A basement egress window well is a required safety feature in all new homes built in the United States. But it can also be an integral part of your interior design. Here are some considerations when designing rooms around your egress windows.
Today’s building codes require that all basement rooms being used as bedrooms have windows large enough for a person to escape through in an emergency. Window wells for basement rooms also need to allow for easy exit. These requirements not only apply to new homes, but also older ones where an existing room is being converted to a bedroom.
Fortunately, there are great design possibilities inherent with these requirements. Larger windows bring in more natural light, which can transform a dark confining basement room into a much more cheerful space. Use lighter colors on the walls here as it will reflect more of the natural sunlight around the room. Arrange the room to take the greatest benefit from this light for function as well as aesthetics. Place reading chairs and central art work where they will be bathed in light from the window.
The minimum size specifications for a basement egress window well can seriously add to the perceived space in a room. For both safety and design reasons, make sure you don’t allow clutter to block you window. Let the space of the room extend easily into the well. It’s true that looking into a wall directly outside your window isn’t the same as a beautiful sunset, but you can still make it pleasing to the eye. Make sure your builder uses attractive stone for window wells. Cultivate plants in the well that won’t hinder movement such as morning glory or ivy.
If you have the space, consider making both windows and wells as large as possible to maximize the benefits. With some planning and design know-how, you can make the most of your basement egress windows.
