Add a dash of contemporary design with this stylish feature

Wraparound corner windows can give you a panoramic view while pulling in masses of natural light - and are a striking design feature, too. The clean lines and feeling of space bring a modern touch to the living area, kitchen  or bedroom. Edward Stobart, head of projects at IDSystems, an innovative glazing company, said: “Corner windows have become a really popular addition to extension and new-build projects over the last two or three years. The ability to open up a corner adds a real wow factor to a project and is perfect for capturing more light as the sun moves across the sky during the day.”

Image Credit: IDSystems | Design Squared Architects | Chris Snook Photography

Where to put it?

Corner windows are a great way to show off stunning views if you have a house that overlooks the ocean or is surrounded by woodland or beautiful garden. Is there a dual aspect view? Even if you live in an urban area in close proximity to your neighbours, a ribbon corner window – with long horizontal and short vertical frames - will still pull in light from different angles while maintaining privacy – and make a small space feel bigger. Corner windows can even take the place of artwork or other decorative features. To fully realise the power of this feature, talk to your architect.

Mr Stobart said: “The key consideration as to where to install a corner window is the layout and orientation of the property on the plot and how the house fits into its surroundings. A south-west facing corner window would give the maximum light as day turns into evening during the summer, while glass-to-glass corners are typically installed in areas where the views can be enjoyed the most.”

Image Credit: IDSystems | Mulroy Architects | Will Pryce Photography

Types of corner window

There are two types: windows fixed directly onto a structural (load bearing) corner post or frameless glass-to-glass. Both create an instant focal point and can turn any room into a stylish space. The first option – set within the structural façade of the wall - is stronger, easier to build and more affordable. With the second option, frameless glass panels are joined with a special UV-resistant glue and sealed with silicone putty. This style is perfect for minimalist architecture with large areas of glazing and sweeping views. Without a frame, views are uninterrupted and you feel like you are outside.

Image Credit: IDSystems | Selenky /Parsons Architects | Siobhan Doran Photography

Design in from start

A corner window should be incorporated into your design from an early stage. The biggest downside to a glass-to-glass corner window is the structural work required to accommodate the unsupported corner, such as hidden steelwork in the ceiling.  

“Structurally the corner of the room must be able to support the ceiling or roof above without having a corner post or brickwork as a traditional design would. To achieve the desired finished design, it may require the input of a structural engineer to ensure the viability of the aperture,” said Mr Stobart.

A corner window is not something you can easily add at a later stage. “From a design perspective it favours a new-build structure such as an extension or new home rather than a renovation of an existing structure,” said Mr Stobart. Plus, this glazed feature should fit in with the other windows and doors and your home’s overall aesthetic.

Image Credit: IDSystems | Selenky /Parsons Architects | Siobhan Doran Photography

Corner window sizes

In terms of size, much depends on the location of the property and how exposed it is to prevailing winds.  “While in theory a double-storey corner window is possible, it may not be the most practical solution because the ceiling above would need to be supported,” said Mr Stobart. Corner windows can, however, be combined with sliding doors or opening windows to create a complete glazing solution across a rear elevation.

There are multiple choices for opening. Corner windows can tilt, turn, tilt and turn and even slide, depending on your wishes. The most cost-effective option is a fixed glass pane which will have better thermal properties than an openable version. Perhaps consider one fixed frame window and several smaller openable ones. Corner windows can be supplied with either double or triple glazing.

Image Credit: IDSystems | Selenky /Parsons Architects | Siobhan Doran Photography

Creative corner windows

Think about how to best use the corner glazing. A popular choice is a built-in window seat, especially when it captures a view of the changing seasons outside. The corner can also be perfect for an L-shaped sofa or Eames reclining chair.  Imagine stretching out while enjoying the natural world on the other side of the glass. Or perhaps you might like a corner window with inspiring views in your bedroom or office. Why not install one in the shower?

“There is no reason why one couldn’t be installed in a bathroom and for remote locations where the house isn’t overlooked this could be ideal. For more urban locations, where obscured glass would normally be used in bathrooms, the glass specification would negate any benefit that a corner window would provide,” said Mr Stobart.

Budget

A corner window is likely to be more expensive than a standard one, so work out how much you wish to spend. Glass-to-glass corner windows will cost more than framed ones because of the added cost of steelwork required to hold the feature in place.  Expect to pay around £885 per m2 on a supply basis only (not fitted), although the price will depend on the exact configuration and the size of the glass units, said Mr Stobart. Prices will vary from supplier to supplier.

A high-quality corner window professionally installed should last as long as any other. Durability depends not only on the material (the window frame can be made of PVC, wood or aluminium) but also on the construction of the glassed area.

A corner window is a great way to add a dash of contemporary design to your building project. It can fit into architecture of any kind and is perfect for creating bright, open-plan living spaces with scenic views.

Image Credit: IDSystems | Mulroy Architects | Will Pryce Photography