You’ve probably seen the sleek, grid-like Crittall style in modern spaces, even if you didn’t know its name. This industrial-inspired look, featuring slender metal panes (often black), brings a contemporary twist to classic factory windows. “Crittall style is bold and grand,” says Drew Michael Scott, founder of Lone Fox Home, “offering a modern edge with its iconic grid pattern and refined metal framing.” Here’s how designers recommend using Crittall-style elements to enhance your space.
1. Maximize Natural Light and Connection to Nature
One of the main attractions of Crittall-style windows is their potential to bring in abundant natural light. “They allow for large glass panes that amplify natural light, seamlessly connecting indoor and outdoor spaces,” says Charleston-based designer Margaret Donaldson. Placing Crittall-style windows or doors strategically can highlight scenic outdoor views, making your interior feel like it’s nestled within nature.
2. Enhance Your Home’s Architectural Character
Crittall-style windows suit a wide range of architectural styles, from contemporary to classic. “Their minimalist lines highlight a home’s unique elements and add a modern twist, even in more traditional settings,” says Donaldson. Samantha Stathis Lynch, founder of Samantha Ware Designs, adds that these windows are “versatile, fitting as beautifully in countryside barns as in urban brownstones.” They bring light and sophistication to any style, making them perfect for homes that blend old-world charm with modern aesthetics.
3. Let Crittall Elements Take the Spotlight
Crittall-style windows and doors can either be a show-stopping feature or a subtle supporting element, depending on how you style them. “They add a sharp, geometric look without overwhelming the space, so they can shine as a centerpiece or play a more understated role,” says Scott. For instance, a Crittall-style front door can be a striking focal point, while smaller Crittall-style accents elsewhere bring continuity without overpowering the design.
4. Define Open Spaces Without Losing Light
In open floor plans, Crittall-style elements are an excellent way to introduce definition without sacrificing light or space. “As a divider in a city loft or a partition in a Victorian townhouse, Crittall frames provide structure and light,” says Lynch. This airy, industrial touch maintains the open feel of your home while offering subtle separation—a practical and stylish solution for creating zones within a space.
5. Go Bold in the Bathroom
Crittall-inspired shower doors or enclosures add a chic, industrial edge to bathrooms. “One of my favorite uses for Crittall style is in shower surrounds,” says Scott, noting that budget-friendly Crittall-style shower doors are even available at major retailers. For those seeking the look on a smaller budget, Scott recommends considering Crittall-inspired mirrors, picture frames, or decor accents to introduce the style without a full renovation.
6. Try a DIY Crittall Effect
For a budget-friendly version of Crittall style, Scott suggests a creative DIY approach. “At my last home, I used black electrical tape on my existing windows to mimic the grid look and painted the window panes black,” he shares. This easy, low-cost project brings the Crittall aesthetic into your home in a way that’s both stylish and wallet-friendly.
Whether you’re adding light, creating definition, or simply trying a unique DIY, Crittall-style elements offer an industrial elegance that suits any space, from entryways to bathrooms. With these designer tips, you can embrace the trend and bring a timeless, sophisticated look to your home.
