7 Glorious Window Solutions That Offer Privacy & Light

Do you want more privacy without losing your view or feeling boxed in? Take a look at these creative building solutions

Rebecca Naughtin 5 September 2021

Architect, Director, Mentor, Tutor, Houzz Contributor, Partner and Mum, I love a design challenge and thrive on problem solving. I especially enjoy working with Clients to bring out the best in their projects.

Architect, Director, Mentor, Tutor, Houzz Contributor, Partner and Mum, I love a... More

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Creating privacy while letting in light and views can be an issue for many suburban homes. We often see frosted windows or deliberate screens as the only method of dealing with the issue. Luckily, we now have design alternatives that not only offer privacy, but also look good while doing it.

1. More than a screen
Screening can be added to windows to not only provide privacy, but also to protect you and your furnishings from the sun. Architect Ian Moore used screening that created a patterned theme throughout this house.

Steve Domoney Architecture

Architect Steve Domoney used this screen as a feature, softening the structure behind it and providing a homogenous facade. Consider going for a screen with panels that can be removed for window cleaning.

Here’s what contemporary facades do

DDB Design Development & Building

Instead of a vertical screen, how about a horizontal screen to keep neighbours from seeing into your living areas?

Rebecca Naughtin Architect

2. Get the views you want
Rather than frosting your windows, consider panels that obstruct the view toward your neighbours’ garden, like in this Melbourne house, which has frosted-glass panels secured to the stainless steel balustrade.

Rebecca Naughtin Architect

The panels are oriented to allow views, but only in the direction they are wanted.

Chan Architecture Pty Ltd

Chan Architecture made a statement with oriented panels in this residence in Brighton, south of Melbourne. The architect avoided building approval issues by using the panels as a statement rather than as an add-on.

Learn all about polycarbonate panels

Wolveridge Architects

3. Patterns with privacy
The team at Wolveridge Architects decorated this outdoor barbecue area with a beautiful screen, providing not only privacy but also patterns and shadows that give life to the space.

Find an architect to help design your new home

Rob Mills Architecture & Interiors

Architect Robert Mills decorated this minimalist space by framing a window with patterned metal screens.

KIM Architecture + Design

4. Don’t close yourself in
Using panels to delineate where opacity starts and stops frames the look and adds dimension to a room. They help achieve the desired privacy while allowing in views of the sky.

S2 design

This industrial converted warehouse in Melbourne also takes advantage of higher views. Here the glass is patterned, complementing the warehouse design and decor.

5. Lift up the location
By installing high windows, you not only maintain privacy, but you also allow light into a space. Here high windows over the kitchen are louvered in some sections to allow ventilation as required.

Just Joh

6. Old-school staining
Add to the charm of a refurbishment by using stained glass to decorate and add privacy. An elegant window like this could be used in a period home as well as take on a more contemporary look.

Benn & Penna Architecture

7. Control it yourself
There is no need for static screening. Bring the facade of your home alive with operable panels. Close the panels when the weather doesn’t suit you or open them to allow in fresh air and sunlight.

Read more:
7 Types of Glass That Allow in Light & Privacy

Tell us:
Do you have any ideas about how to deal with windows and privacy? Tell us in the Comments below.

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marjorie0420

My experience exactly. I am glad we still have inexpensive options. Enjoy the view and even the night life.

1 Like 6 October 2014 at 3:14pm

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PRO

Smart Glass Systems, Inc.

@grandmaloraine--we do offer a switchable privacy glass product that allows for instant, on-demand privacy or clear view. Visit our website www.smartglass-systems.com for more details. New products to come on houzz also.

1 Like 18 February 2015 at 10:05pm

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Shoshana Bloom

Wonderful article. I got more out of the comments than the article but I overlook an ugly back yard and neighbours on three sides overlook me , so I will look into all these - cheaper - solutions and choose what is best for each room. Thanks very much.

1 Like 29 July 2015 at 6:24am