The Importance Of The Significance Of The Origins Of The Sash Window
Thursday, June 30th, 2011Since the seventeenth century, European buildings have been constructed with the ever popular sash window, a fixture that has only gotten better with time. The history of sash windows has largely affected their use and ubiquity today.
A design strikingly similar to this innovative piece is mentioned in a 1519 literary work by W. Horman Valgaria. It is not believed that this was its start, however. Rather, its exact origins are not known.
The fixture certainly began showing up in European estates in the 1670s, when it first became popular. Despite the uncertainty of its first appearance, this is commonly accepted as its humble beginning. Dramatically affected by the status of the glass industry, it became even more commonplace in the 1850’s, when the availability of plate glass increased. Not only were the fixtures found in more homes than ever before, but they tended to be larger as well, given the new sturdiness of the materials.
The original design consisted of several panes of glass in rectangular dimensions, held together in their wrought iron frame with lead fixings. Inside the fame was a weighted rope that lowered when the window was opened and raised when it was closed. This innovated design was developed by famed architect and scientist Robert Hooke. His original model was given the name the Georgian Sash.
As plate glass continued to advance, the panes used in these windows grew. The design in which two larger frames sit on top of two others is known as the Regency. Modern day sash windows are referred to as Edwardian style, with a solid pane on both the top and bottom. Every style has used the original weight pulley concept to open and close.
Perhaps one of the greatest features the windows offer is maximum control over ventilation. Because the weighted pulleys hold the panes in place no matter where they are, you determine their exact placement every time.
Throughout history, these fixtures have been referenced in many fictional romantic settings. Whether it be a young maiden being serenaded at twilight or a child anxiously awaiting Saint Nick, they have been featured right alongside some of literature’s most memorable moments. This is a testament to both their longevity and versatility.
As the history of sash windows illustrates, the now ubiquitous fixture has had an exciting evolution. It has been largely impacted by the development of the glass industry but has held its own in the architectural world for over three centuries and will continue to hang in there.
Sash windows are a popular option for buildings and homes in many locations. View the inventory at a London sash window company to renovate or replace your windows.