Transom
Look up and you'll see how transom windows are a useful design element that can also help with ventilation
A transom is a window placed above the horizontal top frame of a door or window. Historically, when ceilings were higher and heating and cooling systems were more rudimentary, transom windows were an integral part of a home's ventilation. They're mostly decorative now and often fixed in place, although they can be installed so they will open with a casement hinge.
A room with tall ceilings can easily handle an oversize transom window, which will let in light and keep the open feel of the room.
A leaded glass transom window is a traditional and decorative touch above this wide opening.
Casement hinges allow these transom windows to open for ventilation.
A transom window with beaded glass sits atop an open doorway.
These fixed transom windows are highly decorative but won't open.
A stained glass transom window lines up visually with the frieze above the adjoining doorway for a balanced look.
Because these windows are separated by a header and not the window frame, they would be called clerestory, not transom, windows.
Browse more transom photos
Browse more transom photos
