A Plant Lover’s Guide to Garden Windows

Indoor plants not only elevate the appearance of a space, but also offer health benefits including improved air quality, reduced stress and increased creativity, according to studies by Piedmont Healthcare. In other words, the addition of herbs, flowers or greenery to your home can help make a healthier, happier you. Discover how you and your plants can flourish as we share ways to incorporate garden windows throughout your home.

Before we dive into a discussion about garden windows, let’s first clarify what they are. Garden windows, as we define them, are a designated place for plants to grow in the sunlight of a window. In many cases, a garden window extends outward beyond an exterior wall, creating a three-dimensional glass box for plants to live. However, this is not the only way to achieve the desired effect of a garden window.

There are many different window types that can be used to attain the look of a windowsill garden. Bay and bow windows make wonderful indoor window gardens, along with box bay windows. These types of windows maximize interior space by protruding out from the wall. They feature multiple windows set at different angles. Homeowners who want an indoor herb garden will often add a built-in window seat that acts as a shelf for plants.

Another way to create a garden window is by deepening the sill of a normal picture window. If the depth of your wall isn’t deep enough already, you can work with a local Pella expert to customize a wider windowsill that allows more space for you to place plants and other décor. Alternatively, you can place a picture window without a sill directly at counter level, using your existing counter space to a create a windowsill garden. As a bonus, windows at counter level make a beautiful backsplash that frame the outdoors.

If garden window installation isn’t in your foreseeable plans or budget, get creative with how you can use existing windows in your home to welcome natural sunlight that nourishes plants. For instance, you can add a shelf or bench in front of an existing window, effectively lifting the plants up to intercept the natural rays of light already pouring into your home.

Kitchens are one of the most common rooms for garden windows. It’s a space where homeowners spend a lot of time on a day-to-day basis and can best enjoy the culinary sights and smells of an herb garden window. You can use many different types of kitchen windows to achieve your vision. Placing kitchen garden windows over the sink makes it extra convenient to quickly water plants or snag fresh herbs. Plus, the location above the sink helps contain water to a designated waterproof area, keeping messes minimal.

Sunrooms are another great space for indoor plants to grow near the natural light of windows. In a sunroom with windows on every wall, there is always plenty of natural sunshine pouring in at all hours of the day. Placing plants in front of sunroom windows helps connect the indoors with the out for a peaceful atmosphere that helps both plants and people thrive.

While kitchens and sunrooms are the most popular areas to find garden windows, there’s no limit to where you can house your indoor plants. Some homeowners love the idea of adding live greenery to their home office or bedroom. It adds a sense of serenity and connection with nature that makes it easier to focus or relax. Garden windows in a living room or dining room create a welcoming atmosphere for homeowners and guests alike to enjoy. In addition, fresh plants liven up the room and add an unparalleled pop of color. No matter which room you choose for a garden window, you’re sure to enjoy the daily growth, freshness and beauty that indoor plants offer.

Window type and placement are important decisions in your pursuit of garden windows, but they’re not the only things to consider. You’ll also want to take note of the window material and the many customization options available to you. If you’ll be watering plants near your window, do your best to avoid spills. While all Pella windows are designed to protect against moisture, you don’t want your indoor plants to drip and cause water damage to the inside of your home.

In terms of customization, there are many things to consider. Low-E glass coatings can help defer some of the sun’s harmful UV rays in climates where your plants might otherwise dry or burn. Between-the-glass blinds or shades can also help control the amount of sunlight your plants take in. You can further customize your garden windows with color, hardware, grilles and more. Selecting intentional window design features allows you to create a focal point in your home, complete with all the plants and décor your heart desires.

Eager to start designing your own indoor window garden? Get in touch with a local Pella expert who can help bring your ideas to life.