With beautiful views out to the surrounding Perthshire countryside, this home had plenty of potential, but dated windows were holding it back. For Mr and Mrs Rae, improving energy efficiency and creating a brighter, more comfortable living space became the priority.
By upgrading to Lorimer windows and re-styling the window configurations throughout the home, the result is a space that feels warmer, lighter and far easier to live in day to day.
The original timber windows were finished in a rosewood stain, which gave the home a traditional appearance externally but made the interior feel noticeably dark.
Over time, performance had also declined. Cold draughts were present around ageing seals, making the home harder to heat during the winter months. In several windows, condensation had developed within the units, obscuring views of the garden and reducing the overall comfort.
Ventilation was another issue, with limited opening options throughout the home and window locks beginning to wear.
For homes in rural Perthshire, where exposed conditions can impact heat retention, upgrading to modern double glazing can make a noticeable difference to comfort year-round.
Looking to improve both the performance and appearance of their home, the Raes turned to CR Smith for a solution.
Working closely with their local CR Smith product expert, Mr and Mrs Rae decided to rethink the configurations of their windows to better suit how they live.
In the living room, the bay window has been significantly enhanced. The new design introduces three opening sections across the front and two at the side, increasing ventilation options within the space. Fixed panes below ensure that window proportions remain balanced while complying with Scottish Building Regulations.
This updated configuration allows for greater airflow while maintaining a clean, balanced appearance. Combined with the white internal finish and slim frames of the Lorimer windows, the room now feels noticeably brighter and more spacious.
A consistent approach has been taken throughout the rest of the home, with each window incorporating practical opening casement designs to improve usability and ventilation.
In the kitchen, a top-hinged casement window has been installed above the sink, providing a simple and effective way to ventilate the space.
To ensure the new windows complemented the age of the character of the property, the Raes chose to upgrade to solid timber sills and surrounds in royal oak.
This natural finish introduces warmth and texture into each room, balancing the fresh, modern looks of the new windows with a more traditional feel. The result is a design that feels both updated and in keeping with the home’s original character.
A key benefit of the new Lorimer windows is their slim frame, maximising the glazed area, allowing more natural light to enter the home.
Combined with the updated configurations, a brighter living space has been created. Alongside improved airflow throughout the home, and clearer, uninterrupted views of the surrounding countryside. Modern double glazing, with expert installations, has significantly enhanced thermal performance, helping to retain heat and eliminate draughts.
At CR Smith, all installations are carried out by employed joiners, ensuring a consistently high standard of workmanship across every home.
This allows for a more precise and considered finish, particularly when working with natural materials. Timber sills and surrounds are hand-finished to achieve a precise fit, enhancing both the appearance and longevity of the installation while adding a unique, premium touch.
This upgrade has completely changed how the home feels and functions.
Spaces that once felt dark and difficult to heat are now bright, comfortable and easy to ventilate. The improved window layouts make everyday use more practical, while the enhanced glazing ensures better energy efficiency throughout the year.
Externally, the new windows have refreshed the appearance of the property, while internally, the combination of light, space and natural timber adds the finishing touch to a home full of character.
This project highlights how upgrading your windows can improve energy efficiency, reduce draughts, increase natural light, and enhance ventilation throughout your home.
Before – Rosewood stained frames and sills made the windows dark and dated-looking.
After – The white frames and royal oak timber sills and surrounds brighten the look, with a streamlined finish.
BS EN 1279 – 2&3 Insulating Glass Unit
BS 7412 Window and door sets made from PVC-u extruded profiles
BS 6375 – 1 Performance of windows and doors
PAS – 24 Enhanced security performance of windows for domestic applications
UK Conformity Assessed
BFCR energy rated windows and doors
Secured by Design
ISO 14001: 2015 Environmental Management System (EMS)
ISO 9001: 2015 Quality Management Systems
