How did CR Smith brighten and modernise this family home?

How did CR Smith transform this semi-detached home?

After living with their original timber windows and doors for more than 25 years, Mr and Mrs Paterson decided it was time to invest in a complete upgrade.

The existing products required ongoing maintenance and were becoming increasingly draughty, impacting both the comfort and efficiency of the home.

Mr Paterson explained:

“Our windows and doors before they would be 25 to 30 years old. They were timber-framed windows and needed a lot of maintenance and were pretty draughty. So that’s why we decided to go ahead and get new windows.”

The result is a home that feels warmer, brighter and far more modern while requiring significantly less maintenance.

How did the design consultation help bring the project to life?

Like many homeowners planning projects during the COVID-19 pandemic, the Patersons began their journey with a virtual design consultation.

Their first meeting with CR Smith products expert Tom took place over Zoom during lockdown restrictions.

Despite the unusual circumstances, the couple felt fully supported throughout the process.

Mr Paterson recalled:

“We had our first interview with CR Smith, the salesman Tom, this was over Zoom during lockdown. That went well, it went really well considering the way that we had to do it.”

He added:

“Tom was very, very informative at the time and reassured us everything would be fine and he certainly delivered that.”

The consultation allowed them to explore different window styles, colours and configurations before confidently placing their order.

Why did the Patersons choose anthracite grey windows?

One of the biggest decisions involved changing the colour of the windows both internally and externally.

The homeowners wanted to modernise the appearance of the property while creating brighter spaces inside the home.

They selected anthracite grey externally to enhance the kerb appeal of the property, while the inside has been upgraded from a dark stained timber to white, maximising the natural light in each room.

Mr Paterson explained:

“We changed the colour of the windows internally to white, just to give it a brighter feeling, a fresher feeling inside and we went with anthracite grey outside… Tom reckoned that it would look well in our house, so yeah, we took his advice and I think it’s a good choice.”

The finished result has created a striking contrast between the interior and exterior while complementing the style of the property perfectly.

How were the new windows designed to improve everyday living?

The downstairs windows were upgraded to Lorimer casement windows, providing excellent ventilation and ease of use throughout the main living spaces.

Upstairs, the homeowners selected Lorimer reversible windows, which offer a practical solution for upper-floor rooms.

The reversible design allows the external glass to be cleaned safely from inside the home by rotating the sash inward, eliminating the need for ladders and making ongoing maintenance much easier.

Together, the two window styles provide the perfect balance of practicality, performance and appearance.

How did the new front door transform the hallway?

While the windows dramatically improved the appearance of the property, the biggest transformation may have been the new engineered timber front door. 

The original door featured a dark brown internal finish, which left the entrance hallways feeling dark and enclosed.

By replacing it with a door featuring a white internal finish and decorative diamond glazing, the hallway has been completely transformed.

Mr Paterson explained:

“The front door has made a massive difference because it was a brown, dark, dingy hallway. To get it white inside with the diamond windows has fully lightened up the hall.”

Even the family dog has noticed the difference.

“Now the dog, he stays in the hall when we’re at work and he’s loving the bottom window. He can actually see out now, whereas before it was really dark and dingy for him.”

The result is a brighter, more welcoming entrance that sets the tone for the rest of the home.

How do Lorimer windows improve comfort and energy efficiency?

Each Lorimer window is made to measure and manufactured in Scotland for Scottish homes, ensuring a precise fit and exceptional thermal performance. 

Combined with modern double glazing and advanced sealing systems, the new windows help eliminate draughts and improve heat retention throughout the property. 

The family immediately noticed the difference in comfort, and also now benefit from the reduced maintenance required of their ageing timber windows, compared to their new uPVC windows.

How does CR Smith ensure a first-class installation experience?

The homeowners were particularly impressed by the professionalism and communication they received throughout every stage of the project. 

Following the initial design consultation, every appointment took place exactly as promised. 

Mr Paterson commented:

“He informed us what would happen next. He said that the surveyor would come out, he was booked for a certain day and the surveyor turned up on that day, on time.”

The installation itself was carried out by Scott and Willie, a father-and-son fitting team. 

Mr Paterson said:

“I can’t speak highly enough of them. They were really professional in what they’d done… They went an extra mile to make sure you were happy with everything… They really are a credit to CR Smith, and I would highly recommend them.”

What impact did the transformation have on the home?

The upgrade has transformed both the appearance and functionality of the property. 

The new anthracite grey windows have modernised the exterior, while the white internal finishes have created brighter and more welcoming spaces throughout the home. 

The draughts associated with the old timber windows were eliminated, maintenance requirements have been reduced, and the new front door has completely changed the feel of the entrance hallway. 

The quality of the installation has also attracted attention from neighbours, with several expressing an interest in CR Smith after seeing the finished result. 

This project demonstrates how upgrading your windows and doors can improve comfort, reduce maintenance and completely refresh the appearance of your home. 

What did the Patersons think of their CR Smith experience?

From the initial Zoom consultation through to the final installation, the Patersons were delighted with every stage of the project. 

The combination of expert advice, high-quality products and professional installation gave them complete confidence in their decision and delivered a transformation that exceeded their expectations.