You are right again, Pheobe! We sort of tricked them: we only put single glazing on the ground floor windows, the rest of the house (and back) are double glazed and all our windows have shutters (way better than secondary glaze!! :)) Our argument was that whoever is looking at the area would not notice that we have double glazed windows at first and second floor. Don't get me wrong - I love living in a conservation area and do my best to follow the rules - it all comes to respecting and enjoying the place you live in and I, as most of my neighbours, recognise this. However, I am aware that not everybody thinks the same and some would carelessly ignore its importance if rules weren't in place. What I find irritating is the lack of flexibility and the contrary, even hypocritical rules imposed by some county councils. There's always a happy medium, it's just that they seem to have missed that class. PS: Let's not forget the safety issue; it's harder to break the glass in a double glazed window than a single one.

I have similar dilemma with the small window Which to me looks like unfinish. For addition the window sill that the window is put on is very thin and without insulation. I am attaching 2 pictures of houses that I saw in BrIstol. I like a lot how they finished the small bay window. I attached as well Picture of finish between two big bays

Depending on the condition of the windows, if they are timber you may be able to double glaze the existing windows as opposed to replacing them. Secondary glazing is often preferred in listed buildings, where you may not be allowed to install double glazing. Where double glazing is allowed, most people will opt for double glazing rather than secondary glazing. Below are some links you may find useful: Should I Replace Single Glazed Sash Windows with Double Glazed Sash Windows? What are the benefits of sash window secondary glazing? Repair or replace infographic Regarding the later discussions on the thread about plastic vs. timber, I would definitely recommend choosing timber rather than plastic. Not only are timber windows more environmentally friendly than plastic windows (when using sustainable timber), but if you live in a period home, plastic windows will often devalue the property. We regularly have home buyers asking for budget prices to replace plastic windows with timber windows so they can ask for money off the asking price. I'm not sure where you are based? If you are based in London or Southern England, and would like someone to have a look at your windows and advise you what would be possible, we would be happy to provide you with a free, no obligation quotation. The Sash Window Workshop 01344 868 668 www.sashwindow.com

This is an excellent way to bring new life and better performance into existing windows and the original product remains the best.