Conservation & Heritage Issue 49 October 2025 - Flipbook - Page 88
Churches and chapels
Over the last two decades, Ion has developed an
enviable reputation with churches throughout the UK.
Many churches are recognising the benefits of replacing
heavy timber doors with secure glass entrances,
improving light flow and heat retention whilst at the
same time making the entrance more welcoming for
visitors. In-filling arches with glass screens has proved
an efficient way to re-order the space, creating meeting
rooms and smaller spaces without impacting on the
original cherished architecture.
Ion’s bespoke approach and attention to detail,
combined with computer aided measuring techniques
and a highly experienced design team ensures that
even the most challenging spaces can be sensitively
re-ordered and updated with glass, focussing on
flawless functionality without the use of visually
intrusive framing.
Above, St Mary East Moleseyglass screens
Heritage homes
‘I’m really proud of our work in public spaces,’
continued Peter, ‘But equally important is the work
Ion has undertaken in many listed and heritage private
homes,’. ‘We love to push the boundaries and achieve
results in structural glass that might initially seem
impossible. It’s so rewarding to make a difference to
the way people live with our frameless glass links, glass
porches, doors or even individually designed shower
enclosures that fit under awkward beams and out of
true walls.’
Modernising with glass is often the only practical
solution when linking a heritage building to a
contemporary extension and Ion are regularly
commissioned to work on listed properties, bringing
their expertise to ensure the glazed link works perfectly
to connect old with new.
A glass porch or structural glass extension can be
transformational to the functionality of a heritage
building and, with minimal impact on the original
architecture is more likely to find favour with planners,
listed building officers and conservation bodies.
Above, Oast house linkway
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