If eyes are the windows to your soul, windows add soul to your house.
The Importance of Windows
Windows are an incredibly important design element. This specific design element plays a key role in making your house feel alive. They let the light and air in, connect you to the outside world, frame and focus a specific view. Natural light boosts our mood and even improves cognitive performance. So you want to get them right.
But if this is your first time building a custom home in Western Colorado, all of the choices may feel overwhelming. You need a build/design team that will make fantastic recommendations, taking the pressure off of you. We’ll consider style, finish, function, shape, composition and cost, guiding you through a design process rooted in our experience.
Window Placement Is Key
During our schematic design phase, we’ll work with you and your site, to determine window placement. Not only does window placement affect how the exterior looks, it also affects how the interior feels. Larger, low windows can be used to capture your best views, while smaller windows provide privacy in bathrooms and closets. High windows provide light while hiding unwanted views, such as a utility pole or a neighbor’s backyard hot tub.
We take an intuitive approach, framing natural views of the landscape, while also providing living spaces with plenty of air flow and daylight. We integrate strategically-placed higher windows to let natural light into unexpected places, like closets and laundry areas. Have you always wanted a large “picture window” filled with plants near your kitchen sink? Now is your chance.
Window Type: Grids or Picture Window?
From a design perspective, the first question we’ll ask is whether you prefer to have divided window panes, called grids, or to maximize your views by using a single sheet of glass (picture windows).
The color and functionality of the windows we choose will drive the overall aesthetic of your custom dream home. Large, black picture windows with sharp lines offer modern flair. If you’re interested in a traditional look, you might consider going with a divided window in classic bronze or gray.
When Choosing Windows, Don’t Forget Function
You also want to consider how your windows will work. Windows can be fixed, single-hung, double-hung, or come in a casement or awning style. The choice comes down to personal preference and taste, although the placement of operational windows is also determined both by local building codes and airflow needs. When we’ve nailed down the finish and operation, we explore options by requesting prices from our vendors. Windows are a big ticket item when building a new home, so we try to ensure we pick the highest quality your budget can accommodate.
Whether you are remodeling your existing home or building your Western Colorado home from the foundation up, our team will help you to make the right decisions, about windows, window placement, and so many other design elements. Contact us to get started!
There are no “Must Haves” too wacky or too big when building your custom home with RG Cowan Design Build.
Allow yourself space to dream, and we’ll make it happen.
