Bank Barn is a traditional stone rubble barn in Cumbria, thought to date back to the eighteenth century. This Grade II listed building retains much of its original fabric and required a carefully considered approach to any architectural intervention. IQ Glass was appointed to deliver a bespoke glazing package that would introduce modern performance standards without compromising the historic character of the building. This project demonstrates how frameless glazing in Cumbria can enhance listed structures through intelligent design and sensitive installation.
Products Used
Credit
Architect: Gagarin Studio
Contractor: Duckett Building Services
Photography: Gagarin Studio
Location
Cumbria
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The core challenge lay in the building's structural delicacy. The original brickwork and masonry were particularly fragile, which meant that all glazing systems had to be installed within the envelope of the building. No external fixings or alterations were permissible due to the conservation constraints in place. Adding to the complexity was the site’s limited access, which ruled out the use of lifting equipment. Every pane of glass had to be moved and installed manually by a skilled team working in tightly confined conditions despite some systems weighing excess of 230kg.
The glazing specification was driven by the need to balance visual transparency with thermal performance. Two Keller minimal windows systems were used, both triple glazed and configured with one fixed panel and one sliding on a two track system. The smaller system measured 1700mm wide by 2300mm high. The larger system stood at 2770mm wide and 3350 mm high. The larger sliding unit was installed directly in line with a structural glass window on the rear elevation, allowing a direct sightline through the entire building. This sequence of glazing connects interior and exterior seamlessly, demonstrating the architectural impact of frameless glazing in Cumbria when used with precision and purpose.
A Sieger Legacy Casement Door was installed with a fixed sidelight to maximise natural light into the entry space. This was complemented by two additional Sieger casement windows which were designed to meet escape window regulations. All window profiles were selected for their slim lines and compatibility with the heritage setting, allowing modern function to sit discreetly within the historic envelope.
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On the rear elevation, a frameless structural glass window from the Invisio range was installed directly opposite the larger sliding system. This single fixed pane weighed approximately 180 kg and was manually manoeuvred into position. The installation offers a clear and uninterrupted view of the surrounding countryside, creating a striking architectural moment that defines the rear elevation without overpowering it. The pane was designed to be larger than the original structural opening, intentionally overlapping the historic frame. This approach allows the internal face of the original brickwork to remain fully visible from within the space. The use of frameless glazing in Cumbria in this way provides a clean and modern contrast to traditional materials while maintaining full respect for the building’s original aesthetic.
Weather presented further challenges throughout the installation. Frequent rainfall and rapidly changing conditions forced workers to pause and restart multiple times. Despite this, the project was delivered on time and to the highest standards through careful coordination and an experienced site team. Bank Barn stands as an example of how expertly detailed glazing can elevate heritage buildings. By using frameless glazing in Cumbria with a clear understanding of both performance and preservation, IQ Glass was able to deliver a glazing solution that sits effortlessly within the historic context while opening the building to light, views and contemporary living standards.
Specify frameless glazing in Cumbria with confidence
IQ Glass brings technical expertise and proven experience to sensitive and complex sites. Speak to our team to explore fully bespoke glazing systems that align with your architectural vision and planning constraints.
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