Functionality: A Guide to Matching Windows and Home Styles

When it comes to exterior design, consistency is key. Historically, certain replacement windows have been associated with a few home styles. This doesn’t mean you have to stick to a conventional design, but it wouldn’t hurt to know a bit more about the usual pairings. That piece of knowledge can help you create a more coherent facade for your property.

The History of Window Functionality 

Remember: you can’t separate design and functionality – they’re closely intertwined. Listed below is a general overview of why certain architectural styles pair well with certain replacement windows:

1. European Mediterranean and Spanish style-homes (1400s to 1700s) – Traditional Mediterranean and Spanish-style homes usually have small, simple casement windows with hinged sashes. Back then, wood and glass were scarce and expensive so homeowners preferred smaller windows as opposed to larger ones.
2. Colonial, Cottage, Salt Box, Four Square and Craftsman-style homes (late 1700s to the mid-1900s) – Of course, small windows are not capable of providing adequate ventilation, which is why more recent home styles have traditionally used double hung windows. This particular window style is a great choice if you want to maximize indoor airflow: the bottom window sash lets cool air into your home while the top sash gives warm air a way out.
3. Streamlined architectural styles (late 20th century) – However, as architectural designs became more streamlined and air conditioning systems became widespread, the function of windows shifted to appearance and providing natural lighting. That’s why casement and sliding windows are a common feature in Prairie-style and Mid-Century Modern homes.

Window and Architectural Styles 

Here are the best window styles for the most popular home styles in the country below:

1. American Farmhouse (double hung windows) – There are several interpretations of the classic American farmhouse windows, ranging from small, simple designs to more intricate designs that are reminiscent of Victorian designs.
2. Queen Anne (double hung windows) – For many, Queen Anne-style homes are synonymous with Victorian homes, which are known for their romantic flare and intricate embellishments. Like most Victorian-style homes, Queen Anne homes usually have double hung windows, although bay windows would be a suitable addition as well. The top sash of the double-hung window is usually decorated with art glass and grilles as well.
3. Prairie-Style (casement windows) – Pioneering architect Frank Lloyd Wright’s Prairie School Designs made this home style popular. Taking inspiration from landscaping of the same name, the Prairie style features long horizontal bands of windows and trim and art glass. Homeowners install casement windows, which have wide glass panes, to highlight their homes’ distinctive art glass.
4. Industrial Modern – Sleek simple windows with wide glass panes fit in perfectly with contemporary house’s minimalist designs, and industrial modern homes are no exception. Conventional rectangular windows, as well as uniquely shaped ones, wouldn’t be out of place in an industrial modern home.
5. International Modern – Swiss architect Le Corbusier, who’s closely associated with this style, strongly believes function is more important than style. This belief is reflected in international modern homes’ minimal ornamentation. Windows with wide glass areas like casement and picture windows are ideal for this minimalist house style.

Of course, you don’t have to follow conventional pairing – there’s always room for a bit of experimentation.

Renewal by Andersen® Signature Service 

Having a hard time picking the right kind of window for your home? Our design consultants can help. They can make recommendations about which window style best fits your home. We’ll then customize the window according to your needs and preferences.

To schedule a free in-home consultation, call us at (866) 609-5033, or fill out our form here. Renewal by Andersen® of Nashville, a top window company in the state, also offers a wide variety of premium doors. We serve homeowners in Nashville and Murfreesboro, TN, as well as the surrounding communities.