In the heart of Essex, okoHaus has played a pivotal role in the complete renovation of a 1980s dated property into a contemporary, stylish home with brand new Rationel alu-clad windows and doors. What was initially an amalgamation of brick and render has become a modern architectural beauty with the installation of sixteen new windows (opening and fixed units), two large sliding patio doors, and a solid grooved front door, all supplied by okoHaus.
From Concept to Collaboration
The story of the Fircroft House transformation began with a close collaboration between okoHaus founder John Lewis and the homeowners, following an initial enquiry to Rationel, prompted by seeing alu-clad windows at a friend’s home. These early conversations proved fruitful, as the homeowners had several ideas in mind that they ultimately ended up changing, and instead going in a different, and better direction.
One of these early concepts was all-aluminium glazing to replace the single-glazed, leaded, and all-timber windows that the property originally contained. However, working so closely with John led the homeowners to expand their horizons regarding window and door specifications, opting for better choices such as full-height fixed windows on either side of the front door, and sliding doors rather than bi-fold ones at the rear of the property.
However, perhaps the biggest change from the homeowners’ initial concept to the final product was the choice of Rationel’s AURAPLUS alu-clad windows, also supplied by okoHaus. As the clients said, “The idea of a frame which combined timber and aluminium was very appealing. It offered the best of both worlds with hardwearing aluminium outside and thanks to the wood, a more tactile finish to the inner frames, so we decided to find out more.”
Rethinking Window and Door Choices
okoHaus’ consultations on projects such as these always have the client's best interests in mind. For instance, the decision to install two full-height windows and sliding doors at the rear of the property, which our founder John Lewis explained:
“We helped guide the choice of windows to make sure they achieved the result they wanted. For example, we suggested installing full height fixed windows on either side of the front door to bring more light into the hall, and to install sliding rather than bi-fold doors. While bi-fold doors can make a real statement, if you rarely plan to open them fully then sliding doors are more practical, especially in terms of easy ventilation, and to allow for more glass and slimmer frame sight lines.”
The Renovation Process
Once the homeowners had agreed on okoHaus’ suggestions, our team went to work visualising the final modern look for the Fircroft home. These renovations included replacing the once waist-height windows with the new, full-length Rationel ones, wowing the homeowners who had this to say: “It’s surprising the difference they make to the room. The windows really open up the space and as the frames are so slim they let in much more light and give us some great views out to the garden.”
Another major decision we reached with the client was the internal window and door colour. Initially, the homeowners had white in mind, but upon taking a look at other properties, they were taken by the stylishness of darker finishes and decided on anthracite grey, instead.
“The frames are now a real feature of every room and help draw the eye to the garden beyond,” say the homeowners.
Our Role Beyond Supply
Our contribution did not end at the supply stage, though, because we spared no expense in ensuring an early fitting and a smooth and timely installation process of our windows and doors. The okoHaus guarantee also includes quick repairs and maintenance for any damages during the building process, as we have an extensive stock of spare parts and are fully trained in aftersales services by Rationel.
Final Client Impressions
The results ended up impressing the Fircroft homeowners to a large degree, and on working closely with okoHaus, they were especially fond of the products.
“We are very impressed with the package offered by Rationel. The windows and doors are all high quality, low maintenance and look great, and the service we received from okoHaus was amazing from start to finish.”
Other than the windows and doors, the okoHaus team also managed to leave a positive impact on the homeowners, who had this to say about their experience:
“John was a key reason why we went with Rationel. He and his team provided excellent service from start to finish, guiding our choice of windows, explaining any technical or design issues, and always providing a quick response to any questions.”
Not only were the clients impressed by the supply and installation process, but they also appreciated how okoHaus goes above and beyond for maximum client satisfaction.
“John explained that key Rationel door and frame components are easy to replace. As bumps and scrapes are almost impossible to avoid during a building project, the ability to offer swift repairs as standard was very reassuring.”
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