Homes Extra: Glorious Glazing

Do your windows need some love and attention? Look no further than Sara Whatley’s window guide, from styles, glazed doors, and the latest technology 

From the pastel terraces of Lewes to the flint cottages of the South Downs, Sussex homes are full of character – and their windows and doors play a huge part in that charm. Whether you’re restoring a Georgian sash, upgrading a bay, or adding sleek bi- folds to an extension, the right choice can completely transform your space. 

Today’s window and door designs blend heritage with high-tech innovation, giving homeowners across Sussex the best of both worlds: traditional style, modern efficiency, and minimal maintenance. 

SASH SOPHISTICATION 

Few things say ‘Sussex period home’ like a set of beautifully proportioned sash windows. Found throughout Brighton, Worthing, and Hastings, they bring elegance and rhythm to Georgian and Victorian facades. 

Modern timber or uPVC sash windows retain that authentic look but are now fitted with double or triple glazing, draught-proof seals, and tilt-in mechanisms for easy cleaning. They keep out the chill while maintaining the original character giving you the best of both worlds. 

BAY WINDOWS WITH A VIEW 

The power of a bay window is not to be underestimated. These outward-curving features flood rooms with natural light, open up views, and create an inviting sense of space. They are perfect to accommodate an inviting cosy window seat, the ideal position for a breakfast table or a couple of armchairs to relax in. 

Today’s bay windows use A-rated glazing and insulated frames, meaning you can enjoy the views without sacrificing warmth. 

LEADED AND STAINED GLASS CHARM

From the Arts and Crafts homes of Lindfield and Ditchling to the grand villas of Eastbourne, leaded and stained glass adds artistry and heritage Diamond-shaped leaded panes or colourful stained-glass panels can now be produced as double-glazed sealed units, combining period beauty with 21st-century performance. 

They’re particularly popular in porch doors, hallways, and stairwells and those places where natural light streams through to create pools of light and colour, bringing warmth even on a grey day. 

THE NATURAL APPEAL OF TIMBER

In the rural heart of Sussex, timber windows perfectly complement countryside cottages and barn conversions. Modern engineered timber offers strength and stability, resisting warping and moisture – a real advantage in the county’s variable climate. 

With regular care and the right finish, timber can last for generations. Plus, it’s a sustainable, repairable choice that keeps the traditional look of Sussex alive. 

UPVC: PRACTICAL AND CARE-FREE

For many people uPVC windows are a practical and durable solution for their homes. uPVC won’t rust, rot, or peel, making it perfect to withstand wind, rain, salt and sun, plus, it’s incredibly low maintenance. 

Available in a range of finishes, including realistic woodgrains that suit period homes, modern uPVC systems offer multi-chamber insulation, secure locking, and excellent energy efficiency – perfect for any busy family. 

DOUBLE, TRIPLE, AND BEYOND 

Energy efficiency is a big priority especially where heating costs can be high in older homes. 

Double glazing uses two panes of glass separated by gas for insulation, while triple glazing adds another layer for even greater warmth and soundproofing – ideal for homes near main roads or in busy town centres. 

If your windows have misted or clouded between the panes, good news, you don’t need a full replacement. Sealed unit replacement restores clarity and performance quickly, keeping costs down and your home comfortable. 

SELF-CLEANING GLASS: MADE FOR THE COAST

In coastal Sussex, salty air can make window cleaning a chore. Enter self- cleaning glass – a clever coating that uses sunlight to break down dirt, which is then rinsed away by rain. Perfect for conservatories, rooflights, and hard-to- reach upper floors, it keeps your glass sparkling with little effort. 

DOORS THAT OPEN UP GARDEN LIVING

The addition of a glazed doors can totally transform a home, opening up rooms for that all desirable indoor- outdoor living, increasing light and making the most of a beautiful view.

• Patio doors slide open to bring in light and connect living spaces with the outdoors.

• Bi-fold doors fold neatly aside,perfect for summer entertainingand open-plan living.

• French doors remain a timeless favourite, adding elegance and symmetry to cottages and period properties. 

Many now feature low-emissivity glass (energy efficient glass with a coating that improves its thermal performance, keeping it cool in summer and warm in winter) and thermally broken frames (an insulating barrier placed within the frame) to ensure they’re as energy efficient as they are beautiful. 

REPAIR, REFRESH, RENEW 

Rather than fully replacing broken windows, is it feasible to get them repaired? This might be the better option in terms of cost, disruption, and sustainability too. 

Skilled local glaziers can replace failed units, re-seal wooden frames, or fit new hardware to extend the life of your existing windows and doors. It’s a sustainable approach that preserves character while improving comfort. 

INNOVATION ON THE HORIZON

Savvy homeowners are increasingly embracing the latest window technologies. Think smart glass that uses an electrical current to instantly switch between opaque or transparent glass, integrated blinds sealed within glazing units for dust-free privacy, and solar- control coatings that reflect heat in summer and retain warmth in winter. 

With sustainability front of mind, manufacturers are also turningto recyclable materials and eco- friendly production methods, offering innovation that aligns perfectly with today’s green values. 

FRAMING THE FUTURE 

From town houses to cutting edge eco homes, barn conversions to cottages, Sussex architecture thrives on variety. The right windows and doors don’t just protect you from the elements, they define your home’s style, shape your light, and connect you to the stunning landscape beyond. 

Whether you choose the craftsmanship of timber sash, the practicality of uPVC, or the innovation of self-cleaning, triple-glazed glass, one thing’s certain: with the right windows your home will shine brighter than ever.