AROUND HOME : Notes on Vuarnet Sunglasses, Unusual Windows and Antique Clocks : Windows With a View
UNUSUALLY SHAPED windows sometimes can do a hero’s work, redeeming a claustrophobic room or converting dead space into an attractive living area.
New architecture demands new window contours. Just as semicircular lunettes topped ancient Roman doors, and Victorian porches and towers required special windows, contemporary lofts and A-frames are gaining distinction with their unusual window designs. Thanks to this new demand, companies now supply unusually shaped windows at competitive prices.
Andersen vinyl-clad windows with snap-in plastic “small pane” grilles include bay, radial bow, circle-top, point-top, triangular, octagonal and diamond shapes, plus trapezoids to underscore high peaked ceilings. Marvin wooden windows are made as full circles, quarter circles, pointed arches, ovals, hexagons, pentagons, arch-tops and casements with curved inverted corners (panes are authentically divided).
Pella windows with snap-in “dividers” extend to elliptical, clover, wide-arc chord, partial chord and ice cream designs. All three firms--Andersen, Marvin and Pella--offer insulating, high-energy or sun-block plate glass.
Similar styles are produced in etched and beveled glass. Beveled Glass Industries makes leaded-glass bull’s-eyes, stars and hearts. Several local shops make arched French window frames and angled radial bows. Authentic bow windows also are available.
Andersen Windows are available at most Southern California lumberyards. Pella Windows are sold at Pella Stores in Studio City, Downey, Arcadia, Redondo Beach and Thousand Oaks. Marvin, International (aluminum) and Architectural Antiques West (etched and beveled) windows are sold by Malibu Sash & Door in Malibu and Manhattan Sash & Door in Manhattan Beach. For leaded windows, visit Beveled Glass Industries in Culver City and Costa Mesa. Vent-San Sash in Sun Valley, Old English Milling in Northridge and Glendale Mill Co. in Los Angeles sell arched French window frames. California Glass Bending in Wilmington carries curved bow windows.
DR, Ayse Ulay