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Certified Kitchen Designer, author of http://www.thekitchendesigner.org blog

Let There Be Light! Kitchen Window Ideas (8 comments)

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A low window can work perfectly as a featured area in a kitchen as storage for useful items or as an opportunity to display a collection.
by Susan Serra, CKD
Note the simple lines, the lack of molding and consistency of decorative details-very calming
by Michael Merrill Design Studio, Inc
I like the proportions of the small to large windows, asymmetrical and the functional small one seems to closely match the far left small window in size.
by Koning Eizenberg
I do believe that without this large window, the cabinetry at the left might be somewhat oppressive-glass doors and window relate beautifully to one another.
by Tomar Lampert Associates  
These windows are not overly large, but the lightness in cabinetry and on the walls does a big job in reflecting more light-a great solution!
Kitchen
This is THE way to get the outdoors in! Install the window at the countertop level and design it to be a fixed glass. Side lights add needed ventilation. Perfection.
by Tapani Talo
A small window but lots of open interior space work hand in hand to avoid feeling confined.
by Buttrick Wong Architects
A great way to add light, in the backsplash. Sure, it's controversial to have a window behind the range. I do know someone who's lived with it and reports back that it is a non issue!
by Rossington Architecture  
A fantastic way to add natural light, and an abundance. It's a good idea, as shown, to add a continuous line of windows to maximize natural lighting.
by Wm. F. Holland/Architect
If only a small window is possible, add COLOR! Color brightens a space, not to mention lifting one's spirits!
.: Anna Revel-Chion :: Portfolio :.
In this vintage home, the window is very low. Treated with a high backsplash to fit the width of the window, it is a great custom solution and allows the original window to remain. Image used previously in an ideabook I created, but with a new focus!
by Susan Serra, CKD
The kitchen window - one of the most important features in our kitchens! Windows are powerful players in the kitchen...they provide light, a connection to the outdoors, a green catalyst to control temperature in the kitchen, depending on the window's directional exposure, and of course, great architectural interest in terms of proportion and style.

We love windows, but we also must consider the view! What if you simply do not have a good view or you want windows but privacy too? Landscaping designed to your needs in the form of a garden (hollyhocks, Joe Pye Weed, Rudbeckia Maxima, 3 tall examples) or tall shrubbery is a great solution to soften a view or to add privacy. Windows located higher on the wall is another, along with the addition of skylights. Specialty window treatments offering privacy and light are a great option too.

Windows need to be seen in drawings in elevation to fully understand their proportion to the other elements in your kitchen. I often draw different sizes and types of windows in my kitchens, as the look changes dramatically from one type of window to another. The aesthetics from the outdoors also need top consideration. Hand in hand with window type is the proximity of window ventilation in the overall window design. A fixed picture window without the ability to have fresh air completely changes the window experience! Window casing and hardware options, window grills, true divided lights or not, not to mention finishes, send a strong message about the style of your kitchen. Look at images over and over to begin to find a consistent point of view that you feel comfortable with.

comments

becky says:
I remember house hunting with my mom when I was a teenager, and her most important item on the checklist was a bright kitchen with great windows and exposure. It sure does make all the difference in the world!
What about shelves in front of a window? To display glassware?
Absolutely. In my last ideabook, there was a great example of an all white kitchen with a shelf across the window. A great way to obscure a view that isn't great, yet to add light as well, or to just showcase a collection. Good point.
Contemporary kitchen with custom silestone inlaid floor pattern. Large windows provide full view of the lake and grounds thru the Solar Shades
Redesign of 1960's kitchen with large windows to views of the redwoods beyond. Ceilings were sandblasted to brighten up the space, new wood floors, new custom cabinetry.
Tall windows frame the custom stove hood with solid walnut carved life size steer head.
malcor3 says:
The window behind the gas cooker would not meet with the gas regulations .
There are both national and local codes, so it's best to ask questions before, during, and after the plan is finished, especially if something out of the ordinary is planned!
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