Modern Grid Patterns

Elevating Curb Appeal with Modern Window Grids

Window grids (also known as muntins or grilles) were originally invented out of necessity. Hundreds of years ago, glass could only be manufactured in small panes, so wooden grids were used to hold multiple small pieces of glass together to create one large window.

Today, we can manufacture massive, seamless sheets of glass. Therefore, window grids are now a purely aesthetic choice. And while leaving them off entirely is popular for ultra-modern homes, strategically using modern grid patterns is one of the easiest ways to add architectural character to a plain facade.

Simulated Divided Lites (SDL) vs Grilles-Between-Glass (GBG)

Before choosing a pattern, you must choose the construction type.

• GBG (Grilles-Between-Glass): The grids are sandwiched inside the two panes of glass. They are completely smooth to the touch, making window cleaning incredibly easy. However, they lack depth and can look artificial or cheap from the street.
• SDL (Simulated Divided Lites): The grids are permanently adhered to the outside of the glass (both interior and exterior), often with a spacer bar between the glass panes. This creates the authentic shadow lines and depth of a true historic window, but it does make cleaning more tedious. For modern, high-end homes, SDL is the only choice.

Top Modern Grid Patterns

The days of the standard "colonial" 6-over-6 grid pattern are fading. Modern design favors cleaner, less obstructive layouts.

1. The Craftsman / Prairie Grid

Also known as a "perimeter grid," this pattern leaves the large center of the window completely open for unobstructed views, while a border of small square panes runs around the edge. It is highly architectural, visually interesting, and perfect for Craftsman or Prairie-style homes.

2. Top-Row Only

In a double-hung window, only the top sash features a grid (usually a simple vertical split or a 2x2 grid), while the bottom sash is completely clear glass. This provides historic charm when looking at the top half of the house, but allows a perfectly clear view when sitting inside looking out.

3. The Modern Farmhouse (2-over-2 or 4-over-4)

The Modern Farmhouse aesthetic relies on simple, bold geometry. The most popular grid for this style is a very simple horizontal and vertical cross, creating four large panes per sash. It is clean, graphic, and highly effective.

When to Skip Grids Entirely

If your home sits on a heavily wooded lot, overlooks a lake, or features stunning landscaping, the best grid pattern is often no pattern at all. Expansive picture windows or clear casement windows frame the view without interruption, acting as a minimalist canvas for the beauty outside.