Planning a kitchen with a window: 42 design ideas for small and large kitchen landscapes

In addition to doors, kitchen windows are also an important design element that you should definitely consider when planning. Windows are not only a source of light, but also allow you to regulate the temperature and humidity in the room. It is therefore very important that they are included in the design. We explain to you how to plan a kitchen with a window and what you should take into account and offer you 42Design ideas for different room conditionsand kitchen styles. Be inspired and create a modern and functional kitchen landscape flooded with light!

Planning a kitchen with a window: an overview of the different window types

Depending on your own preferences and room conditions, different types of windows are available. And although all types of windows can basically be integrated into the kitchen, some of them score points with more functionality. We try to give you an overview of the design options.

IfPivot casement windoware usually large windows that have a horizontal, centrally placed axis. This means that the window sash can practically swing around its axis, with the lower part of the window opening outwards and the upper part opening inwards. This construction allows for effective ventilation and is super practical for the kitchen. This allows fresh air to flow through the lower half of the room and ensure the comfort of those sitting around the kitchen island or at the dining table. The warm air that rises while cooking quickly escapes through the upper window opening.The good ventilationis particularly important for the kitchen because it regulates the humidity in the room and prevents mold from forming.

WendefensterIn principle, they are very similar to pivoting sash windows. Only in this case the axis of rotation is not horizontal, but vertical. This window construction has two main disadvantages: Firstly, the window is opened inwards, so the work surface directly underneath cannot be used. On the other hand, the opening direction makes it impossible to install curtains, roller shutters or other privacy protection. It is also not possiblePlants on a windowsillto arrange. The reversible windows are ideal if they look out onto the garden and there is an outdoor kitchen outside. This means that food and accessories can be easily passed through the window.

OneFixed glazingis an option if the window is narrow and long. In modern kitchens, fixed glazing is usually installed as a special back wall. However, with fixed glazing, it is important that you plan another ventilation option. Central ventilation systems with passive ventilation are ideal for new buildings.

Tilt-and-turn windows are among the most popular window types. There are numerous options: For example, the windows can be designed in such a way that they do not open inwards but rather outwards. This proves to be super practical for small rooms. Among other things, it is possible for wall shelves to be mounted in front of the window.

Bothlattice windowsSeveral smaller glass panes are attached to a window sash using metal rungs. This window construction is one of the oldest ever. Nowadays they have become a popular design element for industrial style buildings (inspired by theLoft apartmentsin New York). The modern lattice windows are also used in the restoration of listed buildings or in the renovation of old buildings.

No matter which variant you choose, one thing is certain: with theDesigning your dream kitchenYou should definitely pay attention to the lighting conditions in the room. Most often, the kitchen sink is mounted under the window. A work surface under a window also proves to be very functional. It is less practical to install the stove under the window. Mainly because no splash guard can be installed there.

When planning your kitchen, it also plays a role whether you want to design your kitchen with or without a kitchen island, whether the available space is small or large, and what shape the room has. The best way to do this is to make a list of all the kitchen appliances you need in the kitchen and all the types of cabinets you want. Then get advice based on a sketch as to how best everything can find its place. Especially atsmall kitchensIt can be problematic if you have to do without the upper cabinets because there is a window on the wall.

Kitchen with window above the worktop

If you want to plan a kitchen with a window over the worktop, then elongated window fronts are ideal. Narrow but long windows let in enough sunlight and are quick to clean. There are two variants to choose from:

1. The window starts directly above the worktop and ends directly under the wall cabinets. The window therefore has similar dimensions to the kitchen back wall. It is a beautiful option for modern kitchens that face the garden. In this case, no privacy screen is necessary and you can enjoy a work surface flooded with light.

2. The window is placed 50 cm above the worktop. This leaves enough space on the work surface for a coffee machine and other smaller kitchen appliances. The window can also be opened easily and you do not need any privacy protection.

Kitchen with window above the sink

If you want to design a kitchen with a window over a sink, there are a few things you should consider. The following questions can support you in the task and help with planning:

1. How deep is the window and will it be able to open when you install the kitchen cabinets and countertop?

2. What style is your kitchen designed in? If you are planning a modern kitchen in a Scandinavian or minimalist style, then large windows are ideal. For Mediterranean kitchens as well as for kitchens in a modern country house style or in the trendy Hamptons look, small windows with a window sill are more likely to be an option. By the way, the windowsill can accommodate not only decorative accessories, but also plants in flower pots.

3.Do you need wall cabinets?Or would you rather do without the upper cabinets completely? This is closely related to the available space. In large kitchens you can do without the wall cabinets around the window; in smaller kitchen landscapes you can replace them with wall shelves.

Designing a kitchen with two windows: What should you consider?

In contrast to old buildings, the kitchen in new buildings is not in a separate room, but is part of the living area. This represents a major planning challenge. On the one hand, the kitchen area should fit harmoniously into the living area, and on the other hand, it should also be functional. The task is further complicated if there are multiple windows in the kitchen area. Because of this, you often have to do without upper cabinets completely.

Also important is the question of whether all windows in the kitchen should open. It proves to be optimal if only one window can be opened and the others are installed as fixed glazing. Kitchen appliances can be placed in front of it or shelves can be built.

You can also position the kitchen sink in the middle, between the two windows. This means you can benefit from a well-lit work surface. If there are two windows on one wall, then upper cabinets are of course out of the question. Instead, you can opt for a kitchen island. Not only does it offer additional storage space for dishes etc., but you can also integrate a dining area into the island. Kitchen islands on wheels offer flexible design options and are the perfect choice for kitchens with multiple windows. Larger kitchen islands can not only provide additional work space and storage space, but also space for built-in appliances.

Kitchen with two windows, tile backsplash and kitchen sink in the middle of the work surface

Kitchen island with integrated dining area

Kitchen with window around corner

For a kitchen with a window around the corner, either sliding windows or pivoting windows prove to be the optimal option. Wall shelves above the windows and a wide windowsill provide storage space for accessories and spices, a modular kitchen island on wheels can be moved back and forth as needed and can serve as both a serving trolley and a chest of drawers. The kitchen also has a dining area right next to the cooking island.

Design a small L-shaped kitchen with a window

An L-shaped kitchen with a window is difficult to design. Especially if the available space is narrow and it is not possible to install wall shelves or wall cabinets, storage space can quickly become scarce. In this case, you should definitely pay attention to a sensible kitchen layout and arrangement. The L-shaped kitchen is usually divided into several zones. Each of these zones fulfills a specific function. So you can plan an area for supplies at the kitchen entrance and an area for storing dishes and pots right next to it. The kitchen sink is located in close proximity to the area where food is prepared. The cooking area is also located right next to it.

Modern industrial style kitchen with window

Two windows in the narrow L-shaped kitchen leave no free space for wall cupboards

Skylights allow plenty of sunlight into the kitchen

U-shaped kitchen with window

A U-shaped kitchen is much more spacious than the small L-shaped kitchen. The right arrangement is also important in this case in order to carry out the processes in the kitchen as practically as possible. However, if you have a U-shaped kitchen area, you can easily do without the upper cabinets in favor of a peninsula. This way you can shorten your commute, visually separate the kitchen from the living area and then create additional seating for the family or your guests.

In the photo series below you will also find further examples of modern and functional kitchen landscapes as well as clever ideas for interior design.

U-shaped kitchen landscape with window

U-shaped kitchen with peninsula

Kitchen with window and cooking island

Modern kitchen with skylight and cooking island as part of a living area

Small kitchen with dining area by the window

Modern small L-shaped kitchen with dining area

Kitchen with bench under window

Bench under window saves space in small kitchen

Two benches and a small dining table under the window

Design a dining area in the kitchen

Design a modern kitchen with a window

Modern kitchen with window with underlight and windowsill

Two-line kitchen with window

Two-line kitchen with generous window fronts: the perfect variant for walk-through rooms

Small L-shaped kitchen with window

Design ideas for a small kitchen with an L shape and a window

Small kitchen in a modern country house style and with a large window