Dormer Windows: Expert Tips and Essential Design Ideas

dormer windows
(Image credit: Oakwrights © Richard Kiely)

Dormer windows can be a tricky design detail to get right. The pitch, roof line and the way in which new dormer windows interact with existing the house, as well as those around it, all need  to be carefully considered.

When dormer window design goes wrong, it can ruin the entire look of a property, negatively impacting the overall design. For this reason, it is important to consult an architect or designer when planning in some additional head-height.

Michael Holmes

Michael is Homebuilding & Renovating's Director of Content, Vice Chair of the self build industry body, the National Custom and Self Build Association (NaCSBA), presenter of multiple property TV shows and author of Renovating for Profit (Ebury). He also runs an architectural and interior design practice, offering design and project management services. He is one of the country's leading property experts and has undertaken over 30 building projects including two self-builds and the renovation of a Grade-II listed farmhouse. 


Michael has presented over 150 property shows for BBC, ITV1, Channel 5, UK TV Style, and Discovery RealTime, including I Own Britain's Best Home; Don't Move Improve; Trading Up; Good Bid, Good Buy; Build, Buy or Restore?; How to Build A House; and Hard Sell.


Michael is also a regular expert at the Homebuilding & Renovating Shows. He has written for leading British newspapers, including The Daily Telegraph, Sunday Times, Daily Express and The Independent and has appeared on news programmes such as BBC Breakfast.