We finally signed off on the windows and glass doors for the house. Yay! Boy, I completely under estimated the time and due diligence required for window selection! They are such a critical design element - obviously - but there is much, much more to consider.
First, the house drawings...
We've made a few changes that are not reflected above. Most notable is the switch from divided light doors to open glass doors. I decided against divided light because the horizontal bars were being a pain and not lining up with the adjascent windows. I care more about the overall style - big, boxy and with a flat paneled piece at the bottom, than having them match exactly with the windows. Besides, it looked too busy.
Here is the door that was my inspiration.
Ours will be french doors rather than sliding, and narrower without the divided light.
Some of the other images I've filed that convey the look we're going for.
I spent a morning with our contractor getting the low down on windows.
The most important thing I learned when choosing windows is Casement vs. Double Hung.
Casement
Double Hung
Casement windows crank open, while double hung open vertically.
The main thing to consider here is if you live in a buggy place, thus needing a screen, the screen will always be on the OUTSIDE of the window if you go with double hung. I prefer not to see the screens from the outside, so with most windows I went with casement. For rooms that also have french doors (living room, dining room, kitchen and master bedroom), I chose fixed windows that do not open. The only exception are the bedrooms and bathrooms which all have casement.
Another factor is that casement windows 'capture' a breeze.
When your window is in a hard to reach spot (for example, above the kitchen counter), double hung can be hard to open.
Now that the windows have been decided, the framing can begin. Stay tuned for the latest video coming soon!
Have a wonderful Sunday my loves.
