Why Choose Georgian Windows for Farmhouses ?
When renovating a farmhouse or period property, it’s important to match all architectural elements, such as windows and doors, to the period in which the house was built, without compromising thermal efficiency, aesthetics, security or performance. Georgian-style windows are a popular choice for historical properties . Their geometry and sleek appearance make them the epitome of elegance and a symbol of British architecture.
In this guide, we’ll explore why Georgian windows are a perfect choice for your cottage and discover sought-after styles. We discuss the design flexibility of Origin's modern Georgian-style windows and how to choose the right windows for your traditional home.
In this guide:
Learn about the rising popularity of the Georgian style in British architecture and what makes it so timeless.
Discover desirable popular styles of Georgian windows and which one to choose for your farmhouse.
Compare different materials for Georgian farmhouse windows, such as timber or aluminium.
Learn more about the custom options for your Georgian windows available at Origin.
The Historical Appeal of Georgian Windows for Farmhouses
The Georgian style in British architecture developed in the 18th century. Characterised by symmetrical design and classic proportions, it was heavily influenced by Roman and Greek architecture, with white columns, flat façades, triangular gables, high ceilings, large windows, and clean lines. Georgian architecture was the symbol of class and elegance, and has maintained its appeal to this day.
One of the key features of this architectural style is large, rectangular casement or sash windows with multi-pane glazing. In the Georgian era, technological limitations hindered the manufacture of large glass panels. Hence, windows were made of many smaller panes of glass, and these were held together by slender timber bars.
So today, Georgian period windows are characterised by distinctive slim bars, clean lines, symmetry and geometry. The golden ratio is the most appealing aspect and was commonly used in Georgian architecture (a rectangular height to width ratio of 1:1.6).
Installing new windows in a farmhouse or cottage can be a challenge, as you need to not only preserve the building's original aesthetic, but also comply with planning limitations, such as listed building requirements. Georgian-style windows by Origin, with their timeless, classic appeal, are manufactured from modern materials and are the ideal option for your traditional home.
Popular Styles of Georgian Windows for Your Farmhouse
Traditional Georgian windows were typically timber sash windows, in which one panel slides vertically over another, or casement windows, whereby the windows open on a hinge. Intricate and delicate, the panes of glass are often arranged in a proportional rectangular grid. However, the materials and outdated security systems make them less robust than modern windows.
At Origin, we offer Georgian-style casement windows, which can be side or top-hung. Modern casement windows can be more secure, thermally efficient, and easier to maintain than traditional timber sash windows.
One of the defining features of Georgian windows is their multi-pane layout, which was necessary given the era's technological limitations. However, modern window panes can be manufactured in large sizes and can therefore be installed as a single pane. Nowadays, the choice to add Georgian-style bars (astragal bars or glazing divides) is purely a design preference.
Choosing the Right Materials for Georgian Cottage Windows
Traditional Georgian windows for a farmhouse were mostly crafted from wood, but this material requires significant care and upkeep to ensure the windows last a long time. Today, modern materials and technologies can help achieve this traditional and authentic look without compromising on security or thermal efficiency, which is extremely important in a period property as they tend to have a low efficiency rating.
In the list below, we will discuss some of the benefits and drawbacks of each material.
Timber windows
This natural material brings warmth to your home and adds to its style's authenticity. It tends to match the interior features of a traditional cottage or farmhouse, such as timber beams, furniture or work surfaces. However, timber frames can rot, chip, and deform over time. It’s also heavier than some modern materials and requires more maintenance.
Steel window frames
This building material is extremely strong, but heavy, and has lower thermal performance than aluminium. Steel frames are excellent heat conductors, so they do not resist heat transfer in comparison to some alternative materials. Non-stainless steel is also prone to corrosion, which can reduce the lifespan of the windows.
uPVC and composite
uPVC and composite materials are popular, modern materials. They’re synthetic, long-lasting, and can be lightweight. However, they are not as strong as steel or aluminium which means their sightlines are often heavier to accommodate glass. Another possible drawback is that uPVC window frames can warp and discolour over time, affecting the visual appeal and function of your windows. Their colour options are often limited too.
Aluminium windows
Aluminium is a lightweight and very durable material. It offers many customisation options, is thermally efficient, and requires minimal maintenance. Because it’s abundant in the Earth’s crust and is infinitely recyclable, it can be an eco-friendly choice. Most importantly, unlike wood or uPVC, it doesn’t rot, warp, or discolour and is highly resistant to corrosion.
At Origin, we offeraluminium Georgian-style windowswhich combine exceptional design and performance with an authentic period style. They are an elegant and practical solution for your traditional home.
Customise Modern Georgian Windows for the Ultimate Design Flexibility
Modern aluminium windows from Origin offer complete design flexibility without compromising on aesthetics, security, and thermal efficiency. You can choose from several style options, including Georgian grids or Soho-inspired glazing divides which are usually only horizontal. There are also two sightline options to choose from – the premium OW80 window or the slimline OW70.
Aluminium windows from Origin are available in150 RAL colours, and the OW80 can also have a different colour on the inside to that on the outside, or can be in a woodgrain finish. We also offer a range of finishes - matte, satin, gloss or textured.
You can also choose from a wide variety of handles and hardware to emphasise the period style or modernise it. Our aluminium windows have high energy efficiency, which is particularly important in a traditional farmhouse or period property where they are often built with thick stone walls and have poor insulation.
For more information, speak to your local installer or downloada brochure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Georgian windows be customised for my farmhouse design?
At Origin, we offer completely bespoke aluminium windows which can be easily customised for any design, including traditional Georgian-style windows. Bespoke elements include size, configuration, glazing, hardware options and colour.
What kind of maintenance do Georgian windows require?
Maintenance of Georgian windows depends on the material from which they are manufactured. Origin’s aluminium marine-grade powder-coated windows require minimal maintenance and are easy to clean. Occasional cleaning and lubrication should be sufficient to maintain the appeal and function of your windows. More maintenance will be required in certain areas such as coastal properties.
Should I choose original or replica Georgian windows for my farmhouse?
Most original Georgian sash or casement windows are crafted from wood, making them difficult to maintain. They need upkeep, repainting and more maintenance to minimise how frequently they need replacing. Timber windows can also be less thermally efficient and secure than modern materials. At Origin, we manufacture authentic Georgian-style windows in a premium grade aluminium, which is much more durable than wood.
Are Georgian windows secure and energy efficient?
Origin Windows can carry the Secured by Design accreditation. This is a third-party police-approved accreditation which demonstrates our windows have passed numerous security and quality tests. Additionally, our Georgian-style windows are some of the most thermally efficient because of our engineering, thermal breaks and weatherproof seals. They can also be specified with Aerogel – which allows the windows to achieve a U-Value of 0.8.
