The Boathouse

One of the most demanding aspects of the project was the site itself. Situated directly on the estuary, the riverfront property in Cornwall presented considerable logistical challenges, particularly regarding access and scaffold installation. The tidal nature of the estuary meant that accurate depth surveys were necessary before any scaffolding could be safely erected. Without this crucial step, work could not proceed. IQ Glass collaborated closely with site engineers to determine the appropriate scaffold foundations, ensuring safety and compliance without disturbing the sensitive riverside environment. This careful planning was vital to enable uninterrupted progress despite the unpredictable nature of the estuary.

Another defining feature of this project was the client’s bespoke anodised red finish for the external frames, a highly unusual specification for a riverfront property in Cornwall, reflecting a strong architectural statement. Each window and door frame was manufactured from slightly different metal alloys, which responded differently to the anodising process. Without rigorous testing, this could have resulted in noticeable colour variation across the façade. We undertook multiple rounds of anodising tests and quality control checks to ensure uniformity of tone and finish. Another layer of complexity arose from the client’s request that only the outer frame be anodised red, while the inner frame retained a standard anodised silver finish. Achieving a clean separation between the two finishes without bleed or inconsistency required exacting process controls and bespoke masking techniques during anodising.

The front bay window of The Boathouse featured a subtle yet challenging design element, a slight arch at the top, while the frame itself remained square. This demanded bespoke pressings, custom-manufactured to accommodate the arch within the rigid frame profile. Achieving this without compromising structural integrity or the minimal visual profile required close collaboration between minimal windows’ design engineers and fabricators. The precision required to manufacture and install this unique element was considerable, underscoring minimal windows’ commitment to delivering not just a product, but an architectural feature that faithfully realised the client’s vision for this riverfront property in Cornwall.

All of the systems installed were designed with a wind load capacity of 0.65 kN/m², essential for a property exposed to estuary winds and coastal weather extremes. This specification ensured that the windows and doors would perform reliably under sustained wind pressure without deformation or compromise to seals. The glazing in each system was subjected to heat soaking, a process that reduces the risk of spontaneous breakage caused by nickel sulphide inclusions, which can be exacerbated in coastal environments due to temperature fluctuations and moisture. This additional step in the glass manufacturing process was critical to maintain the safety, longevity, and appearance of the windows in the riverfront setting.

Due to the project’s complexity, including the estuary location, bespoke anodising requirements, and unique architectural features, the client was advised early on that meeting the original project deadline could be challenging. However, through diligent project management and proactive communication, the project was delivered on time, fulfilling the client’s vision with precision and quality. The client’s satisfaction was a testament to minimal windows’ ability to deliver bespoke solutions in complex, high-stakes environments.