Can the Windows of a Grade II Listed Building be Changed?
Two subjects often come up when we are discussing works on Grade II listed homes. Clients ask us about Planning Permission and Listed Building Consent with regard to upgrading and changing windows on Listed homes. Here we will explain what can and cannot be done.
Outward Appearances
The style of windows in any building is a major part of the external appeal, whether it is a contemporary home with enormous windows or a classic town house with original period glazing. In many contemporary homes, or homes with modern glazed extensions, the scale and structure of the windows are integral to the whole architectural look, and it may not be possible to make any significant changes. In unlisted period homes it will nearly always be a priority for the architectural design team to bring back the original style of window, often removing generic UPVc double glazed units and replacing them with timber windows in the appropriate style, and with suitable proportions, colours and finishes. If the home is listed there will be requirements and restrictions on what can be done to renovate and restore windows that have fallen into disrepair. The overall aim with Grade II listed properties is to retain and restore the integrity of the building, which will include the windows and any other architectural details that contribute to its listed status.
Is Change Allowed?
As a general rule the attitude to renovation projects on a listed building is to repair and restore rather than replace. We have previously discussed painting the exterior walls and windows of a listed building and there are tasks that can be carried out on listed windows that can be done without involving Planning Permission or Listed Building Consent. Regular tasks like repairing damaged or deteriorating timber frames, re-painting, draught-proofing and other practical repairs can be carried out as and when necessary. The emphasis will always be on retaining the existing look, style and proportion of the windows without changing the overall outward appearance. For Listed properties, particularly those in a terrace or crescent, there will be adjoining homes which may well also be listed, so there will be a very clear picture of the styles and proportions that are acceptable. Our clients may want to upgrade their listed windows to reduce heat loss, improve sound proofing and generally make windows which may have become poorly maintained look beautiful again. The end result will always be about enhancing the appearance of their property and acknowledging its listed status.
The Concept of Like with Like
Windows that are in such poor condition that they need complete replacement must be constructed using acceptable materials – for example, timber frames cannot be replaced by wood-look plastic or composite materials. Every detail, from the way the windows open to the size and proportion of the glazing bars, the number of panes in a sash panel, the thickness of the glass and the type of ironmongery and hinges used, must be considered. There are bespoke joinery and window manufacturers who specialise in replicating windows for listed buildings. Planning Permission and Listed Building Consent will be sought by our team from the relevant planning department. Grade II property renovation is not just about classic timber windows. Some projects may involve Crittall or Crittall-style windows, which may also have to be refurbished and refreshed.
Our architects are highly experienced and are aware of all the technical and structural issues regarding the renovation or possible replacement of windows They will consult with experts and specialists if an entire window has to be replaced. There will be extensive attention to every detail to ensure that the project is completed successfully, with the required Planning Permission and Listed Building Consent, and of course, most importantly, with the satisfaction of our Clients.
For more information on how we work with listed buildings click here.
