Window Design for Kitchens and Baths

Gay Fly is the owner of Gay Fly Designer Kitchens & Baths in Houston, Texas. She is an independent kitchen and bath designer with 14 years experience as a residential space planner. Fly has been a member of the American Society of Interior Designers since 1980, the Society of Certified Kitchen Designers since 1982, and the Society of Certified Bathroom Designers since 1989. She has served on the Texas Chapter's Board of Directors for ASID and the National Board of Directors for NKBA.

Society is more high-paced than ever. Whole families are either at work or in school during the day. This trend has designers wondering if windows will be as important as in the past, since homeowners are rarely home during daylight hours.

Despite this trend, natural light will be more important than ever in kitchens and baths. When at home, consumers want to feel comfortable, safe and secure, and natural light helps convey that feeling. Wood windows are true purveyors of natural light.

More and more, people are making the most of daylight hours, and even trying to extend them through artificial light, especially outdoors in the evening. Light means so much, and wood windows and doors can make light work well in the designs we choose.

Kitchen Designing

In the kitchen, homeowners are reordering their priorities. Storage space, though still important, is no longer number one on the list. Instead of lining every available inch of wall with cabinets, they are rethinking storage solutions--in essence making room for more windows and natural light.

Designing with windows and natural light involves a number of different considerations, including climate, the position of the room on a site plan, and design and aesthetics.

Climate considerations and views have to be "designed" in the positioning of windows in wet rooms. Advanced glass and glazing systems lessen heat loss and gain, so this is less of a consideration than in the past. In very cold climates, for example, windows framed in wood with double and triple-glazed glass act as an insulator against the cold, yet let the homeowner still enjoy a picturesque view.

In contrast, in warmer areas, we usually see woods used with lighter, cooler tones. Soaring windows are used to open and heighten spaces. In both types of climates, cold and hot, the types of glazing systems make a big difference in the transfer of heat or cold.

Making a Look

In each different climate, wood windows can be designed to create a different look, showing the versatility of the product. One creates a warm cozy feeling inside in contrast to the snow outdoors; reds and other rich colors add to the warm ambiance. Windows also add architectural interest and become the focal point of the space.

Shaped windows, such as circles and ovals, also present interesting light patterns, especially in wet rooms. Odd-shaped windows were popular in the early 1900s, and have made a strong comeback in the last decade. Manufacturers today offer such a wide array of standard windows in custom-look sizes that can be mixed and matched for a design all their own. Light reflections through these types of windows provide a kaleidoscope of patterns throughout the day.

As odd-shaped windows emerged as a growing trend in new construction and remodeling projects, so too have oversized products. Larger sized windows are used more than ever, especially to extend a view. Bay, bow and garden windows are used increasingly in remodeling projects where additional sunlight and creating the look of more space is a must.

The craftsman-like style has also made its way into kitchen design. A simple style that adapts well with other designs, creating a design with wood windows is simple: rectangular shaped windows are stacked and run lengthwise to accentuate the long design and symmetry. Stacked, or creative shaping of windows in rectangles, squares and round tops or transoms can turn a plain, simple kitchen into one that shows imagination -- thanks to wood windows.

Cabinetry is also a consideration in designing kitchens with windows and doors. Creative use of cabinetry can allow for larger windows, and/or special sizes that add interest and light. Wood cabinets are also often used in conjunction with wood windows and painted or stained to match to convey a warm feeling and continuous lines throughout the space. Special treatments, like muntins, complement cabinet doors. Wood windows can accent cabinets, tables and doors and trim, providing a handsome, warm, coordinated look.

When designing windows in baths, other considerations take priority, and with good reason. In the bath, privacy is key. Some designers opt for etched glass. New shadings and coverings for glass are constantly being introduced, so now a variety of looks, as well as degrees of privacy, can be achieved. Doors add privacy and design continuity; flush or paneled doors can be selected, depending on the look desired.

In the bathroom, the windows should not necessarily be the focal point, yet they should add light, view and warmth. A fireplace with a tall mirror can create an interesting contrast, or a focal point. Skylights, too, are important elements where adding light without sacrificing privacy is key. Motorized shades, shading fabrics and special coatings add privacy. Remote, automatic devices can open and close operable roof windows and skylights, and should be considered in the bath areas.

If privacy isn't at issue, designing with wood windows becomes even easier. Dramatic and spectacular views can be highlighted. When choosing larger windows for baths, make sure they are in proportion with other parts of the house and other window areas. Remember: a big, spectacular window usually means there's something spectacular to see outdoors.