In an exploration of innovative architectural elements, a curated selection of eight residences showcases the striking impact of circular window designs. These unique apertures not only imbue each home with a distinct personality but also introduce an element of whimsical charm to their facades. From capturing panoramic views of an active volcano in Iceland to reflecting the undulating contours of a London plot, these examples underscore the versatility and aesthetic power of round windows in contemporary residential architecture.
Featured Residences: A Glimpse into Circular Window Design
Our journey through these architecturally distinct homes begins in Hampshire, UK, where Cooke Fawcett studio meticulously expanded a historic Grade II-listed mill house. Their design ingeniously incorporates a large circular window in a new standalone studio annexe, offering a captivating vista back towards the main residence. Oliver Cooke, a co-founder of the studio, describes this round window as perhaps the most expressive feature of the entire project, blending modern aesthetics with historical context.
Moving to Ghent, Belgium, Felt architecture studio crafted the 'Heifort' for a retired couple. This single-level, barn-inspired home features a copper-clad roof and, notably, a large circular window adorning the attic guest room, seamlessly integrated beneath the expansive roofline. This design choice marries rustic charm with a modern touch.
In the dramatic landscapes of Iceland, Yrki Arkitektar's 'Swan Nest' summerhouse stands as a testament to site-specific design. Partially embedded in its terrain, this two-story structure, a harmonious blend of concrete and timber, boasts a porthole-style window in its kitchen. This particular window serves as a framed canvas, showcasing the majestic presence of a nearby active volcano, creating a direct visual dialogue with nature.
London presents 'Runda,' a collaborative masterpiece by Nikjoo and Flawk studios. This sculptural family home, nestled on an infill site in north London, captivates with its brick exterior defined by fluid curved walls. The playful porthole windows are a direct architectural response to the gentle curvature of the property's plot, demonstrating a sensitive and imaginative integration with the urban environment.
Further south, in Buenos Aires, Argentina, BHY Arquitectos undertook the 'Casa Wiz' project, transforming a 1980s residence with the addition of a two-story gabled greenhouse. The renovation enclosed a previously unused terrace, culminating in a third gable wrapped in white metal and punctuated by a subtle porthole window, enhancing both light and architectural interest.
'Brockley House' in London, a renovation project by Office S&M, radiates a vibrant and playful spirit. Inspired by 1950s cake advertisements, the home's exterior features a textured lilac render and striking green drainpipes. A prominent circular window overlooks the rear garden, adding a whimsical touch to this corner plot residence.
In Dorset, southwest England, David Kohn Architects designed the 'Red House,' a dwelling that reinterprets traditional British vernacular architecture with an "eccentric" twist. Characterized by oversized eaves and patterned brickwork, the home features distinct geometric, circular, and semi-circular windows framed in green, contributing to its unique and charming facade.
Finally, 'Peek-a-Blue' in London, by Nimtim Architects, showcases the strategic use of ultramarine blue openings to forge visual connections within a home extension. This project, which added a new kitchen and dining area at ground level, incorporates sliding doors and a porthole window that together offer expansive views of the rear garden, bathing the interior in a serene blue light.
These diverse projects collectively highlight how circular windows can transcend mere functionality, becoming integral elements of architectural expression. They invite contemplation, frame landscapes, and inject a sense of individuality and artistic flair into residential design, proving that even a simple shape can profoundly elevate the living experience.