Abundant natural light is essential for creating a welcoming atmosphere in the home, especially since many of us spend the majority of our time indoors. But windows aren’t just passages for light and function; they are also integral to the character and style of a property. Large industrial-style windows add a striking feature to contemporary or period properties whilst their slim profile maximises the glass area.
In this guide:
Slim, grid-framed windows inspired by 19th-century factories that maximise light and style.
Grid windows give light and symmetry, but older steel frames lack insulation.
Soho windows are striking and expansive, while Georgian ones are ornate and narrow.
Industrial-style windows can be customised in size, layout, and opening type.
Origin offers the industrial look for modern interiors that prioritise efficiency, security, and basic maintenance.
What Defines Industrial Style Windows?
Factories in the mid-19th Century required lots of natural light. However, during the industrial revolution, large panels of glass were expensive, difficult to transport and fragile. This is why steel window divides were used to support the weight of the glass. Despite the current popularity of industrial interiors, technological advancements mean that this style of window is a design preference rather than a structural necessity.
Large windows with grid patterns
Grid-like patterns are typical of industrial-style windows because they help achieve more expansive windows without needing large panes of glass.
Modern windows no longer require grid-like patterns for structural or practical reasons, and this allows for greater design flexibility in their proportions.
Slim sightlines and steel look profile
Owing to the strength of steel, industrial-style windows could have slim sightlines to maximise natural light. Modern alternatives, such as aluminium windows, can also achieve a similar appearance while being lighter, more energy efficient, and practical.
Read the heritage window case study
The Pros and Cons of Large Windows with Grids
Large windows have the benefit of maximising natural light, which improves productivity, mood and mental health. Getting enough natural light is essential, especially in the winter months. However, when you want to maximise views or natural light, slim sightlines are essential for reducing the amount of profile in view.
The symmetry, geometry and proportions of grid patterns on windows are timelessly attractive – evident by the popularity of Georgian-style windows. However, traditional large steel windows have poor insulation, especially if they don’t have double glazing or thermal breaks (which is often the case for many old industrial windows).
Comparing Soho and Georgian-style Windows
Both styles of window feature glazing divides. Industrial-style windows typically have larger individual panels compared to Georgian due to the larger overall window size. Georgian-style windows will also usually have grids rather than just horizontal glazing bars. Explore some of the visual and practical differences.
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Configuration Options for Large Industrial-style Windows
There are numerous options to choose from when designing large Soho-inspired windows, such as the type of window, the number of windows you want to open and their configuration.
Window dimensions for large projects
The maximum dimensions available for a fixed frame Soho-style windows are 4.8m2, side hung casement windows can be 950mm x 1,400mm, and top hung windows can be as big as1,374mm x 1,474mm. Window couplers can also be used to connect windows to windows or windows to doors for a more expansive view.
Types and configurations for industrial-style windows
You can create your own unique window configuration; however, the following outlines some popular opening options. From there, you can choose how you want your grid pattern to look.
Your options aren’t limited to casement windows. You can opt for industrial-inspired bay windows or picture windows to bring even more natural light into your home. Explore the Origin Window range or find your local installer to discuss your project today.
Why Choose Origin Soho-Inspired Windows
Modern alternatives to industrial-style windows provide robust construction and performance advantages such as exceptional thermal efficiency, security, weathertight seals and being low maintenance. Explore some of the benefits of choosing high-quality aluminium windows:
- Made from premium quality aluminium for a flawless finish and inherent strength
- There are 150 RAL shades to choose from, and you can select contrasting internal and external shades as well as textured finishes
- Popular colours can be delivered with unbeatable lead times
- Windows for external use carry PAS 24 accreditation, ensuring robust security and hardwearing design
- Thermally broken frames achieve exceptional thermal performance
- All products are manufactured bespoke to you
Frequently Asked Questions:
Are steel look windows with aluminium frames a good alternative to real steel industrial windows?
Aluminium steel-look windows are a more practical and affordable alternative. They are incredibly durable and are lightweight when compared to steel. They also offer better energy efficiency, especially when thermally broken.
Do industrial-style windows require lots of maintenance to stay in good condition?
The amount of maintenance required will depend on the raw materials of the window frames and location of the install. Untreated steel can rust and corrode, whereas powder-coated aluminium requires minimal maintenance. Timber windows are susceptible to rot, warping, and splintering without regular maintenance. Windows in coastal or marine environments will require more maintenance.
How energy efficient are large industrial-style windows?
Large steel windows typically have poor insulation. However, modern alternatives, such as aluminium Soho-style windows are much more energy efficient, achieving U-Values as low as 1.2W/m2K, reducing your energy bills. They can accomplish this due to innovative polyamide thermal breaks and triple glazing.
Can you install industrial windows in commercial spaces?
Large windows have many benefits in commercial spaces, particularly offices and showrooms. There are wide-ranging options from bi-fold doors, French doors and internal doors for adding a vintage charm to modern commercial properties.
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