Shopping for windows involves important considerations that start with the type of window you would like to have installed. Kitchens often have space for a window over the sink, but the type of window used can greatly affect the functionality of the area. Consider discussing a garden window with your window installation company if you would like to add more function to your kitchen.

Garden windows, like all types of windows, come with their own pros and cons. Here are a few aspects to consider.

Pro: Extra Space and Light

A garden window essentially forms a little glass box with a downwards slanted top and two inwards slanting sides that all connect at the rigid and straight front window. The window sticks out far enough that you can install shelves inside the box for additional storage that wouldn't exist if you had installed a flat window.

The sides of the window still open to provide some air flow, though not as much as a fully opening window. But a garden window also provides much more light than a traditional window as the light will now be able to enter through different sides.

Pro: Great for Herb Gardens

The increased light and storage capabilities of the garden window make it a great small greenhouse for herbs grown indoors. The setup can allow you to grow herbs year-round in small pots or mason jars so that you have easy access to your supply and don't have to worry about heavy rains or frosts damaging your herbs.

You can also use the garden window to grow small flowers or plants. The plants could be brought in from outside to save your favorites from a hard winter, or you could simply grow a fragrant bud to keep your kitchen looking and smelling brighter.

Con: Not Energy Efficient without Add-Ons

Windows typically get a lot of their energy efficiency through the thick vinyl or wood frame around the glass panes. The garden window doesn't have those thick frame segments between each segment of glass, so the window can be less energy efficient, which means air can pass from inside to outside and vice versa.

There are some steps you can take to increase the efficiency if you are willing to pay more for the window. A low-emissivity or low-e coating on the glass can help, as can selecting tempered glass. The combination of low-e and tempered glass can be enough to make the garden window as efficient as a standard window.