on high-rise buildings especially – would normally represent an astronomical undertaking, incurring huge installation costs. However, SCH and its supplier and contractor partners have worked together to devise an innovative solution that allows all new windows to be installed from the inside.

Vibrant Timber Windows in 'A House for Essex'. Traditional timber sliding sash windows, casements and French doorsets from the Conservation™ range by Mumford & Wood have been specified in A House for Essex as part of Alain de Botton’s series of rentable holiday homes, Image: Jack Hobhouse

The owner of this charming period cottage needed to replace original timber sash windows that had deteriorated, and which were cold, drafty and lacking in security.

Sedlescombe is England's oldest organic wine estate. The new owners have totally transformed the Vineyard's shop and tasting room with a stunning combination of steel and glass being incorporated through the whole building design. The enormous pair of radius head door screens provide a magnificent feature both internally and externally. They are in keeping with the natural surroundings and a fabulous backdrop to the shop. Inside you will find further Clement EB24 door screens and doors used to beautifully partition rooms and allow light to flow through the building.

The new build development contained 17 dwellings for social rent, consisting of four one-bedroom flats, nine two-bedroom flats and four three-bedroom flats. The new development is located within an urban densely populated area of London. The 97 windows manufactured and supplied were predominately Optima Flush Tilt and Turn Windows from Profile 22 along with a small number of Optima open-out casement windows too. Optima from Profile 22 is the UK’s leading award-winning commercial window system. Profile 22 Optima Windows deliver the high-quality specifications required.

Orbis OS210/OS211 Glass Infill Side and Top FixThe Eastbourne College Project 150 delivered a sports hall, competition pool, fitness suite, squash courts, dining and common rooms, pavilion and 32 classrooms, while also providing connections between key College facilities. The development, to mark the college’s 150th anniversary, enabled the Eastbourne College to take a giant leap forward providing several high-quality facilities in one substantial build. Delta Balustrades worked with the architect from early concept design stages and provided technical expertise and advice. The Orbis balustrade system throughout provided a consistent glass balustrade style throughout the building and could be utilised for the external pavilion areas also. Whilst mainly throughout new build areas of the college, the look and style of the balustrades was especially important to complement the College’s iconic buildings and environment. Due to the proximity to the sea, special attention had to be given to the materials and finishes for the external balustrades, and 316 grade stainless steel with a Lustre bright polished finish was required to be suitable in a marine environment.

A great example of 1930s Art Deco architecture, The Douglas Building sits on Great Titchfield Street in London’s West End. Formerly known as The Media Village, Douglas House was acquired by serviced office providers The Office Group (TOG) from landlords The Langham Estate in 2019. TOG together with Note Design Studio transformed the building with a colourful concept that blends the distinctive 1930s features and gives a sense of fluidity, openness and light throughout.As its former name suggests this area of London is a hub for local media and IT businesses operating out of the West End and the brief for the building was to create a flexible workspace where people can feel stimulated by their environment leading to greater productivity. Wellness was also a central focus and the building includes an oxygen room, a parents’ room and a roof terrace which are all integral to enabling and inspiring everyone who enters.Well ventilated and an abundance of natural light have become buzzwords in the COVID era and the more than 300 new steel windows from the Clement EB24 range which were chosen by office fit out and refurbishment contractors Parkeray perfectly facilitate both. Polyester powder coated in Pure White and furnished with Warren handles in a satin chrome finish the windows lend the building a contemporary look on the outside as well as supporting the 21st century ways of working inside.Peter Clement, Chief Executive of Clement Windows Group, commented:“As with all prestigious window replacement projects of this magnitude Clement took part in a competitive tender process. Whilst this was in play we understand that both Parkeray and the client’s team had the opportunity to compare our EB24 steel window to others being considered. We believe it was the quality and overall finish of EB24 combined with an attractive price and fine references that convinced them and the client to proceed with us.”

In the heart of Bristol’s City Centre lies The Pithay, now known as Programme. This immense building, originally built in the 1960s was tired and required refurbishment. After being acquired by Resolution Property in 2016 a plan was developed by Buckley Gray Yeoman, based on Resolution’s ambitious brief to revitalise the building. Clement Windows Group was chosen as the preferred company to manufacture and install the 510 new steel windows required. Clement were thrilled to win the job, particularly as the current Chief Executive Peter Clement’s father had installed the original windows back in 1966!

This Grade II listed building in Thames Ditton dates from 1792. The former manor house, priory and chapel was repurposed as a care home in 1905 by the Nuns of Compassion, yet in recent years the historic buildings have posed challenges to delivering modern standards of care. Oliver & Robb Architects have rationalised the design in a renovation project to created 78 luxury bed spaces. We were appointed to design, supply and install a total of 263 timber tilt and slide sash windows, tilt and turn windows, single doors and French doors to sympathetically upgrade the property.

In 2018, pioneering polycarbonate roofing supplier Twinfix marked the first use in the UK of its premium bolted glass canopy. In fact, two of its new “spider-bolt” contemporary canopies have been used at the new Trumpington Park Primary School which supports the new Great Kneighton housing development near Cambridge, along with an existing secondary school and existing library building.

Refurbishment of the walkways was required as part of a wider upgrade programme delivered by main contractor, Thomas Sinden. The existing asphalt covering had been damaged and the resulting water ingress was not only causing leaks into the properties below but was also compromising the building fabric with signs of damp in the external walls. The project had to be carried out while the apartments remained occupied so it required a solution that could be installed quickly with minimum disruption to residents and excellent performance over an extended service life.

A 19th century Listed Building, St Paul’s Church, has a prominent position at the top of St John’s Hill in Battersea. Current owners, The James Laurence Group, worked alongside the London Borough of Wandsworth Planning Department to agree how best this historical building should be restored and provided with a new lease of life. Clement were chosen to supply all the steel windows and conservation rooflights. The bespoke demands of the project required Clement to use two steel window ranges. Both W20 and EB24 were fitted to create the beautiful shaped windows which include club heads.

The conversion of a west London former town hall to include residential accommodation features Crittall windows, carefully designed to preserve the building’s original character. The former Acton Town Hall, in Ealing London Borough, has been partly converted to provide a public library and leisure facilities but the Grade II listed structure also now contains a range of apartments. The building, which dates from 1909, was designed in an Italianate palazzo style, executed in locally made red bricks with Portland-stone dressings.  For the refurbishment and conversion the windows within the original building were replaced with Crittall Corporate W20 profiles.

Project: Store windows, Groningen, Netherlands

Rose Collection sash windows are often used in traditional heritage properties, but – as this stylish post-war Surrey home shows – they work just as well in more modern buildings.

Orbis OS200 Vertical Bar Infill Side FixOrbis OS211 Glass Infill Top FixProviding more than 120,000 sq ft, of innovation space for high growth enterprises, this project is situated within Imperial College London’s White City campus. Built by a market leader with specialist expertise in modular buildings, this project demanded a high level of innovation, and a balustrade supplier that delivered on cost, quality, and timescales. The main reception area is dominated by a large feature stair providing access to all floors, and the Orbis balustrades with glass infill achieve a stunning first impression and allow maximum light through the space from the vast glazed roof lights above. Throughout the three core stairs, which are used for general circulation and escape routes, the vertical bar infill panels within the Orbis balustrade was used. This robust modular panel solution is pre-manufactured to speed up installation on site, which was extremely important to the main contractor. Individual stair cores were not closed for extended periods of time, which means greater productivity, less management time, and reduced risk for the main contractor.

After many years of being out of use, the former police HQ (CID) building on Bridewell Island in Central Bristol has been renovated and is now the new YMCA Bristol hostel. John Perkins Construction carried out the work along with Ferguson Mann Architects and assistance from the Bristol City Council Conservation Team. Preserving the beauty of this Grade II Listed Building, which dates back to 1928, was paramount although it was vital that the completed building offered a modern specification for 21st century living. Clement Windows Group were selected to provide the new steel windows.

Part of an energy efficiency drive, the landlord aimed to reduce carbon emissions and the effects of fuel poverty on 96 units in 8 blocks at Hornby Flats, Liverpool. Triple-glazed PVC-U windows and doors using the Profile 22 70mm system by Walsall-based Approved Window Contractor Select Windows, with extensive experience in social housing. Profile 22 worked closely with Select Windows and One Vision Housing, facilitating the entire process from conception to completion. The project was completed on-time and in budget. One Vision Housing was able to future-proof, while improving the quality of living for tenants.

The Queens Quay project is the UK’s first large-scale water source heat pump, taking the latent heat from the nearby River Clyde and using it to heat the 23-hectare Queens Quay development which will include 1,200 homes, commercial facilities and essential infrastructure. The project saw us deliver a complete energy solution which included our next generation of smart, in-home technologies which bring transparency and functionality to both the client and end user. Our vTherm°e Heat Interface Unit (HIU) and Glass app were chosen as the preferred products as they are heat-pump-compatible and facilitate the decarbonisation, digitalisation and electrification of heat.

Dallochy House owners Mark and Jenny Sykes had always dreamed of building their own home. And after house-hunting for a number of years in Aberdeenshire, realised they would have to make their dream come true to get a property that ticked all their boxes! They were searching for a new home which would be warm and easy to heat, in their local village and in the catchment area for a good school.  Paul McWilliams from Annie Kenyon Architects, orientated the house to optimise south facing solar gain, with expanses of glazing from Rationel to make the most of the views, and stilts to accommodate the sloping topography. The couple incorporated stone from the former cottage on the site, into the gable-end of the new build.  “It has been a very happy and stress-free journey,” say Jenny who chose James Hall Joinery as main contractors. “I cannot rate the professionalism of Paul and James highly enough. We expected stress, hiccups, problems but James project managed everything so smoothly that he took the stress out of the whole process.”  “We chose Rationel windows for a number of reasons. James Hall recommended them to us having used them on several other builds. He was able to provide photos of windows, doors and testimonials. Their distributors ADW have a showroom, at Sauchen, which was very convenient for us to visit and it was particularly helpful to see so many products on display. We were impressed with the quality, the choice available and could tell that the investment was absolutely worth it. The colour choices were to our liking, as was the option to have alu-clad external finish onto the natural timber frames.  We think the windows just look really good with the cladding and stone work and of course allow you to appreciate the views.” 

Energy Efficient Heritage Windows for a Victorian RetrofitThe retrofit of Mews House, a low-energy Victorian listed mews property in West London, showcases how heritage windows can be utilised in a retrofit project to enhance energy efficiency while preserving the building's character and historical features.A Conservation Area GemBuilt in 1878 as a traditional carriage house with stable doors, Mews House was later converted into a residential property. However, over time, it suffered from poor layout, inadequate heating, and tired exterior facades. Architects Prewett Bizley undertook the challenge of transforming the interior into a light-filled open-plan living space, improving the property's external appearance while adhering to the local conservation area guidelines, and significantly reducing its carbon footprint.The Role of Winston Sliding Sash WindowsReplacing the existing single-glazed windows with Gowercroft's Winston Sliding Sash windows played a vital role in achieving the project's sustainability and conservation objectives. The architect required windows with higher performance levels, including superior thermal efficiency and a traditional timber aesthetic that matched the original "multi-pane" windows, which was crucial for securing planning permission. A total of 16 Winston Sliding Sash windows of various sizes were installed, featuring traditional joinery elements such as glazing bars, fitch fasteners, pulleys, and concealed gaskets, creating an authentic appearance.Energy Efficiency and AchievementsThe use of vacuum glazing in the windows provided excellent energy efficiency, achieving an overall U-value of 1.5 W/m²K, with the potential to reach even lower values in future iterations. The air tightness of the frames, coupled with Gowercroft's sealing system, contributed to an impressive air tightness rating of close to 1 m³/m²hr at 50Pa, surpassing expectations for a property of this kind.The retrofit of Mews House resulted in an astounding 82% reduction in overall energy consumption, bringing it below the 2025 RIBA targets for new build houses. The replacement sash windows played a pivotal role in achieving this energy reduction, both through their U-value and by minimising air infiltration.Bob Prewett from Prewett Bizley expressed his satisfaction, stating, "What's amazing when people visit is that they are totally convinced the windows are original and single glazed."The successful integration of energy-efficient heritage windows in the Mews House retrofit sets a new benchmark for heritage preservation combined with sustainable design and demonstrates the potential for revitalising older properties to meet the energy standards of new builds.

This project involved the removal of the existing factory finish to an industrial unit in the West Midlands, followed by cut edge corrosion treatment and full roof & parapet coating. Once the original finish had been removed using high pressure jet washing, all of the end laps to the roof sheets were coated with SWT (Surface & Wet Tolerant) corrosion primer, to prevent further rusting. Once cured, the roof was coated with the BBA Approved Metalseal 20 to a film thickness of approx 300 microns.

The town of Whitchurch in Hampshire is a special place: most of the town is a Conservation Area, the amount of wildlife in and near the River Test means its course and banks are designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest, and the town is the Gateway to the North Wessex Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the third largest of Britain's 46 AONBs. The current Town Hall was built by a local landowner, Lord Middleton, in or around 1791, using some of the timbers from the Old Town House that had stood in the centre of The Square, and was demolished in the 1780s. During the 1800s the building had many tenants including the Mechanics Institute and a furniture warehouse.Records show that in the 1900s the building was also put to a variety of uses. The local Magistrate held sessions, two rooms were used to shelter Military Units passing through Whitchurch, and in 1919 the building was used by the National Federation of Discharged Soldiers and Sailors. Parish Councils were set up in 1896, but met at the Poor Law Institute (the Gables). More recently, the National Fire Service was accommodated in the lower middle section of the building. In 1946, Midland Bank, (now HSBC) was in the lower right hand corner. The Town Band practiced here, and the British Legion used the upper floor. Recently, an extensive program of refurbishment works has taken place to improve the Grade II* Listed Building. This included new steel doors and windows by Clement for the front elevation. The Clement W20 range was chosen for both, with krypton gas filled units. Ash pull handles perfectly complement the steel doors and Boleyn handles were chosen for the steel windows. Sarah Weir, Clerk at Whitchurch Town Council said ““The Town Council are really pleased with the new windows and door which are modern, practical and in keeping with the historic building”. 

Student accommodation, by architects HAUS, which combines distinctive design with high quality materials. VELFAC windows are installed in each of the 452 rooms to provide a practical and cost-effective glazing solution with performance tailored to each façade.