Windows are an essential interior and exterior element of a home. Whether you’re inside or outside, the windows of your home are going to be visible. Windows are beneficial because they allow air and natural light to flow inside while still allowing you to look out at a beautiful backyard or keep your eye on playful pets and young children.
Every home needs windows for functionality, but the type and style of window you choose can make your home truly stand out from the rest of the neighborhood’s houses. Whether you’re building a new home or choosing an ideal window replacement for your existing property, the type of window you decide on often determines the stylistic choices you make in other areas of your home’s interior and exterior designs. Choosing the perfect windows for each room in your home is challenging, but the results after replacement or installation are outstanding.
8 Beautiful Windows To Make Your Home Stand Out
There is a wide variety of window types available to make your home stand out. There is an option available for any room in your home from dramatic picture or bay windows to typical single-hung windows. Let’s look at some beautiful residential windows that can take your home to the next level.
1. Picture Windows
Perhaps the most popular choice among our window options on this list is the picture window. People love this beautiful window option because it maximizes the amount of natural light entering a room throughout the day. Picture windows are large, fixed-pane windows that typically sit low and wide, or even span floor to ceiling. Fixed-pane windows do not open, which is one drawback of otherwise impressive picture windows.
If you have a gorgeous backyard you want to see every day or you want to improve the natural lighting inside your home, this window option might be the right choice for you. While picture windows are indeed beautiful, it’s important to keep in mind that they can be costly.
2. Bay and Bow Windows
Another fantastic option to increase your home’s natural lighting levels is bay or bow windows. Bay windows consist of three windows: one fixed window in the center and two operable windows angled on each side. Bow windows typically consist of four or more windows.
Homeowners often install bay windows to create warm, inviting window seats in living spaces. Bay and bow windows are a popular choice for fans of more traditional interior styles.
3. Double-Hung Windows
While big bay and picture windows are beautiful and architectural, nothing beats the functionality of double-hung windows. The sashes slide from both the top and bottom in the frame with these fixtures, meaning they won’t protrude out into the home when opened.
Since double-hung windows can open from the top and bottom, they allow for excellent ventilation throughout the home. They are also extremely easy to clean and maintain throughout the year for any homeowner. There is a vast array of colors and styles of double-hung windows, making them a top pick for any room in your home.
4. Slider Windows
If you’re going for a more sleek, modern aesthetic within your home, look at slider window models. Also known as a glider window, the glass in these windows slides along the frame horizontally to open. Slider windows are incredibly easy to open and clean from the inside but can be challenging to maintain outside. However, with proper glazing, they offer immense energy efficiency, saving you more money over time.
5. Casement Windows
Casement windows offer a classic look in any room of your choosing but are an especially excellent option for the upper levels of a home. Open casement windows outward from either the left or right using a simple hand crank.
Some casement windows only protrude to a certain point, making them popular in houses with small children who could potentially fall out. Casement windows seal on all four sides when shut, so they’re efficient at keeping cold air out too. If you want an unencumbered view of your backyard, choose casement windows, as they don’t require grilles for support either.
6. Clerestory Windows
Another modern option seen in many contemporary homes is clerestory windows. Literally translating to “clear story,” these smaller, narrow windows are situated high above the floor, often along the ceiling’s edge. Clerestory windows allow a lot of natural light and adequate ventilation to flow into the room while still leaving plenty of wall space for art and other home decors. Clerestory windows are also an excellent option if you prefer increased levels of privacy around your home.
7. Awning Windows
Awning windows are similar to casements in that they open outward on a hinge. The top edge of awning windows is fixed, and the bottom extends outward when cranked. These are great windows to install if you live in an area with an excess of precipitation. By opening upward, they allow for adequate ventilation even when it’s raining.
8. Single-Hung Windows
We saved the simple, standard single-hung window for last because it is still such a fantastic option for any home. Unlike the double-hung window that opens from both the bottom and the top, single-hung windows only open up from the bottom. These are the typical types of windows seen in most houses. They are incredibly versatile and more durable than ever, thanks to today’s technology.
Single-hung windows look lovely in bedrooms, bathrooms, living areas, and almost anywhere else. They’re popular because they are affordable and stay flat in their frames, so they don’t take up any space. Accurately installed single-hung windows are also incredibly energy efficient because they eliminate air leaks, block out UV and infrared rays, and are low maintenance.
Choosing Your Next Window
Before you begin a window installation or replacement, take the time to consider your options. Each type of window has different efficiencies and aesthetic impacts. They can significantly affect a room’s style, so it’s essential to understand your options.
If you prefer a clear sightline into your beautiful backyard or garden, fixed picture windows, bay, or bow windows are probably the best choice. If you need functionality over fashion, opt for a more traditional option like casement or single-hung windows.
New windows are a significant investment but have numerous benefits both in beauty and functionality. The perfect window can truly make your home stand out from the rest. Once you’ve decided the type of window best for each room in your home, contact a professional to get started on improving your home’s efficiencies and aesthetics.
