Creating Shaped Windows

The information in this article applies to:

QUESTION

I have looked in the library browser and cannot find a window the shape I need for my plan. How can I add a window of a shape other than a square or rectangle to my plan when these are not present in the library browser? 

ANSWER

In Chief Architect, windows of this type are not found in the Library Browser; however, they can be created by modifying a square or rectangular window.  In this article, we will discuss:

• Creating a trapezoid window
• Creating a diamond window
• Creating a round or circular window
  

To create a trapezoid shaped window

1. Select Build> Window> Window  and click at the location that you wish to create the custom window.
   
   
   
2. Using the Select Objects  tool, click on the window to select it and click on the Open Object edit button.
   
   
   
3. On the Shape panel of the Window Specification dialog that opens:
   
   
   
   
   • Specify the desired height of the left top corner in the Left Height field.
     
     
   • Specify the desired height of the right top corner in the Right Height field.
     
     
   • Corners can be adjusted by checking Top Inside Corners and/or Bottom Corners and specifying the appropriate values.
     
     
   • Press Tab on your keyboard to update the dialog without closing it and notice the preview diagram of the window on the right side of the dialog.
     
     

      To align the top edge of the window with the pitch of the roof above, click the Match Roof button.
     
     If you have any questions about the other options in this dialog, within the software, select the Help button at the bottom of the dialog.

   
   
4. When you are satisfied with the window's shape, click OK to close the dialog and apply your changes.
   

To create a diamond shaped window

1. Select Build> Window> Window  and click at the location that you wish to create the custom window.
   
   
   
2. Using the Select Objects  tool, click on the window to select it and click on the Open Object edit button.
   
   
   
3. On the General panel of the Window Specification dialog that opens, set the Width and Height values.
   
   For the purposes of this example, the Width is set to 48" with a Height of 36".
   
   
   
4. On the Sill panel, remove the checkmarks next to Use Interior Sill and Use Exterior Sill.
   
   
   
5. On the Arch panel:
   
   
   
   
   • Specify the Arch Type as Tudor Arch.
     
     
   • Place a checkmark next to Reflect Vertically.
     
     

     Reflect Vertically will not be available if a lintel or sill is specified for the selected window.
     
     

   • Set the Radius to 0".
     
     
   • Set the Height.
     
     For the purposes of this example, a value of 18" works well based on the window's width.
     
     
   • Press Tab on your keyboard to update the dialog without closing it and notice the preview diagram of the window on the right side of the dialog.
     
   
   
   
6. When you are satisfied with the window's shape, click OK to close the dialog and apply the new settings to the window.