Photo Credit: JELD-WEN
The exterior design world is always evolving, and 2025 will be no exception. We reached out to leading manufacturers – Andersen Windows, Cornerstone Building Brands, JELD-WEN, Loewen Windows and Marvin – to get their expert insights on the most popular trends shaping home exteriors this year. From groundbreaking innovations to eco-conscious homebuilding, here’s what’s shaping the future of exterior design.
The Top Exterior Trends Of 2025
1. Blending the Indoors and Outdoors
The desire for a connection with nature continues to drive demand for expansive glass. Expect to see more walls of glass achieved through large windows and sliding doors that maximize natural light within compact spaces.
Jon Sawatzky, Vice President of Marketing at Loewen Windows said, “Customers are wanting the transition between indoor and outdoor spaces to be more seamless. They may choose a door based on its sill or a window based on the specific way it opens.” This trend blurs the lines between indoors and out, creating light-filled spaces that embrace the beauty of the natural world.
Photo Credit: Loewen
2. Prioritizing Privacy in Homes
Homeowners are increasingly calling for privacy options in high-density neighborhoods. This means designers and builders have to emphasize strategically placed windows and doors that maximize natural light without compromising the feeling of seclusion. Features like smaller door lites, privacy glass, and thoughtful window placement will balance openness with privacy.
3. Smarter Home Technology Integrations
Smart home integration continues to evolve into the mainstream homeowner’s consciousness. Automated windows, doors and skylights can enhance security, optimize natural airflow and simplify home operations. This trend reflects a growing desire for homes to be more functional, support well-being, and provide peace of mind.
According to Andersen Windows, “Technological advancements have played a significant role in this trend, for example, innovations in glass production enables the creation of larger panes without compromising energy efficiency.”
Photo Credit: Andersen
4. A Need for Resilience and Minimal Maintenance
Today’s consumers are busy and value longevity in the features of their homes. They want durable materials and innovative designs that withstand the elements and require minimal upkeep. This focus on resilience raises the bar on architects and builders to offer windows, doors, and skylights that not only look great but also stand the test of time.
5. Elevated Designs for Well-Being
It has been said that windows, doors, and skylights exist at the intersection of the art and science of building design. Beyond aesthetics and performance, interior spaces and exterior spaces have become extensions and reflections of one another.
A connection between the two can create harmony for homeowners. This translates to a rise in “emotional design,” where natural light, biophilic elements and carefully chosen materials work together to create whatever mood the homeowner desires.
“As home continues to serve as an increasingly important place of respite, homeowners are often approaching architects and interior design professionals with the emotional goals for their spaces at the forefront – from quiet and soothing to energizing and motivating and everything in between.” – Christine Marvin, Chief Marketing + Experience Officer at Marvin
Photo Credit: Marvin
A Blended Focus on Energy Efficiency and Eco-Conscious Home Building
The drive towards greater energy efficiency and sustainability is transforming the window, door and skylight industry. An ongoing focus on energy efficiency is now merging with demand for eco-friendly materials, longer product lifespans, cleaner manufacturing processes and supply chains, and a disciplined approach to recycling and re-using materials.
It all reflects a growing awareness among consumers about the importance of sustainable building practices. Matt Gibson, Director of Marketing at Cornerstone Building Brands shared that, “As energy costs rise, homeowners are becoming more aware of how window and door performance affects comfort and savings. This makes the demand for energy-efficient windows and doors even greater. Windows account for 25% to 30% of residential heating and cooling energy use, so having efficient windows is crucial for homeowners.”
By choosing these innovative products, builders, architects and remodelers can reduce environmental impact and lower energy costs. These solutions include:
- Advanced Glazing: Triple-pane windows with generous airspace are becoming increasingly popular for their superior insulation. This technology, combined with improved thermal breaks and warm-edge spacer systems in dual-pane options, significantly reduces energy loss and enhances comfort.
- Holistic Approach to Efficiency: Manufacturers are focusing on the entire window or door system, optimizing seals, sweeps, sills and even the materials used in construction to minimize energy loss and maximize performance.
- Sustainability Beyond Energy: The commitment to sustainability extends beyond energy efficiency. Companies are prioritizing recycled content, indoor air quality certifications and responsible sourcing.
“With the trend of expansive openings increasing, energy efficiency remains a top homeowner demand. According to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), the typical household can save 25% on utility bills with energy efficiency measures.” –JELD-WEN
Photo Credit: JELD-WEN
A Bright Year Ahead
2025 is an exciting time for exterior design, with trends that embrace nature, technology and sustainability. As you plan for what’s in store, bring your next project to life with our trusted WDMA member manufacturers for windows, doors and skylights: https://www.openuptoperformance.com/manufacturers/
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