Windows are an often underutilized design opportunity that can transform the entire look and feel of your home. No need to stick to standard, run-of-the-mill designs — from stained glass to geometric shapes, the possibilities are endless. Keep reading to explore some unique window ideas to enhance your home’s aesthetic appeal.
#1. Geometric Windows
Embrace the beauty of geometry in your home by utilizing windows in a variety of shapes. Here are some ideas of how you can use geometric windows in your home:
Circle
Small circular windows are perfect for adding additional natural light to tight spaces such as bathrooms, closets, stairways, and entryways. Their timeless appeal makes them suitable for both traditional and modern homes. For a striking effect, opt for a large circular window in your home office or living room.
In addition to full circles, you can also choose half-circle or quarter-circle windows. These windows are commonly used in combination with other shapes to create a custom effect. Oval-shaped windows are another eye-catching option for creating a grand, stately aesthetic. However, it’s important to keep in mind that these unique window shapes don’t typically open, so don’t count on them for ventilation.
Arch
Arched windows are perfect for creating a sense of grandeur and enhancing your home’s architectural appeal. They create a focal point in your space, drawing the eye upwards. There are many ways to create the arched effect, whether with a singular window or by placing a half-circle above a standard rectangular window.
A twist on the traditional arch is a gothic-style window, which resembles an arch with a pointed top. With or without intricate grillework or mullions, these unique windows are perfect for homeowners who want to invoke a bit of drama and sophistication.
Irregular Shapes
If you’re a fan of modern or geometric architecture, irregularly shaped windows might be just what you need to complement your home’s offbeat style. Whether you choose an irregular pentagon as a funky focal point, create a glass wall with a collection of triangles, or combine curves and angles to make an eye-catching portal by your reading nook, embracing irregular, unique windows can make a big difference in enhancing your home’s distinctive style.
#2. Combine Window Shapes
Window walls are an excellent way to maximize natural light exposure and make your home feel more spacious. Many window walls use a series of rectangular windows, but that’s not the only way to achieve this striking effect. Get creative with it — fit triangles, irregular polygons, diamonds, and even arches together like a puzzle, creating a unique window wall that perfectly fits your space.
#3. Stained Glass
Stained glass isn’t just for churches and cathedrals; when used thoughtfully, it can be a charming addition to your home. There are endless design choices out there, from geometric art deco to subtle frosted effects to intricate botanical beauties. Consider utilizing stained glass in a transom window above an exterior door or picture window to make your ceiling feel higher and let in more natural light.
If you like the look of stained glass but not the commitment, you can get window decals or films that mimic the look of stained glass but can be easily removed, allowing you to change up the design as often as you’d like.
#4. Decorative Grillework, Muntins, and Mullions
Adding decorative grillework, muntins, or mullions to your windows is a cost-effective way to refresh their appearance without totally replacing them. Grillework is typically made of metal and comes in intricate spirals, modern geometric shapes, and simple grids. In addition to enhancing your windows’ appearance, decorative grills help deter burglars and prevent break-ins, improving your home’s security.
Muntins and mullions are similar but serve different purposes. Muntins are narrow strips between individual window panes — think of the gridlike windows on a Colonial-style home. Mullions, on the other hand, are wider pieces that hold two windows together. These design details don’t necessarily have to serve a functional purpose, though — if you like the look of them, you can install them on your existing windows, adding historical charm.
#5. Skylights
Try a unique window placement for an out-of-the-box skylight. If you have a steep-sloped ceiling, you can add a large, slanted window near its lowest point, allowing you to view both the sky and your home’s surroundings.
Similar to skylights, clerestory windows — a row of windows adjacent to the ceiling — bring in ambient light and make a room feel much larger and more open. Plus, if they’re functional, they can be opened to enhance air circulation throughout your home.
Bring Your Unique Window Ideas to Life
At Moyes Glass, we specialize in custom windows. Whatever unique window designs you dream up, we can make them happen! Contact us today or visit our showroom in Ogden, Utah, to get started on your next project.