Go Bold With Black Windows

Five reasons Black isn't just Back...it's here to stay.

Some trends come and go, while others catch on and create a movement. Black windows have not only grown in popularity but have firmly anchored themselves in the design world, with no signs of fading into obscurity.

Why do we love it? Because black windows create instant elegance in any room, pairing well with décor from any time period and architectural style, and adding contrast to both indoor colors and outdoor views. 

The black color movement (we're not calling it a trend) has captivated the hearts of many, and with good reason. Why do we love it? Because black windows have the power to give a home a modern update, elevate its overall appearance, and allow homeowners to add their own personal touch. They pair well with décor from any time period and architectural style, and add contrast to both indoor colors and outdoor views. 

Need some more convincing? Let’s get into the alluring charm of black windows and find out why we think they’re here to stay as beloved fixtures in home design.

A versatile and modern classic 

One reason to love black windows is their ability to enhance the aesthetics of both classic and modern architectural styles. Black windows have a timeless appeal seeped in history.

Originally, black windows were made from steel frames used in industrial factories and warehouses, serving a practical purpose. During the Industrial Revolution, metal frames became favorable over wood for their strength, fire resistance, and capacity to hold larger windowpanes, allowing for more natural light. Over time, their sleek and minimalist design caught the eye of architects and homeowners looking to bring a modern touch to their spaces. 

Today, Renewal by Andersen is able to offer black windows in sleek frames thanks to our proprietary Fibrex® composite material. Because our unique process fuses the versatile color into the Fibrex® material, it means we can offer long-lasting, low-maintenance colors—including dark exterior colors like black, that are not typically found with vinyl windows. And unlike wood windows, there's no painting or staining required, and they won't chip or corrode or flake or peel. And the strength of Fibrex means thinner frames...and thinner frames means more glass area, and more view.

A remarkable quality of black windows is their incredible versatility. Says home improvement expert and TV host Matt Muenster, “You always hear ‘___ is the new black.’ That’s because its appeal says, ‘I’m timeless, but I’m also bold.’ And, it’s very stylistically and architecturally versatile. You can use it to accent a traditional-style detail, or create a clean, modern statement. So, when your windows wear black, they work with everything – every style, every period.” (Muenster used black windows from Renewal by Andersen in his own architecturally significant home check out the walkthrough episode in his limited web series, Get Inspired With Matt, and see the final project!)   

Black is a neutral color, creating endless opportunities to play and experiment. It harmonizes effortlessly with various color palettes and design choices. Black windows allow you to draw attention to or play down existing features in your home. 

For example, take a traditional farmhouse with charming white siding and striking black windows. Black windows can add a sense of sophistication to its rustic façade. On the flip side, if you have a sleek, modern home with minimalist design elements, black windows can integrate seamlessly into the environment, enhancing its overall aesthetic

High-contrast; high impact 

Our eyes are naturally drawn to contrast, and black windows offer an excellent opportunity to create eye-catching focal points. On the exterior, pairing black windows with white siding creates a striking contrast. Picture a plain white bungalow with simple gardens. Add black windows and suddenly your home has curb appeal that catches the eye of everyone who passes by.  

The exterior appeal is just the beginning. Inside your home, the drama continues. Black windows stand out against light-colored walls, creating a sense of depth and dimension. The interplay of light and shadow adds movement, giving your living space new life and energy.

Some might consider black a bold choice. But the truth is, yes, black can be bold. But just because it is a contrast to the other elements doesn't have to make it...loud.

The long and the short of it (the light and the dark of it?) is that black windows can seamlessly coordinate with other dark elements and fine details in your home like trim, light fixtures, or cabinets...or just as seamlessly serve as a contrast. The result is an interior that exudes sophistication and style.

As interior designer and Renewal brand ambassador Breegan Jane explains, “People are nervous about making design decisions when it's not their profession... I see them overthink it. But you can't go wrong with black.”

Frame up the view  

Black windows aren’t just functional; they’re artists in their own right. Breegan Jane, who recently added black windows to her coastal home in Malibu, shares her perspective, saying, “Black framed windows are a way of making art out of your view. My favorite way to frame artwork is to put it in a black frame with a white matte, and I feel like by selecting black windows you are creating that artistic moment and I wanted to make sure that my ocean views were framed in a way that draws your eye towards the outside. Just like a black frame draws your eye towards the artwork on a wall.” 

The contrast between the black frame and the outside draws attention to the view, turning it into a work of art. Imagine waking up to the gentle waves of the ocean, framed by elegant black windows. Or perhaps you prefer the lush greenery of a garden captured like a painting in your living room. With black windows, your view becomes an integral part of your home’s interior design. 

Make a statement, simply 

There’s something undeniably appealing about the simplicity of black windows. Their sleek design and striking presence usher in a sense of modern minimalism. When you opt for black windows, you’re making a statement—a statement that says you appreciate clean lines, uncluttered spaces, and the beauty of simplicity.  

The sleek and striking design of black windows also often eliminates the need for window treatments. The absence of curtains or blinds allows natural light to flood the space to maintain a clean and uncluttered look. In a world where less is often more, black windows are the perfect complement to a modern and minimalist lifestyle.   

Your friends know...Black is the New Black

Whether it’s moody, all-dark exteriors; striking, black kitchen cabinets; or midnight-hued soaking tubs and other bath fixtures…black is back in design. And as we've seen in this article, black is one of the most versatile design choices for windows. Blacks and other ultra-dark colors can make a bold statement, especially when used in concentration; but it can also be used sparingly as a dramatic accent. And…it can also function as a neutral, blending into its surroundings and eliminating distractions.

But don't take our word for it; hear from other folks like you—check out some of these examples from some of the Andersen and Renewal by Andersen homeowners using black in their designs. 

Your homes, your styles.

Nestled in the woods about an hour outside of Portland, snuggled up alongside the Wilson River, is the retreat of @bearcreekfalls. Their gorgeous new windows showcase the view outdoors—AND complement all the natural wood finishings in their home.