Whether you are renovating your home, or simply looking to upgrade your windows, it’s important to realize the importance of window style and design to the overall aesthetics of your home. You might think “Aren’t windows all pretty much the same?” but the answer is a definitive “no.” Although you might be focused on a window’s energy efficiency and cost, it’s also important to consider the look of the window and how it can enhance your home. As with any aspect of design and décor, there are trends in windows and choosing the wrong window style can make your home look outdated or detract from the overall look you’re trying to achieve. While your builder or LA window replacement contractor can help you compare various styles of windows to choose the best one for your style and budget, you might want to consider these five trends in window types that will help keep your home fresh and stylish.
These days, when it comes to windows, bigger is better. Homeowners are gravitating toward large windows with minimal framing to ensure a clear, unobstructed view. While floor to ceiling glass is an increasingly popular choice, it’s not always practical or possible. Reducing the size of window frames to allow for larger panes of glass is another option, as well as installing glass doors to bring in more light and provide more views. The large window trend has also led to some other trends, including bigger windows that cannot be opened, as well as corner windows. Sliding windows that allow for a pass through, in particular in kitchens to allow access to the deck, are also becoming more popular. Ultimately, the trend is toward increasing light and visibility outdoors, creating more of an indoor-outdoor connection without the pesky insects and other problems that come with open spaces.
Although wood-framed windows are by far the most common choice – especially in renovations using existing frames – homeowners are increasingly looking to other frame materials, particularly metal. Although some people are reluctant to invest in metal framed windows because they are so trendy, more are opting to paint the frames in black or metallic finishes to mimic the look of metal. Another trend is to mix and match metal and wood. Window hardware isn’t limited to metal or painted white but can be made from any number of materials. Homeowners are opting for matte black, brushed metal, stainless steel and other materials for hardware to create custom looks.
Generally speaking, window frames have been painted wood, but trends are changing. More homeowners are choosing natural wood for the window frames, which works well with the rustic, farmhouse-inspired trend in decorating. Wood frames in medium stain highlighting the natural wood grain is a soft, natural look that adds character to space. That doesn’t mean that paint is out, though. Again, black frames are gaining traction, as well as painted metallic frames. Shades of gray, charcoal, in particular, are considered the “new black” in the decorating world and are becoming more common for windows.
In line with the comfortable, cozy, lived-in style that’s dominating home décor trends, many homeowners are looking to soften the look of their home with arched windows. Adding round, half-round or arched windows add visual interest and softness to the overall aesthetic.
Finally, homeowners are increasingly throwing out the rulebook when it comes to specific styles and opting to mix and match different styles in their homes. Many homeowners are adding more modern elements to their traditional homes – gray painted window frames in a classic colonial, for instance – or adding some traditional elements to their modern homes. Adding a corner window to a kitchen of a classic home, or a large pass-through window, adds more light while still maintaining the character and style of a traditional home.
Ultimately, homeowners want windows that will help keep them safe from the elements while also keeping the home energy efficient and looking attractive. It’s a tall order for some glass and wood, but with the latest developments in window design, it’s one that can be easily fulfilled.