Let’s be honest… some window types don’t belong in a cottage.
You’re probably considering upgrading your cottage windows because they are past their best. Either that, or you are fed up of wearing three jumpers, two pairs of socks and a blanket to cope with winter draughts!
You may be under the misapprehension that modern performance means uPVC, aluminium or timber look. But, can you do that and keep the quaint look that you fell in love with in the first place? And if your chocolate box cottage is listed, will those changes meet planning requirements?
But, choosing the right cottage windows isn’t just about aesthetics. It’s about preserving character, meeting planning requirements, and maintaining long-term performance too.
Good news! You can avoid living in a wind tunnel without sacrificing character.
So, what are the best options for cottages? Let’s explore the alternatives and help you make the right choice.
What is a cottage window?
When people talk about cottage windows, they usually mean small, traditional windows with lots of character. Think multiple panes, flush frames, and timber casements that open on side hinges. You’ll often find them nestled deep in chunky stone or brick walls, sometimes a little wonky (and all the better for it).
They’re rarely uniform. One might be tall and narrow, another short and wide. That’s part of the charm. And it’s not just the size that matters: it’s the details. Slim glazing bars, putty-style joints and proper frame positioning make a big difference when you’re trying to keep that lovely, lived-in look.
So if you’re planning to replace them, getting the proportions and style right is crucial. Not just to keep your cottage looking like… well, a cottage. But also to tick the boxes for planning rules if you’re in a listed building or conservation area.
Why are PVC and aluminium windows a bad choice for cottages?
PVC and aluminium might be fine in a modern estate home, but they’re completely out of place in a traditional cottage setting. Here’s why:
- They look artificial: The plastic-like finish and bulky frames can jar with historic brick or stone.
- They’re rarely permitted: In listed buildings or conservation areas, modern materials often won’t pass planning.
- They lack authenticity: These materials didn’t exist when your cottage was built, so they’ll never look quite right.
And no, spraying them a wood tone doesn’t solve the problem. It usually just highlights the mismatch. The faux grain patterns and unnatural shine of “wood look” PVC or aluminium often draw even more attention to the fact that they’re not timber. Up close, they miss the warmth, depth and tactile quality of real wood. And from a distance, they still don’t fool the eye, the conservation officer or Hyacinth Bucket next door.
Are storm windows suitable for cottages?
In a word: no.
They might sound tough, but storm windows are anything but. Developed in the 1950s to deal with draughts from shrinking timber, they’re a dated fix for a problem that no longer exists.
Storm windows were designed as a cheaper alternative to traditional casements, but they come with a heavy dose of compromise:
- They sit proud of the frame: This ruins the smooth lines of traditional joinery and creates a clunky, protruding look.
- They’re not period-appropriate: You won’t find originals like this in 18th- or 19th-century cottages—they simply didn’t exist.
- They’re outdated: Even mainstream manufacturers have moved away from them. Better materials and techniques have made them obsolete.
- They’re misunderstood: The name suggests extra protection from harsh weather, but modern flush casements with double rebates outperform them in every way.
If you’re aiming for a true cottage style window that respects your home’s heritage, storm windows won’t get you there.
What makes timber casement windows ideal for cottage settings?
If you want to keep the charm, character and cottage feel of your home, timber casement windows are the way to go.
They’ve been used in cottages for centuries, and when they’re made to a high standard (like ours), they tick every box:
- Slim sightlines that mirror the elegance of original joinery
- Natural materials that age beautifully and suit traditional settings
- Versatility to suit both listed buildings and modernised period homes
- Top-tier performance when paired with modern tech like vacuum glazing and microporous coatings
Looking for something that blends tradition with modern comfort? Our Hardwick Flush Casement Windows are perfect for unlisted or sympathetically updated cottages.
If your property is listed or falls under stricter planning control, the Richmond Heritage Casement Windows are a great match. They’re designed with historic accuracy in mind. You’ll find putty lines, traditional joints and super-slim glazing bars that even the fussiest conservation officer would admire.
Real examples: Cottage windows that got it right
The Smithy, Whatstandwell
This listed Derbyshire cottage needed sensitive replacements that would meet strict conservation standards, without compromising on warmth or appearance.
We used our Richmond Heritage Casement Windows with vacuum glazing to retain the original look while dramatically improving energy efficiency. The result? A home that still looks like it belongs in a history book… but feels much cosier in winter.
Quarry Cottage, Belper
Set in a conservation area, this former quarry worker’s cottage had to meet planning requirements while restoring its rustic charm.
We supplied Hardwick Flush Casement Windows in Engineered Red Grandis. This timber looks completely at home in a heritage setting and offers far better durability and stability than softwood. A perfect balance of old and new.
Matlock Cottage
This property had previously been fitted with poor-quality replacements that just didn’t suit its character. The proportions were off, the materials felt wrong, and the overall effect was… well, not very cottagey.
We replaced them with Hardwick Flush Casements in Accoya, restoring the right balance of style and substance. Now, the windows feel like they’ve always belonged and they’ll keep doing their job beautifully for decades.
How can I choose the right cottage style windows for my property?
Whether your cottage is listed, in a conservation area or simply full of character you want to preserve, choosing the right windows can feel like a bit of a minefield.
The good news? You don’t have to figure it all out on your own.
Our expert team can help you choose between our Classic Range and Heritage Range, depending on the look you want and the level of planning control you’re working with.
Get in touch for tailored advice and a window solution that suits your cottage perfectly, both inside and out.