We are always delighted to work with our clients to improve the appearance and value of their properties and this particular commission was especially gratifying. Set within a leafy cul-de-sac on the outskirts of Haywards Heath this attractive, tile hung detached property had been well maintained by previous owners but the replacement white upvc windows and doors with false glazing bars were creating a busy and cluttered overall appearance to the exterior of the property.
Browse through the slideshow to see our before and after images.
Working closely with the current owners, it was agreed that the appearance of the windows and doors needed to be upgraded to timber and the new design should be more streamlined and simplified. The joinery would be manufactured in utile hardwood for longevity and the thermal values of the double glazed units would be improved to meet with current Building Regulations. It was agreed that the glazing bars should be removed and that the windows should be replaced with simple flush casement windows with mullions and no fanlights. The triple windows either side of the front door were constructed with a floating mullion so that they could be opened fully for added ventilation on the ground floor and to open up the interior to the garden beyond.
Hand forged casement stays and fasteners with a shepherd’s crook feature were selected to add interest to the simplified design in keeping with the country cottage style of the building. The exterior of the windows will be painted in a Farrow and Ball style soft green to blend with the brickwork.
On the rear of the property the large window which lights the stairwell has been redesigned with mullions and transoms to create a feature picture window to maintain the contemporary simplicity of the rest of the joinery.
In recognition of the importance of first impressions, a beautiful oak framed and boarded door with glazed sidelights either side now replaces the functional upvc door to create an inviting entranceway. The European oak has been treated with Osmo uv filter oil to preserve the colour and texture of the timber. Carefully selected hand forged, pewter front door furniture and new exterior lighting to either side of the entrance upgrades the quality of the finish.
Timber French doors replace the upvc single door and sidelights. Without the false glazing bars the view of the garden is unimpeded from the living area within. 2/3rd sidelights with bead and butt boarding below create a feature of the joinery and black lever handles operate the five lever mortice sashlock and a deadlock affords additional security.
To continue the country cottage styling throughout the property, the mismatched upvc back door has been replaced with a traditional style stable door with side window which maintains the sightlines of the glazing. With the top half open, the kitchen can be ventilated while the lower door section can be kept closed.
