Windows for Cottage Style Homes
The right windows can enhance your cottage-style home’s charm, functionality and connection to nature.
Published 2025-01-09
Create a cozy, inviting cottage-style home with the perfect window designs. Whether you're building a new cottage-inspired space or upgrading an existing one, windows play a vital role in shaping the home's charm, functionality and connection to nature. From diamond grilles to arched windows, discover which styles will best suit your cottage home.
What is a Cottage Style Home?
Cottage-style homes are charming and functional, defined by simplicity and comfort. Inspired by English countryside cottages and traditional American architecture, these homes feature:
- Compact, functional layouts that prioritize comfort over grandeur.
- Steeply pitched roofs with dormers and cozy nooks.
- Asymmetrical facades with varied window sizes.
- Natural elements, like wooden beams, stone and brick exteriors.
- Unique windows with decorative grilles or shapes, enhancing the cozy aesthetic.
The cottage style has evolved into the modern "cottagecore" trend, which embraces nature, simplicity and a lived-in look that feels inviting and warm.
Best Windows for Cottage Style Architecture
The right windows are essential to capturing the cozy, timeless charm of cottage-style architecture. With a variety of styles to choose from, you can enhance natural light, add character and complement the unique design of your home.
Classic Double-Hung Windows for Timeless Charm
Double-hung windows are synonymous with cottage-style homes. Their vertical design and operable sashes provide excellent ventilation while fitting seamlessly into small, cozy spaces.
- Ideal for dormers and areas with limited wall space.
- Perfect for adding symmetry to asymmetrical facades.
- Great for incorporating decorative diamond grilles for added character.
Diamond Grille Casement Windows for Classic Cottage Appeal
Diamond grilles on casement windows are a hallmark of English-style cottages. Their intricate patterns evoke old-world charm and pair beautifully with natural surroundings.
Tip: Install these on prominent front-facing facades or small garden-view windows for a countryside-inspired look.
Arched and Cathedral Windows for Added Sophistication
Arched or cathedral windows elevate the architectural drama of a cottage-style home while maintaining its rustic elegance.
- Place arched windows in dormers or gabled roofs.
- Install cathedral windows to add vertical height and light to front-facing facades.
Bay and Bow Windows for Cozy Cottage Nooks
Bay and bow windows extend outward, creating beautiful, functional spaces like window seats or reading nooks.
- Work well in living rooms or kitchens.
- Provide ample natural light while maintaining the home’s cozy feel.
Dormer Windows to Maximize Space and Light
Dormer windows are essential in cottage architecture. By extending vertically from pitched roofs, dormers add light and charm to upper-level spaces.
Best Styles for Dormers:
- Double-hung windows for traditional symmetry.
- Arched windows for a more dramatic, storybook effect.
How to Choose the Right Cottage Windows
Choosing the right windows for your cottage-style home is about balancing aesthetics, functionality and charm. By considering design details, natural light and exterior elements, you can find windows that perfectly complement your home’s cozy and timeless appeal.
Match Your Home’s Aesthetic
- Choose double-hung or casement windows with grille detailing.
- Add arched windows for a touch of elegance.
Embrace Natural Light
Cottages emphasize a connection to the outdoors. Large windows, like picture windows, bring in natural light without sacrificing coziness.
Add Exterior Window Treatments
Enhance your cottage look with:
- Board and batten shutters or raised-panel shutters.
- Window boxes filled with colorful flowers.
Don’t Be Afraid of Color
While natural wood and neutral tones are common in cottage-style homes, a splash of color — like a red or green window frame — can create a focal point and add personality.
Pairing Your Cottage Windows with the Right Doors
A cozy, inviting entry door completes the cottage look. Consider:
- Arched doors with glass inserts.
- Neutral tones or bright, eye-catching colors like teal or red.
- Doors paired with transoms or sidelights for added charm.
Transform Your Cottage Home with Pella Windows and Doors
Choosing the right windows can bring your cottage-style vision to life. From double-hung windows with diamond grilles to cozy bay windows, Pella offers timeless designs to complement your home.