Conservation & Heritage Issue 50 Winter 2025/Spring 2026 - Flipbook - Page 85
that the contemporary design of The Rooflight Co’s Neo®
Rooflights would work better.
to suit the installation route, ensuring the rooflights could be
manoeuvred safely into position.
The concealed jamb motors, unique to the Neo Rooflight
design, was a feature Clementine Blakemore were insistent
upon due to their ability to create a clean flush installation
externally, frameless lining to glass installation internally,
and unobstructed views for visitors looking out to the fields
beyond. The planners agreed, and the architect was able to
specify seven Neo Rooflights for the project. Demonstrating
that the Neo Rooflight can be used in a National Landscape
area, where it is within the right context for this barn
conversion, and achieves the ultimate aesthetic vision.
Four bespoke Conservation Rooflights, two for each stairwell,
were designed and delivered with the heritage detailing best
suited for a building of such national significance.
Retrofit and Reuse
St John, Rye, demonstrates how an existing mid-century
building can be sensitively retrofitted without compromising
its character. Originally built in the 1950s as the St John’s
Ambulance Headquarters, the building is a striking fourbedroom retreat created by award-winning interior architect
Marta Nowicka. Her approach blends heritage with modern
living, retaining the authenticity of the original structure
while introducing a contemporary two-storey extension.
Historically Authentic and Fit for a Palace
Restoring a historic landmark demands a meticulous,
considered approach, and the roof restoration at the
UNESCO World Heritage Site of Blenheim Palace is a prime
example. Phase Two of the works focused on the roofs over
the two main stairwells on either side of the property, where
the ridge design required bespoke toplighting solutions that
would faithfully replicate the originals.
The transformation has opened the interior to far-reaching
views across the town, with generous daylight now defining
the upstairs rooms. To achieve this, Conservation Rooflights
(1020mm x 1180mm) were installed throughout both the
refurbished and new elements of the building. Their solid
hand-cast chrome winders and integrated blinds complement
the refined interiors, while offering intuitive control over
light, privacy and shading.
Having already supported the project in Phase One to
replace rooflights over The Orangery, The Rooflight Co
collaborated closely with Nick Cox Architect and Savvy
Construction throughout, with their technical team
visiting the site to advise on the intricate details involved in
renovating both stairwell roofs. Accessing the roof to install
these large, customised units presented a significant logistical
challenge. To address this, the subframe design was tailored
Specifying The Original Conservation Rooflight delivers
the all-important natural lighting while enhancing the
architectural character of a building being given a new lease
of life.
Above, St Johns, Rye: Conservation Rooflights sitting flush with the roofline
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