Windows in Historic Buildings

As a rule, windows in historic buildings should be repaired, or if beyond repair should be replaced "like for like". In considering listed building consent applications for additional windows it is important that their design, scale and proportion should be sympathetic to the character of the building. The fact that owners so often wish to alter windows demonstrates that windows attract the attention of practically anyone who objectively looks at a building. They are the eyes of the building and they catch the eye. The finish, the material from which they are made, the method of opening, the subdivisions of the glass, the characteristics of the glass, the interplay of panes, the profiles of each component, the relation of sills, architraves, encasements, shutters etc. all play their part in the overall character of the window. The window plays a vital role in the overall appearance and character of the building internally as well as externally.