Pickard Properties has completed the painstaking restoration of the stained glass windows at Moor Grange and Moorfield Lodge, two 19th Century villas at the heart of its Spinning Acres development in Far Headingley, Leeds.
The intricate work was carried out by Bolton-based Stained Leaded Glass Company Ltd as part of Pickard Properties’ £5million refurbishment to transform the Victorian buildings into high-quality, sustainable apartments.
In Moor Grange, the restored and partly recreated windows each depict a different Aesop’s fable – The Fox and the Crow, The Crow and the Pitcher, and The Frogs Who Desired a King. The recreation work involved applying multiple layers of kiln-fired glass paints and silver stain to achieve the authentic warmth, depth and detail of the originals.
In Moorfield Lodge, the 12-panel bay window features an ornate Victorian floral border surrounding a central pane depicting a figure fishing by a stream, a serene and distinctive centrepiece within the building’s restored interior.
Denise McArdle, Strategic Director at Pickard Properties, said: “These beautiful stained-glass windows are truly stunning features within the villas and we’re incredibly proud to have restored them to their former glory.
“They reflect both the artistry and craftsmanship of the period and our own commitment to preserving and celebrating the historic character of these remarkable Victorian properties while creating contemporary, comfortable homes.”
The restoration forms part of Pickard Properties’ £40 million regeneration programme at Spinning Acres, a new community revitalising a former Leeds University estate.
Andrew Seddon, Director of the Stained Leaded Glass Company Ltd, said: “It’s been an honour to for my team to work on windows of such historical and artistic importance. Our aim was to breathe new life into these pieces while staying true to their original design. Thanks to the care taken throughout the process, they will continue to be admired for generations to come.”
Local historian and author Eveleigh Bradford, representing the Thoresby Historical Society, added: “These villas are an important part of Far Headingley’s architectural story, and it’s wonderful to see them being restored with such attention to detail. Pickard Properties is contributing to the continued history of the area, ensuring that people can enjoy these beautiful windows and the legacy of the families who helped shape this community in the 19th century.”
Located within the Far Headingley Conservation Area, the development takes inspiration from the area’s textile heritage and combines heritage preservation with modern, sustainable living, including the installation of new ground source heating systems in both Moor Grange and Moorfield Lodge.
The restoration of Moor Grange and Moorfield Lodge, delivered by Weetwood-based C&AJ Marshall Builders, is part of Pickard Properties’ long-term strategy to develop high quality homes which it owns, maintains and manages.
Once complete, Moor Grange will offer six apartments and two houses, with Moorfield Lodge adding a further six apartments. Together, they will provide a mix of one, two and three-bedroom homes that blend Victorian heritage with modern, sustainable design.
