Old Mullions

Frameless Glass Extension to a Grade II Listed House in Warwickshire

Old Mullions is a stunning frameless glass extension added to a Grade II listed 17th-century stone property in Honington, Warwickshire. Designed to replace an outdated 1970s lean-to structure, the new extension delivers a bright, contemporary kitchen and dining space while preserving the character and architectural integrity of the historic home.

Working within a conservation area and alongside heritage planning requirements, the project demonstrates how modern architectural glazing can be successfully integrated with traditional building materials. The result is a light-filled glass pavilion that creates a seamless connection to the garden while maintaining clear views of the original stone façade.

 

 

Project Partners

Architects: Hayward Smart Architects

Contractor: Envy Brick Work

Image credits: Richard Chivers

Location

Warwickshire

Designing a Glass Extension for a Listed Building

The homeowners sought a solution that would enhance natural light, improve access to the garden, and create a functional family living space without detracting from the historic building. Due to the property's Grade II listed status, planning approval required the extension to remain visually lightweight, transparent, and sympathetic to the existing architecture.

Hayward Smart Architects worked closely with IQ Glass during the design phase to develop a glazing specification that satisfied conservation requirements while delivering the desired contemporary aesthetic. Planning permission was granted on the basis that the extension would preserve views of the original stonework and have minimal visual impact on the historic property.

Frameless Structural Glazing for Maximum Transparency

IQ Glass designed, manufactured and installed the complete glazing package, creating a virtually frameless extension that maximises transparency and natural daylight. A key feature of the design is an impressive 8-metre frameless strip rooflight that spans the length of the extension, flooding the interior with balanced natural light throughout the day. 

The structural glass rooflight consists of four silicone-bonded toughened glass panels, providing uninterrupted views of the sky and creating the minimalist appearance required for a heritage setting. 

Along the garden elevation, slim framed sliding glass doors with ultra-minimal 21mm sightlines provide floor-to-ceiling glazing and direct access to the outdoor terrace. The sliding door system was carefully aligned with the timber structure of the extension to create a clean and symmetrical architectural design.

Seamless Integration with Historic Stonework

One of the most important aspects of the project was ensuring the new glazing complemented the original building rather than competing with it. Bespoke fixing channels were discreetly incorporated into the existing stone walls, allowing the glass to meet the historic structure with almost no visible framing. 

This approach preserves clear views of the original masonry from both inside and outside the extension, enabling the historic fabric of the building to remain a key visual feature of the design. The original timber ceiling beam was also retained and exposed, helping to maintain a strong connection between old and new.

Energy Efficiency and Natural Light in a North-Facing Extension

As a north-facing extension, maximising daylight was a critical consideration. The large structural rooflight acts as the primary source of natural light, ensuring the interior remains bright and welcoming throughout the year.

All glazing was specified using high-performance double-glazed units with low-emissivity coatings and argon gas filling to provide excellent thermal insulation and year-round comfort. Thermally broken framing systems further enhance energy efficiency while maintaining the slim, minimalist aesthetic of the extension.

Technical Specification

  • Grade II listed 17th-century stone property in Warwickshire
  • Contemporary frameless glass box extension
  • 8-metre structural glass strip rooflight
  • Ultra-slim sliding glass doors with 21mm sightlines
  • Bespoke frameless connections to historic stonework
  • High-performance double glazing with low-E coatings
  • Flush thresholds for seamless indoor-outdoor living
  • Conservation area compliant design solution
The Old Mullions project showcases how specialist architectural glazing can transform listed buildings while respecting their heritage significance. Through careful design, minimal glazing systems, and close collaboration between architect and glazing specialist, this Warwickshire home now benefits from a contemporary living space that complements its historic character and strengthens its connection to the surrounding landscape.
 
Whether you're renovating a Grade II listed property, designing a contemporary glass box extension, or looking for specialist glazing solutions for a conservation area project, our expert team can help.