A corner window is an attractive choice for the home. When should you choose corner windows? What are their advantages and disadvantages? How to choose the best? What does their installation look like? We present the most important information about corner windows.
The selection of window products is decisive. They are responsible not only for the penetration of natural light into the interior, but also must have the necessary properties to provide thermal insulation. Of course, the materials used are also important, as they must be strong, durable and easy to use.
What is a corner window?
A corner window is a type of window frame designed to be installed in the corner of a house. Thanks to it, more natural light penetrates into the interior. It also gives the premises an attractive modern look without the need for reinforced concrete structures. As a result, the house takes on a light, elegant look. To install a corner window, it is necessary to design it correctly, including from the point of view of strengthening the ceiling and structure. Therefore, the use of a window in the corner of the house should be considered at the stage of choosing or drawing up a project.
Corner windows for single-family homes can now be found in the inventory of many window millwork manufacturers. Usually they are made to order, after taking measurements. Thanks to this, they are ideally suited to the home in which they will be installed.
Features of the corner device
When installing windows, you need to take into account certain details and comply with safety conditions:
- during installation, a reinforced concrete frame is required to reduce the load on the glass;
- to increase the level of energy conservation, you need to use thermal inserts in the connectors;
- A corner window is often included in the house design to calculate the size of the beams and the depth of the support.
A corner window is appropriate in a frame house due to its lightweight design.
How are corner windows arranged?
The design of corner windows depends on their type, but they contain the same elements that are used for the production of conventional wooden products - profile, frame, glazing, fittings. Window profiles in corner windows are placed along the periphery of the windows. Because corner windows must withstand heavy loads, they are constructed using stronger glass than conventional windows.
A window located in a corner is more susceptible to mechanical and thermal stress due to temperature changes, so they are made of tempered glass. Depending on the type of window, they can be either double or triple glazed. A variety of corner window options for a single-family home allow you to create a design that meets your individual needs.
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.
Characteristics of corner windows
Corner windows have a special design due to their installation location. Both windows of standard height and windows with high glazing are used, that is, balcony and terrace windows. The variety of designs means that corner windows in a private home can be tailored exactly to the users' expectations. We can divide them into:
- materials from which they are made - PVC windows, wooden windows, aluminum windows, wood-aluminum windows,
- type of corner connection - corner profile, as well as connection with a step, i.e. gluing double-glazed windows in the corner with special glue,
- opening windows,
- number of double glazed windows,
- additional features such as sliding door design, burglary resistant windows, energy efficient and passive windows.
In the living room
In a rectangular living room, a corner window will help to effectively highlight a relaxation area with soft sofas, sitting on which it is so pleasant to watch the rain or snowfall. An equally impressive option is the dining area, especially if the window is panoramic. In this case, the dining table is complemented by a chandelier in the style of the rest of the interior.
If the living room has a more complex layout than a rectangle, there may be two corner windows. When such a room faces south, it is important to provide protection against overheating. There are several ways to protect yourself from the heat and protect your furniture from fading: stick a special sun-protective film on the glass, install external roller shutters, or order double-glazed windows with built-in blinds.
Source dam.nmhmedia.sk
What materials are corner windows made from?
Various materials are used to produce corner windows, which also affects their properties and purchase price. Types of corner windows by material:
- PVC,
- wooden,
- aluminum,
- wood-aluminium.
PVC corner windows
This is the cheapest option. Made from multi-chamber plastic profiles. They are highly durable, resistant to external factors and do not require long-term maintenance. PVC windows can be used both in smaller formats and as large format windows - for large glazing. There are different colors to choose from.
Windows are standard white, but they can also be grey, black or wood-look. Among the disadvantages is difficult repairs. If the plastic profiles are scratched or otherwise damaged, the entire window will need to be replaced. In addition, lower quality products are more susceptible to warping, so it is important to choose joinery from a good manufacturer.
Wooden corner windows
Corner windows are also made from wood. This is a natural material that, after proper finishing, provides a number of advantages. Wooden windows have an elegant look. They are rigid and therefore suitable for large glazing. In case of local damage, wooden profiles can be repaired.
The disadvantages include the need for their systematic care, especially from the outside. Although windows come factory-sealed, wood deteriorates over time. It is mainly affected by UV radiation, precipitation, low and high temperatures. Every few years the wood should be protected with special means. When wooden frames are installed in a damp area, such as a bathroom, they must also be protected. Moreover, wooden windows are more expensive than PVC windows.
Aluminum corner windows
Another option is aluminum corner windows. In this case, the frame is made of metal - aluminum, which gives it certain properties. Modern aluminum windows are durable and do not require special maintenance. They are also lightweight and rigid, making them a good alternative to PVC and wood. The cost of aluminum windows is not inferior to wooden ones.
Wooden-aluminum corner windows
Wooden and aluminum corner windows are also available for sale. These are windows with a double structure - a wooden frame and an aluminum frame located on the outside. The wood visible from the inside gives the interior a cozy look, while the aluminum frame on the outside protects it from the harmful effects of weather conditions. This makes wooden-aluminum windows stronger and more durable, as well as less demanding to operate than wooden windows. Wood and aluminum joinery also have very good insulating properties. The main disadvantage is their high price.
Examples of using observation windows in different rooms
Panoramic windows are universal; they fit organically into the interior of absolutely any room: children’s room, bedroom, living room, guest room. The main thing is that there are two conditions:
- The ability to build such an opening into the structure of the house.
- A beautiful view that will be enjoyed by the household.
As for stylistic compatibility, French windows are suitable even for strict classics, but combinations with Provence, Art Nouveau, minimalism, high-tech, Scandinavian and eco style are considered the most advantageous.
Living room
The living room is especially cozy with a fireplace and a separate corner by the viewing window with a low couch strewn with cushions. The niche under the miniature sofa can be filled with books, thus creating a small place for reading. If the opening does not reach the floor, then it can be called French only symbolically, although it retains all the advantages of the original (except for access to the street). A French window is usually located behind the back of the sofa, which is the center of the design composition. This arrangement requires admiring the opening landscape while standing, but the problem can be solved by choosing an unusual design sofa with a double back. Thus, the owners will have twice as many “seated” places for guests at their disposal. You can separate a corner by the panoramic window with the help of a podium, on which a picturesque composition of a pair of armchairs and a coffee table is installed.
Bedroom
The bedroom should be cozy with a peaceful interior that promotes good rest and sound sleep. Viewing windows will help you fall asleep with a beautiful view of the street before your eyes. Traditionally, a panoramic wall is located on the side of the bed, as the headboard faces a blank wall with a TV. In the morning you can wake up bathed in the sun's rays, which guarantees a good mood and tone for the whole day. If the room is located in a corner, you can decorate it with a long modular window that will cover two walls at once. Such a project must be carefully developed by a professional, since the load on the structure will be colossal. If we are talking about an attic bedroom, then panoramic windows will be advantageously combined with openings on the roof that offer views of the clear sky. In such an attic space you will be able to immerse yourself in nature. Household members will experience a particularly pleasant feeling during rain.
Kitchen and dining room
Households spend the lion's share of their free time in the kitchen. One way or another, this is where tea parties, short breaks while preparing dinner and intimate conversations take place. The presence of a panoramic window in this room will give the kitchen decoration a special coziness and flavor. When eating, it is important for a person to have an optimistic psychological attitude. To ensure a good appetite, in the design of the dining room they try to avoid the use of dark, cold tones and flashy, tacky details. The natural landscape is perceived by a person as a composition with an ideal combination of colors, which helps to lift the mood while eating.
In combined rooms, the dining area is often arranged near the bay window. The open look, and even with the multifaceted geometry of the frame, will become a stylish addition to the interior.
Cabinet
In the man’s office, strict panoramic windows with transparent glass and solid pleated blinds are installed. Wooden frames will set off the expensive leather upholstery of the chairs. In the girl’s studio, the French windows are decorated with panel curtains or flirty curtains made of airy organza. In order not to lose the opportunity to contemplate the landscape, the workplace should not be “hidden” inside the room. The conditional center is moved closer to the main decoration of the interior so that you can work in natural light, which is more than enough.
Bathroom
Many may consider it inappropriate to place observation windows in the bathroom, where what is happening must be hidden from the views of strangers from the street. The problem is easily solved with the help of curtains, blinds or stained glass. It is better to place a bathtub or jacuzzi in front of the structure. In order to drown in flakes of foam without a shadow of embarrassment, the windows should overlook the backyard of your own property. In luxury apartments, this improvised door leads to a pool or sauna, where you can continue your water treatments.
Corner windows - types of corners
The corner in corner windows can be made using various technologies. This affects the appearance of the window, as well as its thermal insulation parameters.
Corner profile
This is the cheapest option among corner windows. They are equipped with a special profile - which is placed in the corner. Corner windows with a mullion are aesthetically pleasing, but the use of such an element can obstruct the view. Therefore, if you want a beautiful view without being limited, the solution may be to buy a window without profiles.
A corner window with a stand, in addition to its low price, has additional advantages. They also have better thermal insulation parameters and do not limit heat loss,
Corner windows with gluing
The second option is windows with a step, that is, with glued glazing. Otherwise, they are also called columnless windows or laminated corner windows. The step, that is, the connection between the glasses, is made by putting one glass unit on another. Then the free space is filled with special spacer cables and additionally sealed with special glue with increased mechanical strength.
For an aesthetic effect, silicone or ceramic enamel is used, placed along the edges of the glass. Corner windows with gluing allow much more natural light into the interior and give an attractive aesthetic effect. The lack of a wide profile means that nothing obscures your eyes when you look out the window. However, it is worth remembering that in this case it is impossible to open and close the window. In addition, they have reduced thermal insulation compared to corner profile windows. They should also be custom designed when the house is exposed to strong winds. Then it is important to use reinforced glass construction to reduce the risk of damage.
Ways to enhance energy efficiency
Systems without an impost have lower thermal insulation parameters than window structures with an impost. Indeed, in systems with a corner element, thermal insulation is structurally supported.
And with glazing without an impost, only seals retain heat. By the way, in very large structures with an impost, there are thermal inserts in the profiles of the system connectors to enhance energy saving.
Corner window structures with system connectors are sometimes installed in the thermal insulation layer of the wall. This installation technology increases energy-saving properties.
Note! The highest thermal characteristics will be achieved by constructing a walled corner element and its subsequent insulation with insulating materials. Although the window will acquire a visual effect of monumentality instead of lightness.
If you prefer warmth and aesthetics, then it is better to choose a blind corner device without an impost. It will provide the most effective standard thermal insulation - fixed glazing.
Glass connection in corner windows
In the case of stepped (glued) windows, the connection is made at a right angle, that is, 90 degrees. However, when a corner window is mounted using pillars - profiles, the connections can be made at a different angle. A corner window equipped with a profile can be connected at an angle of up to 210 degrees, which allows you to create various designs. You can also use them to create other designs suitable for your home. The manufacturer will then create an appropriate design that takes into account architectural features.
Recommendations for design
The decoration of the walls in the design of a living room with two windows is not much different from the standard one, with the only exception - thanks to the large light flux, you can use dark colors even in a small living room.
However, if the windows are small or you like bright spaces, choose decorative wallpaper or paint in neutral shades - white, sand, gray, pastel. And the accents can be anything: from contrasting yellow or red, to deep blue or black.
An original design will be created by photo wallpaper pasted on the opposite or adjacent wall.
The color scheme for ceiling repairs is as light as possible, preferably white. Especially if the walls are made in dark colors. The light will reflect from the ceiling and illuminate the entire space of the hall.
Advice! To make the reflection stronger, order glossy stretch ceilings.
In the photo there is a separation between the bedroom and the living room by a partition
Don’t forget about lighting: in rooms with high ceilings and panoramic windows, massive chandeliers that attract attention would be appropriate. A more modest living room can be illuminated with miniature ceiling lights, spotlights or track lamps.
Advice! If you need access from the hall to the second floor, place a staircase near the windows. This way you don’t have to think about anything with the arrangement of furniture and you can admire the view of your territory every time you go up or down.
Where should corner windows be used?
Corner windows have a wide range of uses—they can be used in almost any single-family home. They primarily perform a decorative function, but also have a practical application - they illuminate the interior. Corner windows, as well as corner verandas and balcony doors will show themselves in any room. They are used in particular in living rooms, bedrooms, kitchens and kitchenettes and even bathrooms. They can look attractive in any room located in the corner of the house. Of course, when deciding where to install a corner window, consider the views facing the outside. Therefore, you should not decide to install such carpentry when the panorama is not very attractive, for example, it will lead to other buildings or an alley.
It is worth noting that windows in the corner can be used in both energy-efficient and passive houses. Typically, then, models with a profile are used, since they are characterized by an increased level of thermal insulation and therefore prevent excessive heat loss. To prevent large glazing from causing a significant deterioration in the thermal insulation parameters of the house, it should be installed on the south or east side. Then it will provide a lot of daylight and at the same time heat, which will naturally warm the house. To make the effect of such passive insulation even better, special low-emissivity coatings are used on the glass. A window with such a coating allows heat to enter the room, but prevents unnecessary heat loss.
Panoramic windows in the kitchen
In the kitchen, the type of openings depends on the area next to which the window is installed:
- Near the dining area, it is advisable to use windows located at a height of about 50 cm from the floor. At the level of the lower edge of the window, it is advisable to equip benches on which you can sit at the table, and under them place cabinets for kitchen utensils.
- Windows with a lower edge 80 cm from the floor are universal - they are placed around the entire perimeter of the kitchen space, but they look especially good above work tables. It is convenient to place kitchen sofas under them without worrying about how they will look outside the room.
- Narrow windows in the kitchen are placed above the work area: they create a natural source of light and are easily cleaned of various contaminants, so they are an excellent replacement for a tiled surface.
If there are many panoramic windows in the kitchen, then you may encounter the problem of lack of space for hanging cabinets.
An elegant way out of the situation would be to place several tiers of shelves attached to the ceiling or to the inter-window partitions against the background of glazing.
Modern and classic corner windows
Thanks to their modern look, they are used in modern homes. However, they also look great as glazing in houses with classical architecture. Modern spaces are most often complemented by large glazing, which allows a large amount of natural sunlight inside and opens up a beautiful panorama outside.
In the case of classical buildings, they often take the form of a span, that is, a fragment protruding from a façade equipped with windows. In a bay window, you can use corner windows connected at an angle of 90 degrees or at an obtuse angle. Also popular are windows with muntin bars, that is, slats placed on glass, which give woodwork a classic country house look. The corner window can also have different colors, which further allows it to be adapted to the interior design. Currently, windows with black and gray profiles are very popular,
This category also includes corner terraces and balcony doors. They are taller and can be used as a transition to the garden, terrace and balcony. Terrace and balcony doors with an angled design are often used as part of larger glazing, creating the effect of a glass wall. They allow much more natural light into the interior.
Other nuances of interior design with panoramic windows
Lighting looks very beneficial in combination with panoramic window designs.
Spotlights can be placed at the top along the windows, which will emphasize their height and further visually enlarge the room.
In combination with large window openings, interiors with an abundance of natural materials look win-win: feel free to use parquet floors, wooden furniture, elements of masonry on the walls, etc.
A great idea is to use large or narrow panoramic windows to zone a room.
You can place a dining table near one window, and a sofa and armchairs near the other, thereby creating two zones: for relaxing and for eating.
You can separate them using different ceiling levels and different floor coverings.
If you use mirrors and glass elements (partitions, tables, etc.) in such interiors, you can get very interesting effects.
The space will sparkle with many beautiful highlights and become “lighter”.
So, panoramic windows provide a large number of options for decorating the interior space of the house.
Despite the fact that such designs are characterized by certain disadvantages, for example, increased heat loss, they can be easily eliminated with the help of modern technologies.
Having thought through the heating system, you will have the opportunity to enjoy the view from the window in your apartment or in your own cottage.
Advantages and disadvantages of corner windows
Currently, interest in corner windows is constantly growing. They are readily installed in new single-family houses, especially with modern architecture. Thus, the use of large glazing allows you to create a stylish effect of panoramic walls with views of the surrounding area.
Advantages of corner windows:
- let a lot of natural light into the interior - the larger the glazing, the better the lighting effect,
- give the house an attractive appearance - increase its elegance and prestige,
- They go well with many rooms - they can be installed in living rooms, bedrooms, bathrooms,
- they give the effect of optically enlarging rooms - even with a smaller area,
- good for installation on every floor,
- they fit into various architectural styles - they are most often chosen for modern houses, but they are also found in classic ones, for example, as decorative bay windows,
- they can be equipped with doors - they allow easy access to the garden, balcony or terrace,
- Available in many variants - they can be individually adapted to your home and to your taste.
Disadvantages of corner windows:
- longer wait for carpentry products - made to order,
- higher costs - you will have to pay more for corner windows in the house than for regular window frames,
- require proper design of the house - the project must include corner joinery, including loads, lintels,
- professional installation is required - corner windows must be installed by a qualified team, especially for glued windows,
- they can reduce the thermal insulation parameters of the house - this mainly applies to corner windows with a glued construction, i.e. with a step,
- Greater susceptibility to wind pressure is the reason why these windows must be further strengthened in certain areas.
Advantages and disadvantages
The advantages and disadvantages of living rooms with two windows lie on the surface.
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How much do corner windows cost?
Prices associated with purchasing corner windows vary because many factors influence the cost of producing them. However, they are more expensive than regular windows, which should be taken into account when choosing a home design. Typically, the price of a smaller corner window starts at about 20,000 rubles.
The cheapest option is to buy a corner window with a profile connecting the glass in the corner. The price for this type of joinery is usually 30-40% lower than for corner laminated windows. You'll also pay less for windows that are fixed, meaning they can't be opened. You also need to consider the additional costs of windows with custom colors. When planning corner glazing, it is also worth remembering that the price is greatly influenced by the quality of the joinery. You will have to pay up to 50% more for corner windows from the best manufacturer than for windows from another manufacturer. The cost of windows varies individually, so it is best to contact several companies involved in their implementation. Depending on the size and arrangements, the worker will be able to provide a price for the carpentry.
Advantages of angled windows
A room with corner windows looks very unusual, and in addition, panoramic glazing has a number of advantages :
- With corner windows, the view of the view outside the window becomes wider, this is especially appreciated if the house is surrounded by beautiful nature.
- Panoramic glazing provides the room with good illumination, so even on a cloudy day it is possible to save on electricity.
- At the window installation stage, you can play with their shape, size, and sash height, which will allow you to create an original design.
- The glazing can be made asymmetrical, which will look unusual and original.
- Corner glazing can be made from windows of standard dimensions, then the whole work will cost less and be easier to complete.
How to choose the right corner window?
Corner window frames are available in various options. Before placing an order for its implementation, it is worth taking time to familiarize yourself with the manufacturers' proposals. Currently, offers are available on manufacturers' websites, but it is best to schedule an appointment with a representative to get professional advice on choosing the right wood products and get a quick quote. When choosing a corner window, consider the following:
- adapting the window to the design of the house and the appearance of the interior,
- window size - large glazing is more efficient and illuminates the interior better, but is associated with a higher purchase price,
- materials from which the windows were made, which affects their properties and operation,
- a method of opening a window, for example, a tilting, sliding window - windows can also be purchased in a cheaper version without closing, i.e. fixed,
- The level of insulation of windows, which is expressed by the heat transfer coefficient, depends, in particular, on the materials used, the number of glasses in the package,
- additional properties of corner windows in a private house,
- warranty for corner windows.
Based on these parameters, you can choose a corner window for your home, which will become an effective addition to the living room, bedroom or other interior. If you have problems making a decision, you should also consult with a specialist - he will advise which design solutions are suitable in a particular case.
Options for arranging furniture in rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows
When arranging a furniture set, such colorful decoration of the room as a panoramic window must be taken into account. Most often, the area in front of it is completely cleared so that there is no interference with free access to the street. At a distance of half a meter, you can place a small seating area for two, which will allow you to enjoy the scenery while drinking tea or reading a book. Massive furniture (mainly sofas) is usually turned with its back to the window and placed at a distance, since relaxing on it involves watching TV. Storage systems, shelving and cabinets are installed around the perimeter of the room, but not close to the wall where the panoramic window is located, since the effect of expanding the space may be lost due to such visual load.
French windows often decorate expensive apartments in skyscrapers, where it would be a shame to lose such a luxurious view, dusted with clouds. In ordinary city apartments, a popular option is one with access to a loggia or balcony, where there is a relaxation area or a home greenhouse. Many designers believe that panoramic windows are the future, since the concept of openness not only remains popular, but is also constantly evolving, erasing the remaining boundaries. The unique design is good because it allows you to be at home all the time and at the same time feel in harmony with nature, which constantly appears before your eyes in all its glory.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xuGxV04JhPQ
Decorating window openings
It is impossible to imagine a modern living room interior design without drapery, and even more so, a room in which there are two windows. However, it is important to take into account that the curtains must be harmoniously combined with the decoration of the furniture, sofa cushions and bedspread. Only thanks to the correct combination of all interior items can you count on a beautiful, stylish and cozy living room.
If the hall serves not only as a living room, but also as a bedroom, then one window opening should be draped with light-proof fabric or stylish blinds.
Decorating window openings must be done in such a way that the curtains do not fall out of the interior of the entire room. So, for example, in a living room of a classic style, when decorating windows, it is necessary to maintain symmetry.
In addition, in a room with a classic interior, it is best to use the same drapery, preferably in light shades. In a living room whose interior is decorated in a modern style, curtains with a 3-d pattern will look great.
Lighting
Well-chosen lighting can transform a living room. Moreover, in a large living room it is not at all necessary to limit yourself to a volumetric chandelier and a floor lamp; currently there are many varieties of a wide variety of spotlights and LED strips.
Soft, diffused light, as an additional option to the main lighting fixtures, will help make the living room interior more comfortable and sophisticated, adding a touch of romance to it.
A large, spacious living room or hall combined with a kitchen, balcony or bedroom is perfect for zoning into functional areas, and lighting plays an important role in this.