Archbishop Holgate Hospital is a historic landmark located in Hemsworth, West Yorkshire. Built in 1859 in the Victorian Gothic style, it is now a Grade II Listed Building. Managed by the Archbishop Holgate Hospital Trust, the site provides Almshouses for elderly vulnerable individuals and financial assistance for young people in education.

The facility includes 24 Almshouses spread across 13 wooded acres, along with the Archbishop Holgate School and a museum curated in partnership with Pontefract Historical Society and Wakefield City Archives.

The Trust’s origins trace back to Robert Holgate, Archbishop of York from 1545–1553, who decreed that Almshouses should be built for those in need. True to this vision, the site serves as a vital resource for the local community.

After years of use, over 100 timber windows at the rear of the building had deteriorated. The existing windows were draughty, with peeling paint, rusting hardware, and in one case, a broken window boarded up. Preserving the building’s heritage and ensuring energy efficiency were critical considerations for the replacement project.

To address this challenge, PPIY Architects, a long-established RIBA Chartered architectural practice specialising in conservation and heritage projects, collaborated with Patchett Joinery.

Patchett Joinery is a family-run business established in 1840, known for its craftsmanship in creating bespoke timber windows and doors for historic and conservation-area properties.

Patchett Joinery designed and installed heritage flush casement windows made from Accoya timber, a sustainable, ultra-high-performance wood, and fitted them with Pilkington S1 thermal glass.

This combination was chosen to maintain the building’s architectural integrity while significantly improving durability and energy efficiency.

Accoya is a premium choice for projects requiring both aesthetic authenticity and long-lasting performance. Key benefits include:

• Exceptional Durability: Accoya is engineered to withstand the test of time, with a lifespan of up to 50 years above ground.
• Sustainability: Made from FSC® -certified, sustainably sourced timber, Accoya contributes to environmentally friendly building practices.
• Energy Efficiency: With superior thermal conductivity compared to hardwood, Accoya helps reduce energy costs.
• Low Maintenance: Accoya’s excellent paint retention means less frequent maintenance, reducing lifecycle costs.

The windows were designed to replicate the slim profiles and traditional details of the original Victorian Gothic windows, blending seamlessly with the building’s historic character. Black period bulb-end handles and heritage hardware from Traditional Window Fittings completed the look, ensuring the design aligned with the Listed Building requirements.

Patchett Joinery handcrafted all windows in their West Yorkshire workshop. The installation team carefully removed and disposed of the old windows before fitting the new ones.

To ensure optimal performance and compliance with modern standards, the Gold-level installation package included Building Regulation Approval and internal trim fittings, along with a mastic seal for the external windows.

The Accoya timber windows deliver a host of long-term benefits for Archbishop Holgate Hospital:

• Extended Lifespan: Guaranteed for 50 years against preservative failure, the windows are a durable investment.
• Improved Energy Efficiency: With Pilkington S1 glass and Accoya’s thermal properties, the new windows significantly reduce heat loss, enhancing comfort for residents and lowering energy bills.
• Reduced Maintenance: Thanks to Accoya’s excellent stability and paint retention, the windows require minimal upkeep, ensuring they remain visually appealing for years to come.
• Heritage Preservation: The bespoke flush casement design faithfully preserves the building’s historic charm while incorporating modern performance features.

By selecting Accoya timber, the Archbishop Holgate Hospital Trust has future-proofed its iconic building with a sustainable, durable, and aesthetically authentic solution, ensuring it continues to serve the community for generations to come.