Steel windows are key to extension of Victorian home

When Kim and John Potter bought their double-fronted Victorian terraced house in South London two years ago, they undertook a major renovation which included the construction of a large, single storey rear extension. A 9m wide floor-to-ceiling screen of steel double doors opening onto the garden is a now a spectacular feature as are two further sets of steel doors which have been used internally to separate the extension from the rest of the house. All were supplied and installed by Steel Window Association member, Steel Window Service & Supplies.

The full-width extension provides a spacious kitchen and dining space. Kim had been keen to use steel doors from the start to create an industrial feel alongside shaker style cabinetry, but first she had to persuade John to give up his idea of a large sliding picture window. Eventually, he agreed and Steel Window Service & Supplies was appointed after being suggested by a friend. The company then worked with the couple and their designers and contractors, Amazin’ Spaces, to agree the final look.

Three sets of double doors form the external screen which has an overall height of 3m and includes fixed lights above and between the doors. Measuring 2.4m wide x 2.6 high, the first of the internal screens divides the extension from the living room and is composed of double doors with fixed lights either side and above. A 1.6m wide x 2.6m high set of double doors with fixed lights above forms the entrance from the hallway of the house.

Steel Window Service & Supplies manufactured all the frames from W20 sections finished in RAL 7021 black grey. The external screen is glazed with 16mm high performance double glazing units with soft coated low E glass.

Kim Potter comments: “My husband is now a total convert to steel windows and I just love the look with the light coming into the inner spaces. In the summer, you get to open the three sets of double doors which fold back flush; it feels as though they have almost disappeared so you get this lovely sense of space and circulation. The team at Steel Window Services & Supplies was really amazing throughout the project.”

Carl McCarthy, partner at Amazin’ Spaces, adds: “Steel Window Service & Supplies was very competitive in terms of price and the workmanship was good. It was a team effort with the designs batted back and forth between all of us; I would definitely recommend them.”