The History of Sash Windows
The History of Sash Windows: From 17th-Century Europe to Australia's Heritage Homes
A sash window is made up of one or more movable panels — or "sashes" — within a frame. In the UK the term "sash window" is used interchangeably with "box sash window," but here in Australia, "double hung sash window" is the more common term, referring to the same design: two sashes that slide up and down within the window frame. No one knows for certain who invented this enduring design, or exactly when — but tracing its evolution is a fascinating journey through architectural history.
Where the sash window began
The general consensus among historians is that sash windows most likely originated in Holland or France — a theory supported by the origin of the word "sash" itself, believed to come from the French word "chassis," meaning chassis or frame — during the 17th century, before spreading to the UK. Some credit Robert Hooke, the English scientist and architect, as the inventor of the sash window, with this London surveyor said to have developed the design during the rebuilding of London after the Great Fire of 1666.
How the double hung sash window evolved
Before glazing was common
The earliest windows were far less sophisticated than later sash window designs, often propped open with poles and braces. In 16th century Britain, glazing remained the preserve of the establishment — glass was imported and expensive, so high-status buildings like castles, churches and palaces were glazed, while most ordinary dwellings used oiled cloth, paper, or thin sheets of bone nailed into place.
The first sash windows emerge
The glazed, horizontal sash window recognisable today began to appear, though still without the elegant weighted counterbalance systems we associate with sash windows now — just a simple frame and sash. The top sash was often fixed in place, since it was originally thought only one opening sash was required, which is where the term "hung sash window" emerged. It wasn't until weights and counterbalance systems were introduced that the term "double hung sash window" came into use, with both the top and bottom sash fully functional.
Sash windows go mainstream
Georgian architects fully embraced the sash window movement, advancing the design by replacing the fixed top sash with two fully moveable sashes. By the mid-Georgian era, counterbalanced, thinner sashes had spread widely, and advances in glassmaking drove prices down. By 1800, even modest homes featured timber sash windows. Baltic Pine — a dependable, long-lasting timber — helped reduce costs further, while improvements in glassmaking allowed for larger panes, with the classic Georgian style of six-over-six panes becoming especially popular.
Timber sash windows soon became the fashion of the day, sweeping across Britain and flourishing in popularity right through to the 20th century — thanks equally to their practicality and their aesthetic appeal.
Ornate craftsmanship arrives in Australia
During the Victorian period in Australia, the sash window was taken to new heights of craftsmanship, with elaborate detailing — decorative horns, latticework and ornate mouldings — incorporated into the structure. Bay windows began featuring ornate stone reveals, and pane sizes graduated upward from bottom to top, allowing more light into the home. Beautiful examples of Victorian sash windows can still be found across Sydney and Melbourne today.
Sash windows spread across Australia
Federation-era sash windows can be found all over Australia, and have well and truly withstood the test of time. Thousands of homes still feature beautiful Federation double hung sash windows in a variety of styles and glass types — all built by quality craftsmen, to a standard designed to last.
Restoration and modern heritage homes
Sash windows have persevered for more than 500 years, with many original examples still in use today. The design works just as well in the modern day as it did centuries ago — equally at home in heritage buildings as in contemporary builds, beachside houses and country properties. They're a defining feature of the timeless Hamptons-style homes we see so often here on Sydney's Northern Beaches, where their classic proportions and coastal charm suit the look perfectly. We're excited to see so many homeowners choosing to restore their sash windows and bring them back to their former glory.
Why sash windows suit the Australian climate
Although the sash window's origins are firmly rooted in Europe, this window style is commonly found in older buildings in warmer climates too, since it promotes airflow and is easy to clean. A key advantage of the double hung sash window is how efficiently it cools interiors during warm weather.
Ideal for the Australian climate, and just as effective today as it was centuries ago.
Restoring your own heritage sash windows?
Whether you've got Georgian, Victorian or Federation-era sash windows, we stock the pulleys, cord, weights and draught seal beading to bring them back to their former glory.
