Making the Most of South Coast Views: Window Placement and Design Tips

The NSW South Coast is renowned for its stunning scenery, from pristine beaches to rolling hinterlands. If you’re planning a custom build or renovation in this picturesque part of NSW, one of the most important design considerations is how to frame and maximise these incredible views. Thoughtful window placement and design can transform your home, creating a seamless connection with the natural beauty outside.

Come with us as we explore key tips for leveraging your home’s location to bring the outdoors in, while ensuring your windows are as functional as they are beautiful.

Understand Your Views and Aspect

Before deciding on window placement, take time to evaluate the views your property offers. Stand in various parts of your home or site and assess what you’d like to showcase—whether it’s ocean waves, lush bushland, or a vibrant garden.

Pay attention to the aspect: the direction your home faces. Northern-facing windows typically capture the most sunlight and warmth, making them ideal for living spaces. On the other hand, southern-facing windows can frame cooler, softer light, perfect for tranquil bedrooms or offices.

Frame Your Best Features

Windows act like picture frames for your surroundings. A large picture window can create a breathtaking focal point by showcasing a standout feature such as the ocean horizon or a dramatic escarpment.

If your property offers multiple viewpoints, consider how to emphasise each one. For instance, floor-to-ceiling windows in a living room can capture panoramic views, while smaller, strategically placed windows in a hallway can create glimpses of the scenery as you move through the space.

Prioritise Natural Light

One of the great joys of living on the South Coast is the abundance of natural light. The right window placement will flood your home with sunlight while reducing the need for artificial lighting.

Skylights and clerestory windows (set high on a wall) are excellent for increasing light without compromising privacy. They’re particularly useful in areas like bathrooms or corridors, where standard windows might not be suitable.

Be mindful of the potential for glare or excessive heat gain. Position larger windows to avoid the harshest afternoon sun, or consider adding eaves, awnings, or tinted glazing to mitigate the effects.

Blend Indoor and Outdoor Living

On the South Coast, outdoor living is a way of life. Large glass doors, such as sliding or bi-fold styles, can open your home to alfresco areas, creating a seamless indoor-outdoor flow. These not only enhance the connection with your surroundings but also make entertaining or relaxing outdoors effortless.

Consider using stackable glass walls or corner windows without mullions for uninterrupted views and an immersive experience of the landscape.

Embrace Unique Window Shapes

Custom builds give you the freedom to play with window shapes and sizes. Unconventional designs, such as circular or triangular windows, can add architectural interest and create a unique frame for your views.

For a coastal property, consider porthole windows in bedrooms or bathrooms to evoke a nautical feel, or tall, narrow windows to highlight vertical elements like tall trees or rock formations.

Consider Privacy Without Compromising Views

While showcasing your surroundings is important, privacy shouldn’t be overlooked. If your property is close to neighbours or a public area, think creatively to maintain your sense of seclusion.

Frosted or textured glass can be used for bathroom or ground-level windows to obscure the view from outside while allowing light in. Alternatively, landscaping can provide a natural screen—strategically placed plants or trees can offer privacy without blocking your favourite vistas.

Use Double-Glazing for Comfort and Efficiency

Windows are often the weakest point in a home’s insulation. On the South Coast, where temperatures can range from chilly winter mornings to balmy summer days, investing in double-glazed windows is a smart choice.

Double-glazing helps regulate indoor temperatures, reducing energy bills and improving comfort year-round. It also minimises external noise, perfect if your property is near a bustling beach or a busy road.

Highlight the Coastal Aesthetic

A custom build or renovation on the South Coast is an opportunity to embrace the region’s coastal aesthetic. Consider window frames and treatments that complement this relaxed, natural style.

Timber frames can add warmth and texture, while aluminium offers a sleek, modern look that’s durable in salty coastal air. For a minimalist aesthetic, choose frameless or slim-profile windows to let the views take centre stage.

Avoid heavy curtains that detract from the view—instead, opt for light, sheer fabrics or roller blinds that can be discreetly tucked away.

Think About Ventilation

Windows are not just about the views—they play a crucial role in your home’s ventilation. On the South Coast, where the sea breeze is a welcome visitor, operable windows can improve airflow and keep your home cool.

Consider installing louvres, which allow precise control over ventilation and work well in humid climates. Double-hung windows are another excellent option, letting you open the top and bottom panes for maximum airflow

Work with the Right Professionals

Achieving the perfect window placement and design for your South Coast home requires expertise. Collaborate with architects, designers, and builders who understand the unique challenges and opportunities of the region.

Professionals can help you navigate local building codes, such as bushfire requirements, while ensuring your windows are positioned to maximise both views and energy efficiency.

Windows are more than just a functional feature—they are your connection to the breathtaking beauty of the NSW South Coast. By carefully considering placement, design, and materials, you can create a home that feels like it’s part of the landscape, blurring the boundaries between indoors and out.

Whether you’re building from scratch or renovating an existing property, take the time to work with experienced professionals who share your vision. With thoughtful design, your windows can become the highlight of your home, framing the South Coast’s natural wonders for years to come.