HGTV Dream Home 2016: Windows and Doors

Does your home desperately need new doors and windows? Interior designer Brian Patrick Flynn explains how he swapped the old for the new during the HGTV Dream Home 2016 remodel.

By: Brian Patrick Flynn and Dana Dalrymple

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Photo By: Flynnside Out Productions

Framing a View

During the HGTV Dream Home 2016 remodel, every door and window was extracted to make way for new doors and windows in a variety of shapes and sizes. Whether swapping out old windows and doors for more efficient styles or looking to open up a solid wall to expose scenic views, it’s important to consider a few important design details.

From: Brian Patrick Flynn

No Panes No Gain

One of the most extensive elements of the two-story remodel was reframing almost every exterior wall along the rear of the house to capitalize on the breathtaking view of the water. Anytime you're using paned windows along walls with spectacular views, keep the panes to a minimum and open for wide placement so the pane detail won't detract from the view.

From: Brian Patrick Flynn

Prime Example

Save yourself time and labor costs by choosing doors pre-primed in white or black. Black primer is ideal for cutting down the number of coats needed for dark colored paint while white is helpful for making light or bright colors bond quickly to the wood.

From: Brian Patrick Flynn

Outward Swinging Doors

If you're short on space inside, an outward swinging door is ideal. However, inward swinging doors are ideal for any small patios or porches connected to interior spaces with generous square footage.

From: Brian Patrick Flynn

Extra Tall Openings

A great trick for hallways and entrances is to opt for extra tall interior doors. This gives the illusion that the spaces are larger and can make cramped areas feel open and expansive. Stay consistent with tall doors in regard to rooms which open onto one another or that are grouped together in the same area of the home.

From: Brian Patrick Flynn

Direct Sunlight and Heat Insulation

If you're letting in a lot more natural light, make sure to go with double paned windows and French doors to help control the amount of heat which light may produce.

From: Brian Patrick Flynn

Wall Thickness

Any time you're replacing windows and doors, you need to know the thickness of the installation wall. If you have to buy a set that is slightly thinner than the wall, it's okay because the thickness can be beefed up with trim. However, if the set is too thick, it will be unusable.

From: Brian Patrick Flynn

Measure Window Coverings

As you start to make fabric selections for your window coverings, it's best to invest in having a local installer take proper measurements after the doors, windows, and their corresponding trim have been installed.

From: Brian Patrick Flynn

Charming Juliet Balconies

If your main living space is higher than ground level and has a decent view, consider changing out a small window for a Juliet balcony made from French doors and decorative railing. Inward swinging doors in generously sized rooms will give the room indoor/outdoor usability.

From: Brian Patrick Flynn

Cover Up Eye Sores

An excellent way to rid a room of an eye sore is to remove its window and add drywall in its place. To counterbalance any needed natural light, consider adding a highly placed transom as its substitute.

From: Brian Patrick Flynn