The Art of Design Issue 34 2018 | Page 130

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WINDOWS WITH ‘ WOW ’ FACTOR TRANSFORM 1930S FAMILY HOME

A huge extension to a period property in Oxted , Surrey presented Claire Toone and her family with the perfect opportunity to replace the metal windows in their arts and crafts-style home .
The original windows looked beautiful but they let in drafts and let out heat , resulting in astronomical heating bills . Claire needed to replace the windows in the original part of the house , and use the same in the new 1000 sq . ft extension .
Claire began looking into window companies which specialised in manufacturing metal windows but who were also able to achieve both the look and good thermal ratings required . However it was proving a little harder to find both and she was beginning to think she would need to compromise on one of them , when a friend who had already appointed Met Therm Windows as part of large building project recommended them .
“ The process of working with Met Therm was brilliant – and easy ,” explained Claire .
“ They came out equipped with samples , did a site survey and took measurements off plan . They were also really helpful as they gave some great recommendations when it came to deciding how many openings to have , for example ,” she added .
“ As we were replacing windows and installing windows into a new build there were definite deadlines which had to be met , such as getting the property watertight . Met Therm happily liaised with our builder and pulled out all the stops to ensure this happened ,” said Claire .
This extensive project included 17 black powder-coated windows with rectangular leading and a striking 3m wide aluminium French-style door , situated in the newlyextended 80sq . m kitchen .
The oak subframes of the windows were kept at the front of the house . At the back however , the metal frames of the windows are fitted direct to the brickwork , to ensure as much light as possible is let in .
“ The original windows looked beautiful but were inefficient . What I love about our new Met Therm windows is that we were able to maintain the style and detailing of our original windows , so they are almost indistinguishable from the originals , and I chose the RTD Matt handles , which look amazing against the black frames . I also love the thermally efficient frames and glass so we don ’ t have to tape up our windows anymore to keep out the drafts , said Claire .
“ Life with our new windows is wonderful ,” explained Claire . “ Everyone who comes to the house comments on how amazing the windows are . Met Therm was a fantastic company to work with : very efficient , helpful and thorough . My friend who recommended them believes that it ’ s all about who you use - and she was right – I will also be recommending Met Therm ,” added Claire .
www . metthermwindows . co . uk