A Quick Guide to Windows for Interior Architecture

Whenever we start a new construction project or design and develop a renovation project, one of the biggest considerations are windows. Just recently, a client and I were discussing the pro's and con's of the different types of windows for his renovated home, and so I put together this article for anyone to easily reference the differences, so they can make sound decisions about their investment.

Windows are essential elements in architectural and interior design, adding both functionality and character to any space. Whether for a new build or a renovation project, choosing the right windows can transform a home’s ambiance, improve energy efficiency, and enhance views. Here’s a quick guide on windows, window types, and how to integrate them into various styles of residential interior design.

Windows for Interior Architecture

Windows play a significant role in connecting a home’s interior with the outdoors, framing landscapes, letting in natural light, and providing ventilation. In sustainable interior design, window placement and style can even impact energy efficiency, reducing the need for artificial lighting and temperature control. The key is choosing windows that suit the specific needs of a space, whether it's a luxurious residential design or a cosy, rustic retreat.

Window Types

1. Casement Windows Casement windows, which open outwards like a door, are versatile and ideal for areas where you want unobstructed views and a generous breeze. They’re commonly found in new builds, but with their sleek, minimal design, they’re also a great fit for modern renovations aiming to enhance airflow and visual continuity.

2. Double-Hung Windows Double-hung windows, featuring two movable sashes, are a classic choice for many homes. They allow for easy ventilation control, making them perfect for spaces that require consistent air flow. This type is common in traditional and luxurious residential designs due to its timeless aesthetic.

3. Awning Windows Awning windows open from the bottom and are often used in areas where privacy is desired, like bathrooms or basements. They’re also popular in sustainable interior design projects as they allow for ventilation even during rain, providing energy-efficient airflow without compromising privacy.

4. Picture Windows Picture windows are large, fixed windows that do not open. Ideal for maximizing natural light and showcasing views, they’re often used in modern architectural and interior design where clean lines and uninterrupted vistas are emphasized.

5. Bay and Bow Windows Bay and bow windows extend beyond the wall, creating a cosy nook that invites natural light from multiple angles. These windows add architectural interest and are ideal for luxurious residential designs that focus on aesthetics and comfort.

   
   

   

Window Design Tips for New Builds and Renovations

When it comes to window design, it’s essential to consider both aesthetics and functionality. For new builds, there’s the flexibility to place windows wherever they will best capture light and views, often enhancing sustainability by reducing dependency on artificial lighting. Renovations, however, may require more thoughtful planning to seamlessly blend new windows with existing structures, making it vital to choose styles that enhance rather than disrupt the home’s character.

For both types of projects, using locally sourced materials for frames or trims, like wood, metal, or composite materials, can add a unique touch and support sustainable practices. For instance, reclaimed wood frames can add warmth and a rustic quality, while aluminium or fiberglass are both durable and low-maintenance.

Balancing Form and Function

Striking a balance between design and functionality ensures that windows serve as more than just aesthetic elements. Thoughtfully selected window types can improve a home's comfort, sustainability, and curb appeal, adding lasting value. From casement windows that invite a breeze to picture windows that bring in expansive views, each choice contributes to the overall feel and functionality of a home.

For any residential interior design project—whether it's a new build or a renovation—choosing the right windows is a critical component of architectural and interior design.

Comparison of types

We've put together a quick guide to compare the different features found in windows for architectural design. These tables will be valuable in determining the right windows for your space.

PVC (uPVC) and Aluminium Frames

Feature	PVC (uPVC) Frames	Aluminium Frames
Durability	Pro: High resistance to rust, corrosion, and rot.  Con: Can degrade over time with prolonged UV exposure, although quality has improved in recent years.	Pro: Very durable, resistant to rust and corrosion.  Con: May corrode slightly in highly saline or coastal areas, but can be treated to improve resistance.
Thermal Insulation	Pro: Excellent insulation, keeps heat in during winter and out during summer.  Con: Not as good as wood, but better than aluminium.	Pro: Aluminium frames with a thermal break can provide decent insulation.  Con: Lower insulation levels compared to PVC without a thermal break.
Aesthetics	Pro: Available in various colours and finishes, including wood-like designs.  Con: Limited in terms of customization for slim profiles or sleek designs.	Pro: Slimmer and sleeker profiles, modern look, available in various colours.  Con: Limited to metallic and powder-coated finishes (less texture variety).
Maintenance	Pro: Low maintenance, easy to clean, no need for repainting.  Con: Can warp over time if exposed to extreme temperatures.	Pro: Very low maintenance, does not warp, easy to clean.  Con: Powder coating may fade or scratch over time.
Cost	Pro: Generally more affordable than aluminium.  Con: Quality can vary by manufacturer, so low-cost options may be less durable.	Pro: Higher-end and durable option for long-term use.  Con: Typically more expensive than PVC.
Environmental Impact	Pro: Recyclable material, and generally less energy-intensive to produce.  Con: Made from plastic, so it's not as eco-friendly as natural materials.	Pro: Aluminium is fully recyclable and has a long lifespan.  Con: Production is more energy-intensive, though it's durable and has a long lifespan.
Weather Resistance	Pro: Good weather resistance, resistant to rain and moisture.  Con: Extreme heat can cause discoloration or warping.	Pro: Excellent weather resistance, handles temperature changes very well.  Con: Metal is more conductive, so it may need a thermal break in colder climates.
Noise Insulation	Pro: Good sound insulation, especially with double or triple glazing.  Con: Lower-quality PVC may provide weaker noise insulation.	Pro: Decent sound insulation, especially with double glazing.  Con: Needs additional insulation (e.g., a thermal break) to match PVC in noise reduction.
Security	Pro: Offers good security, particularly with reinforced frames.  Con: Less durable under high-impact force than aluminium.	Pro: Strong and difficult to break, providing high security.  Con: More expensive if opting for higher security features.
Customization	Pro: Comes in various colours, shapes, and finishes.  Con: Limited in achieving very slim profiles.	Pro: Very flexible for custom designs, ideal for modern, slim, or large windows.  Con: Limited texture variety compared to PVC finishes.
Life Expectancy	Pro: Lasts about 20-30 years with minimal maintenance.  Con: May need replacement sooner in extreme conditions.	Pro: Can last 40-50 years or longer, especially with anodized or powder coating.  Con: Initial cost is higher due to longevity.

Summary

• PVC Windows: Best suited for homes that need good thermal insulation, cost-effectiveness, and ease of maintenance. They are great for residential applications in moderate climates but may not offer the modern, slim designs of aluminium.

• Aluminium Windows: Ideal for a sleek, modern look and for areas exposed to extreme weather or coastal environments. They are durable and long-lasting, especially for large window applications, but they come with a higher initial cost.

Both options have their strengths, so the best choice depends on your priorities: insulation and cost (PVC) versus durability and aesthetics (Aluminium).

Windows with and without Argon gas filling

Feature	With Argon Gas	Without Argon Gas (Air-Filled)
Thermal Insulation	Pro: Better thermal insulation, helps reduce heat loss in winter and heat gain in summer.  Con: Slightly higher cost for the added insulation.	Pro: Provides basic insulation, still better than single-pane windows.  Con: Less effective in extreme climates, as air is not as insulating as Argon.
Energy Efficiency	Pro: Lower energy bills due to improved insulation, reducing heating and cooling costs.  Con: Initial cost is slightly higher.	Pro: Provides some energy savings compared to single glazing.  Con: Less energy efficient than Argon-filled windows, leading to higher heating/cooling expenses over time.
Sound Insulation	Pro: Slightly better sound insulation than air-filled, as Argon gas is denser than air.  Con: May not be significantly noticeable in most settings.	Pro: Decent sound insulation due to double glazing itself.  Con: Slightly less effective at blocking sound compared to Argon-filled windows.
Condensation Prevention	Pro: Reduced condensation on the inside of the glass due to better insulation, especially in cold climates.	Pro: Helps reduce condensation compared to single glazing, but not as effective as Argon-filled windows.
Cost	Con: Generally more expensive than air-filled double glazing due to the cost of Argon.	Pro: Cheaper than Argon-filled windows, making it a more budget-friendly option.
Durability	Pro: Argon-filled units can last longer as Argon is less reactive than air, which can help maintain window performance over time.  Con: Slight possibility of gas leakage over many years, reducing effectiveness if seals fail.	Pro: Durable, with no risk of gas leakage as it only contains air.  Con: May lose insulating effectiveness faster due to the natural properties of air.
Environmental Impact	Pro: Better for energy savings, leading to a smaller carbon footprint over time.  Con: Argon is a manufactured gas, which may have a slight impact during production.	Pro: No added gases, just regular air, making it a simple option.  Con: Lower energy efficiency leads to a higher carbon footprint over time.
Suitability for Extreme Climates	Pro: Ideal for extreme climates where thermal insulation is critical.	Con: Less effective in extreme climates, as air doesn’t insulate as well as Argon.
Installation & Maintenance	Pro: No additional maintenance required; Argon gas remains sealed inside the unit.  Con: If the seal fails, Argon can leak out, though this is rare with quality products.	Pro: No special maintenance or concern about gas leakage.  Con: Slightly lower performance over time as seals may let in moisture.
Overall Performance	Pro: Higher performance in terms of insulation, energy efficiency, and condensation control.	Con: Moderate performance, suitable for less extreme climates and more budget-conscious projects.

Summary

• Double-Glazed with Argon Gas: Provides superior insulation, energy efficiency, and condensation control, making it ideal for extreme climates or homeowners seeking the best performance. However, the initial cost is higher compared to air-filled windows, and there is a slight possibility of Argon leakage over the very long term (though rare).

• Double-Glazed without Argon Gas (Air-Filled): More budget-friendly while still offering the advantages of double glazing over single-pane windows. It is a good option for moderate climates and those with a limited budget. However, energy efficiency and insulation are somewhat reduced compared to Argon-filled windows.

The choice between the two options often depends on climate, budget, and long-term energy savings. Argon-filled windows tend to pay for themselves over time through reduced heating and cooling costs, while air-filled windows are more affordable upfront but may lead to higher energy bills.

Single-glazed, Double-glazed, and Triple-glazed Glass Windows

Feature	Single Glazed	Double Glazed	Triple Glazed
Thermal Insulation	Con: Very poor insulation, leads to significant heat loss in winter and heat gain in summer.	Pro: Good insulation, reduces heat loss and gain, making it suitable for moderate climates.	Pro: Excellent insulation, reduces heat transfer significantly, ideal for extreme climates.
Energy Efficiency	Con: Low energy efficiency, results in higher heating and cooling costs.	Pro: Energy-efficient, helps reduce heating/cooling costs compared to single glazing.	Pro: Highly energy-efficient, further reduces heating/cooling costs, saving more on energy bills.
Sound Insulation	Con: Poor sound insulation, allows most outside noise to pass through.	Pro: Decent sound insulation due to two panes of glass; reduces external noise effectively.	Pro: Superior sound insulation with three panes, very effective in noisy areas.
Condensation Prevention	Con: High likelihood of condensation, especially in colder climates.	Pro: Reduces condensation on the interior side, especially with gas-filled options.	Pro: Excellent condensation control, minimal interior condensation in cold climates.
Cost	Pro: Cheapest option, suitable for budget-conscious projects.	Con: Moderate cost, more expensive than single glazing but worth the investment.	Con: Highest cost among the three, requires a substantial investment.
Suitability for Climates	Con: Poor for extreme climates; best suited to mild or warm climates.	Pro: Suitable for most climates, including moderate to cold.	Pro: Ideal for very cold or very hot climates where maximum insulation is needed.
Durability	Pro: Simple design, fewer layers, and no risk of gas leakage.  Con: Prone to damage, and less durable than double or triple glazing due to a single pane.	Pro: Durable; if gas-filled, seal failure can reduce insulation over time, but this is rare with quality windows.	Con: Heavier, requires stronger frames; potential for gas leakage if not well-sealed.
Environmental Impact	Con: Higher carbon footprint due to poor insulation, leading to increased energy usage.	Pro: Lower carbon footprint than single glazing due to energy savings over time.	Pro: Lowest carbon footprint among the three due to maximum energy savings, but higher initial resource use.
Weight	Pro: Lightweight, easy to install, does not require reinforced frames.	Con: Heavier than single glazing, but manageable with standard frames.	Con: Heaviest among the three; may require reinforced frames, especially for larger windows.
Installation & Maintenance	Pro: Simple to install and maintain; single pane reduces complexity.	Con: Installation is straightforward but may require professional fitting for best results.	Con: More complex installation; requires professional fitting due to weight and frame strength.
Initial Investment	Pro: Low upfront cost, ideal for projects with a tight budget.	Con: Higher initial investment, but offers long-term savings on energy bills.	Con: Highest initial cost, but provides maximum energy savings in the long run.
Resale Value	Con: Adds little to resale value due to poor insulation.	Pro: Increases resale value, as double glazing is seen as an energy-efficient feature.	Pro: High resale value boost, as triple glazing is considered top-tier for insulation and efficiency.

Summary

• Single-Glazed Windows: Best for mild climates or budget-conscious projects. They have very limited insulation properties, poor sound insulation, and high energy costs over time. These are usually the most affordable but do not provide substantial benefits in terms of energy efficiency or comfort.

• Double-Glazed Windows: A balanced option that works well in most climates. Double glazing provides decent insulation, soundproofing, and energy efficiency. It offers a good return on investment due to lower energy bills and adds value to the property. Ideal for homeowners looking for energy savings without a significant upfront cost.

• Triple-Glazed Windows: Premium option suitable for extreme climates (either very cold or very hot) and noisy environments. Triple glazing offers maximum insulation and soundproofing, but at a higher upfront cost and added weight. It can save the most on energy bills over time and provides the best comfort but requires a substantial investment.

  
  

When choosing between these options, consider factors such as climate, budget, energy efficiency goals, and noise levels. Double glazing is generally sufficient for most climates, while triple glazing is ideal for those looking for maximum efficiency in extreme conditions.

In closing, we believe that the best windows for your home are the highest quality you can afford. We recommend always going for double-glazing at a minimum, with Argon gas if possible. uPVC and Aluminium is of a most subtle choice, depending on your budget, aesthetic, and environment. If choosing uPVC, also go with a sun treated plastic from a large, reputable supplier - this way you always have their backup if an issue arises. If choosing Aluminium, stay away from powder coating as this can chip - anodized aluminium is best and offers a wide range of colours.

Remember, well designed, good quality windows add to your investment value. Badly design, low quality windows deduct value from your investments and assets.

Good luck! And feel free to reach out to us if you would like some more advice.

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