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19 February 2025 

Getting to know Darren Lloyd MD of Govette Windows

and Steel Window Association member

Pictured isDarren Lloyd (right), MD of Govette Windows being presented with the Steel Window Association Awards Best Domestic Project 2024 trophy by judge John Ramshaw (left) of Architecture Today.

Steel Window AssociationmemberGovette Windowshas been manufacturing steel windows and doors from its factory in Surrey for almost 30 years, supplying both domestic and commercial customers across the South-East region.

In addition to providing steel windows and doors, the company also manufactures a wide range of steel internal partitions, steel fire-rated doors and door screens, steel sliding doors, and steel shaped windows and doors.

Govette offers a complete service, from initial on-site consultation, design and survey right through to manufacture, delivery and installation. All products are purpose-built, so can be made to match existing windows and doors or to complement a unique design.

Here, Darren Lloyd, MD of Govette, talks about the industry with a quick-fire Q&A session, and what it is like to win the Domestic category in the 2024 SWA awards.

What is your role at Govette Windows?I am the Managing Director of the company and, whilst I carry out many day-to-day administration roles, my main focus is on the estimating.

How long have you worked with the company?Since my brother and I started the company back in 1994; we became a limited company in 1996.

What were your previous roles within Govette? I have undertaken most roles here as that is how you learn how a company runs.  To know the job as well as possible, I have worked on-site, in the factory, in the drawing department and, obviously, estimating.

What do you enjoy most about your job?When we receive an order, it always generates a good feeling.  The real joy, however, comes when we have completed a project and every party in the process is happy. Luckily for us, this happens often!

 Describe your job in three words?Exciting, tiring and fulfilling.

How long has your company been a member of the Steel Window Association?Govette joined the SWA in 2011.

Do you have any standout moments during your time at the association?I sit on the Council as interim vice president and also in the Sales Development Group. My standout moments would be being nominated president in July 2015; and then Govette winning the Inaugural'Steel Window Award'for Best Domestic Project.

How did you feel about winning Domestic Project at the first ever SWA Awards?It was a surprise and an honour. We always strive to give the client as much information and as many options as possible so that they can make an educated decision on what suits the project best. So, when we received the award, it felt like that time and effort that we put in was justified.

What's the biggest issue (good or bad) in construction at the moment?I would say that uncertainty throughout my business years has been a massive issue. When you consider we have had to work though recessions, worldwide financial collapse, COVID, wars, energy crises and almost constant building regulation changes, it is very difficult. If I could wish for anything, it would be a period of stability.

What has been the most exciting project you have worked on?Probably Carlton Works in Sevenoaks. Our client built an apartment block on an old cinema site and was determined to have steel windows and doors. Considering some developers are only interested in overall budget, it was a pleasure to work with someone so single minded. The overall appearance once completed was just amazing.

Pictured isCarlton Works in Sevenoaks

What have you learned over the years? That every client is different so one solution does not fit all! Be flexible, attentive and deliver.

Outside of work, what do you enjoy doing?Spending time with my partner walking our dogs, swimming, skiing and travelling.

For further information on the Steel Window Association or if you're interested in becoming a member, please visitwww.steel-window-association.co.uk

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Editors' notes

SWA members have exclusive access to a range of collectively developed energy- rated systems which are compliant with building regulations and that are recognised by theBritish Fenestration Rating Council(BFRC). The SWA also works in cooperation with both the British and European standards agencies, window research bodies and other influential organisations; includingFENSAand as mentioned above, theConstruction Products Associationand theGlass & Glazing Federation.  Members of the Steel Window Association offer a UK wide service for the refurbishment, repair and replacement of various types of old metal windows, doors and screens, as well as being able to manufacture new fenestration which fully meets the requirements of the building regulations.

With compliments:
Taylor Alden Ltd
Email:media@tayloralden.co.uk