Top priorities
Natural Light
One of the most important things when thinking about the best windows for small spaces is natural light. Regardless of room size, everyone enjoys a home that feels light and bright all year. In small homes it can be crucial, especially if key rooms like the living room or bedroom don’t get a lot of light.
Insulation
Insulation is a key concern for any home, regardless of era. We want our homes to reduce our reliance on our heating to keep bills lower. However, not all modern windows are the best windows for small spaces.
Space
When deciding the best windows for small spaces, space is obviously a big priority. If you have small rooms or have limited outdoor space, some windows and the way they open are not as good as others. If you have a bigger room you might want to enlarge your windows to allow more light than you currently get.
Best types of windows for small spaces
Casement windows
Casement windows are hinged at the side or top and tend to open out. This makes them a good choice when indoor space is at a premium. They can also be double and triple glazed, so if you have larger windows in rooms that don’t get much light you can get triple glazing to boost insulation. They are also some of the most affordable option on the market so if you need to make your windows bigger, choosing a uPVC casement window can help keep costs down.
Sash windows
Sash windows slide open vertically rather than open inwards or outwards, making them a good choice for homes with limited indoor or outdoor space. Older sash windows were single glazed and draughty, but modern uPVC are much better at keeping out the cold. Thick weatherseals and double glazing make modern Sash windows a great choice for helping improve insulation as well as saving space.
Tilt & Turn Windows
Tilt and Turn windows are some of the best for improving ventilation and maximising natural light. Great for saving space, they open by tilting inwards from the bottom, so they barely encroach on space that way. Equally they can be opened much wider if you want more ventilation.
Bay windows
Bay windows are a feature of lots of homes in the UK, but you can also add a bay window too. Bay windows expand out from your home, trapping light you may not otherwise get. They add space to smaller rooms too, so you can gain light and space.
Picture windows
Picture windows, often called fixed casements, are fixed windows that don’t open. This makes them perfect for smaller homes where opening windows is harder or takes up lots of room. They also give you natural light and have all the insulating properties of other double or triple glazed casement windows.
What is the best window treatment for small spaces?
When dressing your window, it’s important to complement the design features by considering options that maximise the amount of natural light entering your home.
For example, lightweight treatments like sheer curtains or roller blinds are excellent choices, as they allow natural light to flood the room without blocking the view.
For more control over light and privacy, vertical blinds or minimalist shutters are ideal. These options provide an elegant solution to controlling sunlight while ensuring that the room doesn’t feel overcrowded.
Vertical blinds work well for narrow spaces, while shutters bring a sleek, clean design to any room, enhancing both function and style without overwhelming the space.
Do you need planning permission to add a small window to your home?
In most cases, replacing a small window with a similar style and size typically doesn’t require planning permission. However, if you’re planning to add a new window or alter an existing opening, there are specific regulations to consider. For example, upper-floor side windows that open and are located less than 1.7 meters from the floor may require planning permission.
It’s also essential to comply with building regulations, which cover areas such as ventilation, thermal performance, and safety glazing to ensure that the window meets required standards. Even if planning permission isn’t required, these regulations still apply.
If you live in a listed building or a conservation area, or if your property is subject to an Article 4 directive, it’s especially important to consult with local authorities before making any changes. These areas are subject to stricter controls, and any alterations, including adding windows, may need specific approval to preserve the building’s historical or architectural integrity.
Shop for windows at Safestyle
At Safestyle, we offer a wide range of window designs to suit every home, from sliding sash windows to fixed casements and more. Our windows come with the following key benefits:
- Energy Efficiency and Comfort: Double and triple glazing help regulate indoor temperatures year-round, keeping your home comfortable in all seasons.
- Low-Maintenance Designs: Crafted from durable uPVC, our windows require minimal upkeep, saving you time and effort.
- Added Security: Featuring multi-point locking systems and high-security glazing options, our windows provide peace of mind.
Explore our complete collection of windows, including various styles and designs, and find the perfect fit for your home. Visit Safestyle today to discover energy-efficient, secure, and low-maintenance window solutions.