How did CR Smith help transform light, comfort and views in this Edinburgh home?

At a glance:

• Location: Edinburgh
• Homeowners: Mr and Mrs Reid
• Product: Lorimer patio doors and casement windows
• U-value: 1.4W/m2k
• Security: PAS 24 multi-point locking system
• Challenges: Draughty, poorly fitted French doors and blown bedroom window units with internal condensation affecting views and comfort
• Solution: Lorimer single doors and casement windows with slim frames, Georgian bars and chrome hardware, alongside upgraded tilt and turn windows with added transom detail
• Results:
  • Increased natural light throughout the home
  • Clear, uninterrupted views restored
  • Improved thermal efficiency and reduced draughts
  • Safer, more enjoyable living spaces for family life
  • Balanced modern and traditional design aesthetic

How did CR Smith enhance comfort and natural light in the Reids’ home?

At CR Smith, we understand that great design goes beyond aesthetics; it’s about how a home feels and functions every day. For Mr and Mrs Reid in Edinburgh, their upgrade was about improving comfort, restoring beautiful views, and creating a space they could truly enjoy.

By replacing their original French doors and upgrading multiple windows throughout the home, their home is a brighter, warmer environment that supports both relaxation and everyday living.

Why did Mr and Mrs Reid decide to replace their windows and French doors?

After 17 years, the original double set of French doors was no longer performing as they should.

“Our French doors were fitted about 17 years ago and they were never fitted right, they had draughts coming in…”

Upstairs, the issues continued. One bedroom window had developed condensation inside the sealed unit, while another had become unstable due to its size and hinge issues. Rather than continue with a repair, the couple made the decision to invest in a full upgrade – improving both performance and peace of mind.

What design choices did they make for their new patio doors?

The living room is a key space in the Reids’ home, a bright, south-facing room where they spend much of their time relaxing and bird watching. Their original twin set of French doors featured Georgian bars, which they loved for their appearance, and more importantly, for a practical reason. As keen bird watchers, they were conscious that large panes of glass can pose a risk to birds. Retaining the Georgian bars helps break up reflections, reducing the likelihood of birds flying into the glass.

The doors were also the main source of ventilation in the open-plan living area, which wasn’t a practical option, as the couple did not always want to open a door to let in fresh air.

The new design, styled by our product expert, has kept the classic design features but incorporates Lorimer single doors and casement windows. The top-hinged casement windows can be used to control ventilation in the space, while the single doors provide full access to the back garden. The Lorimer slim frames help to maximise natural light, and chrome handles bring a clean, contemporary finish.

The result is a perfect balance between traditional character and modern performance.

How were the windows upgraded throughout the rest of the home?

Elsewhere in the property, the Reids chose to retain the existing tilt and turn window design, valuing its practicality and ease of use.

However, to mimic the home’s other sliding sash windows, we introduced a transom detail across the pane, creating a consistent look across all of the windows. At CR Smith, the transoms are mechanically joined to replicate the look of a traditional timber sash, avoiding the visible bird beak weld which features on standard window frames.

This subtle design enhancement delivers a more heritage-inspired look, improved symmetry and proportions, a cohesive aesthetic across the home, and a clean finish on all the windows.

How did the new windows improve views and everyday living?

One of the most meaningful transformations took place in the back bedroom.

Previously, condensation trapped inside the sealed unit meant the window was constantly misted, obscuring what are otherwise stunning views.

“That was the window that had the condensation in it, so you could never really see outside… and the views are brilliant…”

With the new Lorimer window installed, the clarity has been fully restored, allowing the family to enjoy the scenery once again.

It has also become a favourite spot for their grandchildren:

“I’ve got children scrambling up on the toy box to look out the window now”

This perfectly highlights how improved glazing doesn’t just enhance performance – it enhances how a home is loved in.

What was the installation experience like?

The installation process is just as important as the product itself, and for the Reids, the experience reflected the commitment CR Smith has to quality craftsmanship.

“The two joiners Willie and Marco, they were super… they came when they said they were going to come, worked all day… put lots of dust sheets down and did a super job of cleaning up.”

What impact did the transformation have on the home?

The Reid home is now brighter, warmer and more enjoyable to live in.

The upgraded living room doors have transformed their main living space, increasing natural light while maintaining the traditional detailing they value. Across the rest of the home, improved glazing and thoughtful design enhancements have restored views, improved comfort, and elevated the overall aesthetic.

For a home centred around enjoying nature and spending time together, these changes have made a meaningful difference.