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Create Space Hints and Tips
- Deciding on a window style for your home
Deciding on a window for your home is about a balance between aesthetics and function.
Words by Darryl Church
Selecting a shape, position and material for your window is almost limitless. In most cases it is a balance between functional and aesthetic requirements. Large expanses of glass will open a room to the outside, but this may compromise privacy and allow excessive heat gain or heat loss. Too small a window, may not offer the desired amount of natural light, limit potential for any heat gain and prevent you from enjoying the external view. A general rule of thumb, is to allow more glazing to the north, and less on the south side of your house.But of course not all sites are orientated the same and the requirements for solar gain and views can be in completely different directions. A habitable space must have a window view to the outside, of which at least 50% is clear viewing. With energy efficiency awareness greater than ever double glazing is becoming a popular choice for most windows in the home. Generally the size limitation of a window is determined by the limits of glazing rather than the frame construction material so decide what kind of glazing you want first.
The most common frame choices in New Zealand are Aluminum, Timber, PVC, Steel and Composites, so there is window material choice no matter what the style of your home.
Most window styles can be used in combinations to create a wall of glass that opens up to an outdoor space, or as an internal wall separating two living areas; you're only limited by your imagination and budget.
Words by Darryl Church. Darryl Church is an ADNZ member and owner operator of Darryl Church Architecture in Rotorua.
Homestyle magazine celebrates real homes and affordable styleThe team at Refresh Renovation's will be happy to help you with all stages of your renovation project, including design, build and project management. Click here for a Refresh team member to contact you about a free no-obligation consultation to discuss options for creating space in your home.
