Some projects come with a surprise that makes the whole process even more special. This is one of those stories — where a unique design challenge turned into a beautiful collaboration, and an unexpected connection brought everything full circle.
This project began like many others: with a call from one of our trusted contractor clients, someone we’ve worked with on many successful installations. The task? To replace a large, uniquely shaped trapezoid window that had seen better days. We soon recognized that it might need a more hands-on design approach.
We invited the client to tour our manufacturing partner, Del Windows & Doors, with us, where we could explore options and talk through possibilities in-person, but finding we required a bit more insight, we offered to help design the new window in the actual home.
The home, located in the beautiful neighbourhood of Pleasant Valley in Dundas, Ontario, is surrounded by a lush conservation area filled with parks, waterfalls, and hiking trails. Built in 1962, this detached, single family home has kept many of its mid century charms including high vaulted ceilings and oversized geometric windows. The window in question is located at the front of the home in the cozy and stylish livingroom.
The home had a strange feeling of familiarity — and while stepping into the kitchen, it clicked. Arcana had actually installed a different trapezoid kitchen window for the previous homeowners many years before. The current homeowners had no idea; it was just a delightful coincidence that instantly deepened the connection with this space.
The trapezoid window was large and architecturally distinct — a feature that couldn’t be replaced with something standard. To help the homeowners visualize the possibilities, we arranged for one of our designers to create Photoshop renderings of several design options. These visual mockups made a world of difference. Seeing exactly how each option would look in place gave the homeowners the confidence to move forward with a choice they loved.
“The consultation was very helpful in clarifying what style of window was best suited to our needs, working within our budget. The consultant worked to understand what we wanted and showed options for getting there without pressuring us to a forgone or expensive conclusion. You provided pictures of our house with different window choices so that we could actually see what the options would look like. This was immensely helpful. The consultant we worked with was very experienced, practical and knowledgeable. He actually listened to what we wanted and helped us get there.”
This visual approach is something we’re excited to offer more often — a blend of creativity and consultation that helps homeowners feel informed and inspired.
With the final design chosen, we installed the new custom trapezoid window. The result was stunning — both practical and perfectly matched to the home’s architecture. As part of the project, we also installed a new bay window, and of course, the existing kitchen trapezoid window (from the previous project) still stands strong and stylish.
“We love the windows! They have been even better than we expected. The windows we replaced were a real focal point of our house and the new windows have freshened and beautifully enhanced our home.”
Do you have a unique window or door project you would like to explore? Contact Arcana for a free, no obligation consultation. We exist to deliver style, comfort and satisfaction by providing exceptional products and personalized service.
