Floor-to-ceiling windows are perhaps every homeowner's dream. And if earlier it seemed unrealistic, they simply didn’t build it, but now there are quite a lot of options for using them both in houses and apartments. Believe me, it looks amazing anyway!
In our article we will tell you not only about the undeniable advantages of floor-to-ceiling windows, but also about the unexpected disadvantages that may await future owners. In addition, we will show examples of how you can use panoramic windows in each room, as well as how and how best to decorate them.
Advantages and disadvantages
One of the names of panoramic windows is French, because it was in France that they were often used for the first time. And you definitely can’t deny the French good taste! Therefore, panoramic windows have many advantages.
Pros:
- Make the interior much lighter
— Visually expand the space, add “air”
— Nature outside the window is the best decoration, so you don’t have to worry about additional decor
— An interior with such windows becomes stylish in itself.
But there were some downsides:
— High cost of high-quality design
— Additional heating is needed. Lets in the cold in winter and heats up quickly in summer
— If we are talking about a private house, then you need to take care of good protection of the territory
— Large windows are difficult to clean. Most likely, you won’t be able to do this yourself.
But for those who truly appreciate exquisite interior design, all these disadvantages pale in comparison to the opportunity to live in a place that is stunning in layout and atmosphere.
Features of choice
In addition to reliable fittings and burglary protection, when choosing panoramic glazing, the following facts are taken into account:
- For high-quality thermal insulation, you need a profile with a width of at least 70 mm
In a bright interior Source static.wixstatic.com
- Double-glazed windows are chosen 2- or 3-chamber, the glass is better energy-saving. If a double-glazed window is installed on the southern facade of the house, it will be tinted.
Kitchen-living room Source legko.com
- Panoramic windows made of wood and fiberglass have the lowest heat loss through the profile; options made of PVC and aluminum are significantly inferior to them.
Dining area in a bay window with panoramic glazing Source st.hzcdn.com
- For heavy structures, profiles made of aluminum or PVC, which are additionally reinforced with metal, are recommended. To reduce heat loss, it is necessary to order a warm aluminum profile.
Metal-plastic construction Source www.bg.by
- Beautiful plastic windows must match the architectural style of the house outside and the interior design inside. To achieve the goal, decorative bindings (shpros), laminated and colored profiles, and stained glass are used.
French windows instead of a balcony Source static.tildacdn.com
Light and air Source i.pinimg.com
Types of panoramic windows
Panoramic windows can be categorized according to different principles. Let's focus on those that are important in design.
Initially, it was believed that the more a window is divided into smaller parts, the more sophisticated it looks. Although in fact everything was explained much more prosaically - smaller parts were simply easier to manufacture. Nowadays, windows with frequent layouts are used if designers take inspiration from the past.
For example, such windows are one of the characteristic features of the colonial style. It is worth giving preference to fairly thin partitions and rectangular glass shapes. Otherwise, there is a chance that the window frame will resemble a lattice.
Gradually, designers came to the conclusion that the larger the space of the window itself, the more noticeable element of the interior it becomes. Therefore, now the most popular models are made with a minimum number of partitions.
Another interesting technique is a corner window. This is not a cheap pleasure. But when you see such a design for the first time (especially if the background outside the window is suitable) there are no words other than “Wow!” It's just not there.
The trend for 2022 is a panoramic window, the frame of which is not visible at all. It looks great, but it’s not always safe: the glass can easily be overlooked.
Speaking of trends. Designers have made the dream of every melancholic teenager come true. Now panoramic windows are made with a special soft seat. Having settled down in such a nest, you can listen to music, read or just look out the window. And doing this will be doubly pleasant.
A low window sill may not be soft. In this case, it will rather serve as a table or an unusual shelf. The main thing is not to get too carried away with the amount of details. “Air” in the interior is a sign of the work of a real designer.
Make the window sill a little wider and it will turn into a multifunctional podium. Children will especially appreciate such a place to play. And if guests arrive, you can easily arrange a cozy sleeping place here.
Decorating huge windows
French windows themselves are a decoration of the room and the facade of the house, so their beauty should only be slightly emphasized, but not draw attention to the luxurious decor. Most often, the glass in them is tinted or frames with complex geometry are used. It is recommended to close French windows with blinds, thin, light curtains (organza is optimal) or panel, roller models, which, when rolled up, will not interfere with admiring the landscape outside. As an option, they use sliding screens, which can be removed completely if necessary.
Panoramic windows in the apartment
If you want to wake up to the rays of the rising sun, admiring them through the huge windows, you need to think about this at the stage of choosing an apartment. There is practically no chance of making such global changes to the design of an apartment building. And if there is, then with this money it’s easier to build a house according to your own design.
But in general, finding an apartment with panoramic windows should not be difficult - now there is a demand for this, so this design is quite common. The only thing is that this will definitely be a new building.
The main problem that can arise with panoramic windows in an apartment is dust. Especially if you live in the center. Don't even try to wash them yourself. Firstly, it won’t be possible to do this carefully, and secondly, your own safety is much more expensive. A robot vacuum cleaner or a professional industrial climber can come to the rescue.
Which window opening method should I choose?
- The most common is tilt-and-turn fittings. Allows you to install the glass in the ventilation position;
- Folding like an accordion is not the best option for use in an apartment. When opened, the opening almost completely opens, moving the doors to the side. In this case, significant heat losses are observed;
- The rotary-sliding system also allows you to set the glass to ventilation mode, provides high levels of tightness and thermal insulation. However, sealing materials wear out very quickly;
- Lifting and sliding fittings provide high levels of noise insulation, tightness and minimal heat loss. It has a high cost.
When installing a double-glazed window over hinged or folding sections, it is necessary to install a protective fence in the form of a rod on the frame. Its height should not be less than 1 meter.
Panoramic windows in the house
If you are building a private house, then there is room for your imagination to run wild: floor-to-ceiling windows can be installed in every room. This technique is especially popular in the constructivist style. You can definitely imagine these houses with a flat roof and panoramic windows.
When thinking about the architecture of a house, you need to take into account its location on the site. It is advisable that there be at least 10 meters from the window to the fence, otherwise the entire effect of free space will be lost.
An excellent solution when panoramic windows also provide access to a terrace or patio. This move further emphasizes the unity with nature. If panoramic windows are on the second floor, then the view of the open area is more spectacular. On the first one there is a neat lawn and a shady garden.
How to decorate a window sill?
The window sill is an integral part of the window; sometimes it is a functional element of the living room. For example, if the room has an excellent view of the city or nature, a window sill can replace a soft seat if complemented with pillows. This is possible if you are dealing with a low window opening.
It is pleasant to sit in such a place, observing life outside the window (it promotes relaxation).
The window can be supplemented with a wooden bench under it, where it is good to place pots of flowers. This element would be a great addition to a country style living room. You can also make shelves for books under the window.
A library under the windowsill will look stylish and give the atmosphere of the living room a special intellectual overtone.
Panoramic windows in different rooms
Surprisingly, depending on their location, floor-to-ceiling windows can produce completely different impressions. They are able to create a romantic atmosphere or, on the contrary, set the mood for work, emphasize the relaxation of the atmosphere or the rigor and laconicism of the interior. And so - the design of panoramic windows in different rooms.
Advantages and disadvantages of panoramic glazing
A beautiful view from the outside and inside, good natural light are the key advantages of panoramic windows. But these advantages also create some negative aspects. All movements around the house will be visible to outsiders. This situation can be corrected by one-way transparent windows or simpler options - blinds, curtains, curtains. All these are additional costs.
The thermal conductivity of one glass is higher than that of walls, so in cold regions you will need windows with three glasses and two chambers. Panoramic windows are made of high-strength materials and can withstand and distribute the load well. If desired, the outside and outside of the glass is coated with protective layers to prevent scratches. Large windows take a long time to clean, but they are less prone to defects than walls. In summer, window openings will have to be kept closed from the scorching sun for many hours a day. In winter, you will need to regularly remove ice.
Bedroom
French windows are ideal for a bedroom interior in a minimalist, ethnic and eco style. But for real classics they will look too bold. Use plenty of wood and other natural materials. The color scheme is restrained, because nature outside the window will best set its own accents.
In such a space you want to leave a minimum of furniture. After all, it is intended exclusively for relaxation. Therefore, forget about bulky items and active decor. Lightness and airiness are what is needed for such an interior.
As for the size of the room itself, they can be anything. Panoramic windows will significantly increase the space. True, this rule does not work so well in the dark. Especially if outside your window is a secluded courtyard, and not the lights of the metropolis.
Window design options
- Decor with curtains;
- Lambrequin decor;
- Use of blinds;
To decorate a dark room, use transparent and lightweight fabrics. A bright room can be decorated with transparent tulle. For lovers of minimalism, roller blinds are suitable.
Living room
In this room, panoramic windows are perhaps used most often. And it’s not surprising, because she should make the strongest impression in the whole house. In this case, the decoration serves only as a background - white or beige walls, light floor. And in the details and upholstery of the furniture are the colors that can be seen outside the window too: green, blue, yellow in muted tones.
In the living room, by the way, panoramic windows will fit perfectly into the classic style. Only in this case, models made from a single piece of glass will not be suitable. It is better to pay attention to windows with a fairly common layout. This will add sophistication to the interior and become a reference to classic fashion.
If we talk about the size of the windows themselves, then, naturally, the larger the better. One solid window will always look more impressive than several smaller ones. In this case, the layout step does not have to be even. Asymmetry is in fashion now.
Design and color options
It seems that there are no special options when it comes to choosing colors for plastic windows, but this is not the case. Thanks to the use of modern polyvinyl chlorides, it is possible to stick a film of any color on windows, imitate a wooden surface, make it matte or glossy. And yet, the most common traditional options are white, black and imitation of natural wood patterns.
If you decide to use a black profile for panoramic windows, then it would be logical to duplicate this tone in the interior of the room. Black furniture of small sizes looks modern and will be appropriate for measured use. It’s even easier to use a dark color in decor, lighting fixtures or textile colors.
Natural materials (or their successful imitation) are always in trend. For many rooms, especially country ones, wooden windows in a natural natural color are not just a luxury, but a necessity caused by a certain interior design. Considering that wooden windows are in many ways inferior in technological and operational properties to plastic ones, most homeowners prefer to use laminated films for profiles that successfully imitate the natural grain of wood.
Windows made of light wood (or its effective substitute - a metal-plastic profile with PVC film) will look luxurious in a room where there are already elements of decoration or furniture with a similar natural pattern - laminate, parquet or wooden boards as flooring, cabinet furniture or additional furniture small size.
When making metal-plastic windows, you can use a combination of different colors. Usually two contrasting shades are used, most often white and black. An interior in which black and white combinations are duplicated in other design elements will look harmonious.
The appearance of a large window will depend not only on the color of its profile, but also on the decorative layout. It not only has an aesthetic function, but is also an indispensable element in the design of large double-glazed windows. To use panoramic windows in low temperature conditions, the layout is necessary to protect the glass from external influences, which can lead to deformation of not only the base material, but also the entire product. The so-called French windows are large rectangles from floor to ceiling with a similar layout. Many designers and homeowners associate this window design with classic types of stylistic trends in home design.
Windows that follow the shape of the wall allow you to get maximum benefit in terms of providing the space with sunlight. As a rule, such window openings have a triangular or trapezoidal top. Of course, the production of such window models will cost more than standard ones, but this investment will quickly pay off, because such structures are installed for many years, and you will be able to immediately feel the advantage of observation windows over ordinary ones.
A similar design of panoramic windows is used in chalet-style country houses. When a gorgeous view of the mountains opens up outside your home, you don’t want to miss the opportunity to enjoy the beauty of nature, and using the maximum possible space for glazing in this case is the main priority.
Large arched windows are great for rooms with high ceilings. The interior of a living room with such a window design will look organic if it follows the traditional way of decorating the premises, closer to the classical style.
Kitchen
But this is the case when panoramic windows are not used very often. It would seem, why: anyway, most of the walls are covered with cabinets. Such reasoning is not at all rational - large windows can make cooking much more enjoyable.
There is immediately much more fresh air in the kitchen, and space is never too much here. If you are ready to surprise, French windows in the kitchen will be a great solution for you. What a pleasure it is to start the day in such a kitchen!
To make everything look harmonious, try to leave free space near the window. It is better to choose laconic forms of furniture. But there cannot be too much greenery and fresh flowers in such an interior.
How to deal with condensation on windows?
A very common problem that owners of panoramic windows have to face is the accumulation of condensation. It appears due to the difference in temperatures inside and outside the room. You can combat it with the help of room air conditioning systems and the installation of additional heating devices in close proximity to the area where the panoramic window is located. Considering that there will be little space for them, or rather practically no space left, the following heating systems are suitable:
- A warm baseboard is an ideal solution in such a case. It takes up little space, is almost invisible, economical and at the same time is able to replenish heat loss. At the same time, it creates a thermal curtain that “creeps” upward and prevents cold air from entering the room. If you choose an electric model, you can turn it on as needed;
- Built-in tubular convectors. Suitable only for those who carry out major renovations of an apartment with replacement of floors. After all, they are laid under the base of the floor. In-floor convectors create a thermal curtain as if from under a window;
- Warm floors are also capable of providing uniform heating of the room and preventing condensation.
Condensation may also be caused by poor ventilation. It is necessary to organize a powerful supply and exhaust system. You can also purchase double-glazed windows with a special heat-repellent coating.
Balcony
When balconies again ceased to be a place for collecting rubbish, their design changed radically. More and more often they began to make these spaces with floor-to-ceiling windows. Indeed, only on such a balcony can you feel the atmosphere of relaxation. When you don’t have to huddle on bar stools or, worse, just stare at a blank wall.
Just note that most balcony windows are not a single panel, but a composite structure of two frames that are located on top of each other. Often the dividing strip runs in the center - just at eye level if you are sitting on a chair. You should try to avoid such “small” but ultimately important shortcomings.
The traditional frame color is white. Yes, it is as neutral as possible. Yes, it doesn't eat up space. But in plastic it can look official. An original alternative could be deep chocolate color or even black. But it’s better to move beige and light brown further away for now.
In order for the floor-to-ceiling windows on the balcony to be perceived as a complete element, it is desirable that all glass doors lead into the apartment. Then the balcony will look truly soaring. True, it will add double the hassle of cleaning.
Window care
Since the size of the window system is measured in many square meters, it should be cared for in a timely and efficient manner. Each area should be washed at least twice a year. There is a certain difficulty in cleaning glass at high altitudes. It is difficult to do this from the outside, so it is better to seek professional help from cleaning companies. Cleaning on your own is difficult if a white coating forms on the surface from condensation and rainwater. It’s easier with the inside - it is washed with ordinary detergents. The foam must be removed with water, after which the glass is treated with a glass cleaner. You should purchase a window squeegee to avoid using chairs when cleaning. In winter, heating devices are installed at the level of the lower part of the windows. In-floor radiators are also used, which are often connected to the heating system. Since the windows will fog up, additional care will be required.
Combination of panoramic windows with curtains
To be honest, in our opinion, there is no better decor for panoramic windows than its absence. But we understand that large windows that are not covered by anything are not always practical. Moreover, there are several interesting ways to play with them using curtains.
One of them is to hang curtains right up to the ceiling, even higher than the windows themselves. This way you will visually elevate the space even more. This technique looks especially elegant if you have not one panoramic window, but several.
What you definitely shouldn’t do is choose curtains, and especially tulle with a pattern. Instead, focus on the quality of the fabric, how pleasant it feels to the touch, and finding the perfect shade.
Curtains at least perform a practical function - they protect from direct sunlight in the morning, but many people hang tulle simply out of habit. If you have a fairly high floor or a house with a closed area, it is better to discard this unnecessary decorative item. Over time, you will no longer feel like your windows look bare. On the contrary, you will appreciate all the beauty of natural light without darkening.
And yet, sometimes you can’t do without protection on the windows. This is especially true for the balcony, which has recently been increasingly equipped as a work area. Roller curtains can be a solution. Blinds are relevant only in ethnic style - made of bamboo, no unpleasantly ringing metal.
As for roller blinds, the rule is the same: avoid patterns and even textures. If this is not a bedroom, where it is important to provide comfortable sleeping conditions, you should not choose dark colors. They immediately make the interior more “heavy”.
The same applies to the density of roller blinds. Translucent material is just what is needed so as not to destroy the elegance of French windows and not to over-emphasize the decor.
Panoramic windows are an interior detail that is simply impossible not to pay attention to. She sets the tone for everything. Even a simple design with this addition will look inspiring.
Curtain style
As for the curtains in the room, they are without draperies, ruffles and often without lambrequins.
Some interior trends allow the use of trendy “clothing” for windows - blinds, roller blinds made of fabric, rattan or plastic.
What curtains are suitable for this or that style?
High tech
This style is exactly “friendly” with blinds – horizontal or vertical. If the owner does not like them due to their office nature, you can hang roller blinds or Roman blinds.
The color is discreet, monochromatic. If instead of blinds and roller blinds you want something more elegant and delicate for the windows, simple curtains without a pattern made of fabric with a metallic sheen (chiffon, nylon, organza) will do.
Vintage
Vintage is tenderness and naturalness in everything. This also applies to curtains. For them you need to take natural fabrics - cotton, linen, chintz. The drawing is mostly small.
Curtains – gently falling down, without unnecessary draperies and horizontal folds.
Curtains with large eyelets or fabric ties will look good.
Light colors - beige, light green, lavender, gray-blue, tea rose, white. But the colors... If the wall decoration is made in rich colors, then the pattern on the curtains should be in muted shades. And vice versa.
Art Deco
Art Deco is both modern and deliberately expensive. This is also reflected in textiles. The curtains on the windows are made of fabric that feels expensive even to the touch - brocade, velvet, silk, linen.
If velvet is chosen, shallow draperies are acceptable.
This design of windows in the living room looks especially cozy in rooms that face the north side of the house. In winter, such rooms are even more comfortable.
The color scheme is light, it can be black and white, so even thick velvet curtains do not burden the interior of the room.
Loft
A loft is absolute space, not restrained by partitions. If we interpret it as an attic, warehouse or hangar (this is how the name is translated from English), the question arises - do these rooms even have curtains? This means that they are not needed in a modern living room.
But the desire to hide your life from prying eyes is natural, so you can hang transparent tulle on the windows, and attach Roman blinds or roller blinds to the frames themselves to match the color of the frame.
Tulle will cover the room in daylight, and curtains will cover it in darkness (during the day they will merge with the frame).
Minimalism
This direction is in tune with high-tech. On the windows there are the same blinds, fabric roller blinds, roller blinds or light curtains made of fabric with a smooth structure.
The difference between these styles is the color. In the room you can use not only white or black, but also gray, sand, coffee with milk, muted gold, light shades of green or pink, beige.
There are many variations and you can choose the shade and model of curtains that suit your living room. See photos and get inspired by ideas.
Eclecticism
This is the direction we mentioned at the beginning of the article. And it perfectly characterizes the modern style in the interior.
- Curtains of a delicate shade with a small pattern, characteristic of a country or vintage interior, are combined with high-tech furniture.
- Curtains made of smooth fabric are suitable for minimalism, art deco, vintage, and Mediterranean styles.
- Velvet curtains, which are found in art deco living rooms, will fit into a minimalist or Scandinavian interior.
- Use a trick. The fabric from which the curtains are made should be repeated in other textile elements of the room, be it the upholstery of a sofa, the upholstery of a frameless chair, a hammock or pillowcases for decorative pillows.
Sea style
Let us combine under one definition two stylistic directions of premises: Scandinavian and Mediterranean.
They have similar common features: space, natural materials, a lot of light. Except that Scandinavians try to choose shades from a warm range due to the lack of sunlight. And residents of the Adriatic and nearby countries opt for a cool spectrum of tones. And this is also reflected in window textiles.
Translucent curtains made of smooth material.
For a Scandinavian interior, coffee colors, pinkish, beige, light yellow, and golden are suitable. Try not to use dark colors - this is not typical for this style
For the Mediterranean - white, blue, violet, pistachio, olive. They will visually cool the room.
On the windows of living rooms in a marine style you can find:
- roller blinds. Characteristic of Mediterranean interiors, as they protect from the rays of the scorching sun;
- wooden blinds. Often found in Scandinavian living rooms. Wooden plates protect from prying eyes, but at the same time add coziness and let in light.
The common denominator in the design of living room windows in a modern style is elegant simplicity, lightness and light shades. So smooth fabric, fabric blinds or roller blinds, Roman or roller blinds will be appropriate in almost any interior.
View of the garden plot
If there are no trees nearby, but there is space, you can plant a beautiful garden with pleasantly smelling flowers and shrubs, plant trees, and install a panoramic window opposite. Then you will be able to enjoy the view of flowering vegetation all the time without leaving your home.
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By the water
If there is any body of water nearby, then you can take a dip in the water and relax at any time. Through the panoramic windows it is pleasant to watch the beautiful reflection of sunsets and sunrises on the water surface. This type has a positive effect on the atmosphere in the house and on the psyche of any person.
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