Windows for conservation areas require a careful balance between heritage character and modern performance. Working on a conservation or listed property brings a unique set of challenges, especially when it comes to choosing the right windows. Any changes must protect the character of the building, remain sympathetic to the original architectural style and in many cases meet strict Article 4 requirements.
At Burgess Windows and Doors, this is an area we know extremely well. With a long heritage in the building industry and experience working across a range of period homes, our team understands the balance between preserving historic character and delivering modern performance.
In this guide, we explore three of the leading window systems suitable for conservation areas and listed buildings: The Residence Collection, the Bygone Collection and Evolution. Each offers authentic detailing, traditional styling and the standards required for sensitive renovation work.
These options make them ideal windows for conservation areas where authenticity and performance are essential.
Conservation areas are locations identified as having special architectural or historic interest. Any changes made must preserve or enhance the area’s character. For further detail on conservation principles and how heritage buildings should be managed, guidance from Historic England provides a helpful overview.
Many conservation areas include Article 4 directions. These restrict what homeowners can alter without planning permission. Windows are one of the elements most commonly controlled, as inappropriate replacements can negatively impact the overall appearance of the property and the surrounding street.
Local planning authorities often request windows that closely replicate original 19th or early 20th century timber profiles. This includes sash proportions, glazing bar layout, opening styles and traditional joinery details. Modern materials can be approved, but only when the design is accurate enough to respect the building’s character.
The Residence Collection was designed specifically to replicate authentic 19th century timber windows while delivering modern performance. The profiles were modelled on documented historic designs from Article 4 guidance, meaning they are frequently approved by planning officers across the UK.
Residence windows feature beautifully authentic detailing, including flush internal and external finishes, timber-like joints and heritage proportions. They are crafted using virtually maintenance-free materials yet remain sympathetic to the original architecture.
Performance is equally impressive. Residence windows achieve U-values as low as 0.8 with triple glazing and 1.2 with double glazing, surpassing building regulation requirements. They also offer excellent acoustic performance and enhanced security, making them practical for everyday living without compromising visual character.
The Bygone Collection is one of the most respected PVC-U sash window ranges for heritage projects. Designed by Masterframe, these sash windows recreate the proportions, elegance and craftsmanship of traditional timber frames.
There are three ranges to choose from: Melody, Harmony and Symphony. All offer woodgrain textured finishes, traditional butt-jointed corners and authentic detailing. The Symphony model features premium enhancements such as vacuum-insulated FINEO glazing, achieving U-values of 1.2 and exceptional clarity.
Bygone windows are often approved for conservation-area installations because of their faithful replication of original sash designs. Features such as Timberweld construction, slim 39mm external transoms, deeper internal Georgian bars and traditional hardware options help retain the building’s historical charm.
Security has also been addressed. Steel-reinforced sashes and Bygone’s clawed cam catches meet Secured by Design standards. With a 12-year guarantee and over 30 years of manufacturing experience, the Bygone Collection offers durable, high-performance sash windows that preserve heritage aesthetics.
Evolution specialises in timber-alternative windows designed specifically for conservation areas. These windows replicate the look, feel and proportions of traditional timber joinery but use modern materials to avoid issues such as warping, flaking or ongoing maintenance.
Both Storm and Flush styles achieve U-values of 1.4 or better, meeting and often exceeding building regulation requirements. Evolution’s attention to detail is extensive, with carefully considered sash proportions, glazing bar profiles, joint construction and authentic sightlines.
These windows are regularly approved under Article 4 guidelines because they replicate the original aesthetic so accurately. Evolution also provides strong acoustic performance, high security and excellent durability, making them suitable for homes requiring both authenticity and long-term performance.
Their high approval rate among conservation officers comes from a combination of traditional styling supported by modern technical performance. For homeowners navigating conservation requirements, Evolution offers a reliable window system that respects heritage character.
When upgrading windows in a conservation area or listed building, the focus should always be on accuracy. The design must match the original style as closely as possible, from sash layout and glazing bars to the position of the frame within the opening.
Residence, Bygone and Evolution all provide solutions that meet these expectations. The right choice depends on the property, the planning restrictions in place and how closely the replacement needs to follow original joinery. When choosing windows for conservation areas, homeowners must balance heritage character with modern efficiency.
At Burgess Windows and Doors, our background in building and renovation means we understand both the practical and regulatory aspects of conservation work. We help homeowners navigate planning requirements, select the right products and achieve a finish that enhances the property’s character.
Replacing windows in a conservation or listed building requires careful consideration and the right products. The Residence Collection, Bygone Collection and Evolution offer traditional aesthetics combined with modern performance, making them ideal for sensitive renovations.
If you’re planning a conservation-area project, our team is here to guide you through the process, answer questions and help you choose the best window system for your home. Contact Burgess Windows and Doors to discuss your heritage project or request advice.
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