Specialty shapes — half-circles, triangles, octagons, and trapezoids — add architectural punch where standard rectangles cannot.
Common Specialty Shapes in Quebec
- Half-circle (eyebrow): classic over front doors and Palladian compositions
- Full circle (porthole): popular in modern coastal-style homes
- Triangle: fits gable peaks of Victorian and country homes
- Octagon: small accent windows for stairwells and bathrooms
- Trapezoid: custom angles for sloped ceilings and dormers
Performance Considerations
Specialty shapes are typically fixed (non-operating), so they seal tightly. Use them as accents combined with operable rectangles below for ventilation.
Cost in 2026
Custom shapes cost 30–80% more than equivalent area in rectangles — the premium pays for tooling and custom glass cutting. A 90 cm half-circle starts around $1,200 installed.
Design Tips
Specialty shapes work best as accents, not the dominant window. Pair a half-circle eyebrow with a large picture window beneath, or a triangle gable window with two vertical sliders to anchor the composition.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are specialty shape windows ENERGY STAR certified?
Yes — with the right glazing they meet Zone D requirements.
Can specialty shapes be operable?
Sometimes — smaller triangles and trapezoids can be made awning-style. Most are fixed.
What is the lead time?
Typically 6–10 weeks — longer than rectangles due to custom tooling.