A GUIDE TO Picture windows

Create an impactful feature, maximise the views from your home, and boost natural light with large fixed glazing

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Picture windows can be a fabulous glazed addition to a home. The large expanse of glass can capture a view of the garden or beyond, and bring in more daylight to brighten a room, landing or hallway. Made with fixed glazed panes, rather than as opening windows, they might be combined with glass exterior doors to create a spectacular wall of glazing, or they can be planned into spaces you’re upgrading or adding on to with an extension – all to dramatic effect.

And, while sizeable fixed-frame windows are an unmissable feature, even smaller takes on the picture window can make an impact by introducing more natural light and connecting the inside and outside of your home. Vertical fixed-pane glazing can optimise light in the centre of a newly extended room, while horizontal windows can provide outlooks to the garden and beyond, as well as bringing in extra daylight without compromising privacy.

Fixed-pane glazing can be used to follow the sloped sides of a gable end, taking the view up to the roof. Teamed with a window seat, it creates the perfect spot to enjoy the outside, whatever the weather. A well-placed picture window can also give a staircase an unexpected vista. And when used in double-height spaces, they can visually expand the dimensions of a lofty room even further.

When introducing a picture window, choose from double or triple glazing to help retain warmth. Different glass specifications are available, too, such as solar control to avoid overheating interiors in the summer. As for framing, non-opening windows can have super-slim ones.