Inviting natural light into your home has many benefits from making your home appear larger to improving your mood. One of the best ways to do this is with the use of large windows, and it stands to reason that keeping them uncovered as often as possible only increases these benefits. Hilary Swank’s home, backed by floor-to-ceiling, untreated windows is one of the most striking examples we’ve seen.
The actress’s living room encourages a conversation between the interiors and the stunning snowy mountains behind the home. Rustic modern design with a natural wood ceiling and sculptural furniture echo the shapes of the outdoors. The absence of window treatments especially invites the outdoors in.
Bare windows are quickly becoming one of the biggest interior design trends of the year. In January, The Atlantic did a deep dive on ‘why rich people don’t cover their windows’, touting uncovered windows as the newest understated status symbol. Looking at the inside of Swank’s home, it’s easy to understand why. Though there is nothing flashy about it, the large, uncovered window gives the space an undeniable sense of luxury.
(Image credit: Julie Soefer)
Jo Trotman, window expert at The Residence Collection states: ‘Now that windows can be very much a part of a space rather than being seen as a structural necessity of your home, I think the bare window trend will be incorporated into many homes. Especially those with picturesque views or south-facing gardens so that they can make the most of the natural light and warmth.’
Dressing a window without curtains is quickly becoming the norm. Trotman continues, ‘Historically, people believe that windows are traditional white frames that don’t particularly inspire a space unless dressed with curtains or blinds. Now with the range of color options available for window frames, interior style can really be taken into account when making a decision about colored frames, which really compliments the bare window trend.’
The window treatment trend is popular for its many design benefits. ‘Bare windows are aesthetically pleasing as it’s a way for those with minimalist style to create clean lines, boost the sense of space and maximize the view from your home too, making them a great foundation for many different individual styles and interiors,’ says Trotman.
She adds: ‘For example, if minimalist decor is your style, then incorporating the Japandi trend is a great choice. Introducing neutral shades, minimal accessories and natural materials to your window area will give the illusion of a bright and decluttered space, allowing for more natural light to shine through your windows.’
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If you are interested in trying the trend but live in a busy area like a city, there are further considerations to take into account. Trotman advises: ‘If you live in a busy area or have nosey neighbours, but want to embrace the naked window trend, then one way to do so is to add a privacy window film. You can still see outside, while the external view becomes reflective, meaning no one can be looking in as they walk by your windows. With privacy film, natural light can still let the light into your home, while taking away the restrictions that come with curtains and blinds. So you can still embrace the trend while protecting your privacy.’ You can also try planting some of the best plants for privacy outside your window to create a ‘green curtain’ that allows light in but allows you to go window-treatment-free.
A bold window is always a good idea, and opting to recreate Hilary Swank’s large, triangular window elevates the trend even more.
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