From inside out: How the right windows can transform your home’s design

Georgie Mihaila
8 Min Read
Photo by Collov Home Design on Unsplash

Ever looked at a room and felt like something was missing, but you couldn’t quite put your finger on it? Well, maybe it’s time to throw open the curtains and look at the windows. 

Yep, you heard right! Windows are not just about letting in light or air; they’re a game-changer in the world of interior design. 

The right window can turn a dark, cramped room into an airy sanctuary, or a dull, lifeless space into a vibrant spot filled with life and energy. It’s all about the interplay of light, the flow of air, and the connection to the outside world. 

But the impact of windows extends far beyond the practical. 

They have the power to dictate the theme and ambiance of your home, acting as the eyes through which you see the outside world and the canvas on which the external environment paints its daily and seasonal panoramas.

From the warmth of a sunlit nook perfect for lazy afternoons to the grandeur of a room graced by the elegance of arched windows, or the modern twist of pivot windows that offer both form and function, the choices are as endless as they are exciting.

Windows do more than just frame views; they frame experiences, memories, and the moments that make a house truly feel like home.

So, let’s dive into how these glassy marvels can totally revamp your space – and which ones to pick based on what you want your home to look like. 

The magic of bay windows: Cozy nooks and crannies

First up, let’s talk about bay windows. These aren’t just windows; they’re like a cozy hug for your room.

bay windows in traditional kitchen
Photo by Francesca Tosolini on Unsplash

By jutting out beyond the exterior wall, they create this irresistible nook that’s just begging for a comfy bench topped with plush pillows. 

Imagine curling up with a book, a cup of tea by your side, and the world outside your little alcove. It’s not just a window; it’s an experience. And that’s likely why bay windows have never fallen out of favor with homeowners, competing in recent trends with more modern window designs

Arched windows: Touching the sky

Now, for a touch of drama and elegance, enter arched windows. 

These beauties add an architectural flair that can make any room feel taller, grander, and more… royal.

arched windows in elegant living room with white fireplace, couch seating, and beamed ceilings
Photo by Collov Home Design on Unsplash

An arched window acts like a frame for the sky, transforming a plain wall into a piece of art. It’s about adding that sense of height and grandeur, making your space feel open and airy.

Picture windows: Living artwork

Speaking of art, ever thought of having a living painting in your room? That’s where picture windows come in.

These large, unobstructed pieces of glass offer a clear view of the outside world. Whether it’s a cityscape, a serene beach, plenty of greenery, or a bustling street, your room gets a dynamic backdrop that changes with the seasons.

modern, minimalist kitchen with picture windows overlooking lush trees
Photo by Cat Han on Unsplash

It’s like having an ever-evolving painting that you never get tired of.

Stained glass: A splash of color

Now, for a bit of color and personality, let’s not forget stained glass windows. These aren’t just for churches anymore.

Imagine the sunlight streaming through vibrant colors, casting a mosaic of light across your room.

modern living area with dark blue couch and stained glass windows
Photo by Jason Briscoe on Unsplash

It’s a way to add a unique touch, a bit of privacy, and a whole lot of character to any space.

Skylights: Bringing the sky inside

Ever wanted to stargaze from your couch? Skylights make that possible. 

Positioned on the ceiling, they invite the sky into your home, be it day or night. During the day, they flood your space with natural light, and at night, they turn your room into a private observatory.

Photo credit: Siraanamwong | Dreamstime.com

It’s about blurring the lines between indoors and outdoors, creating a space that’s as bright as it is dreamy.

Pivot windows: A twist on the traditional

And for something a bit off the beaten path, let’s pivot (pun intended) to pivot windows. 

These windows rotate around a central axis, opening up in a way that’s not just functional but also a statement piece.

Pivot windows opening up to city views of buildings and trees
Photo credit: Sarnia / Shutterstock

They’re perfect for adding a modern twist to any room, offering ventilation and a unique design element that’s sure to turn heads.

Clerestory windows: A lift to the light

Tucked high above eye level, these windows are like the unsung heroes of the architectural world. They sneak in light from above, making a room feel both bigger and brighter without compromising privacy. 

Clerestory windows are perfect for spaces where wall space is precious, or privacy is paramount, letting in sunlight or the glow of the moon without letting eyes wander in. 

The clerestory windows in Yellowstone actress Jen Landon’s house, set above the stairs, with a colorful painting underneath
The clerestory windows in Yellowstone actress Jen Landon’s house. Photo credit: Jessica Alexander courtesy of Compass

They’re about adding an unexpected layer of brightness and space, making every room feel like it’s got a little secret up its sleeve.

Round windows: A portal to new perspectives

Now, let’s circle back (quite literally) with round windows, or as some might call them, porthole windows. These aren’t just windows; they’re like whimsical gateways to the world outside, offering a unique viewpoint that breaks the monotony of straight lines and sharp corners.

round window or porthole with a small potted plant, with the cityscape visible through the glass
Photo by Alex Block on Unsplash

Whether it’s a tiny porthole window that offers a peekaboo view or a large, round window that serves as a focal point, these windows add character and charm in spades.

Round windows can turn an ordinary wall into a piece of art, a statement piece that says, “Yes, we dare to be different.” They’re perfect for adding a nautical vibe to a coastal home, a whimsical touch to a child’s bedroom, or a dramatic flair to a minimalist space.

It’s about rounding out your design (pun intended) with a touch of curiosity and enchantment.

So, there you have it. Windows are more than just glass panes; they’re an integral part of your home’s design aesthetic. 

By choosing the right style, shape, and placement, you can transform any room from blah to breathtaking. It’s time to look at your windows in a whole new light (literally and figuratively). 

Let them inspire your space, and who knows, maybe your next great design idea is just a pane of glass away.

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With a decade-long career as a digital content creator, Georgie started out as a real estate journalist for Multi-Housing News & CPExecutive. She later transitioned into digital marketing, working with leading real estate websites like PropertyShark, RENTCafé and Point2Homes. After a brief but impactful stint in the start-up world, where she led the marketing divisions of fintech company NestReady and media publisher Goalcast, Georgie returned to her first passion, real estate, and founded FancyPantsHomes.com