Window on the world

SIR – Christine Lamagni (Letters, November 18) wonders why Italian windows open inwards.

This is true of all windows in Europe. It makes them easier to clean for the inhabitants. Alan Webster

Geneva, Switzerland

SIR – Most Italian homes have external shutters. In hot weather these can be closed while the windows are left open. This keeps the heat of the sun out and allows air to circulate, meaning the interior stays cool. Mary Al Naber

Parkton, Maryland, United States

SIR – The reason for Italian windows opening inwards is that many of the houses back onto footpaths.

Outward-opening windows and scooters do not mix. Peter Stockwell

Ely, Cambridgeshire SIR – Why do Scandinavian outside doors open outwards? Tim Bochenski Bramhall, Cheshire

SIR – We recently installed a new bath and washbasin. The hot tap goes clockwise and the cold tap anticlockwise.

Can someone explain this? Derick Faulkner

Alton, Hampshire