kitchen windows over sink
Ventilation is a must in the homes to keep the fresh air flowing indoors. The same necessity applies to the kitchens as well, this is the place that needs the freshest air. Cooking in a non-ventilated place is such a headache. The heat and the discomfort one has to face in the kitchen due to poor ventilation is a matter of concern.
Also, having a window provides an advantage of peeking out of the kitchen and keeping a close watch on the things taking place in front of you.
Now finding a space for a window in the kitchen is not a very tough task. It can be placed over the sink as that area will be empty anyways. You can’t install cabinets; the backsplashes will definitely make your efforts of installing a cabinet over the sink go in vain.
Instead of leaving that area empty, it’s a wise idea to install a window and use other props such as plants and jars to increase the kitchen’s aesthetics. Know about 8 of the Best Houseplants That’ll Thrive in Any Kitchen.
Installing a window is not for aesthetics only, it’ll allow nature to peek in and you to peek out; there would be fresh air and sunlight in the kitchen.
There are several types of windows to consider in terms of designs, functions, and dimensions. Choose the one your kitchen needs.
kitchen windows over sink ideas
Decorating the window will not only make it look good but also make you feel good. Use the items you like to see, whether it’s a plant, decorative jars, fairy lights, or your DIY project. Also, if the plant is the final decor option, don’t forget to water it just because it’s near the sink. That’s not how it works; water it according to its species and needs.
The shape of the window is also a worth considering option; there are square, rectangular, triangular, circular, hexagonal, etc. however, square and rectangular ones are more famous.
Rectangular windows
Rectangular is the most famous and considered shape for the windows, as most of the time, people avoid experimenting and go for something typical and simple.
Hexagonal window
It’s a pretty unique and rare shape to see as a window. It looks beautiful and a bit spacious.
Triangular Window
A triangular window is not very common to see, also, it doesn’t provide much space but is a good status symbol due to its unique shape as a window.
Circular windows
Circular windows take less space and are a good option to have if the only purpose of having them is to let the sunlight in.
Now, if the color of the window is the concern, then the neutral colors are the ones to do the job- white, beige, or gray colors are the ones worth trying, as natural colors are easy to blend in with other colors. If it seems boring, then consider adding accent colors to the trim. It would make the whole appearance of the window pop up instead of blending in or camouflaging within the cabinets.
If the plants and other decor accessories are out of the talk, consider staining the window’s glass to make the lights coming through it colorful.
Over-the-sink window treatment
Having a window is a good option and also helpful, but what if it is not in use currently? Anyone can peek in from outside- no privacy. Well, for the very concern of privacy, there is an option of window treatment.
Window curtains
Curtains are the simplest and easiest to install and maintain.
Curtains are a highly affordable and customizable option to choose. There is a wide range of designs and materials of fabrics to consider that are washable, so there are no sanitary issues. The length of the curtain also won’t be a big issue as it is highly customizable.
The plus point with the curtains is that they won’t block the light completely. There will be a bit of light in the kitchen.
Now the color options depend on the overall aesthetics of the kitchen and trending colors.
Window blinds
Won’t work with unusually shaped windows such as circular, hexagonal, etc. in that case, the curtains are the best option.
Going for the blinds is a considerable idea if you have a rectangular or square-shaped window. It is made up of wipeable material, so there won’t be any issues installing it over the sink.
There are not many color options with the blinds – mostly available in neutral colors such as white and beige for ease of blending into the environment.
Window roller shades
The roller shades are expensive compared to curtains and blinds, but they are worth every penny they are being charged for. Roller shades provide privacy and also block excess sunlight and end up providing very soft light. Also, they last for a longer period.
Lighting over the kitchen sink
Well, the whole reason for having a window was getting ventilation and natural lights right. Then why is there a need for artificial lights?
So the windows will be a great option for letting sunlight in through them, but they won’t function the same way at night, so the lights are necessary for that.
Recessed lightings
Recessed lights are also known as ceiling lights which are fixed inside the ceiling or any other surface because these lights give a view without any obstruction and make it easy to work.
It is recommended to use a 50-90 watt halogen bulb. While installing it, try to keep it in sync with the sink, so there is optimum light and clarity to work precisely. The switch to turn it on or off is usually placed near the sink, take care of that too, don’t let it get splashed.
Sconce lighting
Sconce light also serves the same purpose as the recessed lights, providing the light to a dedicated area of the kitchen. Unlike the recessed lights, here is the option of getting a new look often.
Pendant light
Pendant lights can also be hung over the sink with some safety measures. The pendant lights will do the job, but there can be some discomfort if not installed properly. The distance between the sink and the pendant lights should be 30 to 40 inches so it doesn’t get in your way while doing the chores. The measured distance is from the light to the countertop surface of the sink.
Go for a pendant fixture that conceals the light bulb in order to avoid that harsh glare.
Kitchen pass-through window
A kitchen pass-through window is very helpful for those whose backyard or the living room is connected to the kitchen, this pass-through window allows the owner to pass the food or other items directly from to kitchen to the other person without running around the house taking a long route to reach other person and then hand them over the food or other stuff.
The dimensions of a pass-through window are 16″ wide, and the length depends on the space left after leaving 15″ inches of the gap from the ceiling. However, the size is customizable and can be adjusted as per the size of the kitchen. The installation of a pass-through window can cost up to $500 to $1000, depending on the dimensions of the window.
Bay Window Kitchen Sink
Bay windows are a versatile option to have. It not only provides a bright kitchen but also leaves enough space to put decor accessories such as plants. Also, the bay window increases the sale value of a house.
Picture window
It is a stationary window that will provide the light and the view but not the fresh air as it doesn’t open. It is a good option for those who like enjoying the view or keeping a close eye on the kids playing in the yard.
It can cost between $300 to $1200, including the installation charges as well.
Casement window
Casement windows are attached to the frame through hinges, making it easy to open with a slight push and energy efficient and affordable. It can cost between $300 to $500, including installation charges.
Colonial Grid Windows
Colonial grid windows or muntins were famous until the mid-19th century, at that time, it was expensive to produce a large panel of glass, which is why there were smaller panels of glass put together in the wooden frame to create an affordable window.
A small window over the sink
The smaller windows don’t function very well as the space for the air and sunlight is relatively small and not enough for the kitchen’s dimensions. Smaller windows are more of a decor piece.
Decorating Above a Kitchen Window
A window is cool but looks boring. Well, no one has stopped you from decorating it. Gather some plants, beautiful jars, or utensils- build a platform or cabinet, and Voila! The normal boring-looking window is now spiced up and looks great.
Adding a shelf to the sides of the window will create some extra space to place more decor pieces.
Get a professionally made platform for the window that enhances the window’s beauty and provides enough space to place decor pieces or kitchen essentials.
Using plants as an indoor decor piece can never be doubtful. Plants make any place happy and beautiful.
Get a metal platform on which you can place some flower pots and also hang some.
Use different plants and colorful pots for a pleasing sight.
Decoration below a kitchen window
There is not enough space below the window as there is a sink to take care of, but some plants can be placed in that much space.
Kitchen window shelf
Putting a shelf above the window provides extra space and opens the possibilities of increasing the decor and showcasing your favorite decor items.
Also read what should be the rough opening for 32 inch door.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size window goes over a kitchen sink?
Well, there is no specific size to follow. The size of the window should be relatively equal to the cabinets on the sides of the sinks to maintain the geometric balance. Match the height with the cabinets on either side of the sink; the width should be the space left between those two cabinets.
However, if the window is geometric, then the rules are different. For geometric-sized windows, there is no need to fill in the space between the cabinets. The geometric windows are better if installed in smaller sizes. Or else there will be difficulty in installing a window treatment.
Also, while measuring the space for a window, make sure to leave 1 inch to 2″ inches of room for future customizations and the trim of the window.
What can you put above a kitchen sink with no windows?
Well, there can be a lot of decor items to place above a kitchen sink.
A platform between the cabinets holds some beautiful decor items such as slogan slates, jars, and indoor or artificial plants. Anything placed nicely would look good, but one thing which is worth considering is the items placed there are in the danger zone of getting splashed.
There are a lot of ideas running online that say put a picture on the black space, which is the dumbest thing to do as the picture will be the one getting tormented with the water splashes washing it off.
The option you can consider is installing a mirror or getting a POP done at the blank space to make it more interesting. However, the mirror would not last long due to water splashes. If taken care of properly, it may last for a longer period.
