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New Home Trend in Vienna | Casement Windows

By Doug Francis

 

Custom Home trends in Vienna VA

Windows must be a priority when designing a custom home, and a new home trend in Vienna is including casement windows to allow maximum light and glass area.

Most windows you see here are double-hung, where there are a top and a bottom window, and there is a latch in between.

Casement windows have been used in Europe as the standard, and they have gained favor here because they are often taller and more energy efficient. These windows have a crank handle, are hinged on the side, and often have a double lock to stay closed.

So, when they are closed the weather-tight seal is 100%.

Frozen Winters and Scorching Summers

The Washington D.C. metropolitan area goes through the four seasons which gives the area life and vitality.

Fall can be beautiful but be aware that hurricanes can hit D.C. Springtime afternoon thunder and lightning storms were upstaged by a Derecho which crashed into the area in 2012 crippling the power grid for a week.

Winters can be extreme with temperatures in the single digits for a week or two, and snowstorms dumping a foot or more at a time.

Punctuate that image by sultry summers where humidity can remain high for weeks and air temhandle casement window peratures can hold above 90 even at night. Originally people would leave D.C. for the summer, but today’s much more diversified economy means people are here year-round.

Energy efficiency is critical when selecting HVAC systems or using polystyrene spray foam insulation, and high-performance windows are critical to achieving comfort.

Casement windows complete the system better.

More creative house designs in Vienna

About two years ago, I bumped into a local Vienna builder and he made a surprising statement about not wanting to build another “craftsman style” home. He was bored of the design and found that other builders were building homes that looked identical to his product.

It was an interesting statement because the typical new home in Vienna was following craftsman designs. And old-school builders know, “you build what is going to sell!”

Today, I can drive you by a number of his custom homes that are architecturally different. Distinct designs that stand out from the pack and sell at a premium because his clients know there is a difference.  I have noticed that he started using more casement windows which added to his unique custom designs.

Small architectural changes like using casement windows can deliver a fresh look to an over-copied home design. Especially in custom homes in Vienna where prices are now around $2.0 million, it is imperative to be open and creative with your custom builder, designer or architect.

The benefits are greater long-term value, beauty, and energy efficiency.

Filed Under: Blog, Living Here Tagged With: Custom Homes, real estate, Vienna Virginia

About Doug Francis

A seasoned Realtor specializing in unique and new homes around Vienna, Virginia, Doug has seen consumer behavior, negotiations and communication styles change. At his original brokerage, he was the first agent to add an email address. Imagine! Outside real estate, he plays tennis, is a Washington Capitals fan, spends time with Skipper (his dog), and enjoys the restaurant scene in the DCA. He's a Boston University graduate who feels morning coffee is non-negotiable.

Vienna real estate agent Doug Francis

When we bought our house in Vienna, we were thinking about raising the kids, building an addition, and knowing the neighbors. Today, home buyers are attracted to Vienna because of the sense of community, walkability, and small town lifestyle.

So, what’s next after your 25 years? It’s a conversation many of my clients are having with me as they plan to move to the beach, travel, or get closer to grandkids. Helping them see their future, sell their current home, and move ahead with their updated plan has been an interesting new chapter.

My background: I am an active licensed agent in Virginia, have negotiated hundreds of sales contracts, work at TTR Sotheby’s International Realty in McLean, and still sell homes in all price ranges. I donate to the Town of Vienna tree replacement fund, participate in a neighborhood citizens association, and try my best to stay in shape.

Let’s discuss your moving plans: Email doug@dougfrancis.com or call me at (703) 304-6827 .  Cheers!

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About Doug Francis

I am a Realtor with TTR Sotheby's International Realty® just outside Washington D.C. in Northern Virginia. I'm licensed in Virginia with a focus on Vienna, VA real estate since 1991.

That deep knowledge is valuable, especially in today's fast-paced market where advice is critical. Although many of my clients are personally referred, I am available to help you too and am accepting new clients right now.

Feel free to contact me at 703-304-6827 or email me at doug@dougfrancis.com anytime!

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TTR Sotheby's International Realty
6723 Whittier Avenue McLean, VA 22101

Office: 703-319-3344
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