Natwerk Designs

Installing horizontal windows above kitchen cabinets?

We're in the intial process of designing/updating our kitchen. In addition to new granite countertops, natural stone tile backsplashes and refacing cabinets, we're considering options to bring in more natural light. Vaulting the ceiling and installing skylights is one possible alternative, but a less expensive option may be installing horizontal windows above the existing kitchen cabinets. While we've seen this done in new homes to good effect, its been difficult to find examples of it done as a remodel option. Does anyone have experience with this or know if its a feasible option? For reference, there is 26" of vertical space between the top of the cabinet molding and the kitchen ceiling.

Public Comments

1. It is possible, but requires extensive framing. It would be very expensive. As an alterative to vaulting the ceiling to install skylights, have you concidered tube type skylights? I installed in our dining room, and they and work great! Basically, its like a lagre pipe that is very reflective on the inside that is installed through the existing ceiling, kind of like an exaust vent pipe. It has a clear globe on the roof.
2. The framing would have to revamped to accommodate headers for the new windows, and if you are planning wall to wall windows, a reinforced beam would have to be installed above the windows first. Cost would depend on what wiring/plumbing would need to be moved, but total cost shouldn't be too bad [not including window costs].