Your home’s exterior is the first impression guests and passersby get of your style and personality. One of the most impactful ways to enhance your home’s curb appeal and express your individuality is through your choice of windows. But did you know that mixing different window styles on your home can create a dynamic, unique look that’s both functional and beautiful? At Kelly Window and Door, serving homeowners in Raleigh, Durham, Wake Forest, North Hills, and Hope Valley, we specialize in helping you find the perfect combination of window styles to fit your home’s architecture and your personal taste.
In this blog, we’ll explore the art of mixing window styles, how to do it tastefully, and the benefits it brings to your home’s exterior.
Why Mix Window Styles?
Traditionally, homes feature a single window style repeated throughout the exterior for uniformity. While this approach is classic and timeless, mixing window styles can add architectural interest, emphasize specific areas of your home, and enhance functionality. Here’s why mixing window styles is becoming increasingly popular:
- Adds Visual Interest: Different window shapes and styles break up the monotony and create focal points.
- Highlights Architectural Features: Specific window types can emphasize unique parts of your home, such as bay windows in living areas or tall casements in stairwells.
- Improves Functionality: Different rooms have different needs — some windows offer better ventilation, others maximize views or light.
- Expresses Personality: Mixing styles allows your home to stand out and reflect your unique design sensibility.
Common Window Styles to Mix
Before mixing, it’s essential to know the main window styles available and what they bring to your home.
Double-Hung Windows
One of the most common styles, double-hung windows have two operable sashes that slide vertically. They offer classic appeal and excellent ventilation.
Casement Windows
Casement windows hinge on the side and open outward like a door. They provide unobstructed views and excellent airflow.
Sliding Windows
Sliding windows open horizontally by sliding one sash over another, offering ease of operation and wide views.
Bay and Bow Windows
Bay windows typically have three angled panels that protrude outward, creating a nook. Bow windows have more panels arranged in a gentle curve. Both add space and bring in light from multiple angles.
Picture Windows
Fixed windows that don’t open but provide large, unobstructed views. They’re great for framing a scenic outdoor view.
Arched and Specialty Windows
These windows add architectural flair with rounded tops, unique shapes, or decorative glass, perfect for accenting and adding charm.
How to Mix Window Styles Tastefully
Mixing window styles requires balance and a design eye to avoid a chaotic or mismatched look. Here are some tips to help you combine window styles elegantly:
1. Keep Consistent Window Materials and Colors
Even when mixing shapes, using the same frame material (vinyl, wood, fiberglass) and color palette helps unify the overall look. For example, pairing white vinyl double-hung windows with white vinyl casements maintains harmony.
2. Use Similar Proportions and Grids
Matching the height-to-width ratios and grid patterns across different styles creates a subtle visual link. This means if your double-hung windows have six-over-six grids, choosing casements or picture windows with similar mullion spacing helps tie them together.
3. Choose a Dominant Style
Select one window style as the primary throughout your home and use the secondary styles sparingly to accentuate specific areas. For instance, use double-hung windows in most rooms but add a bay window in the living room.
4. Accent with Specialty Shapes
Use arched or decorative windows in entryways, stairwells, or above doors to create focal points without overwhelming the design.
5. Consider Architectural Style
Different architectural styles pair well with particular window combinations. Craftsman homes often look great mixing double-hung and casement windows, while modern homes can experiment with large picture windows and sliding panels.
Benefits of Mixing Window Styles
Mixing window styles not only enhances curb appeal but also brings functional advantages.
Increased Natural Light
Using different window styles allows you to maximize natural light in each room. Bay or bow windows can brighten living spaces, while picture windows frame scenic views, and operable casements or sliders provide ventilation.
Improved Ventilation and Airflow
Combining operable styles like casement and double-hung windows allows better airflow control throughout your home, improving indoor air quality and comfort.
Architectural Interest and Value
A well-thought-out window mix elevates your home’s architectural character and can increase its market value by creating a distinctive look that stands out in your neighborhood.
How Kelly Window and Door Helps You Mix and Match Windows
At Kelly Window and Door, we understand that choosing the right window combinations can be overwhelming. That’s why our design consultants work closely with you to:
- Analyze your home’s architectural style and layout.
- Discuss your aesthetic preferences and functional needs.
- Present custom window packages featuring a mix of styles.
- Provide professional installation ensuring a flawless fit and finish.
Serving Raleigh, Durham, Wake Forest, North Hills, and Hope Valley, our goal is to deliver windows that bring beauty, comfort, and energy efficiency to your home.
Real-World Examples of Mixed Window Styles
- A Craftsman-style home with double-hung windows in bedrooms, casement windows in the kitchen for easy ventilation, and a bay window in the living room creating a cozy nook.
- A Modern farmhouse featuring sliding windows for unobstructed views, accented with arched windows above the entryway for architectural charm.
- A Colonial home with predominantly six-over-six double-hung windows, complemented by large picture windows in communal spaces to bring in maximum light.
Final Thoughts
Mixing window styles is an art that combines aesthetics and function to create a unique, inviting home exterior. With careful planning and professional guidance, you can achieve a cohesive design that enhances your home’s character and comfort.
If you’re ready to explore window options and custom combinations for your home in Raleigh, Durham, Wake Forest, North Hills, or Hope Valley, contact Kelly Window and Door today. Our experienced team will help you design and install the perfect mix of windows tailored to your style and needs.