These unsung heroes in home design provide far more than privacy, security and thermal comfort. A door can add a beautiful bespoke design feature to a home, creating a commanding presence as well as defining a designer look. Statement windows can transform an uninspiring space into something quite extraordinary. It can invite in warm and welcoming sunlight, or provide a beautiful frame around a picturesque view.
Statement windows and doors can elevate a home to the next level by tying a look together, and with the right window or door you’ll leave a lasting impression. Robert Parisi from Robert Parisi Architecture + Design says window styles and types have changed over the last few decades. “One of the most significant changes is the extensive use of glazing in homes,” he says. “Most houses are far more open plan than they were several decades ago. There’s a compelling desire to create a strong connection between indoors and out, as well as maximising natural light in interior spaces. Other significant changes include framing styles and material; larger singular pieces of glazing are becoming more common, and in recent years we have seen a resurgence in the use of steel windows that were previously popular in the ‘70s.” Robert says this change is linked to increasing aesthetic appeal. “Finer frames achieve a more minimal look and a more fashionable fenestration,” he says.
There are so many beautiful options when it comes to windows. Generous floor-to-ceiling varieties that capture the light can be stunning. These expansive windows create a feeling of opulence, understated style and luxury. Contemporary bay windows with a window seat create a light-filled space where one can sit and soak up the sunshine from three directions. Modern clerestory windows not only let in lots of light and promote airflow, they also free up wall space underneath for artworks or shelving.
Window frames are another key consideration. Robert advises selecting window frame types that match or work in with the style of the home. “However, there are a number of factors that may also affect selections, such as the areas of the home they are servicing — for example, living areas that have a strong connectivity to the outdoors,” he says.
Windows and doors can indeed be used to improve the indoor-outdoor connection. Fiona Dunin, director of FMD Architects, says depending on where you live, bifolds shouldn’t always be your go-to when making a decision. “In Victoria, 70 per cent of the time the door will be closed, so it’s not the best solution. A fixed window with a smaller door is a better option,” she says. “In northern NSW or Queensland, 75 per cent of the time a bifold will be open, so it might be a more appropriate choice.”
To invite in more light, opt for windows that have less window frame or, as Fiona describes, “less distractions on the window”. This is where a beautiful fixed window comes into its own. “I always recommend having more fixed window and a smaller glazed door as opposed to having full bifold doors. When they are closed you get a lot of frame and obstructed views,” she says.
Fiona says they often install a fixed window and a solid openable ventilation panel next to it — this lets in ventilation while the window is only letting in the light. “It works well if you have an incredible view or want to maximise the amount of light in your home,” she shares.
Regardless of the statement window you choose, placement is key. Fiona says it’s important to understand the site and where your views are so you can frame them when you position your windows. For example, in a home office you’ll be seated at your desk, so the window needs to be at the right height to capture the views. Fiona says the same applies to the bedroom. “Your view is much lower when lying down than sitting or standing. Thinking about the function of the interior space where the window will be positioned is critical.”
Understanding thermal comfort
Thermal comfort is how your body feels within a specific space such as your home. Does your skin feel warm or cool to the touch? Do you feel comfortable? Statment windows and doors play a pivotal role in dictating thermal comfort.
Robert says the thermal performance of a building is strongly based on managing the heat loss or gain from outside to inside or vice versa. “It’s important to balance the glazed component of a building with thermal mass such as solid walls to achieve thermal comfort without being overly dependent on the use of mechanical systems,” he explains. “Generally speaking, glazing is a primary source of heat gain or loss from a building. Large statement windows and doors help to warm the home in winter, but you may need to block the sun in summer.
“Window systems themselves can be quite influential when it comes to thermal performance due to the use of double glazing and enhanced glazing types such as low-e glass. Double-glazed statement windows are becoming more and more popular in Australia but in Europe they are pretty much standard, and in some countries they are going as far as triple glazing. With the strong focus on sustainability today, I believe double-glazed window systems will become the new ‘norm’ in Australia too in years to come.”
Doors that dazzle
There are many new statement door looks that are wowing the home design industry. New materials, sizes and additional glazing are just the beginning. Debbie Martini from Paarhammer Windows and Doors says there’s plenty to get excited about. “We are seeing larger door sizes and stylish hardware coupled with high energy efficiency and switchable glass,” she says. “The trend is towards low maintenance, which is now possible with timber entrance doors featuring aluminium cladding on the exterior.”
A boldly painted door can add a pop of colour to a neutral colour palette and go a long way to boosting your home’s street appeal. An antique door is a wonderful addition to a home as it tells a story, and sourcing a preloved door from a far-flung destination like India or Morocco adds a layer of intrigue.
Looking for something out of the ordinary?
Uniquely shaped statement windows make a confident design choice, so if you are looking for something different, go beyond the rectangular, advises Fiona. “In one project we designed a sculpted hexagon-shaped window over a study desk. It’s striking — the light through that window is beautiful,” she says. “We have done the same with doors — who says doors need to be rectangular? They can certainly have an interesting shape to them as well.”
Statment windows can be oval, circular, virtually any shape you can imagine. Specialty window shapes create a talking point and in some cases become a timeless architectural feature of a home. A decorative palladian window, a three-part window with an arched portion in the centre flanked by two shorter sections, can look gorgeous. Lancet windows, named because of their resemblance to a lance, are very narrow high windows that become an exterior and interior focal point.
That is where windows and doors differ from other design features of a home — they can be viewed and appreciated both from within a home and its exterior.
Cutting-edge technology
New technology coupled with superior glazing properties is allowing more homeowners control over their internal environment. With the addition of beautiful and stylish louvres, you can adjust the amount of sunlight that enters your home, keeping it cooler in summer. Some of these can be controlled via smart apps if you aren’t home.
Cutting-edge anti-condensation technology in some windows can help minimise condensation. Over time, condensation can contribute to dampness and mould, potentially creating health issues. Unless rectified, it may damage your property.
Advances in next-generation smart windows and doors can enable windows and doors to open and close when necessary. Some can be set to close if movement is detected outdoors, or they can be closed when there is a temperature drop or even smoke from a fire, for example.
The good wood
Timber is timeless and beautiful. Robin Ziejka, business development manager from The Woodworkers Company, says there are five reasons why timber is a good option for statement windows and doors.
Aesthetic appeal. “Timber adds warmth that just can’t be replicated by other materials. Well constructed timber joinery, made from quality hardwood, will look spectacular in any home and provide a refined, sophisticated ambience that not only feels good, but adds value to your home.”
Thermal performance. “Timber is an excellent natural insulator; it’s resistant to condensation and therefore a low thermal conductor.”
Maintenance. “Timber doors and windows are relatively easy to maintain. Changing the colour of timber products is as simple as a new coat of paint, while changing the colour of an aluminium door or window usually means a full replacement.”
Cost. “Timber doors and windows will most likely cost less in the long-term than other options as you should never have to replace timber if it’s been installed properly and maintained correctly.”
Sustainability. “Timber is the largest readily renewable natural resource and its reserves are growing worldwide every year, which helps counteract the increasing levels of greenhouse gases. Timber is one of the few natural building materials; it doesn’t leach chemicals and is completely safe to handle and touch.”
Article featured in Grand Designs Australia Magazine Issue 10.2