Domestic, Leicestershire

Modern heritage meets energy efficiency in the Leicestershire countryside.

Set in an idyllic barn conversion, this project blends modern design with original character. The existing timber arched doors, which had naturally deteriorated over time, were replaced with heritage-style, thermally broken aluminium French doors — combining timeless aesthetics with modern performance.

Using iSteel’s maintenance-free AluLite system, the double-glazed, toughened glass units feature a low-emissivity coating that reflects heat away in summer and retains warmth in winter. This not only meets Building Regulations Part L, helping to lower heating bills and reduce carbon emissions, but also satisfies planning requirements by providing a sympathetic alternative to timber — ideal for listed or heritage properties.

Finished in textured black, the arched-head French doors and matching side window sit perfectly within the original brick opening, framing beautiful views across the countryside.