Britain's Finest
Timber Windows & Doors

Mumford & Wood recently completed the award winning 'STEAMhouse building’, launched by Birmingham University.

The STEAMhouse building dates back to 1899 and was seriously damaged by fire in 2007. Previously used as a manufacturer for the Eccles Rubber & Cycle Company this Grade A listed building undertook a £70m transformation to become the creative hub it is today. The space now supports businesses, academics, hosting companies and start-up businesses, supporting enterprise and industry. The Victorian Society was so impressed with the transformation of this historic building that it has been presented with the 'Birmingham and West Midlands Conservation Award 2023', in recognition of outstanding restoration.

Mumford & Wood supported this transformation by designing and manufacturing 45 bespoke timber windows and door, tailored to fit the unique openings found on the façade of the building.

Matthew Blaylock, Commercial Director, Mumford & Wood states:

“We enjoy the challenges that listed buildings bring, and so with strict planning requirements in place, we understood the importance of replicating the detail of the original windows but offering the performance of a modern day product. Timber Casement windows were designed for the ground and first floor, and Timber Vertical Sliding Spring Sash windows to the second floor. These were chosen from our Conservation range and tailor-made to replicate the original frame margins and Ovolo profiles. It’s always an honour to work on a historic project like this, it’s what our products are designed for.”

The client's of this beautiful new build home were looking to build something with a mix of both modern and traditional when they selected Mumford & Wood as their window and door supplier.

The Conservation range spring sash window was recommended as a modern day alternative of the cord & weighted box sash window. It uses a concealed spring loaded mechanism instead of the cords, weights and pulleys found in a traditional sash window.

In addition, flush faced timber Casement Windows were used, complimenting the mix of modern and classic styling. In total we manufactured 19 Spring Sashes, 7 Casement windows and doors, plus an elegant bi-fold, all finished in a neutral 'Signal White.' We also manufactured a bespoke Jet Black entrance door, featuring Chrome finishes.

Maria, the homeowner states;

“The house makes us feel happy and comfortable. When you first walk in, the entrance hall and staircase are very impressive. Our favourite rooms are the elegant piano room and the study, which provides a very light and bright environment for the work from home era.”

Photos and quote courtesy of: Satish Jassal Architects

Georgina and Matt were undertaking a refurbishment to their family home in Surrey, including a new annexe, when they approached us about our range of timber windows and doors.

The age of the original building dated back to the 16th century, with both Regency and Edwardian additions, and so finding timber windows that helped to retain and enhance the original character of the property was a priority.

Spring Sash windows from the Conservation Range were recommended for most of the home, featuring concealed pre-tensioned balances. This offered Georgina classic period styling but also ensured the house benefitted from the high performance offered by a modern double-glazed window.

Conservation Range Casement windows were used for the rest of the property, alongside Spring Sash products offering traditional sightlines - ideal for period properties.

Georgina also wanted to ensure that the new outbuildings retained a traditional look, so we created a bespoke ‘sunrise’ feature window to give it interest and kept the styling in line with the rest of the renovation.

Antique brass ironmongery and a ‘Wimbourne White’ paint finish, complements the classic look throughout.

Georgina explains;

“When I approached Mumford & Wood, I told them I felt a ‘Jane Austen’ period feel would fit well with the main era of the house. After witnessing the quality and elegant style of the Conservation Range at their London showroom, I felt confident that my Regency vision with a mixture of Spring Sash and Casement windows could be fulfilled, and I was thrilled with the end result. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend Mumford and Wood to anyone.”