The History of Timber Windows in Westminster
Westminster, a borough rich in history and heritage, boasts 56 conservation areas and approximately 11,000 listed buildings and structures.
Home to iconic landmarks like Buckingham Palace, St James’ Palace, the Houses of Parliament, and 10 Downing Street, the borough of Westminster has great architectural significance.
Located in the centre of Greater London, Westminster is north of the River Thames and bordered by the borough of Camden and Kensington and Chelsea.
We regularly work in Westminster, and across London. Our new windows are designed to retain the traditional charm of the property, while improving energy efficiency. Where necessary, we can also comply to Conservation Area and listed building regulations.
Contact us today for a quote to replace or draught proof your timber windows.
The Origins of Westminster
Westminster dates back to the 11th century, when Edward the Confessor built a royal palace and Westminster Abbey, outside the current walls of London. William the Conqueror was crowned at Westminster Abbey in December 1066, establishing a tradition where every English monarch, except Edward V and Edward VIII, has been crowned there since.
For centuries, Westminster and the City of London were distinct entities. It wasn’t until the 16th century that urban expansion bridged the gap, contributing to the vast Greater London we know today.
Buckingham Palace and the Houses of Parliament
Built in 1703 for the Duke of Buckingham, Buckingham Palace was designed with the assistance of William Talman and Captain William Winde, with John Fitch constructing the main structure for £7,000. Queen Victoria became the first monarch to rule from Buckingham Palace in 1837.
After a fire destroyed Westminster Palace in 1834, Charles Barry designed the new Houses of Parliament, completed in 1868. Big Ben, installed in 1858, remains a notable feature of this historic site.
On October 29, 1900, a royal charter granted the borough the title City of Westminster. Initially composed of multiple civil parishes, these were merged into a single civil parish in 1922.
Timber Windows in Westminster, London
Today, Westminster’s architectural landscape includes numerous mansion blocks featuring traditional timber sash windows. Within the conservation areas, strict regulations govern the replacement of these timber windows to preserve the historic charm and heritage of the buildings.
Renovation efforts, including the recent works on Big Ben and upcoming projects for the Houses of Parliament, aim to maintain the integrity of these historic structures. The current renovation project of the Houses of Parliament is considered to be one of the most significant and complex renovations of a single building in the UK’s history.
Replacement Sash Windows in Westminster
Timber sash windows are a hallmark of Westminster’s architectural style. At The Sash Window Workshop, we have 30 years of experience in working on timber windows and doors in Westminster.
Enhance the beauty and warmth of your home with our specialist timber windows in Westminster.
For a free, no obligation, quotation to draught proof or replace your windows and doors, contact us today on: 01344 868 668.