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Originally built as Portsmouth’s city asylum, St James Hospital is a landmark steeped in history. Designed with an emphasis on open space and activity as part of patient treatment, the site once featured kitchen gardens, a dairy, brewery, farm buildings, and its own chapel.
During both World Wars, the hospital played a vital role in caring for injured soldiers, before becoming part of the newly established National Health Service in 1948. As health services gradually scaled back through the 1980s and 90s, the hospital eventually closed its doors in 2018. Today, this iconic Grade II listed building is being thoughtfully transformed into luxury residential apartments by specialist developer PJ Livesey.
The project
As part of the sensitive restoration of St James Hospital, TRC Contracts supplied over 300 bespoke replacement double glazed sash windows, carefully manufactured to fit seamlessly into the existing timber frames. Working across phases 1 and 2 of the development, TRC also provided PAS24-compliant windows to meet modern security standards while maintaining the building’s historic character.
Delivered on a supply-only basis over a 24-month period, the £350k contract reflects TRC’s expertise in heritage window solutions that balance authenticity, performance, and precision.
Enhancing heritage with high-performance double glazed sash windows
The double glazed sash windows supplied by TRC Contracts played a crucial role in the success of the St James Hospital redevelopment. Expertly crafted to replicate the original heritage detailing while incorporating modern performance standards, the bespoke sashes enhanced both the aesthetic integrity and energy efficiency of the building.
By retaining the existing frames and seamlessly integrating high-quality double glazing, TRC helped preserve the architectural charm of the Grade II listed structure while delivering improved thermal performance and acoustic insulation. This careful balance of tradition and innovation supported PJ Livesey’s vision of creating luxury homes with character, contributing to the overall quality and appeal of the finished development.