Overview:
Natural light is key when working with interiors. Natural lighting makes people happier and more productive. It reduces eyestrain and boosts energy levels. Sunlight regulates circadian rhythms, which tell the human body when it should be awake and when it should be asleep. Windows in retail shops and hospitals, respectively, result in higher retail sales and faster recovery rates. In schools, windows in classrooms are directly correlated with higher test cores.
Natural lighting is also important for decorators who aim to be energy efficient. Spaces that utilize natural lighting and do not require artificial lighting during the day are much more energy efficient than those that rely solely on artificial lighting. A reduction in energy usage equates to more dollars in a homeowner's pocket.
This article focuses on the different configurations of windows, as well as materials and window treatments. By the end of this article, you will know how to use and control natural lighting for both ambient and focus (task) lighting.
12.1 Window Configurations
Decorators have a wide range of window configurations with which to work. Whether a decorator is working with an architect or designer to install brand new windows, or is replacing the treatments on an existing window, a good decorator should be well versed in the main configurations used today.
When deciding which configurations to install in a home, one should think about how easy it is to clean and maintain the windows and how well insulated the windows need to be for the environment in which a person is living. Insulation, as well as ventilation--how well air circulates--also alters the energy efficiency of a home. If the windows do not keep the cold air out and don't allow air to move freely, a homeowner will be more likely to crank up the heat and turn up the air conditioning. A decorator should consider how important it is to see a particular view, and how different window configurations could show off or hide a view. She must also think about which window configurations best enhance the natural lighting in a particular space (this will not be the same for all interiors). If a new window is being installed in a home that already has windows, think about how the new window fits in with the others--are the styles the same? Does the scale of the new window fit the scale of the other windows? Is it positioned in line with the other windows? How are harmony and balance affected?
Double-Hung Windows
These most common type of window, double-hung, has two sashes in a single frame, that slide vertically so both the top and bottom are able to open. (Single-hung windows, in which only the bottom sash opens, are also available.) The panes tip inwards, making it possible to clean from the inside. Double-hung windows are classic tall window configurations that look great and function well in every room of the home, from the bathroom to the dining room. When it comes to style, smaller scaled double-hung windows in rows of three and four (known as "six-over-six" and "eight-over-eight") are best suited for traditional and colonial styled homes
Fixed (Picture) Window
Fixed windows do not open, but rather act as "frames" for outdoor scenery. They come in a wide range of both edged and circular shapes. They are typically inexpensive and well sealed, making them very energy efficient. Fixed windows increase the natural light in a room and are sometimes intended to be the focal point of a room. To increase airflow and create variety within an interior, functional windows (ones that open) are often included in a room with fixed windows, and sometimes flank them.
Fixed windows are most often used in living rooms and hallways, and sometimes installed in the ceiling as a skylight. A skylight is an excellent way to introduce more natural light into a home, especially in places where there are more cloudy days than there are sunny days. However, decorators should be aware of the potential negatives of a skylight, namely the possibility of hatoo much hot, glaring light on very sunny days. This can be counter-productive and lead a homeowner to actually use more energy to cool a room that otherwise would not require air conditioning. Some of the best places for a skylight are bathrooms and living rooms.
Gliding Windows
These windows glide open from the side. When the panels are fully open, the ventilation is spectacular. They are meant for wider spaces and are an ideal choice for a window looking out onto a spectacular view. This is because gliding windows are not broken up at any point, and therefor never obstruct a view. Cleaning gliding windows is, in fact, fairly easy because the panels are usually installed so they can be lifted off the track and put back with again.
Casement Windows
Casement windows have hinges open outwards horizontally. Sometimes, they open in both directions, which makes cleaning a breeze. They can come tightly sealed with compression-fit weather stripping to keep the cold and heat outdoors. They are very energy efficient in this way and can be enjoyed without fear of catching a chilly draft. When opened just a few inches, casement windows provide excellent ventilation by catching the wind and directing fresh air inward along the angled panel.
Awning Windows
Awning windows that swing up-and-out from top edge hinges are ideal for ventilating an interior. When opened, awning windows provide a mini-roof that effectively keeps out rain and dust. These highly functional windows are most often used in the bathroom and over the kitchen sink. Awning windows are easy to use and, without bars or other structural support, preserve a view of the outdoors. When installing awning windows, a decorator must make sure there are no trees, shrubbery, or other obstructions directly outside the window. She should also take care not to install awning windows above the first floor, because they cannot be cleaned from the outside.
Jalousie Windows
These louvered windows typical of mid-century homes and beachside getaways feature rows of slats at regular intervals from the top to the bottom of the window. The slats lay flat when the window is closed. When opened, all slats angle, producing subtle patterns of slated light and an endless stream of fresh air. Because there are so many separate slats, jalousie windows can be hard to clean. They are however, a stylish statement that produces interesting sightlines and additional textures.
12.2 Framing Materials
The framing of a window is hugely important. It dictates style, as well as the strength, durability, energy efficiency, and insulation of a window. Below are short descriptions of the types of frames a decorator is most likely to encounter.
Vinyl is the least expensive option for window frames. Chemically, vinyl is a type of plastic called polyvinyl chloride (PVC) that has been used since the 1920s to make everything from plumbing pipes to window frames. As a synthetic material, vinyl is durable, thermal resistant, energy efficient, and easy to clean. It is strong, does not scratch easily, and is also flame retardant. Quality is important when shopping for vinyl window frames. Look for welded corners and several internal air chambers to ensure the frame is strong and well insulated. Select colors and finishes that are guaranteed not to fade and weather all climates. And always choose a product that has a lifetime warranty.
Fiberglass is quickly becoming a favorite within the building, design, and decorating communities. Fiberglass, which is made from spun glass fibers, requires no maintenance and is incredibly durable. The way fiberglass reacts to temperature change mimics the way glass reacts to temperature changes. The practical application of this characteristic is that fiberglass framed windows act as one with the glass, therefore preventing stress and maximizing insulation. Fiberglass windows are airtight and more effective than vinyl in preventing air leakage. The structural strength, insulation quality, and low maintenance of fiberglass makes this material an excellent choice for large openings and cold climates.
Aluminum is a relatively inexpensive and low-maintenance material. Aluminum is durable, but also a strong conductor of heat. This means aluminum frames are not very energy efficient and do not insulate as well as other materials. To combat this issue, decorators should looks for aluminum frames that come with a piece of plastic or rubber known as a "thermal break." The thermal break functions as a separator between the inside and outside of the frame. When the inside and outside frames are separate, the window conducts less heat and the room stays cooler.
Wood framed windows are some of the highest quality frames. They are strong and energy efficient. They are among the best for keeping out sound and take to paint well, making them versatile and ever adaptable. Quality however, comes at a price. Wood framed windows can be among the most expensive. They are also among the most difficult to maintain. If wood is not properly cared for, it can rot, warp, and decay. Decorators working near the ocean should be especially cautious of caring for wood frames, as wood is susceptible to both salt and moisture. One solution to high maintenance wood frames is wood-clad frames, which are wood frames clad on the outside in vinyl or aluminum to protect the wood from the elements. Wood frames are a timeless, classic look that when properly cared for, will enrich the look and feel of a home.
12.3 Window Treatments
Window treatments are among decorator's favorite tools. Window treatments contribute to the style of a room and come in all sort of varieties. Before selecting window treatments, a decorator must decide the main function of the window treatments. Are they purely decorative or do they need to block out all possible light?
Curtains come with or without a lining. Lined curtains will block out light, while unlined curtains allow light to filter through. Although lining increases the cost of curtains, it protects the fabric, making the curtains more durable and long lasting. Lining also protects against drafts and works as insulation.
Once a decorator has decided whether or not to use lined curtains, she can start looking at fabrics. Curtains come in an array of fabrics. Heavy silk and velvet insulate well and add a bit of luxury to a more formal space. They are however, difficult to care for and require dry-cleaning. Silk rayon blends and cotton sateen are machine-washable options that have a similar look to heavy silk and velvet. Casual spaces benefit most from airier fabrics. Unlined cotton allows a lot of light through and can makes a space feel easy and relaxed, while linen is textured with light wrinkles that softly diffuse light.
Curtains can either blend in seamlessly with the rest of the interior, or function as a focal point. To make curtains blend into a space, select a color that is a few shades darker than the tone of the wall. For example, if the walls are a pinky cream color, hang curtains the color of dust or beige. Another way to make curtains blend into an interior is to pick up on a non-dominant tone that is already in the room. In the living room for example, this tone can be found in the area rug or throw pillows. This method is especially effective at creating visual rhythm and balance. If a decorator wants to make a statement with curtains, she should opt for a bold color. Decorators must be cautious when selecting bold colors for unlined curtains because when illuminated by the sun, the curtain color will reflect into the room. This will in turn alter the mood and atmosphere and effect how other tones in the room are perceived. Blue for example, can appear eerie, while pink can infused a space with optimistic cheer.
Generally, monochromatic curtains should be used in rooms that already feature patterns. Adding yet another pattern on something as large as curtains can make a room feel overwhelming and chaotic. If the room is predominantly decorated in solid colors, a decorator can energize a room with printed curtains. Keep in mind that more subtle patterns, like paisley or thin stripes, will appear as visual texture from a distance, while bold, graphic patterns will draw attention.
When hanging curtains, always hang four to six inches higher than the window frame and opt for floor-length that hits just at the floor or hovers one to three inches above the floor. Where floor-length curtains are not possible nor practical (such as in the bathroom or kitchen) the curtains should hit the sill, not hover above it. This decorator's trick will elongate any room. It makes a room--no matter the style--appear tailored and clean. When cutting fabric for curtains, keep in mind that curtains are meant to drape and appear at least somewhat voluminous. The best way to achieve this effect is to cut curtains two times the width of the window. To make windows appear wider and larger, adapt the same strategy used to make them look taller--hang outside the window frame. Extending the rod three to six inches beyond the frame on each side not only make the room feel larger, it also increases the amount of natural light that flows in when the curtains are open. This strategy is also helpful for showing off attractive molding.
The hardware used to hang curtains further defines the style of an interior. There are four main styles of curtain rods. Classic curtain rods, with an adjustable pole and ornamental finials on both ends, are hung on the wall using brackets. A return rod is a U-shaped and screws directly into the wall. In this style, curtains wrap around the curved sides, as a means of blocking out all sunlight. In a track rod, curtains are attached to drapery hooks that hang from pulleys inside a track. Track rods are installed in the wall or ceiling and are the best at making curtains glide smoothly. Tension rods are the least expensive. They fit inside the window frame and have no hardware. Tension rods are minimalistic, but only capable of holding lightweight curtains. Each type of curtain rod comes in a range of styles and finishes. The finish should coordinate with the color of the curtain, as well as the finishes of other hardware and metals in the interior.
In addition to curtains, a decorator can work with shutters, blinds, and shades. Interior shutters are known as plantation shutters. When the slats are tilted, natural light streams inside, but the outside cannot see inside, therefore providing maximum privacy. Plantation shutters have a classic look and have the additional benefit of being good insulators. Blinds have horizontal or vertical slats made of wood, bamboo, vinyl or another hard material, and a pull cord that stacks and rotates the slats, adjusting for both light and privacy. Shades are different from blinds, in that they are made from a single piece of soft fabric that rolls together. There are several styles of shades, Roman and roller being the most popular. Roman shades have soft horizontal folds that can add texture to a layered window treatment that uses both shades and curtains. Roller shades roll up and down and depending on the fabric, can either lie flat against the window or billow dramatically. Printed roller shades are a great way to add pattern and color to a room with limited wall space for artwork.
