How did CR Smith improve warmth and efficiency in this cottage renovation?

How did CR Smith help transform this cottage renovation?

When Mr and Mrs Preston moved into their cottage four years ago, they immediately recognised the property’s potential. However, the existing windows were in poor condition and struggled to provide the comfort and efficiency the family needed. 

As they began updating the property, replacing the windows and doors quickly became a priority. 

Reflecting on this first impression, Mrs Preston explained: 

“We moved here four years ago and the windows were terrible. So we decided let’s make a feature of the front of the house and make it really nice and change the colours to dark grey.”

The result is a home that feels brighter, warmer and far more welcoming throughout. 

Why did the Prestons decide to upgrade their windows and doors?

As an older property, the cottage suffered from draughts and poor thermal performance.

The family found the house difficult to heat efficiently and wanted a solution that would improve comfort while also respecting the property’s character.

Having known the CR Smith brand for many years, they felt confident investing in a product that would provide long-term performance and peace of mind.

Mrs Preston commented:

“I’ve heard of CR Smith for many years, and it’s a very good product, so getting the 10-year guarantee with the windows, you know it sells itself, and you’re buying a quality product as well.”

How were the new windows and doors designed to suit the property?

The project involved replacing every window and door throughout the home, including the front door, three sets of French doors and a striking run of floor-to-ceiling double glazing across the front elevation.

To create a more contemporary appearance to the exterior, the Prestons selected anthracite grey finishes on the outside while opting for white internal finishes to brighten the interior spaces.

A selection of the window features internal astragals, which help maintain the traditional character of the cottage while benefiting from the performance of modern double glazing.

This careful balance of traditional styling and contemporary finishes has helped preserve the home’s character while giving it a fresh new look.

How did the new glazing transform light and space throughout the home?

One of the most dramatic changes has been the increased natural light the new windows have brought to the property.

The original windows featured narrower glazed sections, which limited both light and views. The slim frames of Lorimer windows have allowed for larger glazed areas, opening up the space and creating a brighter atmosphere throughout the home.

Mrs Preston explained:

“It’s just transformed the house, like inside everything was dark brown. It just made it so dark and depressing and now we’ve got lovely, lovely windows.”

She added:

“Everyone comments about the front area of the house for the feature because they’re like ‘oh did you put that in?’ I said ‘no this is what the house was like when we bought it’ but the window panes were narrower. I think it’s just opened up the whole area, the hall looks really welcoming and big as well, it’s lovely.”

The result is a home that feels significantly larger, lighter and more inviting. 

How did the French doors improve access to the garden?

A key feature of the project was the installation of three sets of Lorimer French doors to the rear of the property. 

These doors have strengthened the connection between the home and garden while allowing even more natural light into the living spaces. 

Mrs Preston particularly enjoys how the doors enhance everyday living and entertaining: 

“We’ve extended our patio as well and I’ve got the doors here and I just feel it just lets so much light in as well.”

She continued:

“We’ve got the ones in the kitchen, which is great just for accessing for everyone because it’s a bit of a party house as well! We like to entertain.”

A set of French doors was also installed in the bedroom, creating direct access to the garden, helping provide an indoor-outdoor living space during the summer months. 

“We’ve got French doors in the bedroom as well and it’s lovely just to go out into the garden from the bedroom, it’s just a really nice feature.”

How do Lorimer windows improve warmth and energy efficiency?

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

Combined with modern double glazing and advanced sealing systems, the new installations have eliminated draughts and improved heat retention throughout the property. 

For a large home such as the Prestons’ cottage, these improvements have made a noticeable difference to everyday comfort. 

Mrs Preston summarised the transformation perfectly:

“The difference is night and day, warm and cosy and has transformed the house.”

How does CR Smith craftsmanship ensure a premium installation?

At CR Smith, all installations are carried out by employed joiners trained to the company’s unique Lorimer Fit Standard. 

Despite the project taking place during challenging winter weather, the installation team maintained a high standard of workmanship throughout. 

Mrs Preston recalled:

“The guys that came out to fit the windows, they were so polite and even though it was November, December and the rain was torrential, they just carried on. They never stopped but very professional.”

This commitment to quality and customer care helped ensure the project ran smoothly from start to finish. 

What impact did the transformation have on the home?

The upgrade has completely changed how the home looks, feels and functions. 

The property is now warmer, brighter and significantly more energy-efficient. The anthracite grey finish has refreshed the exterior appearance, while the larger glazed areas have transformed the interior spaces with natural light. 

The addition of French doors has improved access to the garden and enhanced the way the family uses the home for both relaxation and entertaining. 

This project demonstrates how upgrading your windows and doors can improve comfort, maximise natural light and breathe new life into an older property. 

What did the Prestons think of their new windows and doors?

The Prestons were delighted not only with the finished result but also with the service they received throughout the project. 

Mrs Preston said: 

“I would recommend CR Smith a million per cent, absolutely. The service you get before, during and after is just, it’s first class.”

For the family, the project delivered exactly what they hoped for: a warmer, brighter and more welcoming home that they can enjoy for years to come.