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Since the seventeenth century, European buildings have been constructed with the ever popular sash window, a fixture that has only gotten better with time. The history of sash windows has largely affected their use and ubiquity today.

A design strikingly similar to this innovative piece is mentioned in a 1519 literary work by W. Horman Valgaria. It is not believed that this was its start, however. Rather, its exact origins are not known.

Beyond this ambiguity, it is common believed that the window experienced its first surge in popularity in about the 1670′s. By this decade, many larger estate-style homes in England featured it. Availability of plate glass expanded the market for the fixture around the 1850′s, when they became, not only more common, but larger as well.

The original design consisted of several panes of glass in rectangular dimensions, held together in their wrought iron frame with lead fixings. Inside the fame was a weighted rope that lowered when the window was opened and raised when it was closed. This innovated design was developed by famed architect and scientist Robert Hooke. His original model was given the name the Georgian Sash.

The Regency design came about as plate glass developed even further. Panes could now be created in larger sizes that remained sturdy, meaning that a total of four panes could used, instead of nine or twelve. Today, we would recognize the Edwardian style, with a solid pane of glass for the top and bottom panes. Both the Regency and Edwardian remain true to their predecessor by utilizing the same weighted pulley designed by Hooke.

A great benefit to installing this window is the control it gives you. You have the ability to maximize air flow into your home as the panes are held exactly where you place them, thanks to the weighted pulley.

Throughout history, these fixtures have been referenced in many fictional romantic settings. Whether it be a young maiden being serenaded at twilight or a child anxiously awaiting Saint Nick, they have been featured right alongside some of literature’s most memorable moments. This is a testament to both their longevity and versatility.

As the history of sash windows illustrates, the now ubiquitous fixture has had an exciting evolution. It has been largely impacted by the development of the glass industry but has held its own in the architectural world for over three centuries and will continue to hang in there.

Sash windows are a popular choice for buildings in numerous places. View the inventory at a London sash window company to renovate or replace your windows.