What did CR Smith do to elevate the style, light and character of an Edinburgh home?

At a glance:

• Location: Edinburgh
• Homeowners: Mr and Mrs Fraser
• Product: White uPVC Lorimer casement windows and TimberLuxe door
• U-value: 1.4W/m2k
• Security: PAS 24 multi-point locking system on the windows and Thunderbolt five-point locking system for the door
• Challenge: Draughty windows with dated design internally and externally. Dated front door with minimal security.
• Solution: Upgrade to modern Lorimer uPVC windows and a TimberLuxe engineered timber front door.
• Results:
  • Modernised appearance and enhanced kerb appeal
  • Increased thermal efficiency within the home
  • Brighter, more open living space
  • Refined, heritage-appropriate appearance

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

Mr and Mrs Fraser’s existing uPVC sliding sash windows had become dated in appearance and were no longer performing efficiently. Draughts were affecting comfort, and the windows no longer complemented the character of the home as intended.

Replacing the windows offered an opportunity to improve energy efficiency while refining the look of the property both inside and out.

How did CR Smith help preserve the traditional sliding sash appearance?

A key priority for the Frasers was maintaining the proportions and charm of the original sash and case design. Rather than a like-for-like replacement, CR Smith reimagined the five-part bay window with Lorimer casement windows. These have been designed with the traditional one-third, two-thirds proportions of the originals, but with a mix of openers.

Side-hinged and top-hinged casements have been specified to the left and right for ventilation, and fixed panes with equal sight lines complete the bay. The window transoms were mechanically jointed, offering greater structural strength and improved performance than standard welded alternatives.

How did thoughtful detailing enhance the bay window?

On the fixed panes within the bay, an additional sash was added to each pane to create equal sight lines. This subtle detail ensures visual balance and symmetry, significantly enhancing the appearance of the bay from both inside and outside the home.

In addition, removing the timber cladding between each window has helped open up the space,  allowing more natural light to flow into the living room and creating a brighter, more contemporary feel.

How did the oak sills enhance the interior finish?

To complement the upgraded windows, the Frasers chose hardwood timber Royal oak window sills and surrounds. This natural timber detail introduces warmth and depth to the interior, creating a refined finish that enhances the overall character of the room.

The rich tones of the oak provide a subtle contrast against the white window frames, giving the windows a more premium finish. As well as elevating the visual appeal, the durable hardwood timber sill offers a practical and long-lasting finish and helps the windows integrate beautifully with the traditional style of the property. Thanks to the expert craftsmanship of CR Smith joiners, all the sill horns and aprons are hand-scribed, enhancing the look further.

How has the new front door enhanced the property’s kerb appeal?

The front door upgrade has created a striking first impression. The Frasers replaced their pale blue door with an Eiger w engineered timber door from the classic collection, finished in brilliant blue.

The addition of decorative glass introduces a delicate feature, enhancing the character and individuality of the home. This carefully chosen design complements the home’s architecture and seamlessly integrates with the upgraded windows.

What impact has the transformation had on the home overall?

The upgrade has significantly improved comfort by eliminating draughts and enhancing thermal performance, while also transforming the visual appeal of the home.

Brighter interiors, refined detailing, and a cohesive exterior now define the Fraser property. This project demonstrates how thoughtful window and door design, combined with expert craftsmanship, can modernise performance while respecting architectural character.

How do Lorimer windows and TimberLuxe doors elevate traditional doors?

This Edinburgh project highlights how Loimer windows and TimberLuxe doors can elevate a property through careful design, premium materials and meticulous detailing. By improving energy efficiency, maximising light and preserving traditional aesthetics, they offer a perfect balance of performance and style. Ideal for heritage homes looking to evolve without losing their identity.