As a high school student visiting Spain, many things caught my eye—Costa del Sol, La Rambla, the gigantic statues of bulls and the Hard Rock Cafe. (What can I say? I was a teenage tourist.) But there was one surprising thing that really captured my attention: the large, ornate wrought-iron window bars with scoops, swirls and a large bulge at the bottom. I noticed this architectural feature on buildings all over the country, and my scrapbook is filled with pictures of them. So I asked my host family:
Why do some window grilles curve at the bottom?
They just shrugged. The mystery was a forgotten piece of my history until I received this assignment on “potbelly” windows, which one of my editors had noticed while walking through Manhattan’s Upper East Side. It turns out I’m not the only person who has
wondered about the strange
window bars.
One individual who shares this perspective is Nitin Deshpande, the creator behind Wrought Iron World. Known today as the Wrought Iron Man, he has over two decades of expertise as a skilled metalsmith. As a child, much like myself, he was captivated by peculiar window fixtures back in his hometown in India. He recalls seeing relatives looking out through what they referred to as “belly bar grilles,” gazing beyond their walls at life unfolding on the streets below. These elements provided him comfort and evoke memories of his homeland even now. Naturally, upon maturing, he mastered both designing and crafting these very same pieces.
If anyone were to know why some window grilles curve at the bottom, it would be Deshpande. So I asked him my most pressing questions and got some fascinating facts in return. Read on to learn whether these curved window bars are for aesthetics, safety or just a
quirky old-fashioned architectural feature
.
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What are the theories behind window bars with a potbelly?
The internet always abounds with speculations, exemplified by numerous Reddit threads dedicated to addressing this query. Regarding the reason behind certain window grills bending at the base, there are primarily five hypotheses discussed.
They were able to stop things from dropping
A widely favored notion is that the exterior curvature assists in supporting floral containers.
air conditioners
Or other objects balanced delicately on window ledges. The bars assist in showcasing these items and might stop them from slipping, thus avoiding possible harm or damage beneath.
They may deter crime
Some think the potbellied look is an
security measure
The convex shape makes it difficult for thieves to insert their tools between the bars, thus reducing the likelihood of forced entry.
They can safeguard young kids.
A different idea suggests that the protrusion in the railings offers extra security, particularly in structures where young kids reside. This convex design discourages inquisitive toddlers from accessing the space beyond the rails or attempting to slip out via an unsecured window.
They may increase ventilation
A different hypothesis suggests that the bump enables increased airflow and sunlight into the window without reducing safety. This curvature provides extra room for windows to swing out further at the bottom (assuming they open outward), thereby enhancing circulation.
They simply look pretty
Lastly, here’s my personal take: They simply have an incredible aesthetic appeal. These designs serve as a charming addition, intended to inject some ornamental elegance into functional window bars.
What are the real reasons behind installing those potbellied window bars?
As per Deshpande, each of these theories holds a grain of truth. Therefore, what causes certain window grills to be curved near the bottom? The main rationale behind potbellied window grilles is largely due to their functionality alongside aesthetic appeal.
A potbellied window grill serves various functions and roles, such as enhancing security—for
preventing would-be burglars
“Outdoors and safeguarding kids indoors — enhancing charm by providing room for potted flowers on the windowsill and boosting the visual attractiveness of the building’s facade,” he explains.
Cutting down on crime
Do they genuinely outperform traditional wrought-iron barred windows when it comes to security? In fact, they do, according to Deshpande.
The design of these bars enhances their resistance to bending, twisting, and cutting,” he clarifies. “Additionally, they serve as a physical deterrent, indicating that the area is securely protected. Potential criminals seek out easily accessible targets, and the belly bar security grilles notably increase both the time and labor needed to force entry.
Keeping kids safe
Regarding child safety, these measures make it more difficult for kids to slip out or grab things easily, he explains. “The gap between the bars should not exceed 150 millimeters; going beyond this limit renders the belly bar railing and grille unsafe because young children could potentially fit through,” he notes.
Nevertheless, there isn’t substantial practical proof indicating that the potbellied design provides better child safety compared to a conventional straight-bar security grate. Numerous municipalities, such as New York City, enforce building regulations mandating window guards in structures inhabited by children under 10 years old—these safeguards can come in various forms and aren’t required specifically to feature the potbelly style. (Some older constructions might be subject to guidelines insisting on potbelly grates to preserve their historic aesthetic appearance.)
Adding aesthetic appeal
Finally, Deshpande concurs that the potbellied windows are simply aesthetically pleasing. These windows possess a distinctive look, and their past usage adds a particular allure to structures. Actually, his most cherished aspect of crafting these windows lies in “decorating the arched portions with intricate patterns that accentuate the elegance of the window lattice,” as he mentions. “These creations are genuinely masterpieces.”
To put it differently: They’re far more attractive than ordinary security bars!
Where are they typically located?
Deshpande hails from India and has pleasant recollections of spotting these structures across the area. “These are commonly employed as balustrades for balconies and patios because their rounded shape provides room for knees when leaning against the barrier,” he explains.
They’re commonly spotted in historic districts due to their prevalence in classic architectural styles rather than contemporary constructions. Within the U.S., these can frequently be observed in urban areas known for their pre-World War II buildings, like New York City, New Orleans, and San Francisco.
Outside the U.S., potbelly window grills are common in Europe, notably in Spain, Portugal, and Italy. These designs embody a rich cultural heritage of ornamental ironwork on balconies and windows.
During which period were potbellied windows fashionable?
These arched window bars were widely favored from the late 1800s through the middle of the 1900s, coinciding with the surge in urban home building that emphasized security and functionality.
interesting fact
In the U.S., they are predominantly found on structures built during the 1910s through the 1950s.
What difficulties can arise from having potbellied windows?
Even though they are charming and functional, potbelly window grills present some difficulties:
-
Maintenance:
Curves can accumulate dirt and debris, and they tend to rust more readily compared to flat bars, hence they necessitate frequent maintenance. -
Limited modern use:
A lot of modern-day architects favor more streamlined or inconspicuous security measures and argue that potbellied bars seem old-fashioned. -
Building code restrictions:
In certain regions, new safety rules or design standards for refurbishments might restrict their placement.
Nevertheless, for individuals residing in vintage structures, these charming window grates continue to be an cherished element that merges past with present, ensuring both security and aesthetics. Be it supporting planters, safeguarding children, infusing personality, or captivating observers such as myself, the belly-window guards stand as proof of how form and utility can harmoniously coexist in stunning fashion.
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Sources:
-
Nitin Deshpande
, an ironworker and the creator of Wrought Iron World; email interview, December 8, 2024 -
Reddit
Why do these window grilles have a bump? Observed in Spain. -
New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene
Window Guards: The Essential Information for Property Owners
