Conservation Area Extension with Bespoke Glazing Solutions

Project Scope
Following the successful completion of a glazing project in Stoneleigh, we were approached by a builder’s associate to design and install glazing for a residential extension within a conservation area. The project demanded meticulous attention to heritage guidelines, requiring the extension to appear distinct from the existing cottage while maintaining functional connectivity. Key challenges included creating a frameless glass structure to separate the new build visually, alongside a striking feature window to highlight a floating staircase.

Project Objectives & Innovations

• Flush Threshold Design
  Ensured all door thresholds aligned seamlessly with internal floor finishes for无障碍 access and a clean aesthetic.
• Heritage-Sensitive Material Selection
  Selected glazing sections and finishes that complemented both the original cottage’s stone façade and the new brickwork, preserving the property’s historical character.
• Contrasting Material Palette
  Specified a distinct brick colour for the extension to differentiate it from the existing stone cottage, meeting conservation requirements while creating visual harmony.
• Frameless Glass Entrance System
  Engineered a bespoke bonded glass structure to serve as the main entrance between buildings, incorporating a discreet door attachment system to integrate the front door seamlessly with the frameless design.
• Feature Staircase Glazing
  Designed and installed an up-and-over glazed window system, sloping from ground to roof level, to frame the floating staircase and enhance curb appeal with dynamic lighting effects.
• Structural Integrity & Weatherproofing
  Achieved watertight and thermally efficient connections between the frameless glass structure and existing building, ensuring compliance with conservation standards.

Products Used

• Bonded frameless glass systems
• High-performance sliding doors and windows
• Bespoke up-and-over feature glazing
• Specialist brick and stone finishes
• Weatherproof sealing systems

Outcome
The project successfully balanced heritage constraints with modern design, delivering a visually independent extension that maintains functional links to the main cottage. The frameless glass entrance and feature staircase window became focal points, praised for their innovative design and craftsmanship. By collaborating closely with planners and the builder, we ensured compliance with conservation area regulations while exceeding the client’s aesthetic and performance expectations.