Window to a structure is, what eyes are to the human body. It’s our connection to the outer world. A stressful day filled with anguish can be easily countered by just opening the window pane where you let the fresh mist stimulate your senses with heavenly vibes, or a peaceful morning where the ray of sunlight enters through the window rejuvenating your day. The virtue of a window is more than a decorative element per se; it is an ideology. Windows are the exposure of the larger world to even smaller houses. Due to its infinite benefits it can be considered as a structural marvel.
Importance of Windows
During these testing times the importance of windows is even more evident to the masses who were compelled to retreat by working from home. Consequently, exposure to the outer world was only possible through the sight of the windows.
A window is our exposure to the outer world that not just allows air, light and essential elements of life into the room but also offers us a breathtaking view and helps us develop our aesthetics of nature, along with restricting nefarious objects to enter the home.
Back in time during the medieval period, Cells without windows were used to detain criminals to deprive them of basic necessities like air sunlight etc. considering it as a punishment for their sins. Modern age people harbor a desire to acquire residences that have large amount of glazing that offer breathtaking views. A hotel room with sea view demands higher rate than the one without it.
The Evolution & the Revolution
Even though the ideology behind a window remains constant by time, starting from building holes in a structure for ventilation, window design and styles have revolutionized keeping pace with the magnitude of change and modern advancements.
There are multiple styles like the age-old Casement windows, bay windows and arch windows or the modern Sliding windows OR the revolutionary new windows offering combinations of Lift n slide, Tilt n turn/slide, & smart fold windows.
Material used also have options like Versatile n eco friendly Upvc, or Strong n weather proof – Aluminum. While some still prefer the traditional wood and steel.
However, an ideal design interface and layout for windows is the one that compliments both its interior and exterior enclosures.
Location
Just as the window is an essential part of the house, the location of the window is equally important. As Window Direction and layout influences energy consumption, a prudent decision has to be taken by the architect to firmly locate it in the right place and direction that facilitates proper ventilation and sunlight to enhance its utility quotient of energy efficiency.
Proper ventilation renders a subtle environment maintaining the climate of the internal space at optimal temperatures eventually reducing the use of air conditioners, and proper exposure to sunlight fills the room with abundance of natural light decreasing dependency on artificial lighting resulting in power saving. Moreover, People living in a home where there is lack of exposure to sunlight usually suffer health hazards associated with deficiency of Vitamin D.
The benefit of natural light and ventilation is not just confined to homes but also serve the commercial prospect like offices and workplaces as it creates a healthy working atmosphere where the fresh breeze and natural views refresh the mind and evoke positivity, passion, and compassion towards work and service.
Conclusion
A window does not only protect the house and the one who dwells in it, but transforms it completely. Windows in a structure are the answer to the quest of serenity and peace. Hence, a space without windows is not something one would settle for.