Historic stained-glass windows brought back to life in Far Headingley villas
Intricate stained-glass windows in two landmark Far Headingley villas have been restored as part of a major refurbishment project in the heart of the Spinning Acres development.
ExCo
The windows at Moor Grange and Moorfield Lodge, both 19th-century properties in the Far Headingley Conservation Area, have undergone meticulous restoration by Bolton-based specialists Stained Leaded Glass Company Ltd.
The work forms part of a wider £5 million renovation to convert the Victorian villas into modern, sustainable homes.
The properties sit at the centre of the Spinning Acres regeneration, a long-term programme led by Leeds-based Pickard Properties, which is investing £40 million into transforming the former Leeds University estate into a new residential community.
At Moor Grange, three stained-glass pieces depicting Aesop’s fables – The Fox and the Crow, The Crow and the Pitcher and The Frogs Who Desired a King – have been restored and partly recreated using layers of kiln-fired paints and silver stain to match the warmth and depth of the originals. Moorfield Lodge features a 12-panel bay window with an ornate Victorian border and a central image of a figure fishing by a stream.
“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,” said Denise McArdle, Strategic Director at Pickard Properties.
“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.”
Andrew Seddon, Director of the Stained Leaded Glass Company Ltd, said the project was “an honour” for his team.
“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, said the villas played a significant part in the area’s architectural story.
“It’s wonderful to see them being restored with such attention to detail,” she said.
“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.”
Both villas are being refurbished by Weetwood-based C&AJ Marshall Builders, with ground source heating systems installed to support the site’s sustainability credentials. When complete, Moor Grange will offer six apartments and two houses, with Moorfield Lodge adding six further apartments.