For some reason, installing the windows in the house made it really look like a house. I mean, WINDOWS. Where are all the heart-eye emojis? I want to use them ALL.
We talked a little about our choice of aluminum clad Pella windows back in March, when we started the ordering process. And they have been sitting in Pella storage for over a month, waiting for us to catch up and get the roof installed.
But early last week, the truck arrived and unloaded 20 windows and four doors. Woot. Woot.
And within two days, Ryan and our dads had all the first and second floor windows in. On the first evening alone, Ryan and his dad had 9 windows installed.
(We followed these instructions online, so I’m not going to rehash the process.)
And that gorgeous front door. We actually took off soon after for some summer traveling, but it’s pretty well protected from the elements at this point, which is a relief.
Here’s a closer look at our front door. The door choice was a challenge for us. I originally wanted a Craftsman-style door (smaller windows and recessed panels). But in the end, I think this style is a better fit for our house. More of a traditional feel. And the 3/4 window on the door will let in a ton of light.
I’m regretting not including the grates on the door, but I think once it’s painted and the porch installed, it will be great.
Outside, we chose black aluminum for some contrast. I’m pretty much obsessed with this look.
As a reminder, we chose simulated light-divided grills. This means that the grills are on the outside of the glass, to look a little more authentic. Our goal was to look like this house could have been an old farmhouse. And we feel like these fit that feel.
Our local rep did remind us that the simulated-light grills will be a bit in the way while cleaning windows, but since we were just doing one grill down the center, it will be fine.
And who really cleans windows anyway? 😉
It’s a challenge for me to take photos inside, but I wanted to show how the interiors are a white color. We chose the brightest white paint offered on the wood windows. (This is our kitchen.)
The inside of the windows also have the grills in white. You can sort of spot the black on the outside from a certain angle, but I was surprised that I barely noticed that the inside and outside were different colors. (This is the living room window.)
We chose the brown hardware, which should coordinate well with the oil rubbed hardware we are using throughout the house. There are also handles that are in storage with the screens for now.
All the windows still have plastic cling on the inside and outside. I’d love to remove it to take in the view, but we decided to keep it for some protection while working on the house. The view from our dining room bump-out is probably my favorite.
What do you think of our window choices?
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Dusty @All Things G&D says
We went with black windows for our build, too – it’s such a stunning look! And I’m having major heart eyes over your front door. It’s beautiful! I’m in awe of how talented your husband is. So amazing to be building your own home YOURSELF. Truly remarkable!
Kim Woodward says
Thanks so much for the kind words! It’s been fun to see it all come together!
Sara @ Russet Street Reno says
Wow, the black is perfect for the exterior! Very cool. I agree that I have never really washed the windows on the outside. Isn’t that what rain is for?
Kim Woodward says
I think we are officially soul mates.
Speaking of that, are you anywhere near Union, Ill.? I’m thinking about driving up this Sunday for the Ride on Thomas event at the Train Museum. We went last year and it blew Henry’s mind. Would love to meet up!
Amber @ Wills Casa says
Love the window choice! I like how it’s not your typical divided light look. It looks like a more modern take on it. Also loving the black!
Anu says
The windows are perfect. LOVE the black!
FRECKLES CHICK says
I’m all heart eyes right now, wow!! Your dude & dads have major skills. Is that a transom above the door?! So cool. Love the black aluminum window frames. My dream right there. The next time I’m stalking you/peering in your windows, my excuse will be “I was just admiring your beautiful contrasting window frames, I swear!”
Amanda says
I’m amazed at how quickly things are moving along! The windows are looking good! I am curious about the little window above the front door. Is it a separate window or part of the door? Our house was built in the 20’s and has a similar window (horribly inefficient). We are looking to replace it but not sure with what or how exactly. My husband says it won’t be as simple as I think.
Kim Woodward says
We purchased the transom as part of the door. IT was one piece. But I am fairly certain you can get them separately. It should be installed the same way a replacement window would be.
Kim Woodward says
Don’t stalk. Come over and hang out. I have wine.
Maria says
I had no idea you could get black exterior and white interior windows!! We have loved the look of black windows for a long time, but I wasn’t sure how they would look in the inside. Absolutely love your choices! Excited to see how the house is coming along.
Kim Woodward says
Thanks, Maria! I actually love black interior windows, too, but it’s just not for us. This was a great option.
cassie @ primitive & proper says
that is exciting! i have heard great things about pella! we hope to replace windows on this house in the next couple of years- they are terrible!
Gretchen says
black windows–yes! also, the Seiffert Lumber Company logo is pretty snazzy; maybe you should just leave that on instead of putting siding over it 😉
Heather says
Everything looks fantastic! I am really enjoying watching your house evolve. I just know that everything you pick is going to look exquisite!
Manddi K says
I absolutely LOVE the black exterior. And you still get the gorgeous brightness of the white inside.
The previous owners of our house installed Pella windows in just the living room(5 great big 6ft tall windows) and we are just in awe of them. We are hoping to replace the remainder of the house with them in the spring.
daisy says
It’s looking gorgeous! Love those windows. I didn’t even realize you could get them in two different colors. Great choice!
Robin says
I love them so much! I’m also digging the black trim. It gives awesome contrast and visual interest!!