CORNER WINDOWS

Corner windows often feature in contemporary self-builds, particularly where there is a certain vista to frame. It is one of the most expensive types of glazing and is really seen as a luxury feature, which often gets removed to cut costs. To get the most dramatic effect, the corner window is created by gluing two panes of glazing together with no visible structure. This is expensive to achieve: as there is no frame connecting the glass, the structure that would support the corner is removed. This structure needs to be hidden and cantilevered above the window, back into the building.

Obviously corner glazing is not for everyone – in fact it’s for a minority – but there are various other methods that still give the dramatic effect. One solution is to keep the glass-to-glass connection, but express the structure inside the window. This can be a painted circular post and become a design feature. Another route, and perhaps the most cost-effective, is to connect two standard windows together via a piece of structure (either timber or steel), which sits in the line of the window. Although this adds a vertical element which will block some of the corner window drama, it still gives a similar effect. The structure can then be covered internally and externally with a metal cover flashing, in the same RAL colour as the window.

This approach still gives wow factor but is cost-effective as it uses standard parts and is easily completed with a variety of windows (even PVCu).

With corner glazing, it’s worth getting your architect to prepare a detailed window and door schedule, and also have your engineer check the glass specification in the quotations to avoid any nasty surprises.

Not everyone can afford a fully automated lighting control system, but you can add a simple and cost-effective alternative in certain key areas. PIR sensors can be purchased for between £10 up to £45, and will turn a light or lights on as soon as motion is detected. They can be used for security purposes, or as a guide up and down the stairs or hallway in the evening when you don’t want to wake other members of the house by turning lights on and off. These can be attached to LED strip lights and secured to the back of cabinets or in recesses to create stunning light features, too. H