skip to main content

Design Dilemma Exterior Windows

Need help with dormers and windows

5 years ago

1. Two dormers or three? The middle would be fake. Each end is a bedroom.

2. Shed dormer or gable? I like the look of both.

3. 6’ windows with or without transoms? Ceilings are 9’. I have previously done 6’ with transoms and tempered glass. However, his house will only be a few feet odd the ground and there will be landscaping in front of the windows. So, I don’t know that it’s worth the extra cost. I also considered trimming out the bottom of the front windows to look taller but the picture I have of that has a brick facade. Since windows are more flush with hardie siding rather than set in, I’m not sure how that would look.

Pictures below show 6’ windows and one with 6’ plus 12” transom. We have decided to forgo the porch running across the whole front and do a portico instead to spend more money on a pool house.

Inspiration pictures also attached.

Sort by:Oldest

Comments (2)

Kelley Wright
Original Author
5 years ago
More photos
PRO
BeverlyFLADeziner
5 years ago
last modified: 5 years ago
Shed dormers allow you to have rooms on the second floor that have far less complicated ceilings. They are typically brighter, which is always an issue with the second floor of Cape Cod homes. Shed dormers have fewer roof valleys, require less flashing and perhaps a more solid roof long term.

I would not do a fake window. The upstair vestibule can use the natural light.
Related Discussions
Does their need to be more wall/stucco around dormer window?
Q
Comments (6)
ok. thanks! i figured he was, but just wanted to be sure. it still looks off to me, but oh well. these aren't the kind of dormers that are sunken into the roof, right?
...See More
Need help with dormer
Q
Comments (3)
The architect would be working with all the necessary information and could quickly draw several solutions in a 3D computer model of the house. For me to try to propose something from the information you have shown would probably put the design process off track. Let the pros do what they do best.
...See More
Need dormer window treatment advice.
Q
Comments (2)
I think as long as you keep the exterior color consistent, it's fine. The window over the foyer isn't going to match unless you're going to get up and down a ladder every night to raise or lower a shade, which you're not. In that case, I'd just use a fully retractable window cover, like the roller shade or duettes so that, at least, during the day when you're most likely to see them, the windows will be largely clear. If you do choose to put a valance over the bedroom windows to hide the shades, then you may wish to put one of the same shape over the foyer window as well...they don't need to match color on the interior, but make sure the exterior lining is the same.
...See More
Upstairs dormer- opinions on window placement?
Q
Comments (16)
Also my husband and I agree with you about the window placement. Thank you ! Edit: Serious Question: Are we potentially setting ourselves up for failure by trying to align the upstairs and downstairs windows? I’m worried that if the contractor is off by a few feet or even inches, it will look very sloppy and accidental. I have a lot of faith in my contractor, I just like to plan for the worst. Would I be saving myself a headache by making it look like the windows are more offset upstairs intentionally?
...See More

Related Stories

REMODELING GUIDES Widen Your Space Options With a Dormer Window

By Bud Dietrich, AIA

Small wonders: Bump out your upper floor with a doghouse, shed or eyebrow dormer — we give you the benefits and budget tips

WINDOWS Diamond Muntins Help Windows Look Sharp

By Rachel Grace

As the real deal or a decorative grille, diamond window muntins show attention to detail and add traditional flair

REMODELING GUIDES How Small Windows Help Modern Homes Stand Out

Amid expansive panes of glass and unbroken light, smaller windows can provide relief and focus for modern homes inside and out

REMODELING GUIDES Replace vs. Restore: The Great Window Debate

By Lindsey M. Roberts

Deciding what to do with windows in disrepair isn't easy. This insight on the pros and cons of window replacement or restoration can help

REMODELING GUIDES Renovation Detail: The Eyebrow Dormer

By Rachel Grace

Breaking up a straight roofline with curvy appeal, eyebrow dormer windows add a dramatic touch to a home's exterior architecture

REMODELING GUIDES Renovation Detail: The Shed Dormer

By Rachel Grace

To expand living space and maximize light at the top of a home, consider adding a shed dormer to the architecture

DESIGN DICTIONARY Eyebrow Dormer

This well-named window lifts a facade and brings light and air to the space inside

WINDOW TREATMENTS Great Ways to Dress a Bay Window

By Becky Dietrich, Interior Designer

If you’re hemming and hawing over curtains and shutters — or nothing at all — these bay window treatment ideas can help

WINDOW TREATMENTS How to Choose the Right Window Shades

By Becky Dietrich, Interior Designer

Should you roll with rollers or do as the Romans do? This mini guide to choosing window shades can help

DECORATING GUIDES How to Choose the Right Window Treatment

By The Inman Company

If the array of curtains, shades and shutters for windows is leaving you baffled about the best choice, here's professional help

Sponsored

T. Walton Carr, Architects

Franklin County's Preferred Architectural Firm | Best of Houzz Winner

More Discussions

Marvin Window Wood Choice With Red Oak Floors

3

Provia Entry Door Price?

3

Exterior Inspo Please! New Windows…

1

hey there I’m looking for someone to install exterior shutters

0

Renewal By Andersen Review Window installation.

0