Clerestory Windows — Light, Privacy, and Mid-Century Modern Elegance

A Signature Element of Desert Modernism

Few architectural features are as quietly brilliant—and as uniquely mid-century—as the clerestory window. Positioned high on a wall, above eye level, clerestory windows bring in natural light while maintaining privacy, rhythm, and architectural clarity.

At Homework Remodels, we specialize in preserving, restoring, and enhancing clerestory windows in mid-century homes across the Greater Phoenix area. Whether you’re updating a Ralph Haver home, a custom-built ranch, or adding MCM-inspired features to a newer home, clerestory windows are key to creating beautiful, functional spaces filled with soft, natural light.

What Are Clerestory Windows?

Clerestory windows are horizontal or vertical windows placed near the roofline of a structure, often above other windows or architectural elements. Originally used in churches and large public buildings, clerestory windows became popular in mid-century residential design for their ability to:

• Introduce light without sacrificing privacy
• Create architectural rhythm along flat or pitched ceilings
• Draw attention to rooflines and post-and-beam structures
• Highlight geometric shapes and material transitions
• Reduce the need for artificial lighting during the day

In the Arizona desert, they allow sunlight to filter in from above—without overheating a space or overexposing private areas.

Why Clerestory Windows Matter in Mid-Century Homes

In homes designed by architects like Ralph Haver and Al Beadle, clerestory windows weren’t just decorative—they were functional. These high windows served to:

• Balance the deep overhangs that shaded lower windows
• Elevate flat-roof and low-pitched designs
• Allow for more open floorplans without losing wall space
• Enhance cross-ventilation when paired with operable units

Their placement, proportions, and repetition often echoed the home’s structural rhythm, reinforcing the mid-century modern design philosophy of clarity, repetition, and efficiency.

Our Expertise in Clerestory Window Preservation & Integration

As Phoenix’s leader in mid-century modern remodeling, Homework Remodels takes a thoughtful, detail-driven approach to clerestory windows. Whether we’re preserving original framing or integrating new clerestory designs into a remodel or addition, we treat each window as an architectural opportunity.

Our services include:

• Restoring original clerestory window placements with updated materials
• Replacing outdated or damaged glazing with energy-efficient, UV-protective glass
• Enhancing ceiling transitions, trim, and finishes to support window design
• Designing new clerestory windows that align with existing structural patterns
• Integrating lighting and shadowplay to complement daylighting effects

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Clerestory Windows in MCM Kitchen and Bathroom Design

We often incorporate clerestory windows in kitchen and bathroom remodels, especially when exterior wall space is limited or privacy is a concern.

In kitchens:

• Clerestory windows brighten prep areas without glare
• They preserve cabinetry and wall storage space
• They visually elevate flat ceilings or sloped rooflines

In bathrooms:

• Clerestory windows allow natural light into showers and vanities
• They protect privacy without sacrificing design
• Frosted or textured glass can soften the look while controlling light levels

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Clerestory Windows in Additions and New Builds

Building an addition or casita? Clerestory windows are a smart way to continue the architectural vocabulary of your original home while giving new spaces light, interest, and identity.

We often use clerestory windows in:

• Master suite additions
• Casitas and guest houses
• Home offices and art studios
• Living room bump-outs or sunrooms
• Breezeways and transition spaces

Their inclusion helps new spaces blend seamlessly with the geometry and light of the existing home.

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Energy Efficiency and Modern Window Technology

Today’s clerestory windows can offer stunning aesthetics without sacrificing performance. We use modern window systems that:

• Minimize UV rays and heat transfer
• Use insulated or low-E glass
• Include operable options for airflow
• Meet today’s energy codes and standards
• Match your home’s original design and material palette

We also work with custom window fabricators to replicate period-appropriate framing profiles when needed.

Examples of Clerestory Windows in Our Projects

Our mid-century remodels throughout Phoenix, Scottsdale, and Tempe feature restored and newly integrated clerestory windows. In homes like those in:

• Marlen Grove
• Broadmor
• Arcadia Lite
• Hy-View
• Village Grove

We’ve used clerestory design to increase light, improve layout flow, and highlight post-and-beam structure—all while staying true to the home’s original spirit.

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Why Homeowners Trust Homework Remodels

• 🧠 Experts in Mid-Century Modern architecture and details
• 🏠 Decades of experience restoring and modernizing historic homes
• 🛠️ Award-winning craftsmanship and NARI-certified remodeling
• 📍 Deep knowledge of Haver, Beadle, and Phoenix’s MCM neighborhoods
• 🤝 Collaborative, design-driven process with respect for your home’s story

Learn about our Design-Build System that unites preconstruction planning, design, budgeting, and construction under one experienced team.

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