Would You Put a Kitchen Window Here?

There’s a general well-loved layout most kitchens seem to follow these days: island in the middle, sink under the window, range on the wall, etc. It works for a reason — it’s practical and results in a functional, usable space.

However, we’ve been noticing one little tweak to that setup that kinda changes everything we thought we knew about kitchen design: People are putting windows over their ranges! It’s crazy, right? Or is it?

Just like the charming idea of being able to stare out the window while washing dishes, cooking at the stove while watching the sunset holds the same romantic allure. But is it practical?

Eh, yes and no, we say.

Tour the rest of the space (above): White Walnut at Studio Dearborn

Let’s start with the obvious: Stovetop cooking equals splatters. Whether you’re stirring up sauce or searing a steak, the surrounding surfaces are going to take a beating (in the form of errant cooking debris). The idea of constantly having to wipe grease or splatters off a window seems a bit irritating. Plus grime will be much more obvious on the glass when the sun is shining through. At least with tile, there’s no spotlight to highlight the mess.

See more kitchens: The Portfolio at TR Built

Still, the idea of a sunny cooking spot just seems so alluring. Who wants to stand there looking at tile (even the prettiest tile imaginable) when you can look at mother nature and spy on your neighbors? Plus, no one ever complains about having too much light while cooking. (Just think of how great your Instagram photos would look with all that natural light!)

We love everything about these kitchens from Studio Dearborn and TR Built, and they remind us of one big takeaway: If you end up going with a window above your range, this is the spot to skip the window treatments. A vent or hood is a must, but don’t even think about dressing the window with any sort of fabric or natural fiber shade. It’s just an unnecessary fire risk!

Would you put a window over your range? Yay or nay?