630 Sash Windows Restored at Grade II Listed Liverpool Landmark

Key features: Commercial, Grade II Listed, Sash Windows, Large Development, Renovation, Ventrolla Perimeter Sealing System (VPSS), Victorian

The Grade II* listed Port of Liverpool building was built in the early 1900s and makes up one-third of the “Three Graces” based at Liverpool’s Pier Head, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

It was extensively damaged during the Blitz in 1941, and in 2008 we were proud to form part of the major internal and external restoration project, worth £8.5 million, by (then) owner, Liverpool’s biggest commercial landlord company, Downing.

The building is home to some of the most prestigious companies in Merseyside, including Rathbones Investment Bank, and is one of the largest projects ever undertaken by Ventrolla.

The 630 windows were renovated and upgraded by Ventrolla using the Perimeter Sealing System (VPSS), thus draught-proofing the windows, as well as renovating all the rotten exposed timbers and replacing timbers where necessary. The VPSS system has been independently tested (Class 3 of BS 6375-1) to withstand winds of up to 71mph, something which will come in useful against the harsh sea winds experienced by this building. A spokesperson for Ventrolla Lancashire, said:

“At Ventrolla we are committed to renovating historic buildings in a way that allows them to retain their character and be energy efficient. The Port of Liverpool Building is a striking landmark on the Liverpool riverside and we are delighted to play our part in its regeneration.”

Ian Orton, a Director of Downing, said “Ventrolla’s work is part of a £10 million restoration programme that Downing is undertaking to restore the Port of Liverpool Building to its former glory and enhance its appeal as a contemporary office space.”

Now owned by Amtrak Real Estate (who purchased the building in 2015), the Port of Liverpool building remains an iconic part of the docks in Liverpool, the design of which was the result of a competition for local Architects to submit designs for the new building in 1900 and the first prize was £300. The winning design was created by Sir Arnold Thornley and F.B Hobbs in collaboration with Briggs and Wolstenholme.

The building has also had more than its fair share of fame, being used as a film set in several productions, including The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes & Foyles War (TV series).

Ventrolla offer a bespoke renovation service for timber sliding sash and casement windows as well as timber doors. The company has its central office in Harrogate, North Yorkshire, with additional offices throughout the UK and Ireland.