If I could, I would give myself an whole wall of windows from the kitchen with an amazing view to go with this. But alas, I reside in Central Austin and my opinion is the side of my neighbor’s home 20 feet away. Still, there’s just something really pleasant about being in a window-filled room. Perhaps it goes back to our ancestors, that needed an enclosed, protective living area that also had a certain amount of openness — to view any dangers looming on the horizon. While we no longer have to watch out for upcoming marauders, we nevertheless feel most content using this mixture of an enclosure along with a view, including in our kitchens.
If you’re focusing on a kitchen remodel, then finding just the ideal place for a window can make all of the difference. Check out the tips below to help you maximize windows from the kitchen.
Dan Joseph Architects, LLC
On the sink. The classic location for a kitchen window or chimney is appropriate over the sink. Whether prepping meals or cleaning up after a meal, then we spend a good chunk of time in the kitchen sink, so it simply makes sense to give yourself something to look at apart from the wall. So when considering where to set your sink, consider your very best opinion.
Your faucet window can also serve double duty for a backsplash. Put the window just over your countertop or install a low backsplash of 4 inches just below the bottom of the window. Just be certain the bottom frame of the window becomes adequately sealed against moisture intrusion.
Lane Williams Architects
Replace upper chimney. Consider forgoing upper cupboards on all or part of an exterior wall to increase the quantity and size of windows in your kitchen. This is an especially wise move if it affords you a wonderful view.
Losing storage will be the largest concern homeowners have about swapping upper cupboards outside for windows. One approach to resolve this is to install floor-to-ceiling pantry cabinets on an inner wall. This maximizes storage area on a wall where you can’t have windows to the outside. Additionally, it is an place for the refrigerator.
Dotter & Solfjeld Architecture + Design
Eliminate clutter. Following is a kitchen with a long bank of windows and completely no upper wall cabinets. If you’ve got a good-size kitchen and can give yourself a massive island and tons of base cabinets, maybe it’s possible to get with windows rather than upper cabinets. Frankly, I would willingly downsize the number of kitchen gadgets that I own to gain such a gloriously light-filled space.
AIA, McElroy Architecture
Blend with shelves. Give yourself windows and wall-mounted storage by installing floating shelves directly across the windows. Just be sure to limit the things which you put on the shelves to items that are worthy of being on display.
Min | Day Architects
Maintain storage space. Be imaginative. There are ways to maximize windows from the kitchen that still provide you ample countertop and storage area.
Domiteaux + Baggett Architects, PLLC
Opposite the island. Your guests deserve a wonderful view also, so put a massive part of dividers contrary to your island if you can.
Yamamar layout
Down reduced. For people who can’t get by with no run of upper cabinets on an exterior wall, then consider putting a window just below the cabinets. You will still get some natural light flowing without sacrificing the needed storage.
Dick Clark + Associates
Up high. Or set the windows up high on the walls, over upper cabinets if necessary. This is a great option if you’ve got an unsavory opinion or want some solitude without installing window treatments.
Green Apple Design
Get creative with window treatments. If you’re sold on having a bank of windows at eye level in your kitchen but are worried about less-than-desirable perspectives, absence of solitude or glaring sun, install some very simple window treatments like roller or darkening shades. Just be certain the shade material is 100 percent polyester — or a different nonabsorbent, easy-to-clean substance.
Eisner Design LLC
Highlight architectural features. Set your windows to accent and draw attention to any interesting architectural elements or attributes in your kitchen.
The Sky is the Limit Style
Emphasize corners. Corner closets can be difficult or awkward to access, so consider installing a corner window rather.
Brennan + Company Architects
Visually open your own space. The best way to open up a smaller kitchen would be to give it plenty of large windows. It’s true, you’d lose possible storage space, but the positive impact of all natural light streaming in — and the connection to the outdoors — could make the sacrifice worthwhile, in my opinion.
Malcolm Davis Architecture
Salute the sun. Orientation to the sun is just one oft-overlooked element when placing windows. East-facing windows will acquire strong light and heat gain from the early hours, and you won’t have sun streaming into your eyes in the first evening when you’re preparing dinner. North-facing windows bring in the least amount of light and are most vulnerable to heat loss in colder climates. South-facing windows get the most sun and heat gain during the day — something to keep in mind if your home is in a hot climate. West-facing windows mean intense afternoon sun, which could be annoying when you’re trying to prepare the evening meal.
I have a tendency to believe that you cannot have too many windows from the kitchen, but the fact is you’ll want to weigh factors like kitchen storage area, energy efficiency and high quality of the perspectives when determining the quantity and location of your kitchen windows.
More: Designing Your Kitchen: Where to Put the Sink
Inform us : Where did you or would you add a window in your kitchen?