Window surrounds are the decorative architectural elements surrounding a window. They are often used to decorate and design apartment buildings, condos, commercial properties, and more – typically buildings that have a lot of rooms, where uniform decorative elements can make a significant difference.
Often it takes a lot of planning to choose the style that is likely to make the most sense for your needs. We encourage you to reach out to our team today to discuss the different options, as your specific surrounds can be customized to your property. We at Patterson Whittaker are unique in our products, creating a high end but also affordable and easy to install window surrounds that suit your project.
But we also know that some of our clients need some extra direction. Different styles can enhance architectural character, improve insulation, and even increase property value. Below are some common styles of window surrounds suited for multifamily buildings such as apartments and condos.
Modern Minimalist
Modern apartments often favor a minimalist window surround style that emphasizes clean lines and simplicity. These surrounds use slim frames that allow the windows to speak more for themselves. The focus is on maximizing natural light and creating smooth lines. They often are finished in neutral colors to blend with similarly modern interiors.
Art Deco
Art Deco-style window surrounds are distinguished by their geometric shapes, symmetry, and the use of bold, streamlined designs. Common in older apartment buildings from the early 20th century, these surrounds might include stepped or fluted patterns around the window frame, often combined with materials such as polished stone or metal.
Colonial Revival
The Colonial Revival style often features decorative window surrounds, with crown moldings and wider casings that mimic traditional wooden trims. This style emphasizes symmetry, with shutters or small divided panes typically complementing the windows. These surrounds are more prominent and often painted white or other neutral colors, contributing to a stately and classical look.
Craftsman
Craftsman window surrounds emphasize handcrafted details and simplicity, often using thick wood trim with minimal ornamentation. The surrounds usually feature a prominent top header or lintel that overhangs slightly, creating a distinctive frame for each window. This style is common in mid-century or bungalow-style apartment buildings.
Victorian
In Victorian-style buildings, window surrounds are highly decorative, often featuring ornate carvings, arched tops, and intricate moldings. Victorian window surrounds aim to be visually striking and are often used in restored or historic apartment building. While this style is not as common, many architects like to mix things up with Victorian elements.
Tudor Revival
Tudor Revival window surrounds are often made of brick or stone, emphasizing a rustic, old-world charm. We can mimic this look with our cement coated EPS products, providing an alternative that is lighter weight and easier to install yet looks the same. They may feature arched or mullioned windows, with heavy, thick frames that give the windows a recessed look. These surrounds work well in condos that echo medieval European architecture and are often found in historic districts.
Italianate
Italianate window surrounds are notable for their elaborate, classical details. They often feature decorative arches, keystones, and pronounced cornices that extend beyond the window frame. These surrounds add a sense of grandeur to the building and are often used in historic apartment buildings or upscale condos.
Considerations for Window Surrounds
When selecting window surrounds for apartments or condos, it’s important to align the style with the building’s overall architectural design. Different architectural styles call for varying levels of detail, material choices, and decorative elements that help to either blend in or stand out as a feature of the building.
Architectural consistency ensures the window surrounds enhance the structure’s aesthetic, while also providing opportunities to improve the energy efficiency and functionality of the windows themselves.
If you need help designing window surrounds, or any architectural products, reach out to Patterson Whittaker Architectural Profiles today to learn more about our custom window surround designs.
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