Windows are no longer relegated to the background or hidden behind heavy drapes. They are woven into the design fabric of space and made to participate in everyday dynamics. A nicely lit up room will have the windows as its focal point. Usually, the seating arrangement and TV panel are designed in conjunction with the window panels. While curtains and sheers enhance the appearance of windows, there are plenty of window designs to choose from, to add to the spatial experience. In today’s scenario, windows help bring the outdoors in and are therefore an important part of the work-from-home trend. They are also key to your home’s security. A well-designed window will let in daylight and allow for ventilation while uplifting the aesthetic appeal of your home. “As the interior spaces have their style reflecting the persona of its owner, selecting the right doors and windows matching the desired need is a point to ponder upon. The choice of the material, colour, and patterns of the fenestrations greatly influence the way space looks and feels,” says Robin Sisodiya, Founder & Principal Architect, ASRO Arcade. Let’s look at five-window designs for your home that are ‘en vogue’. Contemporary chic: According to Studio Crypt, “These days windows are getting sleeker and slender. They are not as heavy and bulky anymore and offer luxurious amenities like weather control by accommodating double glass units. Window frames are also getting more experimentative with respect to colours, textures, and patterns. Clients have an experimental nerve in today’s day and are willing to accept new and untested ideas. In terms of quality, their resilience is improving, too. Also, in the early 2000s, coloured glass windows were in trend but now it's been left behind for minimal transparent glass.” A play of hues: Sisodiya foretells, “Colours are going to take the spotlight in the coming years. Be it windows or doors, people are more open to going beyond the use of single and conventional colours across the building. While white windows are popular and a classic choice, matte black and lighter colours are some emerging options. Metallic shades of silver and grey are also trending as they blend well with contemporary homes. With the evolution in technology, traditional wood-finish can be replaced by uPVC windows and doors in golden oak, rustik oak, dark oak, walnut or mahogany. uPVC offers endless possibilities – from elegant white to edgy black and playful blue to laminated wooden textures when it comes to customisation for window and door colours in your house.” Style upgrades: There is the rising use of renaissance design style including arch-shaped windows, tilt and turn windows, lift and slide doors, slide and fold windows and doors, and more. These systems bring various options to customise the doors and windows based on the area and functional utility windows. Owing to its malleability, uPVC is the most sought-after material for people who would want their spaces to reflect the trend. Safety and security: Safety and security have always been key features while considering windows and doors. Sisodiya recommends, “uPVC will prove to be a trendsetter despite the vast expanse of glass along with a multi-point locking system. This locking system makes the house safe and secure from break-ins. uPVC windows with triple glazing also withstand heavy wind loads in high-rise buildings and can be easily installed with grills and mesh to protect the family from any unauthorised access.” Energy-efficient living: Sridevi Changali, Co-Founder, Mason’s Ink Studio, says, “Upcycled is the way to go – it really adds a special aesthetic to the windows while being eco-sensitive at the same time.” Sisodiya adds, “Rising temperatures have shot up the energy expense across cities. This has forced consumers to opt for energy-efficient measures while constructing or renovating their houses. Since windows and doors are a significant contributor to overall energy consumption, people have started using energy-efficient materials for them. uPVC windows with double or triple glazing are helping cut down the energy bill to about 30%. They insulate the house from outside temperature while reducing the energy consumption every season. More and more people are reducing the usage of wood during construction/renovation by raising awareness. uPVC is entirely eco-friendly and pollution resistant and is rightfully gaining more prominence as the base material for construction.”