Victorian Sash Window Restoration – Stoke Newington

Restoration Over Replacement

Project Summary

Introduction

Golden Ratio Joinery was commissioned to restore the elegance and authenticity of a Victorian terraced property in Stoke Newington, North London, by replacing existing PVC windows with bespoke timber sash windows designed to accurately reflect the original period style.

We regularly restore and replace Victorian sash windows across Stoke Newington and surrounding North London areas, ensuring period-accurate detailing with modern performance.

The project focused primarily on the front elevation, where maintaining traditional proportions, detailing and visual balance was essential, while also introducing modern performance improvements for comfort, security and energy efficiency.

Project Overview

Location: Stoke Newington, North London

Property Type: Victorian terraced house

Services Provided:

• Replacement of PVC windows with bespoke timber sash windows
• Period-accurate sash window design and manufacture
• Double glazing with enhanced acoustic and thermal performance
• Bespoke joinery and traditional detailing

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Project Scope

Ground Floor

A bay window consisting of three individual sash windows, carefully proportioned to suit the original Victorian façade.

First Floor

Three front-facing sash windows, designed to align precisely with the bay below and maintain symmetry across the elevation.

Rear of the Property

Two additional sash windows, manufactured to match the overall design language of the property.

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Design & Materials

Each window was designed to faithfully replicate the original Victorian sash windows, restoring the property’s historic appearance after the removal of the PVC units.

• Bottom sashes were fitted with clear glass
• Top sashes featured traditional horizontal and vertical glazing bars, measuring 11mm thick, to reflect authentic period detailing
• All windows were manufactured from high-quality timber using bespoke joinery techniques

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Finish & Ironmongery

The windows were finished in a two-tone colour scheme:

• White internal finish for a clean, timeless interior appearance
• Black external finish to complement the brickwork and period character

Both finishes were completed in an elegant eggshell sheen, appropriate for heritage properties.

The client selected polished brass ironmongery, including:

• Traditional sash pulleys
• Sash locks
• Sash lifts

These details contribute to a refined, authentic finish consistent with Victorian design.

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Modern Enhancements for Comfort & Efficiency

While maintaining a traditional appearance, the windows were upgraded to meet modern performance standards.

Double Glazing & Acoustic Performance

• The front elevation incorporated 24mm thick double glazing, significantly improving acoustic insulation and reducing external noise
• Glass units were toughened to improve safety and security

Thermal Efficiency

• Argon gas-filled units were used between the panes to enhance thermal performance
• This helps reduce heat loss and improves overall energy efficiency while preserving the historic look of the windows

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Challenges & Solutions

Replacing modern PVC windows in a Victorian property requires careful planning to avoid losing original proportions and character.

Key challenges included:

• Restoring correct sash proportions after PVC removal
• Ensuring modern double glazing did not compromise period aesthetics
• Achieving a flawless fit within existing openings

Our solution:

• All joinery was custom-manufactured to fit the original window openings precisely
• Bespoke beading was produced to achieve a clean, authentic finish
• Careful detailing ensured the traditional appearance was retained while incorporating modern glazing technology

We offer a full sash window restoration service across London, including period-accurate replacements and upgrades.

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Outcome

The completed project successfully restored the original character of the Victorian property, replacing unsuitable PVC windows with beautifully crafted timber sash windows that enhance both appearance and performance.

After Installation – Restored Victorian Sash Windows

Following installation, the new bespoke timber sash windows sit perfectly within the original openings, restoring the traditional proportions and detailing typical of Victorian properties in Stoke Newington.

The combination of slim glazing bars, traditional joinery profiles and a high-quality painted finish ensures the windows are visually indistinguishable from original period sashes, while benefiting from modern performance standards.

The new windows provide:

• Improved thermal insulation
• Reduced external noise
• Increased security
• A period-accurate aesthetic in keeping with the property’s heritage

This project demonstrates Golden Ratio Joinery’s expertise in balancing heritage restoration with modern standards, delivering bespoke sash window solutions that respect original architecture while meeting contemporary requirements.

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Read more about our sash window restoration service in Stoke Newington or contact us to arrange a free quotation.