Where to Add Replacement Windows in a Kitchen
Renovators Place Columnist
Oct 08, 2009
Many kitchens lack adequate windows--and, thus, natural light--for today's home owners. The solution is to add replacement windows in a few key spots. Here's how to decide the best location for new windows.
Replacement windows can add a nice boost to a kitchen layout, but their placement should be planned carefully. Talk with your contractor early in the home improvement process to ensure the window locations are planned in conjunction with existing cabinets.
Because kitchen wall space often is at a premium, you want to ensure you are adding replacement windows where they will be the most beneficial. This typically means a spot where you'll get:
If you have an eat-in kitchen, consider adding a bay window or sliding glass doors near the table area. Or, try a large bank of windows that create an almost full wall of glass. A skylight is another option, because it does not interfere with wall space and still can enhance your light.
Balancing Cabinet Space and Windows
If your cabinet space is limited, consider adding transom windows that don't open near the ceiling. With proper planning, the contractor should be able to fit a short wall cabinet above the countertop, then install the window near the ceiling without having the cabinet block too much of the light.
Replacement windows are a valuable home improvement project, but one that should be planned carefully so you can make sure your kitchen has plenty of natural light--and sufficient cabinet storage space.
Replacement windows can add a nice boost to a kitchen layout, but their placement should be planned carefully. Talk with your contractor early in the home improvement process to ensure the window locations are planned in conjunction with existing cabinets.
Because kitchen wall space often is at a premium, you want to ensure you are adding replacement windows where they will be the most beneficial. This typically means a spot where you'll get:
- Plenty of natural light
- A southeast sun exposure, if possible
- A scenic view of the yard, a pool, or pond
If you have an eat-in kitchen, consider adding a bay window or sliding glass doors near the table area. Or, try a large bank of windows that create an almost full wall of glass. A skylight is another option, because it does not interfere with wall space and still can enhance your light.
Balancing Cabinet Space and Windows
If your cabinet space is limited, consider adding transom windows that don't open near the ceiling. With proper planning, the contractor should be able to fit a short wall cabinet above the countertop, then install the window near the ceiling without having the cabinet block too much of the light.
Replacement windows are a valuable home improvement project, but one that should be planned carefully so you can make sure your kitchen has plenty of natural light--and sufficient cabinet storage space.
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