Overlooking the sweeping English Riviera, the Osborne Hotel & Apartments is one of Torquay’s most iconic landmarks — a Grade II* listed property celebrated for its blend of historic character and modern hospitality. Grade II* buildings are defined as “particularly important buildings of more than special interest”, a status held by only 5.8% of listed buildings in the UK.

Preserving its architectural character while ensuring long-term performance in a coastal environment demanded materials of the highest quality.

Joinery Solutions SW Ltd, long-time advocates of Accoya wood, were entrusted with an ongoing restoration programme to refurbish and replace the building’s sash windows—maintaining its historic elegance while enhancing durability for decades to come.

The original softwood windows had deteriorated over time, unable to withstand the coastal conditions. The solution needed to deliver strength and stability while blending seamlessly with the building’s period character.

Accoya wood was the clear choice. Renowned for its durability and proven resistance to rot—even in challenging environments—it offered the confidence needed for a long-term restoration strategy.

Its exceptional dimensional stability meant that the new sash windows could be crafted to exact specifications, ensuring both authenticity and endurance.

Using a blend of modern technology and traditional joinery expertise, Joinery Solutions SW Ltd meticulously overhauled the existing box frames and carried out splice repairs with Accoya sections. The new sash windows, also made from Accoya, were precision-engineered for lasting performance and finished in white satin to perfectly match the existing 500 windows across the property.

Working through the winter months posed challenges—tight deadlines and unpredictable weather required careful planning and coordination. Thanks to Accoya’s reliability and ease of machining, the team achieved both efficiency and quality. Pre-finished sashes were protected and installed with precision, ensuring a flawless outcome despite the seasonal constraints.

The result: a consistent, refined aesthetic that enhances the building’s original charm while delivering the benefits of modern engineering, with resilience against harsh coastal conditions.

The Osborne Apartments management team have relied on Joinery Solutions SW Ltd for years, valuing their craftsmanship and dedication:

“Joe and his team are true craftsmen and take care of everything. We would highly recommend them.”

Their continued choice of Accoya reflects a shared commitment to quality and heritage preservation. As Joinery Solutions note, Accoya is specified for 90% of their work—trusted to deliver the durability, stability, and sustainability every project demands.

For listed and heritage buildings like the Osborne Hotel & Apartments, it delivers exceptional performance without compromise—preserving architectural character while meeting modern expectations.

With outstanding durability, unrivalled stability, and minimal maintenance requirements, Accoya windows stay true to their design year after year. Their sustainability credentials and long service life make them an investment in both beauty and responsibility.

From strength to sustainability, from craftsmanship to continuity, Accoya is the natural choice for projects where excellence and authenticity are essential.

Photography © Claudia Baines