Discover how CR Smith enhanced the kerb appeal and comfort in a Monifieth home

At a glance:

• Location: Monifieth, Dundee
• Homeowner: Mr Blain
• Product: Lorimer casement windows and Lorimer uPVC door
• U-value: 1.4W/m2k
• Security: PAS 24 Multi-point locking system
• Challenge: Dated design and poor thermal efficiency
• Solution: Modern design and high performance A-rated energy efficient windows
• Result:
  • Achieved U-value of 1.4/m2k for improved heat retention
  • Installed PAS24 multi-point locking system for enhanced security
  • Increased glazed area through slim-frame engineering
  • Improved ventilation with top-hinged casement configuration
  • Modernised external appearance while retaining traditional rosewood finish

How has the window upgrade enhanced the home’s kerb appeal?

While Mr Blain retained the traditional rosewood exterior finish, the overall window design has been thoughtfully modernised to elevate the property’s appearance.

Previously, the living room featured a 50/50 split configuration, with one window fixed and the other reversible. The new three-part design incorporates a large central fixed pane with two side-hinged casement windows, which creates a balanced and symmetrical look. The addition of a top hopper above each casement window gives an additional ventilation point to the living room.

Across the rest of the home, a consistent combination of fixed panes, side-hinged casements and top hoppers ensures a cohesive and refined appearance. Retaining the rosewood finish externally ensures the windows continue to complement the home’s exterior red brick detailing and the neighbouring properties.

The result is a facade that feels refreshed and modern, yet entirely in keeping with its surroundings, a subtle but meaningful kerb appeal enhancement.

How have the new windows improved thermal efficiency?

Beyond aesthetics, the upgrade has delivered a noticeable improvement in thermal performance.

The previous windows lacked the advanced insulation properties of modern double glazing. The new Lorimer windows from CR Smith achieve a U-value of 1.4W/m2k and provide improved heat retention to help maintain a more consistent indoor temperature throughout the year.

The upgraded back door in the kitchen – a Lorimer uPVC door with a large fixed glazed pane – also contributes to improved thermal efficiency. Modern glazing and insulated frames help reduce heat loss, creating a warmer, more comfortable living environment while potentially lowering energy usage.

Together, these improvements make the home not only more attractive but significantly more energy efficient.

How have slim frames and larger panes increased natural light?

A key advantage of Lorimer windows is their slim frame profile. Compared to the previous reversible window configuration, the new slim-frame Lorimer casement windows significantly increase the visible glazed area without compromising structural integrity.

In the Blain home, the introduction of large fixed panes, particularly within the new three-part living room design and large top-hinged casement in the kitchen, has allowed more natural light to enter the space. The increase in visible glass creates brighter rooms and a greater sense of openness.

Internally, the white frames, paired with an interior full finish white engineered timber, further enhance this effect. The light-reflective surfaces of the sills and surrounds help bounce daylight further into the room, making spaces feel lighter and more spacious.

Even the choice of white handles contributed to the streamlined look, ensuring nothing detracts from the clean, fresh aesthetic of the windows.

How has functionality improved alongside design?

The move from reversible windows to side-hinged casements has significantly improved everyday usability. The new opening style allows the windows to operate with ease and without interfering with internal window dressings.

The addition of top hoppers above the side casement windows offers enhanced ventilation options while contributing to the modernised design. In the kitchen, upgrading to a top-hinged casement window improves airflow, supporting a more comfortable and practical living environment.

What is the overall impact of the window transformation?

Mr Blain’s home now benefits from a carefully considered balance of exterior enhancements and performance improvements. By retaining the rosewood exterior and refining the window design, the property feels more contemporary from the outside. Internally, improved thermal efficiency, increased natural light, and easier operation have transformed the comfort and usability of the home.

The project demonstrates how upgrading to A-rated Lorimer casement windows, which achieve a U-value of 1.4W/m2k and are PAS 24 accredited, has enhanced both the appearance and energy performance of this Monifieth home without compromising its original character.