Kitchen Windows: 13 Classic and Creative Ideas

If I could, I would give myself an entire wall of windows in the kitchen with an amazing view to go with it. But alas, I live in Central Austin, Texas, and my view is the side of my neighbor's house 20 feet away. Still, there's just something so pleasant about being in a window-filled room. Perhaps it goes back to our ancestors, who needed an enclosed, protective living space that also had a certain amount of openness — to view any threats looming on the horizon. While we no longer have to watch out for approaching marauders, we still feel most content having this mix of an enclosure and a view, including in our kitchens.

If you're embarking on a kitchen remodel, finding just the right spot for a window can make all the difference. Check out the tips below to help you maximize windows in the kitchen.

Over the sink. The classic location for a kitchen window or windows is right over the sink. Whether prepping food or cleaning up after a meal, we spend a good chunk of time at the kitchen sink, so it just makes sense to give yourself something to look at besides the wall. So when thinking about where to put your sink, consider your best view.

Your sink window also can serve double duty as a backsplash. Place the window just above your countertop or install a low backsplash of 4 inches just below the bottom of the window. Just make sure the bottom frame of the window gets adequately sealed against moisture intrusion.


Replace upper cabinetry. Consider forgoing upper cabinets on all or part of an exterior wall to increase the number and size of windows in your kitchen. This is an especially smart move if it affords you a nice view.

Losing storage tends to be the biggest concern homeowners have about swapping upper cabinets out for windows. One way to resolve this is to install floor-to-ceiling pantry cabinets on an interior wall. This maximizes storage space on a wall where you can't have windows to the outside. It's also an ideal area for the refrigerator.


Eliminate clutter. Here's a kitchen with a long bank of windows and absolutely no upper wall cabinets. If you have a good-size kitchen and can give yourself a large island and plenty of base cabinets, perhaps you can get by with windows instead of upper cabinets. Frankly, I'd willingly downsize the number of kitchen gadgets I own to gain such a gloriously light-filled space.


Combine with floating shelves. Give yourself windows and wall-mounted storage by installing floating shelves right over the windows. Just be sure to limit the items you place on the shelves to things that are worthy of being on display.


Maintain storage space. Be creative. There are ways to maximize windows in the kitchen that still give you ample countertop and storage space.


Opposite the island. Your guests deserve a nice view as well, so place a large section of windows opposite your island if you can.


Down low. For those who can't get by without a run of upper cabinets on an exterior wall, consider placing a window just below the cabinets. You'll still get some natural light flowing in without losing the needed storage.


Up high. Or put the windows up high on the wall, above upper cabinets if needed. This is a great option if you have an unsavory view or want some privacy without installing window treatments.


Get creative with window treatments. If you are sold on having a bank of windows at eye level in your kitchen but are concerned about less-than-desirable views, lack of privacy or glaring sun, install some simple window treatments such as pleated or roller shades. Just be sure the shade material is 100 percent polyester — or another nonabsorbent, easy-to-clean material.


Highlight architectural features. Place your windows to accent and draw attention to any interesting architectural elements or features in your kitchen.


Emphasize corners. Corner cabinets can be difficult or awkward to access, so consider installing a corner window instead.


Visually open your space. The best way to open up a smaller kitchen is to give it plenty of large windows. Yes, you'd lose potential storage space, but the positive impact of all that natural light streaming in — as well as the connection to the outdoors — would make the sacrifice worth it, in my opinion.


Salute the sun. Orientation to the sun is one oft-overlooked factor when placing windows. East-facing windows will get strong light and heat gain in the morning, and you won't have sun streaming into your eyes in the early evening when you are preparing dinner. North-facing windows bring in the least amount of light and are most susceptible to heat loss in colder climates. South-facing windows get the most sun and heat gain throughout the day — something to keep in mind if you live in a hot climate. West-facing windows mean intense afternoon sun, which could be annoying when you are attempting to prepare the evening meal.


I tend to feel that you cannot have too many windows in the kitchen, but the reality is that you'll want to weigh factors such as kitchen storage space, energy efficiency and quality of the views when determining the quantity and location of your kitchen windows.

More: Designing Your Kitchen: Where to Put the Sink

Tell us: Where did you or would you add a window in your kitchen?

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