Windows have lots of opportunity
This balance and proportion is the same for a wildly modern house with jagged asymmetrical windows slicing up the sky, as it is for a politely classical facade of a neo-Georgian townhouse. We have a fascinating gene level understanding of the Golden Ratio of 1:1.618. Created in the 3rd century BC, this is a mathematical formula still used by architects and designers today as it rings a bell in the human head for rightness. This ratio can be used to not only determine how many and where the windows go in the walls, but how each one is divided up with framing and openings. When the ‘disposition’ of the windows is off, they may look perfectly adequate in the diced up rooms indoors framing the views, but as a collective they can be troubling outside. Many older bungalows retain a firmly 1970s look with standard 1:3 horizontal (a third of the window opening) set 800mm from every floor.
We’re not all in the market for a new build or even an extension, but it’s possible to largely re-imagine existing elevations placing better windows in those rectangular voids when you come to upgrade. Considering the inclusive wonders of 3D computer-aided technology, the excellence of training for architects in Ireland, and the long-term misery of vastly expensive mistakes being recognised as the render is drying — this is not an area to hurry past to finishes and decorating. Adding the much derided dormers and mansards to make living space of roof space in a renovation could make a building or vandalise its proportions depending on the eyes on the project at the drawing stage. It’s appropriate to be excitable when it comes to your windows and exterior doors. Your first stop should be the Royal Institute of Architects of Ireland. www.riai.ie to get appropriately qualified help.
