Replacement Windows for a Listed 17th Century Farmhouse
Key takeaways
- Listed 17th-century farmhouse with mullioned window openings
- Gowercroft Heritage Range Richmond flush casement windows installed
- Accoya® timber frames with ultra-slim vacuum glazing
- Conservation Officer approved ‘like for like’ replacements
- Draughts eliminated, insulation and comfort significantly improved
- Homeowner praised the authentic look, noise reduction, and installation service
Why were replacement windows needed at Land End Farm?
Keith and Carolynn Squires live in a Grade II listed 17th-century farmhouse in Derbyshire. Their home had draughty single-glazed timber windows, most of which were mullioned and in very poor condition. The original frames had decayed beyond repair, making window replacement the only realistic option.
After producing a window survey, the local Conservation Officer agreed to support the installation of ‘like for like’ modern timber replacements, provided they met strict conservation requirements.
Which heritage windows were chosen?
After researching several options, Keith and Carolynn chose the Richmond flush casement window from Gowercroft’s award-winning Heritage Range. These traditional casement windows are made from sustainable Accoya® and fitted with ultra-thin vacuum glazing for exceptional energy efficiency.
Keith explained:
“Of all the replacement window possibilities we explored, we thought that the Richmond casements had the most authentic single-glazed look. We were really impressed by the slimness and performance of the vacuum glazing … and Gowercroft’s long warranty was definitely a value-added bonus!”
How did Gowercroft support the listed building consent?
To help secure planning approval, a Gowercroft team member attended site meetings with the local Conservation Officer. A sample window was provided on-site to demonstrate the slimness of the vacuum glazing and how it avoids the tell-tale ‘double reflection’ seen in conventional double glazing.
Supporting fenestration drawings were also supplied to show that all conservation requirements would be fully met.
How was the installation experience?
Keith and Carolynn visited Gowercroft’s Derbyshire workshop before committing, where they saw the attention to detail and quality control first-hand. Once approved, the Gowercroft fitting team installed all windows while working around COVID-19 restrictions.
Keith said:
“Gowercroft were such a great help through every step of the process and their fitting teams did an excellent job of installing the windows, leaving all areas clean and tidy – even though there were covid restrictions in force at the time.”
What benefits have the new windows delivered?
The Richmond windows have transformed the farmhouse. The exterior appearance is now unified and sympathetic to the building’s age and character. Internally, the house is noticeably warmer and quieter thanks to improved insulation and soundproofing.
Keith added:
“We are really pleased with our new windows. They have transformed the external look of the farmhouse, eliminated the draughts we used to put up with, and greatly improved thermal insulation, leaving the house warmer and much more comfortable to live in. The vacuum glazing has also helped make the house a lot quieter, so that the noise from the nearby road is now almost completely eliminated.”
“Thanks to all at Gowercroft, you should be really proud of what you have achieved here.”
Land End Farm Gallery
See the results and what it looked like before!
Learn more about our Heritage Windows
Explore our Heritage Window Range to see how we blend traditional joinery with modern performance, approved for use in listed buildings and conservation areas across the UK.