Choosing a style of window is tough with so many options on the market. That said, you can narrow down your options by looking at the architectural style of your home. The window style you choose should complement the home design, not contrast with it. Here are a few popular home styles in Lake Oswego, OR and the surrounding areas and the windows you should consider pairing with them.
Tudor
These style homes are roughly based on early English building traditions of the Renaissance. Some distinctive features include steeply pitched roofs, exposed beams interspersed with stucco, brick and stone exteriors, and large, elaborate chimneys. These homes often feature a combination of tall, narrow windows with dark wood trim. For these homes, we often recommend casement windows. These tall windows hinge on one side and open outward with a hand crank. You might also look at bay windows to use on the first or second story.
Cape Cod
This architectural style originated in 17th century New England. The design was inspired by the small cottages that dotted the English countryside. Typically these homes have one-and-half stories and a side-gabled, steeply pitched roof. The traditional and often unornamented style means you want to stick with single-hung or double-hung windows. These tall, rectangular windows create length in homes where the ceiling height is typically low. To keep them traditional, you should choose windows with mullions to create a multi-pane look.
Craftsman/Bungalow
This affordable housing option swept across America in the early 20th century. It was a large part of the Arts & Crafts movement. These homes often feature shallow pitched roofs, a mixture or materials, and exposed rafter tails. They also have an open floorplan and ample natural light. For this style, you want to stick with symmetrical window and door compositions. The predominant window style is double-hung windows with wood or wood veneer interiors. Grilles, like the windows, are often vertical in proportion. Casement windows in Lake Oswego, OR are another common option.
Old Portland/Four Square
These homes were typically built on the inner East Side of Portland in the late 1800’s until about 1930. They have a strong, simple style and were very well built. You can easily recognize this style by the large, square exterior. They are called Four Square because they have four rooms on both levels with the stairs in the middle. They feel a bit like farmhouses with simple trim and structural design. In front, you will find larger, single light windows. Otherwise, the rest are likely double-hung.
Ranch/Split Level
These long, single story structures became popular after World War II. The style can easily adopt elements from other architectural styles. Most often, they feature large windows, especially if you like the more contemporary style. The large glass panes let in the most natural light and open up an incredible view. Casement windows and horizontal sliders are also in line with the design of these homes.
Modern
Last, modern architectural style features clean lines, lots of light, and smooth surfaces. Strip all the ornamentation away and you have the modern style. You might see multiple window units arranged in irregular groupings, but more often you will see simple forms where function outweighs style. So choose windows with narrow frames and large panes. Horizontal sliders are popular as are large windows arranged in rectangular groupings.
To check out some of these styles visit our showroom, 516 E. 2nd St., Newberg, OR 97132. Or for a free in-home consultation with our designers call 503-554-5500. Our experts at EnergyGuard Windows & Doors have over 40 years of experience serving residents in Lake Oswego, OR and surrounding areas. That is why we get the job done right.