The Almshouse Association recently approved a loan of ÂŁ25,013 to the Perry Almshouses to support the replacement of kitchen single glazed Crittall metal windows with slimline double glazed units in seven of their properties.
If a charity does not have sufficient funds to carry out necessary works to their almshouses, part of the service The Almshouse Association offers its member charities is financial help in the forms of grants and loans.
The Charity has generously documented their project to support others undertaking similar work and to demonstrate how funds raised by The Almshouse Association are helping almshouse charities update their properties, ensuring both their longevity and the comfort of their residents.
CASE STUDY: Perry Almshouses has been held in Trust since 1851 and have provided accommodation for 170 years. Comprising of 10 one-bedroom cottages providing community housing, a sense of friendship, safety, and security for residents.
Balancing Heritage and modern efficiency was our top priority
KEY FACTS
- Building type: Grade II listed building built 1851.
- Original windows: Single-glazed metal.
- Replacement: Double glazed bespoke units.
- Funding: A 25K loan from The Almshouse Association.
Challenges
KEY FACTS
- Adhering to strict conservation regulations.
- Sourcing bespoke windows to match the building aesthetic.
- Overcoming practical installation challenges due to the buildings age.
Replacing the single-glazed metal windows in a Grade II listed building posed several significant challenges.
One of the foremost hurdles was adhering to the strict conservation regulations that govern alterations to listed properties.
These regulations required that any changes preserve the architectural and historical integrity of the building, necessitating careful design and approval processes.
Additionally, sourcing bespoke double-glazed windows that matched the original aesthetic while providing improved thermal efficiency proved to be a complex task.
The constraints of maintaining the visual harmony of the building’s design meant that off-the-shelf options were not viable, and custom solutions required collaboration with specialised manufacturers.
CJL Designs, with over 25 years’ experience of restoring many types of windows in protected Grade I and Grade II listed buildings, offered a fully qualified window restoration and conservation service.
Practical challenges also emerged during installation
The age of the building introduced issues such as uneven window frames and delicate surrounding structures, requiring precise craftsmanship and specialised tools to avoid damage.
The project also had to consider the impact on residents, ensuring minimal disruption during the renovation process.
Finding the Solution
The chosen solution for replacing the single-glazed metal windows involved commissioning bespoke double-glazed units that met both conservation requirements and modern performance standards.
The design process began with extensive research and collaboration with specialists, including conservation officers, appointing a lead contractor who had expert conservation experience and who was able to coordinate other contracting disciplines to provide a total turnkey solution. This ensured that the new windows closely matched the original aesthetic while incorporating advanced glazing technology.
The bespoke windows were crafted using high-quality materials that replicated the slim profiles and detailing of the original metal frames. To comply with listed building regulations, the team worked closely with the local planning authority to secure the necessary approvals, providing detailed drawings and specifications to demonstrate how the replacements would preserve the building’s character.
During the installation phase, specialised techniques were employed to address the building’s unique challenges. Precision fitting was crucial to accommodate the irregularities in the window frames caused by the building’s age, ensuring a seamless integration. Careful attention was paid to avoid damage to the surrounding structures, and steps were taken to protect the interior and exterior of the property during the work.
Results
The replacement of the kitchen’s single-glazed metal windows with bespoke double-glazed units yielded a range of positive outcomes. The new windows significantly improved the thermal efficiency of the space, reducing heat loss and lowering energy consumption. This enhanced energy efficiency contributed not only to cost savings but also to a more environmentally sustainable household.
Acoustic insulation was also greatly improved, with the double-glazed units effectively reducing external noise, a particularly notable benefit for a kitchen that sees frequent use. Feedback from residents highlighted increased comfort and satisfaction with the space, reinforcing the success of the project.
KEY FACTS
- Improved thermal efficiency and acoustic insulation.
- Positive feedback from residents.
- A blueprint for future renovations in properties.
“The new kitchen window is perfect thank you” – Janet Saunders – resident
Importantly, the project was completed in full compliance with listed building regulations. The bespoke windows preserved the historical character of the property, earning positive feedback. The seamless integration of modern functionality with traditional aesthetics serves as a model for similar renovations in heritage properties.
“I am so happy with the new kitchen window. It has made a huge difference in that it feels much warmer and the addition of an opening window makes me feel more secure as opposed to having to leave the kitchen door open for some fresh air. The gentleman who fitted the window was extremely thorough in all aspects of his work. All I can say now is a huge thank you to those who have made these changes possible so that we residents can live here in this beautiful building in more comfort”.
Collen Fennell – resident
“I would like to express my sincere appreciation to you and the Trustees for planning and organising the almshouse kitchen window replacements. The windows look superb, and it is a joy to be condensation-free even after a frosty night. To have an opening window is a great advantage. Even the finely made pole to aid opening and closing is appreciated. Chris, the window fitter, as always, was very caring and respectful of our homes and left no sign of debris or dust. The carpenter, too, was excellent. The two men worked alongside whatever the weather threw at them”.
Linda Parrot – resident
Funding and Support
As a small almshouse charity obtaining funding was crucial for the project’s success to be completed as one-off project. To fund the project using reserve funds or any capacity from the income expenditure account would have required a longer timeframe for installation.
The Almshouse Association interest free loan of 25K provided the ideal solution. The 4-stage application process was robust; however, support, advice and guidance was readily available from the Loans and Grant Team.
An additional grant of ÂŁ1.5K was also provided from the Winterbourne Parish Council, which has always been supportive and strive to support local communities and parishioners of Winterbourne. Their loan and grant enabled the replacement of single-glazed windows with bespoke double-glazed units, meeting heritage standards while improving energy efficiency and comfort.
The funding eased the financial strain of this specialised project and highlighted the importance of preserving heritage properties. The Almshouse Association’s and Winterbourne Parish Council’s support modernised the property while maintaining its historical integrity.
Conclusion
The replacement of single-glazed metal windows with bespoke double-glazed units in this Grade II listed building demonstrates how modern needs can be harmonised with historical preservation. By carefully adhering to conservation regulations and employing a thoughtful design process, the project successfully balanced the demands of heritage aesthetics with the benefits of improved energy efficiency and acoustic insulation.
This case study highlights the importance of collaboration between conservation authorities, specialised manufacturers, and skilled contractors in achieving such a complex renovation. The project serves as a valuable example for similar endeavours, offering insights and strategies for overcoming challenges while respecting the integrity of heritage properties.
Case study author – A Bebbington tony.bebbington62@gmail.com
Project Partners
posted 29 May 2025