WINDOW DESIGN FROM INSIDE OUT
Alright friends, we’re about to dive into the wide world of windows. For todays post, we’re going to forget the exterior side for a sec; today, we're breaking down the thought process required when considering how your windows will function from the interior side. These will be general ideas and just food for thought when you’re working on your project. Your architect will be able to walk you through the specifics.
1. Wall Space: Not too Tall and Not Too Short
One of the first things I consider when designing windows involve the less glamorous stuff like structure. The wider your window is, the more structure (header) required to support the floor or roof above. So if you’re thinking about having floor to ceiling windows, this will be a factor. When we’re thinking about the sill (bottom) of the window, we want to consider things like:
· Will furniture be on that wall?
· Will we have anything to look at from that window, or is it just for light?
· Is it close to our property line? We may have restrictions on how large the glass can be.
Look up, and make sure there's enough room for your window without causing a structural headache. Look down, and give your furniture some breathing space. From the exterior you might not like a view of the back of a sofa against your glass.
2. Eye-Level: Keeping It Uninterrupted
Now, let's chat about eye-level. Have you heard the terms like mullions and divisions? They’re essential for creating operable sections of windows, keeping panes of glass within reasonable sizes, and they also help with the lateral stability of your window.
To keep it simple, when you think about those mullions and divisions, keep them away from eye level. Let the view do its thing without unnecessary interruptions. Your window is the hero; let it shine without any awkward obstructions interfering with your view.
3. Easy-Breezy Operation: Where Function Meets Reachability
Last but not least, let's talk about making your windows user-friendly. Imagine struggling to open or close your windows on a daily basis. Not good, right? Design your windows with a bit of common sense – operable sections should be where you can reach them without doing acrobatics.
Think about it like setting up your living room for a movie night. You want the remote where you can grab it without dislocating your shoulder. Same goes for windows. Keep it easy and within arm's reach. While operable windows can have advantages and disadvantages high or low on your wall, they should still be within easy reach to make sure you don’t resent them.
So there you have it, the lowdown on making your windows really fit the function of your space. It's not just about designing openings; it's about creating portals that bring the outside in, and make your viewing experience enjoyable from the inside out. Because in the world of architecture, it's the everyday details that make your space sing. You don’t have to fall back on cookie-cutter solutions. You do you and design a home that revolves around your lifestyle! We do it for our clients all the time :)
Talk soon, ok?
Dory.