THE SUNDAY CLASSICS: CRITTALL

Crittall Windows and doors have been having quite a resurgence in recent years with many  'versions' off on the market. They have definitely become a favourite over the bi fold or sliding door. Aside form the fact they are incredibly easy on the eye and lend themselves to a variety of interior styles. From the obvious industrial look to a more classic elegance which appeals to a variety of interior and exterior looks. They are also great for a typical UK terrace which may not have the expanse of back wall to warranty bifold/sliding doors. A little of the original makers of the steel window/door frame...

Crittall Windows Ltd is a one of the largest manufacturers of windows and doors. The company has a long history of 170 years and the business spans over the last 3 centuries. The company was founded in 1849 at Bank Street Ironmongery in Braintree and has become a global business with a reputation for the best quality steel windows. Its products have been used in numerous buildings across the UK including the Houses of Parliament and Tower of London.

The story of Crittall began when Francis Berrington Crittall bought Bank Street ironmongery after his arrival in Braintree. In 1880 the company employed 11 men and by the 1890s this figure was 34. The company kept increasing rapidly and by 1918 the number of workers employed in this company reached 500. In 1920s the population of the town had reached 18,000 and it has been estimated that 10,000 of these were Crittall employees and their families.

In 1918, Crittall formed a manufacturing agreement with Belgian firm Braat and opened a works in Witham, Essex in order to supply standard metal windows for the UK government's housing scheme. Eventually, Crittall Windows Ltd started to develop operation in different countries across the world. The Detroit Steel Product Co was their first steel window factory in the United States. Gradually Crittall windows operated in Belgium, South Africa, Australia, Nigeria, India, New Zealand, China and Germany. 

In 1939, Crittall built its first galvanizing plant at Witham. The company went through a lot of improvements and adapted to several major developments. Today the Crittall Windows Ltd has become a global business whose name is synonymous with the best in steel windows. Their window’s steel frames and lightweight feel make them the perfect window choice for creating the contemporary or industrial look and is exceptionally desirable all over the world. 

Crittall windows and doors are usually chosen purely for their architectural appeal or to replace an older generation of steel windows. Crittall offers the best thermally insulated steel windows & doors and because of their ultra-low maintenance finishes these products longevity is better than any other rival window system.

Crittall Windows Ltd is not a family run business today. Family participation in the business ended in the company with the retirement of John Francis Crittall in 1974. After a merger with Henry Hope and Sons Ltd, Crittall Windows has seen several company takeovers and it is now one of the largest suppliers of steel windows all over the world.

All images from Crittall Inspiration Board.