Get inspiration for stylish ways to integrate natural light into any room
Written bySunsetMay 26, 2011
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Photo by Thomas J. Story
1 of 11Photo by Thomas J. Story
Traditional sash windows
A row of wood-trimmed sash windows forms the perfect frame for an incredible view.
Photo by Tria Giovan
2 of 11Photo by Tria Giovan
Leaded trio
This style lends a subtle English influence to a dining room, evoking gradeur without being ostentatious.
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French doors
Floor-to-ceiling French doors open an entire wall to a small deck. Light-reflecting flat white paint covers old paneling, allowing for more natural light to flow into the room.
Photo by Jean Allsopp
4 of 11Photo by Jean Allsopp
Skylight
A skylight allows for unobstructed natural light in a uniquely structured room.
Photo by Tria Giovan
5 of 11Photo by Tria Giovan
Casement window
This popular style of window works in any room and can be fashioned with a crank, lever, or handle opener.
Photo by J.D. Peterson
6 of 11Photo by J.D. Peterson
Slanted window wall
Slanted window walls of tempered glass combine with a new oak floor and a crisp red, white, and blue palette to create a warm and contemporary interior. The designer chose a primary color palette to reinforce the classic modernity of the window design while giving the room added visual appeal.
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Clerestory windows
This style is perfect for high-ceilinged rooms. It allows for maximum use of wall space, which can be outfitted with built in cabinets and shelves, without sacrificing natural light.
Photo by Jeff McNamara
8 of 11Photo by Jeff McNamara
Porthole
Not just a maritime detail, a porthole window can add a chic, modern touch to any room.
Photo by Lisa Romerein
9 of 11Photo by Lisa Romerein
Hopper (bottom-hinged) windows
A bottom-hinged window helps you save usable space while adding a light-filled freshness to a kitchen.
Photo by John Granen
10 of 11Photo by John Granen
Awning skylights
Large openable skylights that double as windows fill the area with natural light making it perfect for detail work. Sconces just above the work surface add even more illumination.
Photo by Lisa Romerein
11 of 11Photo by Lisa Romerein
Picture window
Rather than a series of smaller windows, this style allows for grander outside views and yet more natural light to enter a room.