Creating Visual Interest With Transom Windows

Photo credit to nordique.

Transom windows are so named because they are located above the transom, the horizontal beam above a door that separates it from the rest of the wall. Usually found above front doors, transom windows add beautiful architectural detail to the fasade of a home. They are reminiscent of Gothic and Victorian era homes, which used these windows for decorative as well as practical purposes.

The beauty of transom windows

In turn-of-the-century architecture, the visual interest created by transom windows tied together nicely with the exterior features of bay windows, turrets, and decorative trim. Stained glass transom windows were as popular as ones with clear or etched glass. Because they did not have the convenience of electric lighting that is available to us today, people often used transom windows to let in additional daylight to their front hall.

In contemporary homes, transom windows add character and can serve as an attractive focal point of the house exterior. A transom window can be a large rectangular piece or divided by vertical strips to form multiple panes. They also come in arched or semi-circular designs, also known as fanlights. Adding stained glass to a transom window catches the eye with its splash of color and illumination. Frosted and etched glass designs also provide interesting detail to the overall exterior décor.

To further highlight your transom window, a simple idea is to install wall sconces on either side of the door or window. In the evening, the light will draw attention to your beautiful front entrance. Another idea that makes use of a large transom window is to hang a chandelier in the front hall so that the sparkling light can be seen through the window at night. If you have a good portion of wall space above the transom window, consider hanging a rectangular decorative wall grille above it to add architectural interest.

Photo credit to jeremylevinedesign.

Further advantages of transom windows

Consider transom windows especially if you have high ceilings and want to enhance the charm of a classic or Victorian style home. Not only are they good for increasing the amount of natural light in the home, but transom windows can provide welcome ventilation as well. While you can choose to have the window fixed so that it cannot be opened, having a hinged window that lets the air in is a great advantage. It can either be hinged at the bottom, to open at the top as far as the chain allows, or hinged at the top, to open at the bottom.

Installing transom windows

Transom windows can make a home look expensive and dramatically raise its curb appeal. However, installing a transom window is affordable without breaking the bank. It is similar to the cost of installing any other window and usually will utilize less glass than your other windows. On the other hand, if you want a custom made window in a fancy design, it will cost you more. Have a professional install the window to ensure alignment with the door and a perfect match with the style of your home. The transom window may turn out to be the feature of your home that you enjoy the most.