It’s all well and good to talk about the functional aspects of new doors and windows. You understand the reasons for getting windows that will better protect your home’s climate control or a door that provides improved safety. And yet, there are so many options out there, and they all look very different.
How can you possibly find new doors and windows that match the carefully-curated aesthetics of your home?
It can be overwhelming to find something you’ll be confident that you’ll like the look of for years and years to come. At SoCo Wood & Windows, we understand how overwhelming it can be to think through each step of your new project. That’s why we’ve not only created a guide for you, “10 Things to Consider When You’re Thinking About New Windows and Doors,” but we’re also breaking some of those things down for you in this current blog series.
Today, we’re going to take you through a crash course in interior and exterior design so that you can be confident that when you choose new doors and windows for your home, you’ll love the aesthetics.
1. Consider the architectural (exterior design) style of your home.
While it’s definitely an option to mix design styles, most people are happier with their design aesthetic in the long run when they choose to match the design style of their new windows or door to the existing design style of their home. For example, if your home is a newer, modern design, you may want to look for sleek fiberglass window frames with large glass panels. On the other hand, if your home is Victorian-styled, you may want to consider circle bay windows.
This is also an important choice for resale value. If you think you may list your home in the next several years, windows and doors that are thoughtfully coordinated to the home’s design style has a far stronger curb appeal—and therefore a far stronger chance of selling well.
2. Consider the design elements of your home.
It’s not only important to consider the design style of your home; you should also look carefully at what other design elements you can find in and on your home. For example, does your home have wood siding or brick elements? Does your home have gables or gothic arches or a butterfly roof?
After you think through your home’s design elements, think through which of these elements can be easily changed (like paint), and which would be highly difficult or even impossible to change (like rooflines). Then, consider which of these you want to change (if any) and which you are content to leave the same. For example, you may want to replace your shutters but keep the balcony or arches.
After you’ve decided which design elements are permanent pieces to your home’s aesthetic, you’ll want to research different window and door styles that coordinate well with your home’s design elements. For example, you probably would want to avoid circular windows in your door if your home’s exterior has lots of clean lines and sharp angles; you’d probably also avoid a heavy wooden front door on a modern home style.
3. Consider the location of your home (and how much you want to blend in).
While there are some neighborhoods out there that are purely eclectic, most neighborhoods have at least a baseline aesthetic. Some neighborhoods even use Home Owner’s Associations to guarantee this aesthetic is maintained. Before making major design decisions for your home, be sure to check whether or not you have bylaws you must abide by for an HOA.
If you don’t, you must then decide how much you want your home to blend in or stand out in your neighborhood. Here there is no real right or wrong, especially if you choose something visually pleasing. However, it’s important to remember that just because you love it, that doesn’t mean others will. If you’re planning to remain in your home a long time, this doesn’t really matter. On the other hand, if you are planning to sell in the next few years, it’s a good idea to get the perspective of a real estate agent on how much you can push the boundaries of standing out in your neighborhood.
And don’t forget—if you stand out too much, you could hurt the overall appeal of your neighborhood and irritate your neighbors with your choices. Very few design choices are worth bad relations with your neighbors.
4. Consider other homes you love—and hate.
Take time to think through the homes you’ve seen or been in that you have just absolutely loved—or hated. Why did you have such a strong emotional reaction to these homes? Try to think through what design choices these homeowners made. Were there windows or doors that you knew you just had to have (or stay away from)? Would they work in the overall architectural design of your home? If so, this would be a great place to start in your ordering process when you talk to an installer.
5. Consider getting an expert opinion when adding new doors and windows.
There are a lot of windows and doors out there. Don’t feel like you need to make this decision solely on your own. It’s always a good idea to consult an expert. We’ve got several on hand who’d be happy to talk with you. Schedule a call today.
