I would have a hard time objecting to becoming the owner of this bathroom:

Photo Credit: Sunset

Or this one:

Both are exquisite bathrooms, but the windows are maybe my favorite part.  I started thinking about this practically though, and who honestly has a private enough home that you could pull off those kinds of windows in the bathroom with out shocking the neighbors?  Especially if you live in an urban area, it would be quite a challenge. 

Unless you want to get a little bit creative:

While I’m not a huge fan of frosted glass, I think it can be excused in the bathroom.  Especially if you pair it with clear glass, you could get virtually the same effect while maintaining your privacy.  In my mind you can never have enough natural light in a space, so anything you can do to get it there is acceptable. 

You could also get a similar effect using some lattice.  Either transplant established plants onto your lattice piece, or grow some specifically for the job, and place them strategically outside your bathroom windows.  I like this approach especially because it has the potential to make your bathroom feel like a lush, leafy hideaway.

So, whats in a window? Maybe more than you think.  What sunny days do for your mood, windows can do for your house.  I’m a huge proponent of natural light.  Not only will it cut down on your electricity bill, it can lift your spirits as well.  Especially if you live in an area that can be sunlight challenged (my fellow Portlanders may be able to relate) and you’re looking for ways to feel better in your house during those long winter montsh (and who isn’t?) new windows may be just what you need. 

Are you after some more UV rays, but nervous about the privacy factor?  Not only can draperies be a fun and creative option, you can cut down on potential peepers entirely by going the skylight route, an especially appealing option for bathrooms.  Bathrooms are the places you need the most privacy so it makes sense that these tend to be spaces that end up windowless more often than others.  The skylight is a great example of a way you can get the best of both worlds for your bathroom design. 

Wake Things up With Windows

I also tend to think that windows belong everywhere, big ones.  This trend seems to be popping up more and more in eco-friendly buildings, and it’s a great way to brighten up your home and take advantage of the natural resources right in your own backyard:

Photo Credit: Neil Kelly

If you’re worried about how adding windows would fit into a more urban lifestyle, this is where looking into different options for window treatments will come in handy.  Drapes and shades offer an incredibly flexible way to chose how much light you allow in, and how much, or little, the neighbors will be able to check out your digs.