How To Select The Perfect Windows For Your Home
Did you know that the type of windows used on your home can dramatically effect the overall look and feel of the façade? After nearly 10 years of working in the home building industry, I’ve often seen builders neglect to consider whether or not the windows they’re using on the home truly align with the architectural style of the home.
So today, I want to talk about windows. More specifically, key characteristics of the windows that are typically used on some of the most popular home styles.
Craftsman
A classic Craftsman homes should feature tall, narrow windows framed with a thick, white trim which ‘pops’ against the main siding colour. Double hung windows are the traditional choice for this style, but they can sometimes be combined with casement or awning windows. If a wider expanse of windows is desired, multiple windows (typically two or three) are grouped together as opposed to widening a single window.
One of the easiest ways to ensure a home maintains a Craftsman aesthetic is by ensuring the window grilles are appropriate. The window grilles on a truly authentic Craftsman home are typically installed in the top half or top third of the window. Smaller square windows or transoms may also be incorporated and the window grilles in those windows typically fill the entire pane of glass.
Modern Farmhouse
One of the most notable characteristics of the Modern Farmhouse is the bold, black windows and the minimal ornamentation. Tall, narrow double hung windows are often used and they should feature a simple vertical grill which runs the full length of the window. If a casement or picture window is used, the window would feature a single vertical and horizontal grille that intersect in the center of the window. Trims, if incorporated, are narrow and often painted to blend with the home.
Tudor
Tudor homes typically feature long, narrow casement windows. When a larger opening is desired, casement windows may be combined with picture windows in groups of two or three. Tudor homes will also often incorporate bay windows at the first or second floors as well as transom windows. Full height window grilles should be used, but a truly authentic Tudor home may also incorporate a few windows with a diamond grille pattern.
Cottages
English Cottages were originally a smaller, simplified version of the grand Tudor homes that became very popular in the early 1900’s. Even though they are smaller in size, Cottages and Tudor homes still share a lot of the same characteristics, including window style.
The early cottages, as well as the modern cottages of today, feature tall, slender windows. To re-create the historic charm, full height window grilles should be used to break the window up into smaller panes of glass. Arched windows and doorways may also be incorporated, further adding to the charm of these adorable homes.
A simpler grille style could also be used to bring a modern touch to the cottage façade.
American Colonial
The term ‘American Colonial’ is more of an umbrella term used to describe a number of architectural styles including Georgian, Cape Cod, French Colonial, Spanish Colonial, and Dutch Colonial. One thing all of these styles have in common is a strong sense of symmetry.
A typical Colonial-style home will feature a centered front entry, with two double or single hung windows spaced equidistant on either side. Full height window grilles should be used, breaking the window into 12, 15, or 18 smaller panes of glass. Shutters are often installed and should contrast against the main siding colour. Dormers are also typical of this style and they should be evenly spaced across the roof.
Shingle Style
Nothing says New England charm like a Shingle Style house. This style, which immediately brings to mind the east coast and areas such as Cape Cod, Nantucket, and Newport, is a beautiful blend of traditional design and weathered materials.
Shingle Style homes feature numerous windows surrounded by thick white trims. Double hung windows are commonly used, and they may be grouped together to span across larger wall areas. Window grilles are typically only installed in the upper half of the window. Palladian windows, which feature a large arched central section flanked by two narrower sections with squared tops, and bay windows, which could span up to three stories, are often incorporated into the design of the home. Transom windows or round, square, or rectangular decorative windows are also commonly used.
Prairie
Prairie style architecture was inspired by a belief that the home should embrace it’s natural surroundings. As a result, these homes typically feature long, horizontal bands of windows which span across the façade. Casement windows are typically used due to their large expanse of uninterrupted glass, which also helps ensure the unique muntin bar detailing doesn’t go unnoticed.
Mid-Century Modern
Mid-Century homes are truly unique thanks to an unmistakable building form, clean lines, and of course, the oversized windows. Similar to Prairie style architecture, Mid-Century homes were designed to embrace nature, which is why these homes typically feature expansive walls of windows and sliding glass doors. Clearstory windows are also well suited for this style because they help maximize the amount of natural light entering the home. Whenever possible, rake windows should also be incorporated, the top portion of the window should mimic the shallow slope of the roofline above.
Contemporary
When it comes to residential architecture, the term ‘Contemporary’ has come to describe a wide range of homes built in the more recent decades. This style is probably the most flexible of all of the styles outlined here, but when it comes to selecting windows, there are a few elements that should be kept in mind.
The windows in a Contemporary home tend to be selected based on what makes the most sense for the interior and because of that, may be asymmetrical in placement and vary dramatically size and shape. The windows should remain uncluttered by grilles so that they do not distract from the unique design of the home. Bold, black window frames are well-suited for this style and incorporating them will bring a more of an upscale appearance to the façade.
Did you find this post helpful? I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments below!
BY EMILY RADKIE
