Spanning three months and involving the installation of 97 new hardwood sash and case windows, the project was carried out by Hillcrest Maintenance and has delivered both visual improvements and significant energy efficiency gains.

While the new windows are nearly identical in appearance to the old ones, their modern double-glazed design and improved insulation have transformed the comfort and sustainability of the homes.

Christopher Menzies, a tenant at Rose Terrace, said: “This was clearly a major project, but everything was handled with great courtesy and professionalism. The work was carried out on time, and any queries or issues were dealt with quickly and effectively. The new windows have made a huge difference to the comfort of my home as it’s much warmer now.”

Planning permission for the project took several years to secure due to the building’s conservation status. Once granted, Hillcrest Maintenance worked closely with Perth-based joinery manufacturer James Normand & Son, which also provided specialist training for the Hillcrest team in advance of the installation. 

The project also included upgrades to kitchen and bathroom ventilation, as well as improved insulation around the window frames using sustainable materials such as breathable hemp wool and airtightness tapes.

James Thomson, head of Hillcrest Maintenance, said: “This was not just a window replacement, it was about balancing heritage and energy performance. Our team did a fantastic job under tight timelines and logistical constraints, especially with some of the windows being over three metres tall. The result speaks for itself – a better living environment for our tenants and a proud moment for everyone involved.”

Fionn Stevenson, professor of sustainable design and Hillcrest Maintenance board member, added: “Hillcrest Enterprises and Hillcrest Maintenance can be extremely proud of what has been achieved with this unusual listed building renovation project, which will clearly make a big difference to the residents as well as to everyone walking past these very elegantly retrofitted sash and case windows. It’s a great public statement of housing renovation at its best.”

Originally constructed in the 1800s, Rose Terrace remains one of Perth’s most architecturally significant Georgian streets. The project highlights Hillcrest’s ongoing commitment to improving homes while maintaining the integrity of historically important buildings.