Windows for the Seasons
The expression “windows for the seasons” is often heard when discussing window design and usage. This refers to the idea that the window is the opening to the changing outside.
Windows for the Seasons
A window is an opening from the interior of a building to the world outside. The environment outside is often changing as the seasons change and this impacts the function of the window. In the old castles of Europe before the widespread use of glass, windows were simply openings that allowed fresh air in and smoke out of the building. They were generally narrow slits for defensive reasons, but in the summer they posed no barrier to insects and in winter, they offered no barrier to chilly winds.
The glass window changed this drastically. Now, the purpose of the window changed as well. It was more than just a way to view the outside of the building, but now it provided protection and offered insulation from wind and cold. The idea of seasons became important because the window needed to keep heat in during the winter and keep it out during the summer. Various methods have been devised to make windows adaptable to changing seasonal conditions.
The storm window is an example of a common seasonal adaptation. Most storm windows featured a heavy outer window that was put into place during the winter months, but could be raised or removed during the hot summer months. The use of mesh screens was another seasonal adaptation of windows. The glass part of the window could be raised on the screened window allowing maximum air circulation without allowing access to insects or other pests.
Rooms made entirely of windows, such as sun porches or solariums became known as all season rooms. As people began to realize the beneficial quality of sunlight, such rooms became ways of getting maximum sunlight exposure even in winter months. The idea of picture windows is another idea that reflects the idea that light and outside view is an important part of modern interior decorating.
People often decorate their windows. This is another meaning for windows for the seasons. The window becomes a part of the seasonal decor and is attractive when viewed from the outside of the building. Holiday decorations are another reflection of the seasonal concept of window decoration. Today, insulated windows serve the old double seasonal purpose of keeping heat in during the winter and providing cooling in the summer. Since more and more homes today are air conditioned, keeping windows shut in the summer to trap the cool air has largely replaced the screened window of the past. The insulated window is the ultimate window for the seasons.