Arched windows are truly versatile and add soft curves that complement the horizontal and vertical lines of traditional windows and doors. Also referred to as radius windows, this window style is both elegant and striking in appearance, adding a unique design element to historical, traditional and modern homes alike.
Arched windows can add architectural interest above a window or door, or function as stand-alone windows. Endless design options include quarter-circles, half-circles, full circles, ovals and ellipticals, plus custom solutions for divided lites, glass, interior and exterior finishes.
Here are 10 examples of how to incorporate arched windows into residential home designs.
Windows are an important part of a home's design – particularly when it comes to admitting natural light. Finding ways to incorporate windows into certain home styles can be challenging, such as this house with its stunning curved gable roof.
The chimney that intersects the gable prevents a rectangular window from being used. Rather than omitting windows altogether, the architect added custom curved, quarter-arched windows that follow the curve of the gable. This draws attention to a dramatic focal point and highlights the unique character of the home.
One-of-a-kind entryways make memorable first impressions, and arched windows make them even more distinctive. When an entrance does not have the width for sidelites, an arched window at the top is a great alternative that exaggerates the height of the entryway.
This design features an arched window above the entrance door to admit additional light and to showcase the vertical proportions.
Arched windows look beautiful from the exterior, but don't forget to consider how they'll affect the interior of your home. The rounded shapes and delicate lites cast soft rays of light with interesting patterns throughout your home.
This row of arched windows lets in a steady stream of light to illuminate the staircase and foyer. The architect added columns between the windows as a classic design element that adds elegance while drawing your attention upward.
A great way to add style and drama to glass patio doors is to extend the height and enlarge the opening with a half-circle arched window across the top of the doors.
The arched windows shown blend in with the patio doors to appear as one large light-filled opening.
You can also select an arched window that is operable, either as a stand-alone circle, oval or elliptical shape, or as a quarter-arch or half-circle.
The residence on the left has an oval radius window with lites and a bright splash of blue for the trim color. The home on the right has a quarter- arched radius window with lites that opens inward to admit fresh air.
Arched windows are highly customizable, which means you can create a personalized design just for your home. You can also customize the lites with a unique shape, size, style, or pattern.
This home features a small but distinctive half-circle arch with custom lites – just one example of how to be creative with arched window designs. These lites match the frame, but you can choose contrasting or custom colors to express your individual taste.
This impressive home is loaded with character and style, with three contrasting colors working together to make a bold statement. Red shingles, contrasting white trim and Coal Black window frames add depth and dimension, while the soft curve of an arched window pops even more when highlighted as shown.
Arched windows are commonly used for historical renovation or when historic authenticity and character are desired. Kolbe offers all-wood windows with custom options to help match the style and details of a historic home.
The home shown features a pair of quarter-arched operating windows with lites that adds to the character of the room.
The arch of a radius window can soften a highly structured, linear, or heavy design.
Rather than using all rectangular windows for this sturdy brick home, the architect added arched windows with curved lites to add softness to the design. The contrasting curves break out of the roofline for added dimension.
Craftsman style homes are popular in both urban and rural areas, and commonly incorporate rectangular windows with lites. Arched windows add a new spin to the Craftsman style design, while keeping with the traditional styling and details.
The arched windows shown above blend in with the style and character of the home, while also welcoming additional light.
Once synonymous with classical architecture and grand residential homes, arched windows are now seen in homes of many different styles, from Cape Cod to modern.
Whether your design requires specialty shapes and sizes, exotic wood species, divided lite patterns, or custom colors and finishes, Kolbe Windows & Doors can help bring your unique vision to life. Contact one of our representatives for more information and to find out why – We’re for the visionaries.®