Design Considerations: Views

Windows are a building’s visual connection to its environment, and sometimes the views they offer – water, mountains, a neighborhood park, or city lights – become the design priority around which other elements of a house are planned.  These design tips enhance views without sacrificing privacy: 

• To enjoy natural beauty, consider one large window instead of multiple small ones 
• Views also come with practical benefits, such as monitoring your property.  A common example is a window over a kitchen sink that offers views of children playing. 
• Placing trees, bushes, and other landscaping outside a window can preserve views while preserving privacy 
• Landscaping and courtyards can enhance views in settings without natural features