Timber Casement and Sash Windows in Kensington
The Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea is renowned for its rich architectural heritage, prominently featuring timber sash windows.
The borough has 35 Conservation Areas, which designate regions of exceptional architectural or historic interest, encompassing approximately 70% of Kensington and Chelsea.
At The Sash Window Workshop, we specialise in manufacturing and installing beautiful, high quality timber windows and doors. All our new windows and doors are designed to enhance the look of your home, while also improving energy efficiency.
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Timber Windows in Kensington – A Brief History
One of the most notable buildings in Kensington, Holland House was constructed in the 17th century. This Jacobean-style building likely featured windows with classical proportions influenced by the House of Stuart’s contact with the Catholic countries of Europe. These windows typically had 1:1 or 1:2 height ratios with four lights divided by a single mullion and transoms.
As the 17th century advanced, timber windows evolved into the ‘cross-casement style,’ characterised by lower, wider structures with multiple mullions and no transoms.
Kensington’s popularity surged when Nottingham House, located in the Campden Hill area, was expanded by the esteemed architect Sir Christopher Wren.
Wooden Casement and Sash Windows in Kensington
Though specific details about Nottingham House’s window upgrades are scarce, Stuart, Georgian, and early Victorian properties typically emphasised vertical proportions in their sash and casement windows. This design featured several glazing bars, smaller panes, and intricate glazing patterns, contrasting with the simpler designs of later Victorian timber windows.
Campden Hill, situated between Notting Hill, Kensington, and Holland Park, continues to showcase large Victorian homes, part of the historic Phillimore estate.
In the 18th century, Kensington village continued to expand under architect John Jones, who developed areas north of Kensington High Street, including Jones Buildings, later known as Kensington Church Court. These homes retain many original features, including classic Georgian 6-pane timber sash windows.
Sash Windows in Kensington – Continued Legacy
John Jones’ redevelopment efforts persisted until his death in 1727, leaving a lasting impact with properties like 9-17 Church Street (W8), of which only the ‘double-house’ at 15-17 Church Street retains its original segmental window openings and brick front.
John Price continued this development into the 18th and 19th centuries, working on 16-26 Holland Street (W8), which continues to boast a number of period properties with restored or original timber sash windows.
By the 18th century, timber sash windows had evolved to feature slimmer sash members and larger panes, reflecting improvements in glass quality.
Such was the pace of development in Kensington, that its population grew from 8,556 in 1801 to 163,151 by 1881.
Timber Sash Windows in Kensington Today
Kensington Palace and Kensington Gardens continue to exemplify the borough’s architectural grandeur.
Sash windows remain prominent in several historical landmarks within Kensington, such as Hampton Court Palace (KT8) and Ham House (TW10).
Traditional timber sash and casement windows are central to Kensington’s aesthetic, including featuring in listed buildings like 1 and 2 Whitchurch Road W11 (Grade II), Lansdowne Walk W11 (Grade II), and 10 Palace Green W8.
The diversity of period properties in Kensington offers a unique snapshot of London‘s architectural evolution from the 1600s to today.
The Sash Window Workshop working in Kensington
With 30 years of experience working on period properties in Kensington and Chelsea, at The Sash Window Workshop we specialise in the replacement and draught proofing of traditional timber windows.
For a quote or consultation, contact our team today on 01344 868 668.