– Case Study –

Oxford Refurbishment Project

Preserving Character with Casement Windows and French Door

Photo (WEB)-18

 

When a private couple approached Salisbury Joinery, they weren’t simply looking for a replacement for their old windows and doors—they were seeking a bespoke solution that would breathe new life into their home.

Their existing windows and doors, which had served the house well for nearly 18 years, were beginning to show signs of wear. While these fittings had originally been sourced from elsewhere, the couple felt it was time to invest in something that would offer not only improved performance but also greater beauty and longevity. After hearing about our work through a recommendation, they visited our factory and showroom. It was there that they saw first hand the level of craftsmanship, the attention to detail, and the quality of our bespoke joinery. It became clear that this time, they wanted something truly special—windows and doors that would stand the test of time and preserve the soul of their home for generations to come.

 

image column 1 dnd_area-module-8
image column 2 dnd_area-module-8
image column 3 dnd_area-module-8

Bespoke Timber Windows

At the heart of this project were twelve bespoke timber windows, handcrafted to blend seamlessly with the architectural style of the home while vastly improving durability and thermal performance.

Each window was constructed using engineered sapele timber for the frame, cill, and casements—chosen for its strength, fine grain, and long-term stability. The external finish was a clean and classic RAL 9016 (Traffic White), applied using our trusted Spray System in a soft 30% sheen, giving the windows a crisp, durable coating that will age gracefully.

Inside, the finish told a different story. The timber was stained in Light Oak, carefully selected to echo the warmth of the surrounding interior joinery and create a visual link between the new windows and the existing character of the home. The result was a window that felt clean and timeless from the outside, but warm and authentic on the inside.

The projecting cills were treated with a Walnut basecoat and Antique Oak topcoat, deepening the colour tones and enhancing the natural look of the timber. To preserve the heritage feel, the windows featured ovolo mouldings—a traditional profile that blends perfectly with period and character properties.

Hardware was chosen not just for performance, but to complement the aesthetic. Ball bearing hinges and espagnolette locking systems offered strength and security, while black peardrop stays and cranked peardrop espagnolette handles introduced a handcrafted charm. Discreet white trickle vents were incorporated to meet building regulations, without compromising the overall look.

Every detail was considered, every surface finished with purpose—designed to bring lasting function and timeless beauty to the home.

image column 1 widget_1697618502968
image column 2 widget_1697618502968
image column 3 widget_1697618502968

Bespoke French Door

In addition to the windows, we crafted a French door—a focal point of the project and an elegant addition to the home’s entrance. Like the windows, the French door was carefully designed and handcrafted to balance aesthetic appeal with modern functionality.

Constructed from European Oak for the frame, cill, and door, the French door was finished externally in RAL 9016, providing continuity with the other windows and ensuring a harmonious external appearance.

Inside, the oak was stained with a Light Oak basecoat and Cypress topcoat, offering a softer, warmer interior contrast to the white exterior finish. This created a seamless transition between the natural timber and the surrounding room’s decor.

The French door was designed not only for its visual impact but also for security and smooth operation. It was fitted with eight 100mm satin stainless steel ball bearing hinges, ensuring the doors opened and closed effortlessly for years to come. The locking system was an espagnolette system with a cylinder, paired with black lever handles that gave the door both security and a traditional, bespoke look.

The result was an entrance that felt like part of the home’s original design, bringing a sense of elegance while offering the durability and efficiency needed for modern living.

Craftsmanship Supporting Conservation

This refurbishment project is a true reflection of what Salisbury Joinery represents: a seamless fusion of heritage craftsmanship and modern innovation. Our work breathes new life into existing spaces through bespoke, high-performance timber joinery designed to complement and enhance period architecture.

image column 1 widget_1697788108280
image column 2 widget_1697788108280
image column 3 widget_1697788108280

Talk to the experts

Contact our customer service team to discuss your project and explore what we can do for you.

Talk to Us