There are numerous benefits of keeping plants indoors, from health and wellness to aesthetics, scents and more. There are also several approaches to consider if you’re going this route, and one of these that’s grown in popularity in recent years is known as the garden window.
At Rocky Mountain Windows & Doors, we’re happy to offer a huge range of door and window options to clients around Utah, including new construction windows, replacement windows and a wide variety of different window materials. What exactly is a garden window, what are some of its common benefits and uses, and what should you be thinking about from a window material and setup standpoint if you want a garden window somewhere in your home? Here are some basics.
What is a Garden Window?
As some readers may have already guessed, the term “garden window” refers to any window area that’s designated for one or more plants to grow inside it, receiving sunlight from the outdoors while providing a decorative and green touch to any room. Garden windows can be installed in kitchens, living rooms or bedrooms as well — whatever space can accommodate the window size and setup needed.
Garden windows can come in a variety of sizes and materials, with single-hung or double-hung windows being some of the most popular. No matter which type you choose, you should make sure there’s enough space around it for your plants to grow and breathe.
Benefits of Garden Windows
The biggest benefit of garden windows is that they bring in an additional level of natural light from the outside — something all plants need to grow and prosper. Because the windows are usually larger than regular house windows, they also provide ample space for your plants to flourish while still looking nice in any room.
Furthermore, garden windows add the benefits of indoor plant life to your space. These benefits range from simple aesthetics to more scientific advantages like added humidity in the air and improved moods.
For many people, a garden window also fosters a sense of responsibility and accomplishment, as the plants require regular watering and care. This can be especially rewarding for those looking to make their home spaces more natural, or who have an affinity for plant life in general.
Where to Place a Garden Window?
The answers to this question tend to vary heavily between those who are installing new windows (or even taking part in brand new home construction that includes windows) versus those who are simply choosing an existing window in their home to convert into a garden window.
New construction windows — or replacement windows in the case of remodeling — may be easier to install with the right materials, while an existing window may require some additional work and care to make sure it can handle the weight and weatherproofing of a typical garden window setup. It’s important to think about this before you start your project, and to consult with a professional if you need help.
Window Styles to Consider for Garden Windows
While any type of window can technically become a garden window if you make the right adjustments to its surroundings, a few particular types are known as the most common and useful for this purpose. These include:
- Bay windows: These are the most common type of garden window due to their large and often angled size, which gives plants plenty of area to expand.
- Bow windows: Down related lines, bow windows consist of several window units joined together at larger angles, allowing even more room for plants to grow.
- Casement windows: These hinged windows provide plenty of light and ventilation when opened — both of which can be beneficial for your plants.
- Box bay windows: If you’re looking for a more modernized approach, these rectangular boxes are a great way to combine the windows and foliage of bay windows into one sleek package.
- Deep-sill picture window: If you’re looking for a way to display your plants but don’t necessarily need the size of a bay window, these deep-sill picture windows provide plenty of space that can still fit within smaller spaces.
- Creative options: In other cases, you might get more creative with an existing window in your home. If you have a floor-to-ceiling window already installed, for instance, you might consider adding a bench midway up it, and placing plants on either side.
Window Material Considerations
If you’re involved in a new construction project, or if you’re having new windows installed with a garden window theme in mind, there are a few material considerations to keep in mind.
Wood windows are usually the best bet for this purpose, due to their natural look and feel, as well as their ability to be customized into a variety of shapes and sizes. You also don’t have to worry about wood warping or becoming too cold during winter months — something that can happen with certain metal or plastic window materials.
If you’re looking for something more energy-efficient, there are plenty of multi-pane window options out there. These types of windows come with multiple layers of glass that can be treated or tinted to meet your efficiency needs while still giving plants the sunlight they need.
Finally, if you plan on leaving the window open for extended periods of time, you should consider something with enhanced security features — such as triple-pane windows that come with an extra layer of aluminum or steel mesh between the panes. This will keep your plants safe from any critters trying to get in while still providing plenty of ventilation.
As you can see, there are a lot of considerations to keep in mind when it comes to setting up a garden window. From choosing the right material and setup for your use case, to considering local weather conditions — making sure you get all the details taken care of can be what makes or breaks your project. Always consult with a professional if necessary, and happy gardening!
At Rocky Mountain Windows & Doors, we offer a range of high-quality windows for your home or business. Whether you’re looking to install a garden window with the perfect view of your outdoor space, or something more energy efficient — our experienced team can help you find the right solution and guide you through every step of the installation process. Contact us today to learn more about this or any of our door and window products or services around Utah.