10/15/2026
THE DESIGNER’S NOTEBOOK | The Little Window Above the Door 🗝️
Have you ever noticed a small window sitting just above a doorway in a historic home?
It’s called a transom window, and there’s a fascinating reason these beautiful architectural details became so popular.
Long before central air conditioning, homeowners relied on clever architectural features to make their homes more comfortable.
One of those features was the operable transom window.
These small windows could be opened to encourage air circulation between rooms and hallways, even while the door beneath remained closed.
In warmer climates, including the American South, this was especially useful.
And here’s something I find particularly interesting…
SOME TRANSOM WINDOWS COULD BE OPENED WITHOUT EVER TOUCHING THE WINDOW ITSELF.
A special piece of hardware called a transom operator allowed homeowners to open and close certain high-mounted windows using a rod or mechanical linkage.
Imagine how thoughtfully homes were designed to work with their environment before modern conveniences existed!
HOW I WOULD USE THEM IN TODAY’S HOMES
This is where historic architecture and modern design come together beautifully.
I love the idea of incorporating transom windows above interior French doors, between a foyer and living room, or over a doorway leading into a home office.
They can introduce borrowed light, create a sense of height, and add beautiful architectural interest to otherwise ordinary openings.
For a more traditional home, divided-light transoms with simple muntins can feel especially timeless.
And in a newer home? Even a single rectangular transom above a doorway can bring a touch of historic inspiration without making the space feel dated.
MY DESIGNER’S PERSPECTIVE
The best historic details weren’t always created simply to be beautiful.
They were designed with purpose.
And I believe there’s something worth learning from that.
With warmth,
Melissa
Melissa LaRosa Interiors
Refined Design for Everyday Living
