How did CR Smith help restore the character of a 1930s home in Glasgow?

Why did Mr and Mrs Campbell replace their windows?

Situated in Clarkston, on the south side of Glasgow, Mr and Mrs Campbell’s home dates from the 1930s, and the previous windows were draughty and didn’t complement the period look of the home.

Like many similar properties, the original timber sash and case windows had been removed many years before and replaced with standard uPVC casement windows, with little thought given to the look or design.

Although the replacement windows were low-maintenance, they never quite suited the house, and their declining energy performance meant the front rooms often felt cold and uncomfortable.

The Campbells wanted replacement windows that would restore the elegance of traditional sash and case windows while delivering all the performance benefits of modern double glazing.

How did CR Smith recreate the appearance of traditional sash and case windows?

Rather than installing standard replacement windows, CR Smith carefully designed Lorimer casement windows to mimic the proportions and appearance of traditional sash and case windows.

Every window was individually configured to suit the property, combining authentic period detailing with modern engineering.

The result is a home that retains its traditional character while benefiting from the comfort, security and energy efficiency of contemporary replacement windows.

What design features create an authentic period appearance?

The success of this project lies in the finer details.

To recreate the elegant proportions of traditional sash and case with Lorimer casement, each w was designed with deeper opening hoppers, helping to mirror the appearance of vertically sliding timber sashes.

The windows also feature equal sightlines, ensuring the top and bottom sections appear perfectly balanced, a design element that is particularly important for bay windows to keep a symmetrical look, inside and out.

These carefully considered details help the windows blend seamlessly with the home’s architecture rather than appearing as modern replacements.

Why are mechanically jointed transoms and mullions important?

Another feature that distinguishes these windows is the use of mechanically jointed transoms and mullions.

Unlike conventional welded uPVC windows, which feature visible bird-beak or reverse butt welds, Lorimer windows are finished by hand to recreate the craftsmanship associated with traditional timber joinery.

This subtle detail creates cleaner lines and a more authentic period appearance, helping the windows complement the home’s original architectural style.

It’s these finishing touches that make Lorimer windows an ideal choice for homeowners looking to preserve the character of period and heritage-style properties.

How do Lorimer windows improve energy efficiency?

While the appearance of the windows reflects traditional craftsmanship, their performance is thoroughly modern.

Lorimer windows are made to measure in Scotland and fitted by CR Smith joiners to the company’s unique Lorimer Fit Standard, ensuring a precise fit that helps reduce draughts and minimise heat loss.

Each double glazed unit features low-emissivity (L0w-E) glass, which reflects heat back into the room, while argon gas between the panes provides greater thermal insulation than air alone. A warm edge spacer bar helps reduce heat transfer around the edge of the glass, while an integrated desiccant within the spacer bar absorbs residual moisture to help maintain the performance of the sealed unit. The double glazed unit is protected by a dual-seal system, comprising a butyl primary seal and a hot-melt secondary seal, helping to protect the unit’s long-term performance.

Together, these features deliver excellent thermal efficiency and year-round comfort, while the carefully selected design elements preserve the home’s traditional appearance.

How did the new windows transform the home?

For Mr and Mrs Campbell, replacing the windows wasn’t simply about installing modern double glazing.

It was about restoring the character the home was always intended to have.

Thoughtfully designed with equal sightlines and handcrafted detailing have transformed the appearance of the property, giving it the timeless elegance of traditional Scottish architecture.

At the same time, the couple now enjoy all the benefits of modern replacement windows, including improved energy efficiency, enhanced security and reduced maintenance.

This project demonstrates how considered design can preserve the character of a traditional home while delivering the comfort, performance and reliability of modern double glazing.

What did the transformation achieve?

By choosing bespoke Lorimer windows, Mr and Mrs Campbell were able to restore the period appearance of their home without sacrificing the benefits of modern engineering.

The finished installation proves that replacement windows don’t have to compromise character. With the right design, homeowners can preserve the architectural style of their property while enjoying improved warmth, security and energy efficiency for years to come.