Planning windows for more daylight and well-being
Daylight is a key factor for comfort in our living spaces. Especially when building or renovating a home, it’s worth taking a closer look at light direction and window layout. In an interview, architect Julia Jantos explains how well-thought-out window planning and daylight can make living spaces brighter, more pleasant, and more energy-efficient – and why skylights play a special role. We also cover energy efficiency, costs, and planning. You’ll learn everything you need to know about the right window planning for your home.
Proper window surface per room
Balancing the wishes and needs of home owners with the on-site conditions – that’s the main reason why Julia Jantos chose to become an architect after training as a draftsperson: “I wanted to design buildings myself, not just draw what my boss told me to.” To Jantos, every building project is unique. She enjoys designing and evolving with each project. But regardless of how unique each building may be, there’s one thing every home owner and architect should consider from the start: plan windows early to include enough natural light sources!
“Especially in rooms where we spend most of our time – such as the living or dining room – natural light and the right window layout are extremely important. We all feel it: bright, sunlit spaces make us feel energised and well. And why would you want to miss out on that in your own home?” According to Jantos, there are also some general guidelines: “A room of 10 square meters should have windows of at least 2 to 2.5 square meters. That’s about 20 to 25 percent of the room size.”
Window layout: What you should consider
The orientation of the building also plays a crucial role in window planning to achieve maximum energy efficiency and light. “Large south-facing windows allow for solar heat gains and ample daylight, which improves the energy balance and reduces heating costs,” Jantos explains. She adds: “North-facing windows should be limited to reduce heat loss. East-facing rooms like kitchens, bedrooms, or home offices benefit from the morning sun, which helps us wake up and gives us energy. For relaxing spaces, west-facing windows are ideal, as the afternoon and evening sun creates a cozy atmosphere and supports sleep.”
Effective sun protection through awnings, shutters, or blinds should also be part of the initial planning to avoid overheating and glare in summer. Roof rooms, in particular, require exterior shading.
Energy efficiency and thermal protection through smart window planning
Energy efficiency and thermal protection are also key considerations. Thoughtful window planning enhances not only comfort but also energy savings. When planning windows for your home, consider thermal insulation glazing and high-quality materials like aluminium and PVC early on. Modern window systems – such as triple glazing and thermally optimised frames – help minimise heat loss in winter and keep heat out in summer. Depending on your region, it might also be worth investing in Passivhaus-certified windows, which offer top-tier insulation and support sustainable, climate-friendly building use. Your home becomes more energy-efficient, heating costs decrease – and the environment benefits too.
Planning windows for optimal daylight supply
Windows in façades aren’t the only source of natural light in homes. Skylights such as flat roof windows and light domes also enhance daylight access. “Skylights significantly increase the amount of daylight and improve the even distribution of light in a room,” Jantos explains. Upper floors often don’t require artificial light at all thanks to skylights. “Daylight entering from above transforms the architectural space and illuminates certain areas more effectively than façade windows.” Hallways and stairwells in upper levels also benefit. “Ceiling openings and galleries create stunning spatial impressions and generous sightlines to lower floors.” Skylights can create synergies between daylight usage and spatial design, resulting in a harmonious, well-lit ambiance.
Wood, aluminium, or uPVC – What’s the right window material?
Planning your windows also means choosing the right frame material. Whether you opt for uPVC, aluminium, or wood – each material has its advantages and disadvantages. uPVC is low-maintenance, cost-effective, and offers good insulation. Wood provides a natural look, high stability, and a sustainable CO₂ balance but requires regular upkeep. Aluminium is durable, modern, and suitable for large window surfaces – like panoramic or roof windows – allowing more daylight inside. When configuring house windows, you should weigh these properties based on location, design, and budget. Often, hybrid models such as wood-aluminium windows are a good solution, offering cozy interiors and weather-resistant facades.
Expert support for window planning and implementation
As you can see, planning windows involves more than choosing size and shape. Optimal window layout requires expertise – from structural demands to thermal protection and visual design for the best daylight yield. That’s why involving experts like architects, energy consultants, or manufacturers such as LAMILUX early in the process is wise. They help select the right materials, configure windows precisely, and coordinate installation. Integrating shutters or external sun protection should also align with window planning. Professional planning prevents costly changes later and ensures a cohesive, well-thought-out building concept.
Costs, subsidies, and financing for windows
Costs are often a key concern when planning windows. High-quality windows are an investment – but one that pays off through energy savings and improved comfort. Look into subsidy programmes, which offer grants or low-interest loans for energy-efficient renovations or special window systems. Even modern roof windows or automated shutter systems may qualify. Together with architects and planners, window planning can be tailored to your budget, design, and energy goals.
Optimizing windows and living spaces after construction
Not every home has enough daylight sources. What can you do if your house is already built? There are still tricks to improve daylight yield. Julia Jantos’ first tip – with a smile – is: “Clean your windows regularly so daylight can actually get in.” Furniture like sofas and dining tables should be near windows, unlike wardrobes which block light. “Mirrors have a special effect,” says Jantos. “Hung opposite a window, they reflect sunlight and make rooms appear even brighter.” Wall colours also help: “Light walls reflect light better than dark ones. That’s why dark flooring should also be avoided.”
Skylights, by the way, can be retrofitted more easily than many think. Learn all about installing skylights afterward in our related article.
