Vacuum Double Glazing for Listed Buildings
Paul Channing • 25 December 2025
Transform your historic property without compromising character
Single-glazed windows in period properties cause persistent problems: condensation streaming down the glass, black mould in the reveals, cold draughts through the rooms, and heating bills that never deliver comfort. For listed building owners, the solution is rarely straightforward – standard double or triple glazing alters historic proportions and typically fails to secure planning consent.
The Game-Changer: Vacuum Glazing
Vacuum glazing changes everything. This technology seals a vacuum between two panes of glass, delivering exceptional thermal performance in an ultra-slim profile (typically 6-8 mm thick) that fits traditional sash and casement sections.
Key performance advantages:
- U-value 0.4-0.7 W/m²K – better than most triple glazing (0.8-1.0 W/m²K).
- Virtually eliminates condensation by keeping the inner pane warm.
- Up to 40% reduction in heat loss and energy costs.
- Heritage-approved products: FINEO, LandVac, Tatra glass.
Unlike bulky modern glazing units, vacuum glazing preserves the slender sightlines and visual authenticity that planning officers expect from listed buildings.
Why It Succeeds with Planning Authorities
Conservation officers prioritise minimising harm to the building's historic significance (specialness) and a 'like-for-like' appearance. Vacuum glazing delivers:
| Aspect | Traditional Single | Standard Double | Vacuum Glass |
|---|---|---|---|
| Thickness | 4mm | 20-24mm (bulky) | 6-8mm+ (slim) |
| U-Value | 5.8 | 1.2-1.6 | 0.4-0.7 |
| Consent likelihood | N/A | Often rejected | High success |
The technical case is compelling: superior insulation with minimal visual impact. We've achieved consent on dozens of projects across Devon & Cornwall.
The Retrofit Process
1. Site Assessment: 60-minute on-site consultation to examine your windows, diagnose issues, and confirm suitability for vacuum glazing retrofit.
2. Design & Consent: We develop detailed proposals showing "before and after" sections, thermal calculations, and heritage justification. 99% consent success rate.
3. Installation: Working with specialist local joiners, glazing is fitted into existing frames where possible, or sensitively restored sashes/casements.
4. Result: Clear windows, no condensation, warm rooms, lower bills – historic character preserved.
Case Study: Tinside Lido, Plymouth
The Challenge: Grade II-listed Art Deco building with severe condensation, mould growth and annual heating costs. Original casements (4mm single glass).
The Solution: FINEO vacuum glazing retrofitted into restored sashes. New U-value: 0.7 W/m²K.
Results:
- Comfort increased.
- Condensation eliminated.
- Heating costs have significantly reduced.
- Consent approved within 8 weeks.
- Original proportions maintained.
Ready to Upgrade?
If you're tired of damp windows and high bills in your listed property, book a 60-minute consultation for practical guidance and a tailored proposal.
For more information and to book your consultation, see
here.
🏊♂️🚗 When heritage meets horsepower! The Rolling Stone article's mention of Keith Moon, The Who's legendarily wild drummer, struck a particular chord with us here at BluePrint Architectural Workshop. You see, our very own Paul Channing currently wields drumsticks with Levens Four, Plymouth's own purveyors of classic 60s-70s rock.
We're excited to share some significant updates in the BluePrint Architectural Workshop journey, showcasing how expertise can thrive across multiple platforms.
Store 4, HMNB Devonport: Preserving Naval Heritage for the Modern Royal Navy
Pixel, Penzance: Breathing New Life into Penzance’s Creative Heart
As we approach the eagerly anticipated reopening of Tinside Lido next week, we're proud to share the culmination of our careful restoration work on this iconic Grade II-listed Art Deco landmark. Built in 1935, this beloved Plymouth institution has stood against nine decades of challenging maritime conditions, making its restoration both complex and crucial.
A Delicate Balance of Past and Present
We are delighted to announce that Christina Channing has joined BluePrint Architectural Workshop as Director. This marks an exciting expansion in our architectural services across Devon and Cornwall.
The Market Hall in Newton Abbot stands as a testament to the town's vibrant commercial heritage. As specialists in listed buildings and heritage properties, BluePrint Architectural Workshop is proud to be part of this significant restoration project, working alongside Teignbridge District Council, LHC Architects, and AECOM. The Challenge: Balancing History with Modern Needs Historic market halls present unique challenges. Years of ad hoc modifications, varying maintenance approaches, and the natural wear of time had left their mark on this 19th-century landmark. Our initial dilapidation surveys revealed several critical issues: Inappropriate modern alterations that compromised the building's historical integrity. Structural concerns requiring specialist attention. Complex compliance requirements for modern safety standards. The need to maintain the building's commercial viability while preserving its heritage. Our Approach: Expertise in Action Drawing upon our 99% success rate with listed building consent applications, we developed a comprehensive strategy that addressed both preservation and practical needs: 1. Detailed Documentation: Our thorough dilapidation surveys mapped every historical feature requiring attention, creating a precise blueprint for restoration. 2. Strategic Planning: We crafted detailed repair information that satisfied both conservation requirements and modern building standards. 3. Consent Navigation: Our expertise in heritage projects proved invaluable in securing the necessary planning and listed building consents, ensuring all stakeholders' requirements were met. The Solution: Restoring Authenticity Our restoration plan focuses on: Removing unsympathetic modern alterations. Reinstating original architectural features. Implementing repairs that respect traditional building methods. Ensuring the building meets contemporary requirements while maintaining its historic character. Progress Update Construction has commenced, marking an exciting phase in the Market Hall's journey. As we progress, we uncover and document historical features hidden for generations, adding to our understanding of this important building's heritage. Looking Forward This project exemplifies our commitment to preserving Devon's architectural heritage while ensuring these buildings remain viable for future generations. We'll be sharing regular updates on social media as this exciting project progresses, documenting each step of returning this cherished landmark to its former glory while preparing it for its next chapter.
Traditional joinery often presents complex challenges when it comes to listed buildings in Devon and Cornwall. Our recent Grade II listed project at Rosemount in Ipplepen offers valuable insights into how specialist intervention can deliver authentic solutions whilst improving comfort and efficiency.
Are you contemplating investing in a listed building or planning modifications to your heritage property? Our comprehensive Investment Guide is designed to help you navigate the unique challenges and opportunities these special buildings present. Why We Created This Guide There are over 500,000 listed buildings in the UK, each telling a unique story of our architectural heritage. However, owning or developing these properties requires specialist knowledge and careful consideration. Drawing on our extensive experience in the South West, we've created this guide to help you make informed decisions about your heritage property investment. What You'll Discover Our Investment Guide covers essential aspects of heritage property development: Understanding listed building significance. Navigating the planning process. Balancing conservation with modern comfort. Sustainable approaches to heritage buildings. Cost considerations and value enhancement. Real-world case studies from our portfolio. Making Heritage Work for You Through carefully selected case studies, we demonstrate how thoughtful architectural intervention can: - Preserve historic character while meeting modern needs - Add value through sensitive design - Improve energy efficiency without compromising heritage - Create comfortable, practical living spaces Expert Guidance As specialists in listed buildings and sensitive sites, we understand the complexities of heritage property development. Our guide reflects our commitment to helping property owners make informed decisions about their investments. Get Your Copy To receive your complimentary copy of our Investment Guide, click here .
Plymouth's iconic Tinside Lido, one of Britain's finest examples of Art Deco architecture in the South West, is undergoing a transformative £4.5 million conservation project. As heritage building specialists at BluePrint Architectural Workshop, we're proud to play a crucial role in preserving this Grade II listed landmark for future generations of Devon and Cornwall residents.
A remarkable transformation has taken place in the heart of Penzance. A once-derelict Grade II-listed reservoir has been given a new lease on life as the Penzance Creative Cluster, now known as Pixel. This innovative project, which I had the privilege of working on during my time at Stride Treglown, showcases an exciting blend of conservation and modern design.
A Monumental Challenge In the heart of Plymouth's historic Devonport area, a piece of naval history recently faced an unexpected setback. The late 18th-century Grade II-listed gateway to South Yard, a testament to Devonport's rich maritime heritage, was accidentally toppled in a traffic incident. As conservation architects, we were given a unique opportunity to piece together this architectural puzzle and breathe new life into a cherished local landmark.
A Gem in Cornwall's Crown Nestled in the picturesque town of Padstow, Cornwall, Cove Cottage stands as a testament to the region's rich architectural heritage. This Grade II listed property, dating back to the early 18th century, embodies the charm and character that make Padstow a beloved destination.
Heating large buildings doesn’t have to cost the earth In the heart of Plymouth, a groundbreaking project is setting new standards for sustainable energy in historic settings. BluePrint had the privilege of working with the University of Plymouth to secure listed building consent for an innovative water source heat pump at Drake's Reservoir.
2024. We haven't had time to post for almost 2 years!
We're thrilled to announce that BluePrint has recently achieved the notable milestone of becoming a Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) Chartered Practice! This achievement demonstrates our enduring commitment to providing the highest quality professional architectural services, upholding the highest ethical and best practice standards in the field. As a RIBA Chartered Practice, we will continue to build upon and deliver innovative architectural solutions for our clients. Becoming a RIBA Chartered Practice signifies our growth and evolution as a specialist architecture firm. We look forward to the exciting opportunities ahead as an RIBA Chartered Practice.
The conservation and refurbishment of a beautiful property in Wembury, South Devon
Health and well-being hub
Repurposing for cultural and leisure purposes
A new contractor to pick up the challenge
A new contractor to pick up the challenge
Releasing the potential of a beautiful property
Radford Castle, Devon, PL9
Much more to heritage than architecture
