Tilt and turn windows and doors fitted to new build Highgate, London
A challenging tilt and turn windows and doors project in Highgate, London. Gowercroft showed how attention to detail can overcome seemingly impossible technical challenges.
Key takeaways
- Gowercroft delivered 206 bespoke timber windows and doors for a new luxury development at 49 The Bishops Avenue, Highgate
- The project included large tilt and turn units, custom-engineered to meet design and performance challenges
- Gowercroft also supplied and installed interior joinery, including walnut staircases, wardrobes, mirror doors, and 19 km of skirting
- The client praised Gowercroft’s quality, professionalism, and long-term support
Why were Gowercroft chosen for this luxury Highgate project?
Back in 2006, WillowAcre Investments & Developments Ltd. approached Gowercroft Joinery to deliver a complete joinery package for a new-build luxury apartment at 49 The Bishops Avenue, one of London’s most prestigious addresses.
Known locally as “Billionaires’ Row”, the Bishops Avenue in Highgate is home to a remarkable concentration of Kings, Sultans, and Oligarchs. It’s an area renowned for its grand homes, wealthy residents, and ambitious architecture.
The development needed a joinery partner who could not only guarantee exceptional craftsmanship but also manage both the internal and external elements of the project. Just as importantly, the team had to demonstrate strong technical knowledge of performance, durability, and detailing.
How did we engineer large tilt and turn timber windows?
The architect had specified large-format sliding doors. But these didn’t work well alongside the window scheme.
Gowercroft proposed an alternative. All the windows and doors would be designed in a tilt and turn configuration. This gave the building visual consistency and improved functionality.
Some of the units were huge — over 2 metres tall and 1.5 metres wide. That’s a serious challenge for any timber-based tilt and turn system.
To make it work, David Brown (now Special Projects Director) researched specialist gearing that could handle the size and weight. Gowercroft then designed timber sections to support the hardware while keeping the clean, minimal lines needed for a high-end finish.
Several companies submitted sample windows for testing. After thorough evaluation, Gowercroft came out on top for performance, durability, and design.
What did the joinery package include?
Gowercroft delivered a full joinery solution over the course of two years, including:
- 206 bespoke timber windows and doors in tilt and turn and multifunction configurations
- American Black Walnut internal door sets with architraves and bronze inlays
- Staircases, handrails, and feature joinery crafted to match the property’s luxury interior
- Walk-in wardrobes, custom furniture, and mirror doors
- Over 19 kilometres of three-part walnut skirting board with secret fixings
This was a landmark project that demonstrated Gowercroft’s ability to scale up and deliver consistent quality across both internal and external joinery on one of the most desirable streets in North London.
What did the client say?
“We have been using Gowercroft for the past 8 years and have always found them to have a high standard of quality and professionalism, often lacking in British manufacturing companies.”
Barry Glantz, WillowAcre Investments & Developments Ltd
“I would have no hesitation in recommending Gowercroft, a company that goes the extra mile and add value to any project. .”
What happened after completion?
Five years on from completion, Gowercroft was still supporting the development. We maintained a strong working relationship with both WillowAcre and the residents at 49 The Bishops Avenue.
Where needed, we returned to carry out follow-up work and provide maintenance support. That long-term involvement wasn’t a requirement, it was our choice.
It reflects our ongoing commitment to aftercare, product longevity, and exceptional customer service. 19 years on, we have a well established no maintenance warranty of 10 years for all customers. For those wanting lifetime peace of mind, this can be extended indefinitely by choosing to add Timbacare.
Continued support isn’t just reserved for high-end developments like this one — it’s a core part of how we operate, for every project.
Watch the video: How we engineered timber windows for Billionaires’ Row
Watch Gowercroft Director, David Brown, discussing this project and the cost engineering processes that were used to deliver exceptional products on a sensible budget.
How has Gowercroft evolved since this project?
A lot has changed since 2006. At the time, we delivered full joinery packages. Today, Gowercroft focuses exclusively on high-performance timber windows and doors.
We now work with just two carefully selected timbers: Accoya and engineered Red Grandis. These species were chosen for their durability, sustainability, and stability.
Our microporous coating system offers longer-lasting protection than traditional oil-based paints. We’ve also pioneered the use of vacuum glazing, which delivers market-leading energy efficiency while maintaining a slim, heritage-friendly appearance.
Thanks to ongoing product development and rigorous testing, we now offer an award-winning range that balances tradition with innovation — without ever compromising on craftsmanship.
Looking for bespoke timber windows and doors in Highgate or North London?
Whether you’re restoring a period property or working on a high-end new build, Gowercroft Joinery specialises in premium timber windows and doors that deliver exceptional performance, durability, and heritage-appropriate aesthetics.
Get in touch with our expert team to find the right solution for your next residential or commercial project in North London.