Choosing the perfect kitchen window can elevate your kitchen's appearance and functionality. According to expert realtors, window style is one of the top ten most important curb appeal features. Installing new windows costs around $7,500, depending on the option you choose.
There is a wealth of options to choose from that can enhance your overall design style, allow more natural light to flood in, and give your kitchen a much-needed lift. But which is right for you? To help you decide, take a look at these 23 stunning ideas to get some inspiration.
1. Maximize Natural Light with Large Windows
Image By House of One
Large windows are the best way to let in more light. Dahlia Mahmood from Dahlia Design, who was featured in Fixr.com’s Kitchen and Bathroom Trends Report 2024, says “We are seeing requests for large windows, allowing a flood of natural light”, proving their popularity. Pete Trentacoste, Head of Interior Design at Gosummer.com, comments “Large windows can make the space feel brighter and more welcoming.”
2. Incorporate Greenery with Garden Windows
Image by: Window World
Garden windows are a both stylish and functional option, as they extend outward from the wall, creating a small greenhouse-like space indoors. This design provides an ideal environment for growing herbs or displaying small plants, thanks to ample sunlight and good ventilation.
Nick Chatzigeorgakis, Principal Chief Executive Officer at design and build company IntraBuild, incorporates garden windows into his projects. He explains, “One effective design I've implemented in multiple projects is the garden window, typically installed above the kitchen sink.” Alex Locklear, Interior Designer at NC Cash Home Buyers, also favors this design for kitchens. He says, “I love to convert the kitchen window into a mini greenhouse by installing a box window that protrudes outward, providing space for plants.” Alex adds, “This creates a lush, green view and offers the added benefit of fresh produce.”
3. Enhance Style With Window Treatments
Image by Aha Interiors
“Remember, it’s all in the details!” says Iryna Balaban, a home improvement and design specialist and Co-Founder of Elite Maids NY. “Window treatments should be both functional and attractive: light-filtering shades allow the sun to brighten whilst still providing the privacy you require”. You can choose from a variety of options, including curtains, blinds, shades, and shutters, each offering different levels of light control and aesthetic appeal. Balaban suggests, “A set of smooth Roman shades is a clean, contemporary look.”
4. Create a Focal Point With Unique Window Shapes
“Using unique window shapes can create an eye-catching focal point in the kitchen”, according to Trentacoste. “Arched windows, circular windows, or even a combination of different shapes can add architectural interest.” The price to install arched windows ranges from $200 to $1,100 and varies for other shapes and sizes.
5. Blur the Lines Between Indoor and Outdoor With Sliding Windows
Image by Mighty Dog Roofing
Sliding windows typically feature oversized glass panels that let in ample natural light, offer wide, unobstructed views, and are easy to open and close without requiring extra space when opened. Trentacoste states “Sliding windows can blur the lines between indoor and outdoor spaces, especially in kitchens that open to patios or gardens. These windows provide easy access to outdoor dining areas and enhance the flow of the space.”
6. Use Clerestory Windows for Privacy and Light
Clerestory windows are placed high on the walls, near the roofline. “These high horizontal windows are perfect for kitchens where privacy is a concern but natural light is desired,” says Jerome Bertuglia, the owner of Prime Homes, Inc. He adds, “This solution is particularly effective in urban settings where space and light access might be limited.”
7. Multi-Paned Windows
Multi-pane windows are effective for saving energy and insulating the home against external noise. These windows are a growing trend according to Kristin Hintlian, the Co-owner of Bonsai Builders. She says “One trend we've seen gaining traction is the incorporation of multi-paned windows. These not only provide an elegant, classic look but also enhance energy efficiency by better insulating the space.”
8. Floor-to-Ceiling Windows
Floor-to-ceiling windows, commonly referred to as walls of windows, consist of a combination of large windows that create the appearance of a glass wall. “This design floods the space with natural light and provides stunning outdoor views, creating an open and airy atmosphere“, says Hintlian.
9. Corner Windows for Kitchens With Limited Space
Corner windows are one of the most unique and effective architectural solutions, allowing you to create spacious and bright interiors. “These provide panoramic views and diffuse natural light throughout the space“, agrees Ryan Norman, the Founder of Norman Builders.
10. Use High-Performance Windows
High-performance windows offer more than just increased energy efficiency. According to Josh Qian, the COO and Co-founder of Best Online Cabinets “High-performance windows with features like low-E coatings, argon gas fills, and robust hardware can help reduce energy costs, improve indoor comfort, and minimize frequent upkeep”. They also provide more natural light and sound control.
11. Modern Bay Window
Bay windows consist of a large central pane flanked by two smaller, operable windows, creating a cozy nook for seating or additional counter space. “Window design we’ve had great success with is the modern bay window”, says Bertuglia. “In multiple projects across West Hartford, CT, these windows not only extend the usable space within the kitchen but also enhance the exterior’s architectural interest“.
12. Install Lights Over the Kitchen Window
Adding lights over your kitchen window brightens up your workspace, making tasks like meal prep and cooking easier and safer. Consider installing stylish pendant lights or sleek LED strips that complement your kitchen's decor.
13. Incorporate Smart Technology
According to Tommy Mello, a Home Service Expert and the Owner of A1 Garage Door Service, “Integrating smart technology into your windows can add convenience and improve your kitchen's functionality”. There are several ways to incorporate smart technology into your kitchen windows. “Smart glass can change opacity for privacy at the touch of a button, while motorized shades can be programmed to open and close based on the time of day or sunlight intensity,” suggests Mello.
14. Add a Window Seat With Storage
Consider maximizing both functionality and coziness in your kitchen by adding a window seat with storage. “I suggest including storage drawers or cabinets underneath the seat to maximize space. For instance, you can store cookbooks or extra serving dishes in the storage space”, suggests Kamil Kozorys, an interior designer and Co-founder of Unique Tiles.
15. Add Decorative Grilles
Adding decorative grilles is a unique idea with many benefits. According to Locklear “These grilles provide security, privacy, and a touch of elegance without obstructing the view from the inside”. Grilles are a great way to add style to your windows and they are very versatile. "These grilles can be made from metal, wood, or even vinyl and come in many designs and patterns", explains Locklear. Emphasizing their versatility, he adds, "The best quality that appeals to me is the ability to easily change the grille design based on your mood or season".
16. Create a Focal Point With Contrast
Pairing complementary or contrasting colors can make certain elements pop and create a sense of depth and intrigue. “The black window against the white walls creates a captivating focal point”, says Jasmine Josh, the CEO of Phx Sun Screens. “This popular option turns the kitchen into an artistic representation of the surroundings in addition to flooding the cooking area with natural light.”
17. Deep Window Sill
“A deep window sill is a fabulous way of achieving extra storage space. It is not only a useful design element that will draw attention to the window frame you have chosen, add character, and generate visual intrigue”, says Josh.
18. Casement Windows
“When it comes to practicality, casement windows are our top recommendation”, states Shelly Lopez, the Founder of Mighty Dog Roofing. ”They provide excellent ventilation and are super easy to open“, continues Lopez. Dorin Simchi, a Designer at Proven Home Buyers explains “Casement windows can be installed in a variety of configurations, allowing for optimal airflow and natural light. They're perfect for kitchens with large skylights or high ceilings.”
19. Frame the View With a Picture Window
Andre Kazimierski, the CEO of Improovy Painters suggests picture windows for the kitchen by saying “I love picture windows in kitchens. In my experience, this is an area of the house where the more natural light, the better, and having a larger window can help bring in great lighting along with a great view“.
20. Opt for Skylights
If wall space is limited and you have the option to do so, skylights are an excellent way to bring light into the kitchen. “Skylights can be installed above the kitchen island or sink area, providing an abundance of natural light and creating a sense of openness“, says Simchi.
21. Add a Window Shelf
A window shelf provides additional storage space for items like herbs, spices, small pots, or decorative pieces. This is especially useful in smaller kitchens where counter and cabinet space is limited. It also acts as a more interesting backdrop to the shelving.
22. Frame It With Open Shelves
Open shelves around your kitchen window can create a beautiful and functional frame. This setup keeps frequently used items within easy reach while adding a personalized touch to your kitchen decor. Open shelving adjacent to the windows adds to the feeling of openness and airiness.
23. Add Privacy Film
Many kitchens are situated at the front of the home, facing the street. Window privacy glass is designed to allow light to pass through while obscuring the view from the outside. Mello advises, “For privacy without sacrificing light, frosted or textured glass options can be an excellent choice”.