Transforming Party Wall Windows: Creative Solutions for Zero-View Windows in Chicago Homes
Living in our wonderful city, with its rich architectural history and charming neighborhoods, comes with its unique quirks—one of them being the infamous party wall windows. You may be wondering what exactly I mean by this—let me clarify.
What Are Party Wall Windows?
Party wall windows, sometimes referred to as “zero-view windows” or “blind windows,” are windows that, unfortunately, don’t offer much of a view at all. Instead of overlooking a garden, street, or skyline, they face a neighboring building just a few feet away, often giving you a lovely view of a brick wall. This is a common feature in many Chicago homes, especially those classic long and narrow lots where buildings are snugly nestled side by side.
Why Do So Many Chicago Homes Have Them?
Chicago’s architectural landscape is a tapestry of history. Many homes were built on these long, narrow lots to maximize space in bustling neighborhoods. While this design has its charms, it often means that side windows don’t get the picturesque views we might hope for. Instead, they serve more to let in natural light and provide ventilation than to offer a scenic outlook.
A Common Feature Across All Home Styles
Many Chicago homes, even the most luxurious mansions, feature these blind windows. It’s a testament to our city’s unique architectural character. Regardless of the grandeur or modernity of a home, party wall windows are a common sight. But fear not—no matter your interior design style, whether traditional, transitional, or ultra-modern, there’s a beautiful solution waiting to be discovered.
My Personal Journey with Party Wall Windows
In my own home, I’ve faced the challenge of these less-than-inspiring views. The four windows in my living and dining rooms stare directly at the five-foot brick wall of my neighbor’s house. Don’t get me wrong; I adore the character that the brick brings into my space. But there are times when I yearn to soften that stark view and add a touch of elegance and warmth to the rooms.
Creative Solutions to Transform Your Zero-View Windows
Over the years, I’ve explored various ways to turn these “dead” spaces into delightful features of my home. The goal is always to let the window serve its essential purposes—bringing in light and allowing ventilation—while also enhancing the overall design of the room.
Here are some ideas that might inspire you:
- Sheer Fabric Shades
- Stained Glass Inserts
- Layered Window Treatments
- Frosted Window Films with Backlighting
- Artistic Displays
- Indoor Greenery
- Custom Shutters or Screens
I’m currently on the hunt for the perfect sheer fabric shades for my living and dining rooms. These can diffuse the limited light that comes in, soften the harshness of the brick wall, and add a layer of privacy without making the room feel closed off. Sheer shades work wonderfully in both traditional and modern settings, adding a touch of elegance and simplicity.
In my primary bathroom, I installed a faux vintage stained glass window. It not only adds a splash of color and artistry but also creates the illusion of depth where there is none. Stained glass can be customized to match any decor style, from classic to contemporary, making it a versatile choice.
Previously, I used seagrass blinds paired with silk drapery in my dining room. The natural texture of the seagrass combined with the elegance of silk created a cozy yet sophisticated ambiance. Layering allows you to play with textures and opacities, giving you control over light and privacy. This approach can be tailored to suit any interior style.
I’ve seen homeowners use frosted or textured window films to obscure the uninspiring view while still letting in light. Some have taken it a step further by installing LED lights behind the frosted panels. This setup mimics the effect of natural light and can be especially enchanting in the evenings. It’s a sleek solution that fits well with modern and minimalist designs.
Consider treating the window as a frame for art. Hang decorative pieces, such as macramé hangings, glass art, or even plants, within the window frame. This turns the window into a focal point rather than an afterthought. Whether your style is boho-chic or industrial, there’s an artistic solution that can complement your decor.
Place tall plants or a vertical garden in front of the window. The greenery brings life into the room and diverts attention from the lackluster view outside. Plants can soften the space and work beautifully with any design aesthetic, from rustic to ultra-modern.
Installing custom shutters, decorative screens or lattices can add architectural interest to the room. Choose designs that reflect your interior style—louvered shutters for a classic look or geometric patterns for a modern touch.
The Realtor’s Perspective: Enhancing Your Home’s Market Appeal
As a seasoned realtor, I can attest to the significant impact that thoughtfully addressing party wall windows can have on the sale of a home. When selling homes with these blind windows, it’s crucial to address them with proper staging prior to taking photographs and welcoming potential buyers.
A cleverly and beautifully appointed window can be transformed from a potential drawback into an interesting feature that elevates the entire listing. By implementing some of the creative solutions mentioned above, you not only improve the aesthetic appeal of the room but also showcase the home’s potential to prospective buyers.
From a real estate perspective, homes that demonstrate attention to detail—especially in areas that are commonly overlooked—tend to stand out in the market. Buyers appreciate when every aspect of a home has been thoughtfully designed, and turning a zero-view window into a decorative asset can set your property apart from others.
Moreover, in listing photos, these enhanced windows can capture the imagination of buyers scrolling through numerous properties. A beautifully staged window can draw the eye, make rooms appear brighter and more inviting, and ultimately encourage more showings and offers.
Embrace the Challenge
Party wall windows might seem like a design hurdle, but they offer a unique opportunity to get creative and personalize your space. By experimenting with different treatments and décor, you can turn that uninspiring window into one of your home’s most charming features.
Remember, the key is to make the window serve its purpose—bringing in light and allowing ventilation—while also enhancing the room’s aesthetic. No matter your interior design preference, there’s always a solution that can transform your zero-view window from “blah” to “aha!”
