Contemporary vs Traditional Windows

Contemporary windows have become very popular these days, because they work with a lot of different home styles. No matter how popular contemporary windows get, however, traditional windows are here to stay. So, what’s the difference? In this post you can learn more about the difference between contemporary windows and traditional windows, what window styles would work best for your space, and the pros and cons of these two styles. 

Use the links below to skip ahead:

• How do Contemporary and Traditional Windows Differ?
• What Window Style is Right for You?
• Pros and Cons of These Styles

How Do Contemporary and Traditional Windows Differ?

Contemporary windows are distinguished from traditional windows by their styles and features. Contemporary window styles usually include casements and picture windows, and feature an all black interior and exterior. Traditional windows, however, usually include styles like single or double hung windows, and features such as grids or grilles, with a traditional white or wood stain finish. 

There are many window brands that offer both contemporary and traditional window options. These brands can differ in pricing, the window series that are offered, and the colors that are offered.

Andersen:

Andersen offers options for both traditional and contemporary windows. The Andersen 100 Series is a great window series for both styles. For example, an Andersen 100 Series picture window in all black can range from $184 at its smallest (12” x 12”) to $1,145* at its largest (96” x 102”), and is a great choice if you’re looking for a contemporary window. For a more traditional option, an Andersen 100 Series single hung window in all white can range from $232 at its smallest (18” x 24”) to $778* at its largest (48” x 90”). 

Andersen is a great brand to choose from because they offer so many different options no matter what style of window or customizations you’re looking for and no matter what budget you have.

Alside:

Alside windows are another great choice for contemporary or traditional windows. For a contemporary look, try the Alside 80 Series picture window, which can range from $137 at its smallest (12” x 12”) to $1,155* at its largest (96” x 84”). If you’re looking for a more traditional option, try the Alside Mezzo Series. According to the Window Price Guide, the Alside Mezzo double hung window will run about $400, but these prices are liable to change at any time, so it’s important to contact a window specialist for more accurate information on pricing.

NT Window:

NT Window offers many great options for both traditional and contemporary windows. For a more traditional look, try the NT Executive Series vinyl single hung windows in all white, which can range from $373 at its smallest (18” x 24”) to $824* at its largest (42” x 108”). NT Window offers a contemporary option with its Royal Series vinyl casement window in all black, which can range from $722 at its smallest (36” x 72”) to $1,146* at its largest (36” x 72”). As you can see, the contemporary window will be more expensive due to the size of the glass and the all black interior and exterior. 

Sierra Pacific:

Finally, Sierra Pacific is another brand that has window styles that will fit in both traditional and contemporary homes. The rough, general cost estimation we have gathered for Sierra Pacific windows ranges from $4oo to $850* a window. If you go for a more contemporary option, such as a picture or casement window in all black, it will end up being more expensive than a more traditional single or double hung window in all white. This information may not be accurate today so make sure to do your research when purchasing your windows. 

*Prices do not include installation and fees. Contact a local window retailer to get the most accurate prices and be aware prices often increase year after year.

What Window Style is Right for You?

No matter what type of home style you have, there are many windows that could fit with that style. It’s all about the customizations you make to these windows to match the home.

If you have a more traditional style of home, such as this one here, traditional single or double hung windows with grids look great in these homes. You can always mix styles like the designer did here where they grouped a few small picture windows with grids with some single hung windows up top. The grids and the tan color of these windows make them more traditional.

In contrast, this home is very contemporary and modern. The designer used large black picture windows along with some smaller black horizontal slider windows. The all black interior and exterior and the large amounts of glass are what makes these windows contemporary. 

However, we can see that both homes use the same technique of grouping windows together and mixing window styles, which are a great option to give your home that extra special touch. With that being said, what window style is right for you? Whether you have a more traditional or contemporary home, any window style is customizable to fit your space. It’s all up to your personal preferences and budget. 

Pros and Cons of These Styles

Both contemporary and traditional window styles are great options for any space, but what are the real pros and cons of these two styles?

Contemporary Windows:

Traditional Windows:

Now you know the difference between contemporary and traditional windows in terms of pricing, features and brands, how to know which style is right for your space, and the pros and cons of these two styles. No matter what style of home you have, there are so many options available to you and there’s not one right answer. Your personal preferences for your space are all that matters, and you can customize any window to fit those preferences without breaking the bank.

Make sure to contact a window retailer or specialist near you to get more information on window vendors and accurate prices.