Glazed extension with arch pill windows

Perhaps the most recognisable element of the project is the series of bespoke structural glass pill windows integrated into the stone façade.

These curved, arched openings were designed as frameless structural glazing installations, allowing maximum daylight penetration while maintaining the purity of the architectural form. The pill-shaped windows reference the property's historic detailing while providing a distinctly contemporary appearance.

Their frameless construction ensures uninterrupted views and creates a seamless connection between the interior spaces and the surrounding gardens.

Bringing Natural Light into Every Space

Natural light played a central role in the redesign of The Old Rectory.

IQ Glass supplied multiple glazing systems throughout the home, including: Invisio Structural glazing, Structural Glass Roofs, Casement windows and doors and frameless sliding doors with flush threshold detail. 

A large structural glass rooflight above the staircase floods the centre of the home with daylight, illuminating the double-height circulation spaces and highlighting the bespoke curved staircase and built-in library below. Additional Invisio structural glass roof glazing was used between existing wings of the house, creating bright living areas with minimal visual interruption.

• Three-track Sieger XL triple-glazed slim sliding door measuring 3.8m wide by 3.3m high.The expansive glazing creates a seamless connection between the interior living spaces and the surrounding gardens while maintaining excellent thermal performance.
• Additional full-height glazing is provided through a two-track Sieger XL sliding door, also triple glazed, extending views across the landscape and maximising natural daylight throughout the extension.
• A tall Sieger Lux inward-opening casement door provides access to the exterior, complementing the wider glazing strategy with slim profiles and generous glazed areas.
• Sieger® Slim Fixed Casement Windows, carefully positioned to maximise natural daylight throughout the home. Their slim aluminium frames create a clean, contemporary aesthetic that complements both the historic stonework and the modern glazed extension.
• One of the most distinctive features of the extension is the series of bespoke structural glass pill windows set within the new stone façade. These custom-shaped, arched glazing elements were designed to echo the repeating arches found throughout the original Victorian house, creating a strong visual connection between old and new.
• Frameless structural glazing was used to create a striking double-height glazed element, combining a structural glass elevation with overhead roof glazing. The vertical glass panels are silicone-jointed to minimise visible framing, while two large roof glazing panels are supported by slim steel sections.
• All glazing systems were specified in RAL 8019 Grey Brown, a sophisticated dark finish chosen to complement the reclaimed stonework and heritage character of the build.

A Contemporary Extension That Respects Local Heritage

One of the project's greatest achievements is its balance between heritage restoration and contemporary design.

Reclaimed local stone from the demolished extension has been carefully integrated into the new architecture, creating feature walls and landscaping that root the extension firmly within its Somerset setting. The repeating arched forms, structural glazing and minimalist detailing combine to create a home that feels both contemporary and timeless. 

The result is a light-filled family home that celebrates its Victorian origins while embracing modern architecture, energy performance and open-plan living.