Listed Orangery Restoration at a Bath Care Home
Project Overview
Wessex Timber Windows were appointed by an architect to carry out sensitive restoration work on a Grade II listed orangery at a care home in Bath. The orangery had become an unused, run-down part of the building, but the care home wanted to bring it back to life and transform it into a bright, welcoming garden room space for their residents to enjoy.
The space, rich in historic character, had suffered from neglect with deteriorating timber sash windows, failing doors, and a leaking glazed roof. Our work formed part of a broader refurbishment project involving multiple contractors, all working together to revive the building. All joinery elements had to respect the orangery’s listed status and be completed to a high conservation standard.
The Challenge
- Listed building regulations- All works had to comply with conservation standards and preserve original features where possible.
- Working at height- Roof works were carried out safely using harnesses and scaffold tie-offs.
- Coordination with other contractors- Timely planning and flexibility were key to keeping the project moving.
- Minimising disruption- The care home remained operational throughout, so works were carried out with minimal noise and disruption to residents.
Our Scope of Work
Repair of 5 large sash window boxes
Each sash box was carefully removed from site and brought back to our workshop for repair. Our joiners carried out detailed restoration using matched timber sections and traditional methods. The sashes were refitted with new cords and weights and fully draught-proofed before reinstallation.
Repair of 1 original set of timber doors
We restored one set of existing doors, retaining the original fabric where possible, and ensuring they were secure, weather-tight, and operable.
Roof repairs, reusing original glass where possible
On-site roof works involved carefully removing and reinstalling roof glazing sections. Where glass was beyond repair, we sourced appropriate replacements. Due to the roof’s height, our fitters wore safety harnesses
secured to the scaffolding throughout the process. Any rotten roof rafters also were replaced.
Manufacture and installation of 1 new set of timber doors
A new pair of bespoke timber doors was made in our workshop to match the originals in style and proportion, ensuring visual continuity and compliance with conservation standards.
Note: All joinery was left ready for decoration, which was carried out by others following our works.
Before & After
front elevation
Compliance
As part of our role on this project, we submitted full risk assessments, method statements (RAMS), and a detailed work plan to the main contractor prior to commencement.
These documents outlined:
- Site-specific safety measures
- Equipment and access needs
- Timelines and phasing
- Material handling and waste considerations
- Conservation compliance procedures
We maintained clear communication with the main contractor and other trades on site to ensure smooth scheduling and safe working conditions.
Before
During
After
Project Details:
Location: Bath
Type of Property: listed orangery within a Private care home
Works: Repair 5 large sash boxes, repair 1 pair of doors, 1 new pair of doors & repair and re glaze roof
Duration: 3 weeks
Need your windows & doors restored?
Contact us to bring the perfect balance of modern functionality and traditional charm to your property.
01722 744477 info@wessextimberwindows.co.uk
