Martin Top Farm is a sensitive example of architectural glazing in Lancashire, delivered as part of the renovation of a traditional stone built farmhouse near Clitheroe. Dating back to 1845 and set within 22 acres, the property overlooks the Ribble Vale and Yorkshire Dales, creating a strong opportunity to improve natural light, long distance views and everyday connections to the surrounding landscape. The IQ Glass northern division supplied a bespoke glazing package that included large triple glazed minimal windows® sliding doors, slim aluminium casement windows and an Invisio® structural rooflight.
Project Partners
Architect - Stanton Andrews Architects
Contractor - Fawcett & Son Construction
Crane Hire - Guy Crane
Photography - Benj Story
Location
Clitheroe, Lancashire
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Renovating a Lancashire Farmhouse with Contemporary Architectural Glazing
The design intent was to update the farmhouse for modern living while preserving the character of the original rural building. The stone exterior, historic setting and elevated views all shaped the approach to the glazing design, which needed to feel contemporary without overwhelming the traditional architecture.
For architects and private clients considering architectural glazing in Lancashire, Martin Top Farm demonstrates how slim framed systems and structural glass can improve the performance and usability of a period property while maintaining a clear connection to its setting. The new glazing was designed to maximise views across the open landscape, increase daylight throughout the home and create a more fluid relationship between the internal living spaces and the gardens beyond.
Opening the Farmhouse to Views Without Losing Thermal Performance
One of the main challenges was how to introduce large areas of glass into a rural period property while still achieving strong thermal insulation. The north elevation required a full-width glazed opening that could frame views across the landscape and connect the living space to the patio and gardens. However, the exposed location and scale of the opening meant the glazing needed to provide more than visual impact. It also needed to deliver reliable thermal performance, safety and long-term durability.
The glazing specification therefore had to balance large pane sizes, slim sightlines and high performance glass. This was particularly important for a farmhouse renovation where the aim was not simply to add a contemporary feature, but to create a practical living environment suited to the property’s rural setting.
Managing Heavy Glazing Units on a Rural Renovation Site
A second challenge was the scale and weight of the glazing units. The main sliding door installation measured over 12 metres wide, with individual panes weighing approximately 508kg. The Invisio® structural rooflight also weighed around 500kg, requiring careful planning and coordination before installation could take place.
Because the project involved a traditional farmhouse with large glazing units being introduced into a rural site, access and handling were key considerations. The rooflight needed to be lifted over the farmhouse, while the large sliding systems had to be craned carefully around the side of the building. This required close coordination with a local crane company to ensure the installation could be completed safely and efficiently.
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Triple Glazed Sliding Doors and Structural Roof Glazing for a Light Filled Farmhouse
IQ Glass supplied two minimal windows® 4+ sliding door systems, with the largest installed across the north elevation. This principal sliding glass wall spans over 12 metres wide and almost 3 metres high, using a two track bi-parting configuration to create a generous central opening onto the patio and gardens.
The system was specified with triple glazed units, clear toughened safety glass, heat soak testing and Low E coating to support comfort and performance. Integrated slot drainage was also supplied to support the threshold design. A smaller matching minimal windows® 4+ system was installed on the south elevation, helping to balance the glazing strategy across the farmhouse.
To bring more light into the central spaces of the farmhouse, IQ Glass supplied an Invisio® structural rooflight above the kitchen. Measuring approximately 4 metres by 2.5 metres, the rooflight was specified with double glazed clear toughened safety glass, a Low E coating and laminated interlayer.
To complement the larger glazed elements, IQ Glass also supplied slim aluminium casement windows, finished in RAL 7037 Matt Dusty Grey to sit sympathetically against the sandy stone exterior. Together, the rooflight, sliding doors and casement windows show how architectural glazing in Lancashire can respect a farmhouse’s historic character while introducing the light, openness and performance expected from a contemporary renovation.
Technical Glazing Summary
- minimal windows® 4+ sliding door system installed to the north elevation, over 12 metres wide and almost 3 metres high.
- Two-track bi-parting configuration with slim 26mm interlockers.
- Individual sliding door pane weight approximately 508kg.
- 56mm triple glazed units with clear toughened safety glass, heat soak testing and Low E coating.
- Wind load tested to 0.65 kN/m².
- Integrated slot drainage channel supplied to the sliding door system.
- Slim aluminium top-hung casement windows.
- Invisio® structural roof glazing, approximately 4 metres x 2.5 metres, with approximate glass weight of 500kg.
- Rooflight specified with double glazed clear toughened safety glass, Low E coating and laminated interlayer.
- Frames finished in RAL 7037 Matt Dusty Grey.
Speak to IQ Glass About Architectural Glazing in Lancashire
Martin Top Farm demonstrates how architectural glazing can transform a rural period property, improving daylight, views and access while respecting the original farmhouse character. For architects, developers and private clients planning a high-end renovation, farmhouse extension or heritage sensitive project, early glazing input can help resolve performance, detailing and installation requirements from the outset.
If you are considering architectural glazing in Lancashire, speak to IQ Glass about bespoke sliding doors, structural roof glazing and slim aluminium window systems for your next residential project.
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