Bespoke timber windows: solutions for Grade II Listed buildings

• 14 January 2025|
• News

When working with a Grade II listed building, selecting appropriate windows that balance traditional aesthetics with modern performance presents unique challenges. While the historical significance of these buildings must be protected, architects, developers and installers must also provide the energy efficiency, security and durability that modern property owners demand.

The renovation process demands a delicate balance between preserving historical authenticity and providing functional, high-quality solutions that satisfy both conservation requirements and modern expectations.

As specialists in bespoke timber joinery, at Lomax + Wood we have all the expertise you need to find premium solutions that tick every single box. With 30+ years of experience in providing sustainably sourced made-to-order timber windows and doors, we can provide windows that respect architectural heritage whilst delivering exceptional performance.

What is a Grade II listed building?

Listed buildings are properties that have been identified as having particular architectural or historic significance, and so are protected by local authorities to preserve them for future generations. Listed buildings are divided into grades, with Grade II buildings making up approximately 92% of the listed buildings in the UK.

Listed buildings have restrictions on what building work can be undertaken on the property, and generally all replacement windows and doors must be of a similar style to the original designs.

At Lomax + Wood, we have over 30 years of experience in providing made-to-order timber windows and doors for heritage projects, and we understand the unique requirements that grade II listed buildings demand!

Should Listing be reassessed for climate change targets?

Listing as with conservation areas was bought in to protect buildings of national importance and retain the historic character of towns and villages. These, prior to the listing or imposition of a conservation area, had often been disfigured by inappropriate windows and doors, as just one example. The incorrect use of other such features such as tiles or render can be equally to blame.

The question now is are these listing now actually overseeing the deterioration of vast swathes of the UK housing stock? With individuals, councils and developers unable to improve period properties with modern high performance products. Lomax + Wood produce made-to-order timber windows and doors that replicate period sight lines while providing individual pieces that meet today’s performance requirements.

The obstacle in their use can be seen as conservation officers treating every building as though it is a museum and not a home. A home that needs to be improved or it will fall into disrepair and ultimately be destroyed. The overall system needs to be looked at with the view to incorporating modern period products that enhance the property, maintain the period sightlines that we are all interested in preserving.

Window restrictions and planning considerations

For Grade II listed buildings, window replacements often require detailed consultation with local planning authorities. Traditional single glazed windows are frequently mandatory, though some authorities may permit sympathetically designed double glazing solutions if they are authentic enough in appearance.

Each case is assessed individually, considering the building’s historical significance and specific architectural features. Understanding these requirements is crucial for successful heritage renovations.

The premium choice: timber windows

While finding appropriate windows for heritage properties can be a headache for architects and developers, at Lomax + Wood we have a range of premium made-to-order timber windows that are an excellent choice.

Timber windows represent the authentic choice for Grade II listed buildings, offering unmatched historical accuracy and craftsmanship.

Better still, modern manufacturing techniques allow our team of skilled craftsmen to create wooden windows that honour traditional details whilst incorporating contemporary benefits and the highest standards of energy efficiency. Our joinery solutions maintain the integrity of heritage properties whilst providing the highest standards of security, low U-values and lasting performance.

Lomax + Wood: crafting bespoke solutions

At Lomax + Wood, we specialise in made-to-order hardwood casement windows and sliding sash windows designed specifically for listed buildings. Because of this, we are able to adapt our offering to fit the requirements of virtually any project.

Our manufacturing process accommodates both single glazing for strict conservation requirements and double glazing options where permitted. Each window is crafted to exact specifications, ensuring perfect alignment with original architectural features. We offer a wide range of premium ironmongery options to capture that heritage aesthetic, and we are happy to replicate the historic design details seen in heritage windows on historic buildings.

Heritage properties, whether residential or commercial, demand individual attention and customised solutions. Our bespoke approach ensures that every window perfectly matches the original features of your property, from glazing patterns to colour specifications. This detailed focus helps preserve architectural character whilst meeting modern performance standards.

Supporting architects and developers

We know that working with heritage projects can add an additional layer of difficulties for architects and developers.

For professionals working on listed building projects, we offer comprehensive technical support throughout the specification and installation process.

Our wealth of experience with building regulations and conservation requirements positions us as an ideal partner for complex heritage renovations. We collaborate closely with architects, developers, and planning authorities to ensure a successful completed project. We are happy to work with architects and developers to help you find the best solution for your heritage project.

Sustainable heritage: responsibly sourced timber windows

At Lomax + Wood, our commitment to architectural heritage extends to environmental responsibility.

All our timber windows for Grade II listed buildings are crafted using sustainably sourced hardwoods, primarily from FSC® Chain of Custody (registration number: C126169) and PEFC™ certified forests.

We carefully select premium materials that not only meet the exacting standards of conservation officers but also align with modern environmental concerns. Our hardwood timber varieties are chosen for their exceptional durability and strength, ensuring that your heritage windows will stand the test of time while minimising environmental impact.

By combining traditional joinery techniques with responsibly sourced materials, we provide windows that respect both historical authenticity and sustainability. This approach particularly appeals to architects and developers working on sensitive heritage projects where environmental credentials are as important as historical accuracy.

Bespoke timber windows grade II listed buildings: contact Lomax + Wood today

Take the next step in your Grade II listed building project by contacting Lomax + Wood. With our expertise in bespoke timber windows and doors, we can help you find the perfect solution for your next project.

Call 01277 353857 or use our online contact form to discuss your requirements with our specialist team.