How to Choose Windows for Conservation Area Projects

There are around 10,000 conservation areas within England, covering a total of approximately 1,150 square miles. These are put in place by local authorities to protect special architectural and historic regions. A conservation area not only protects the community’s charm but also the properties within it – such as by preventing the installation of inappropriate, poor-quality new windows that could erode a period home’s traditional character.

Houses within conservation areas and those with listed building status have restrictions on the scope of permitted development rights (under what’s called an Article 4 Direction), controlling works that could threaten the character or architectural merit of an area or a property that has acknowledged importance. So, if you want to install new windows in a house affected by such designations, you must choose appropriate designs and may need to seek planning permission and other consents.

Efficiency Upgrades

At the beginning of 2024, the government announced an energy efficiency drive for heritage homes in the UK. This is set to review the wide range of barriers that homeowners face when looking to future proof their properties at the same time as protecting their heritage. The review will also explore how these barriers are placing restrictions on the UK achieving net zero status by 2050.

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This protected house was upgraded thanks to new windows from The Residence Collection’s R9 range

Around 5.9 million UK houses were built before 1919 and owners of heritage buildings face difficult restrictions when looking to upgrade them structurally. Replacing old draughty windows will contribute significantly to energy saving measures. And thankfully there are options, such as The Residence Collection’s R9 range that maintain the period look and offer great performance.

Replacing Windows

Choosing a style that sympathetically and sensitively upgrades a period property is one of the most difficult parts of the new window journey. To maintain the authentic look and to comply with Building Regulations, installing modern flush sash PVCu windows is a great solution.

The Residence Collection specialises in installing windows in conservation areas and on listed buildings

While white is the go-to in modern homes, one of the many beauties of period properties is that coloured frames are historically a focal point. These can now be recreated to match the homes’ traditional roots.

There are many more colour options to add to a property’s character. For example, installers might recommend a neutral-coloured window for a Victorian home, darker frames in historic terraces, or more natural shades in a whitewashed cottage.

Choosing these hues for windows on period homes allows the owners to keep the same aesthetic while benefiting from the contemporary features and energy efficiency that come with modern PVCu products.