When Charles Crittall, great-grandson of Francis Henry Crittall, who during the 1880s founded the Witham-based company Crittall Windows we know today, needed new windows for his furniture-making business in London, there was naturally only one choice. Mr. Crittall said: “The design of our building reminded me of the old Crittall factory in Braintree, this made it seem even more appropriate to go with Crittall.”
Crittall’s iconic-looking steel frame windows were ideal replacements for the original metal windows, which had deteriorated due to wear and tear and to provide a higher level of comfort. The company directly installed 18 new Corporate W20 windows and a door featuring true divided lights in a galvanized finish.
Along with the flooring, the replacement windows were the first phase of the building’s refurbishment. Further work is planned for the building on the first floor and basement.
Charles Crittall took over the building during the late 1970’s. Then, it was unused and boarded up. It had been a British Rail canteen. He shares the premises with an architect.
Son of J F Crittall who was managing director with the steel window frame manufacturer, Charles worked at the company over 40 years ago. He designed a successful door handle he believes was used for 20-30 years after.
Mr. Crittall commented: “It seemed appropriate to install Crittall because of the family history, as the windows were previously steel, and for their reputation for being so reliable, robust and durable. A visit to Crittall’s Witham factory reinforced my thinking. Installation went smoothly and the end result looks spot-on – they match the building perfectly, as well as introducing a new level of comfort”
