From flooring to fixtures, there are many aesthetic and functional design elements to consider when constructing a new home or office building. One of the most important decisions is selecting the right combination of windows and doors. Not only do they dictate light and energy efficiency, they also establish a visual theme for the design foundation of your home. Whether you’re simply remodeling or building your dream home, consider these 2016 trends to help you select the perfect windows and doors for your beautiful abode.

Energy Efficiency

Now consumers care more than ever about the environment—and their buying habits reflect those beliefs. The green movement is proving a larger investment for energy efficiency upfront will pay off in the long run.

Not only are we seeing an increase in windows that provide superior insulation, but we’re finding more consumers opting for larger viewing panes which invite more natural light, plus reduce costs for electricity and heat.

Modern Design

Sleek shape, hard lines, neutral colors and dark metals are in high demand for contemporary windows. By taking a more subdued approach to your window design, natural elements of the world outside can shine through and become the focal point of the room.

Emphasis on the Outdoors

New homeowners are increasingly trying to bring the outdoors in, especially on wooded or waterfront properties. To achieve this, builders are opting for large scale, floor-to-ceiling windows with easy-open features that not only welcome the sights, but the scents and sounds, of nature too.

Custom Features

This arched wood painted ceiling brings focus to an extraordinary geometric window collage in this custom Van’s home.

This arched wood painted ceiling brings focus to an extraordinary geometric window collage in this custom Van’s home.

From clothes to cars, technology and more, today’s consumers expect their belongings to reflect their own personal style. The most successful products and services allow for total customization and we’re increasingly observing this trend in homebuilding.

New homeowners seek special design features and accents—such as a pop of color, unique light fixtures or custom tray ceilings—to set their home apart from others on the block and this can easily be achieved through highly visible windows and doors.

 

 

 

 

Flexibility of Light and Privacy

This Van’s Sturgeon Bay getaway features floor-to-ceiling windows for natural light by day and Roman shades for privacy by night.

This Van’s Sturgeon Bay getaway features floor-to-ceiling windows for natural light by day and Roman shades for privacy by night.

Also part of the ultimate customizable experience is demand for complete privacy and transparency at a moments notice. Large inviting windows or patio doors with easy-to-use window treatments, such as Roman shades or vertical blinds, can give homeowners the best of both worlds.