Cottage Renovation on Exmoor – 17 Bespoke Hardwood Windows and 2 Traditional Doors
When renovating a period property in Exmoor, choosing the right windows and doors can make all the difference.
This project, in the village on Exmoor, involved the complete replacement of outdated uPVC windows with traditionally detailed hardwood joinery, helping restore the character of the cottage while improving comfort, security and energy efficiency.
Rather than replacing everything at once, we worked alongside the homeowners throughout their renovation, manufacturing and installing each stage as the project progressed.
The Project
The property had undergone alterations over many years and was fitted with entry-level uPVC windows that had reached the end of their useful life. While they served a purpose, they didn't complement the age or character of the building.
Like many properties throughout Exmoor, previous alterations had gradually moved away from the original appearance of the cottage. Our aim was not simply to manufacture new windows, but to help return the property to something much more sympathetic to its surroundings.
Working closely with the owners, we manufactured and installed:
- 17 bespoke hardwood windows
- 1 bespoke hardwood external door
- 1 bespoke hardwood stable door
- New hardwood internal cill boards throughout
- Refurbishment, repair and repaint of the existing porch door, preserving original character where practical
Because the clients continued living in the property throughout the renovation, we completed the work in carefully planned stages. This approach allowed them to spread the investment while keeping disruption to a minimum.
Built for the Property
Every window and door was manufactured specifically for this cottage in our South Molton workshop.
Unlike mass-produced products, every component was individually made to suit each opening, ensuring the finished joinery looked as though it belonged to the building rather than being added as an afterthought.
The windows incorporated modern high-performance double glazing while maintaining traditional proportions appropriate for a period home.
This combination gives homeowners the benefits of improved insulation and reduced maintenance without compromising the appearance of the property.
Traditional Appearance with Modern Performance
Many homeowners assume they must choose between authentic appearance and modern performance. In reality, carefully designed bespoke timber windows can provide both.
For this project the joinery was finished in:
- External casements: Dulux Ivory Lace
- Outer frames: RAL 6011 (Reseda Green)
- Internal finish: Light Oak
The finished colour scheme complemented the cottage beautifully and sat comfortably within its Exmoor setting.
A Flexible Approach
One aspect of this project that particularly suited the clients was our phased approach.
Major renovation projects don't always happen all at once. By manufacturing and installing sections as the refurbishment progressed, the owners were able to continue living in their home while planning each stage around their wider renovation.
Every project is different, and we're always happy to discuss an approach that works best for both the property and the homeowner.
Three Years Later
One of the greatest compliments we can receive is hearing how our work performs years after installation.
The owners kindly left the following review after living with their new windows and doors for over three years:
"Excellent quality and workmanship. Graham and the team made and installed 17 windows and 4 doors as part of a full cottage refurbishment. Would highly recommend and after 3 years they still look like new! Would certainly use Graham and the team again."
For us, that's exactly what good joinery should achieve—looking right on the day it's installed and continuing to perform for many years afterwards.
It was also very pleasing to use the teams skills to repair and refurbish the existing porch doors. They had unique character that is often found within cottages and we believe to tread lightly where possible, keeping heritage joinery whenever possible.
Doors Before Repair and Paint
Thinking About Replacing Windows on Exmoor?
Whether you're renovating a listed building, restoring a period cottage or simply looking for high-quality bespoke timber windows and doors, we'd be pleased to discuss your project.
At GS Haydon & Son, we've been designing, manufacturing and installing bespoke timber joinery across North Devon, Exmoor and West Somerset for generations.
Every project is different, and we're always happy to offer practical advice to help you choose the right solution for your property.
Project Location
📍 Exmoor
We regularly undertake projects throughout:
• Brendon
• Porlock
• Minehead
• Dunster
• Dulverton
• Lynton
• Lynmouth
• North Devon
Doors after careful repair
