In 2025, kitchen windows aren’t just about letting light in – they play a huge role in the overall look and feel of your space. Whether you’re looking to maximize natural light, improve ventilation, or just add a bit of charm, the right window style can make all the difference. Here are five popular window types for kitchens, each offering something unique:
1. Sliding Windows
Sliding windows are a practical choice for kitchens where space is tight. They open horizontally, saving you from the hassle of swinging open traditional windows. Perfect for smaller spaces, sliding windows are easy to operate and maintain, making them a common feature in modern kitchen designs. They’re especially useful when you need a simple yet efficient solution for letting in fresh air.
2. Awning Windows
Awning windows are hinged at the top, allowing them to open outward at an angle. This clever design keeps rain out while providing a steady breeze – making them ideal for placement above a kitchen sink. You can enjoy fresh air, even during a drizzle, without worrying about water splashing in. If you live in a rainy area, this window style will work wonders.
3. Garden Windows
Garden windows are like little mini greenhouses in your kitchen. They extend outward, giving you extra space to showcase plants, herbs, or just some pretty decor. These windows not only bring more natural light into your kitchen but also add a touch of greenery and life. Perfect for those who want to add a cozy and functional window right above their sink area.
4. Arched Windows
For a touch of elegance and old-world charm, arched windows are a fantastic choice. Their graceful curves make them a standout feature in traditional or country-style kitchens. Arched windows bring a sense of warmth and openness to your kitchen, providing ample light while adding a soft, decorative touch.
5. Louvered Windows
Louvered windows are designed with adjustable slats, allowing you to control how much air and light come through. If you’re in a climate that calls for constant ventilation, these windows are ideal. They’re especially useful in warmer kitchens, as they let in fresh air without letting in too much heat. Plus, they’re easy to clean and offer a sleek, modern look that suits almost any style.
6. Bay Windows
Bay windows are perfect for adding both light and extra space to your kitchen. These windows extend outward from the wall, creating a cozy nook inside. They allow more sunlight into the room, making your kitchen feel brighter and more open. Bay windows are often found in traditional and Victorian-style homes, but they can work in modern designs too. Whether used for seating, a small herb garden, or just extra space, bay windows offer both practical and aesthetic benefits.
7. Fixed Windows
Fixed windows are simple, sleek, and functional – they don’t open, but they let in plenty of light. Ideal for areas where ventilation isn’t a primary concern, fixed windows are often used to frame a view or brighten a room. These windows are perfect for kitchens where you want large glass panes to let in natural light without worrying about opening and closing them. Fixed windows are often seen in contemporary kitchens, offering a clean look with expansive views of the outdoors.
8. Round Windows
Round windows are an unconventional choice that adds a touch of whimsy and character to your kitchen. While they aren’t as common as other window types, they can be a fun focal point in modern or artistic kitchens. Round windows can be used as accent pieces or in areas where you want a bit of personality. They work especially well in spaces with curves, like in kitchens designed with soft, flowing lines. These windows provide a unique way to let in light and add charm to the overall design.
9. Double-Hung Windows
Double-hung windows are a classic choice that allows for flexible ventilation. Both the top and bottom sashes can be moved up or down, making them a versatile option for regulating airflow. They are particularly popular in traditional kitchens and older homes, but their clean lines also suit modern designs. These windows are easy to clean and can be opened from the top to allow warm air to escape while keeping the bottom sealed. Double-hung windows are great for kitchens that need both practicality and a touch of timeless style.
10. Single-Hung Windows
Single-hung windows are a more straightforward option compared to their double-hung counterparts. They have a fixed top sash, and only the bottom sash moves. This design is a great space-saving choice, especially in kitchens where you have limited room to open windows. While they don’t provide the same level of ventilation as double-hung windows, they still offer easy functionality and are often found in older, traditional homes. Their simple design fits well with various kitchen styles, from classic to contemporary.
11. Casement Windows
Casement windows are hinged on the side, allowing them to swing open like a door. They’re particularly popular in older homes and are widely favored for their simplicity and practicality. These windows are perfect for kitchens where you need excellent ventilation, especially in homes with larger windows or those that experience warmer climates. The clean design also makes them easy to match with both traditional and modern kitchen styles, offering both airflow and easy access to cleaning.
12. Skylight Windows
Skylights are becoming more common in kitchens as people look to maximize natural light. They’re perfect for spaces that don’t have a lot of wall space for traditional windows, such as kitchen islands or areas with high ceilings. In addition to letting in light, skylights can also provide passive ventilation, helping to circulate air in your kitchen. They’re especially popular in European designs, where they’re often used to create bright, open kitchen spaces that feel connected to the outdoors.
13. Tilt and Turn Windows
Tilt and turn windows are extremely popular in Europe, known for their versatility and ease of use. These windows can either tilt inward from the top for ventilation or fully turn open for a wider airflow. This makes them a perfect choice for kitchens that require flexibility, especially when you want to let in some fresh air while cooking. In places like Germany and the Netherlands, tilt and turn windows are often found in modern homes due to their ability to meet both functional and aesthetic needs. They also offer easy maintenance, as you can tilt them for cleaning the exterior glass from inside the home.
14. Clerestory Windows
Clerestory windows are ideal for bringing in light without sacrificing privacy, especially in homes with higher ceilings. These windows, often placed near the roofline, are common in open-concept kitchen designs where maximizing natural light is a priority. Popular in mid-century modern homes, clerestory windows help make the kitchen feel more open and spacious. They are perfect for adding light to a kitchen area without taking up valuable wall space, creating a bright, airy feel while preserving privacy.
15. Transom Windows
Transom windows are often placed above doors or larger windows and are known for their ability to add a touch of architectural flair to a kitchen. These windows let in natural light without being too intrusive, offering a subtle way to brighten up a space. They’re particularly common in older homes or buildings that want to maintain a traditional look. Transom windows are also a great option for kitchens where you want to keep things light and open but still maintain privacy, especially in city apartments or homes with limited space.
16. Accordion Windows
Accordion windows, also known as folding windows and fold-up windows, are a unique and flexible option for kitchens with limited space or a need for a larger opening. These windows feature panels that fold or slide neatly to one side, similar to the way an accordion opens and closes. They are ideal for kitchens that open up to outdoor patios or bars, allowing for a wide, seamless opening that connects your kitchen with the outside. Accordion windows are particularly popular in modern and contemporary designs, providing both style and practicality while maximizing airflow.
17. Hinged Windows
Hinged windows are a staple in European homes, particularly in Mediterranean countries where warm weather is common. These windows open outward, allowing for excellent airflow and ventilation. They’re often seen in kitchens that open to patios or gardens, where they can easily be pushed open to let in a breeze. Hinged windows are typically used in spaces where space isn’t an issue, as they require room to swing outward. They are easy to maintain and are considered a durable option for both modern and traditional kitchens.
18. Grid Windows
Grid windows, with their distinctive grid pattern, are ideal for adding a traditional or cottage-style feel to your kitchen. These windows often feature divided panes, making them a popular choice for farmhouse or rustic kitchen designs. While grid windows can limit the size of each pane, they offer a charming, nostalgic look. They are great for creating a sense of symmetry in the kitchen, and the design can work well in older homes or in areas where you want to highlight the architectural character of the space. They are also an excellent way to maintain privacy while still letting in plenty of natural light.
19. Double Glazed Kitchen Windows
Double-glazed windows are increasingly common in kitchens across colder climates, especially in regions that experience harsh winters. These windows consist of two panes of glass with a layer of air in between, providing improved insulation and soundproofing. In kitchens, this means maintaining a comfortable temperature and reducing outside noise. Double glazing is also a smart choice for energy efficiency, helping to lower heating costs. These windows are typically seen in modern homes or renovated spaces where energy-saving is a priority. They’re particularly useful in high-rise apartments where noise from the street can be a concern.
20. Jalousie Windows
Jalousie windows, are a distinctive choice for kitchens in tropical or humid climates. These windows consist of horizontal slats that can be adjusted to control airflow. They are particularly popular in warm climates like those found in the Caribbean or Southeast Asia, where ventilation is key to keeping kitchens cool and comfortable. Jalousie windows are great for kitchens that need constant airflow and are often used in outdoor kitchen areas or homes with open-plan layouts. They provide an excellent way to manage ventilation while keeping out the rain, making them ideal for kitchens in areas with high humidity.
Conclusion
When choosing the right kitchen windows, it’s important to consider both style and functionality. Each window type offers unique benefits, from maximizing natural light to improving airflow, so you can create a space that’s both beautiful and practical. Whether you’re updating your kitchen or designing from scratch, there’s a window style that fits your needs.
For the latest kitchen window designs and expert guidance, feel free to reach out to PA Home. We’re here to help you find the perfect window solutions for your kitchen.
For kitchens, sliding windows and awning windows are common choices. Sliding windows are great for spaces with limited room and are easy to operate. Awning windows are perfect for areas that need ventilation, especially above the sink, as they allow airflow even when it’s raining.
Windows are typically installed above the sink, near the work area, or in breakfast nook spaces. These locations offer natural light and good ventilation, creating a bright and airy atmosphere.
When choosing a kitchen window style, consider factors like your kitchen’s layout, space, and design style. For smaller kitchens, sliding windows are ideal due to their space-saving design. For larger kitchens or those with an open concept, consider larger windows like bay or picture windows that bring in more natural light and enhance the space.
For open-plan kitchens, larger windows like casement or bay windows work well to enhance light and create a seamless flow between the kitchen and adjoining rooms. Clerestory windows, installed higher on the wall, can bring in natural light without taking up wall space, making them ideal for open layouts.
The standard size for kitchen windows can vary based on the type of window and the layout of your kitchen. However, a typical single-hung or double-hung window size ranges from 24″ x 36″ to 36″ x 48″. For larger windows like picture or bay windows, the size can range from 48″ x 60″ to 72″ x 48″ or more, depending on the available wall space.
The price of a kitchen window can vary widely based on the window type, size, material, and features. On average, a basic single-hung or sliding window can cost anywhere from $150 to $600. Larger, more complex windows like bay or picture windows can range from $500 to $2,000 or more. Custom windows, energy-efficient models, and high-end materials like wood or fiberglass can also increase the price.
