The impact of some well-selected windows is something that is often underestimated.
Acclaimed as the ‘eyes of the home’, windows play an integral role drawing a connection between the homes indoor and outdoor spaces, while also adding the finishing touches that complete the façade of the home.
If you’re trying to work out which windows will best help you enhance the design and features of your home, here are a few things to consider…
Choose your frames
Timber frames can be a great way to inject some extra character into your home. Typically popular in more traditional, coastal and farmhouse-style homes, timber frames are a comparatively eco-friendly option what will add to the overall aesthetics of the home. You can opt to finish them off in your chosen paint colour, or if you’d prefer to maintain the natural properties of the timber, select a stain in a tone that will complement the other timbers used throughout the home. However, before you fall in love with the idea of timber frames, just be conscious that they can cost a little more than other styles of frames and they’re also likely to require some ongoing maintenance.
Aluminium frames are another popular option which are typically more affordable than their timber counterparts. Typically requiring very minimal ongoing maintenance and with the flexibility to order them in a range of colours to suit the style your home, they could be a great option, particularly if you want to channel an industrial aesthetic.
Alternatively, if you prefer a minimalist look or want to create an uninterrupted view, sashless (or frameless) windows could be a great option. Utilising a double-hung system, sashless windows don’t have the traditional frame outlining the window which allows you to achieve the look of fixed glass, while still being able to maintain the functionality to open and close them.
Ensure they’re energy efficient
Paying some consideration to the size, placement, tinting and glazing of your windows is also going to pay off in terms of both comfort and energy efficiency.
If you’re building a new home, you’ll have the luxury of being able to choose the optimum size and placement of your windows to either harness or block out natural sunlight as desired. If you are however limited in options, consider if you’ll need to invest in an outdoor canopy or awning, some extra foliage or premium window coverings to provide additional shade.
You’ll also need to decide if you need single, double or even triple glazed windows. If you’re if a relatively quiet street you can probably get way with single glaze windows throughout most of the house, whereas if you’re on a main street or in a noisy area, double or triple glazed would be more suitable. The type of glazing you select will also have an impact on thermal performance, so think carefully about what will be the best option in different areas of the home.
Finally, you’ll also need to think about your preferred tint. Tinted glass can be a great way to manage heat and glare while also adding privacy. Whether you opt for a bronze, green, blue or grey tint, there are plenty of shades to choose from which can complement the colour scheme used throughout the rest of the home.
Make a statement
Windows can also be a great way to add a statement feature in key areas of the home. While you’ll most likely want to select a standard window type to use throughout the majority of the home, it’s worth considering if there are any areas where you can create a point of interest with a well-chosen feature window.
If could be bay windows which create a cute and cosy aesthetic, floor to ceiling windows in an elevated room to make the most of a striking vista, French or bi-fold doors opening onto an alfresco, courtyard or other outdoor space, clerestory windows to draw attention to elevated ceilings and create a spacious feel, or some custom-designed stained glass windows to add some extra personality.
Let us help you create your dream home
Selecting the ideal windows is just one element that goes into creating your dream home.
As the experts in building luxury custom homes in Melbourne, the team at Glenvill can guide you through every step of the design and construction of your new home. To discuss how we can bring your unique project to life, simply contact us or drop into our Cremorne design centre.