(ARA) – Whether you’re remodeling a kitchen or bathroom or
adding a bedroom, one of the most important decorating steps is
choosing windows to match the architectural style of your
home.
For example, you wouldn’t use a zebra print shower curtain to
complement a nautically themed bathroom. Likewise, a contemporary
casement window may not harmonize with the decor in your
vintage-themed kitchen. The wrong window option can detract from
your home’s style.
“Window styles can dramatically change the way you interact and
feel in a room,” says Elaine Sagers, Pella Corporation’s vice
president for marketing and customer support. “For instance,
installing a wall of fixed windows that showcases a beautiful
garden or scenic landscape can instill feelings of tranquility and
peace. The right window style can enhance the mood in a room and
the overall appearance of your home.”
Pella Windows and Doors make it easy to determine what window
style suits your remodeling or replacement project. The company’s
website offers step-by-step instructions on how to choose a window
based on your style, energy performance needs and budget.
Style matters
First, consider the style of your home. For 2010, traditional is
the most popular kitchen and bath design style, followed closely by
contemporary, according to a National Kitchen and Bath Association
(NKBA) survey.
Windows don’t have to be boring. “Think outside the box and
choose something that shows off your style and personality,” Sagers
says. “Pay attention to functionality as well. Plus, when you
choose qualifying energy-efficient replacement windows and doors,
you can earn a 2010 energy tax credit and help save on your
utilities in the long-term.”
Window types
Casement windows – Often called crank-out windows, these open
and close outward with the turn of a handle. The single sash
creates a clear view to the outdoors, popular in contemporary homes
and hard-to-reach places, like over a bathtub or kitchen sink.
Awning windows – Hinged at the top, these windows open out like
an awning, ideal for rainy climates to enjoy fresh air during a
gentle rain. They’re often used above or below other windows and
doors, in bedrooms and in hard-to-reach places.
Double-hung windows – These windows offer flexibility to raise
or lower each sash for ventilation, traditional style.
Single-hung windows – A traditional style opened by raising the
bottom sash, use in easy-to-reach places like bedrooms.
Sliding windows – A contemporary-style sliding sash moves
horizontally to help reduce reaching when opening or closing this
window.
Bay and bow windows – When wall space is limited or additional
accent is desired, a traditional-style bay or bow window features
more windows to capture a beautiful view outside.
Fixed windows – Since they do not open, energy-efficient fixed
windows let in light and provide a focal point.
Special shape windows – Achieve architectural interest with
styles ranging from circles and half-circles to trapezoids,
pentagons and more.
Color adds punch
Next, determine your room’s color palette. Match your window
trim to the woodwork for a contemporary, finished look, or
experiment with a complementing woodwork or finish color for a fun,
less formal style.
Many windows offer hardware options. Color-matched hardware for
sash locks or cranks provides a seamless look, while metal
finishes, like oil rubbed bronze or satin nickel, make a bold,
artistic statement. NKBA named brushed nickel, polished chrome,
satin nickel, bronze and stainless steel as the most popular
finishes for 2010.
Finish with a window fashion
Window fashions are functional – blocking bright sunlight and
providing privacy – and they also provide pizzazz. Pella’s Designer
Series windows offer custom-made built-in window fashions (blinds,
fabric shades, decorative panels and grilles) that are tucked
between panes of glass so they’re protected from dust, damage and
little hands.
The textured, colored interlayers of between-the-glass
decorative panels create a one-of-a-kind design accent that allows
light to shine through the window but obscures the view – great for
creating privacy.
No matter what your style or needs, choosing the right window
for your remodeling or replacement project will be a decision that
you’re happy to live with for years. To learn more about Pella’s
window styles or to contact a sales representative, visit
www.pella.com or call (888) 847-3552. Follow Pella on
Twitter.com@Pella_News.
Courtesy of ARAcontent
