Having lived in their Kinross family home for four years, Mr and Mrs Thwaite had long planned to replace their original builder-installed timber windows.
Over time, the original timber frames had deteriorated due to prolonged exposure to Scotland’s wind, rain and fluctuating temperatures, leading to rot, warping and reduced insulation performance. The dark rosewood stain, applied both internally and externally, made the home feel dark and heavy, and reduced the amount of visible light within each room. Security was also a concern for the family, as the outdated locking system offered limited protection – an important consideration for an active family.
They wanted to modernise the exterior, brighten the interior and significantly improve both thermal efficiency and security.
One of the most striking changes is the move from dark-stained timber to a contemporary anthracite grey finish externally.
This modern colour choice instantly refreshes the property’s facade, giving the home a sharper, more architectural appearance. The clean, defined lines of the Lorimer casement design further enhance the updated look, replacing the weathered and impractical original frames with a sleek, cohesive aesthetic.
The addition of an engineered timber door in matching anthracite grey completed the transformation, creating a synonymous, refined look to the exterior of the property that feels both modern and timeless.
Internally, switching from rosewood-stained timber windows to a crisp white finish has had a dramatic impact on the home. White frames reflect natural daylight back into the room, making each space feel larger, brighter and more open.
The Thwaites also changed the window configuration to Lorimer casements with top hoppers and large fixed panes. By increasing the glazed area and reducing unnecessary frames, more natural light can flood into the home.
To further enhance the interiors, the once dark sills were replaced with solid royal oak timber sills, complete with matching aprons and surrounds. The warm, natural timber contrasts beautifully with the white frames, turning the windows into a true design feature within every room.
Upgrading to energy ‘A’ rated Lorimer casement windows with a U-value of 1.4W/m2k, the new windows have significantly improved thermal performance.
Compared to the original timber units, the new A-rated Lorimer windows have significantly reduced heat loss and eliminated the draughts previously experienced in winter months. For a family home with young children, this enhanced thermal efficiency ensures a more comfortable living environment in every season.
The new engineered timber front door has also contributed to improved insulation, combining robust construction with modern performance standards to minimise heat loss.
The Lorimer casement window features a multi-point locking system including mushroom caps, shoot bolts, and a locking handle. With PAS24 accreditation for enhanced security, the new windows provide a substantial upgrade from the original, outdated locking mechanisms.
For Mr and Mrs Thwaite, this added level of protection offers genuine peace of mind, particularly important in a busy household with young children.
By upgrading to A-rated Lorimer casement windows, achieving a U-value of 1.4W/m2k and PAS24 accredited security, this Kinross home has been completely rejuvenated, with measurable improvements in insulation, protection and internal brightness.
The shift to anthracite grey externally has elevated kerb appeal, while white internal finishes and larger glazed areas have transformed the brightness and feel of each room. Combined with improved thermal efficiency and advanced security features, the upgrade delivered both aesthetic impact and everyday practicality.
As Scotland’s leading window manufacturer and installer, CR Smith designed the new configuration to maximise both performance and aesthetics for the Thwaites family home. Upgrading to modern A-rated double glazing can make a measurable difference to energy efficiency, security and comfort, whether you live in Kinross or anywhere across Scotland.
Before the rosewood stain made the space feel small and dark. After the white frames and royal oak sill and surround have brightened the space, making it feel bigger and more open.
BS EN 1279 – 2&3 Insulating Glass Unit
BS 7412 Window and door sets made from PVC-u extruded profiles
BS 6357-1 Performance of windows and doors
PAS – 24 Enhanced security performance of windows for domestic applications
UK Conformity Assessed
BFRC Energy rated windows and doors
Secured by Design
ISO 14001: 2015 Environmental Management System (EMS)
ISO 9001: 2015 Quality Management Systems
