Modern Window Replacement Refreshes a 1950s Des Moines Home

Set in one of Des Moines’ established neighborhoods, this 1950s home was selected for a complete overhaul as part of the Parade of Remodeled Homes. The homeowners loved the mature trees, the walkable location and the original charm of the property—but the aging windows told another story. Drafty rooms, inconsistent temperatures and fading exterior trims made it clear the windows were long past their lifespan.

As part of a full-home renovation, the design team partnered with Pella Central Iowa to replace every window with energy-efficient wood units that would elevate both performance and curb appeal. The result is a home that feels brighter, more comfortable and perfectly aligned with the clean, transitional style of the remodel.

From the street, the transformation is immediate. Crisp white windows now frame the refreshed exterior, complementing the painted brick and updated landscaping. Inside, every room benefits from clearer views, smoother operation and noticeably improved comfort. 

The homeowners wanted windows that felt classic yet current—an ideal match for Pella® Lifestyle Series wood windows. With engineered wood interiors and durable EnduraClad® aluminum exteriors, the windows support consistent performance while allowing for the custom sizing and proportions required in a home built more than 70 years ago. Throughout the project, a thoughtful mix of operable and fixed windows was used to balance natural light, ventilation and architectural consistency from room to room.

Double-hung windows were installed throughout much of the home, providing familiar operation with modern performance upgrades. Upstairs bedrooms, the main living areas and the dining space all feature new Lifestyle Series double-hung windows in varying widths, tailored to each opening. 

Designed to operate smoothly and seal tightly, these windows help reduce drafts and improve temperature control—benefits the homeowners noticed immediately. The white interior finish complements the new millwork, while the exterior cladding blends seamlessly with the updated siding and brickwork.

One of the standout features of the remodel is the expansive window grouping overlooking the backyard. Here, tall, fixed wood windows are paired with a Pella® Reserve™ four panel sliding patio door, creating a dramatic, floor-to-ceiling effect that fills the space with natural light. 

The fixed windows were selected for their clean profiles and generous glass area, allowing outdoor views of trees, sky and changing light to take center stage. Combined with the home’s open layout and elevated ceilings, this window and door combination transforms the main living space into a bright, welcoming focal point.

At the front of the home, a custom multi-wide window configuration redefines the façade. By combining multiple Lifestyle Series wood windows into a single architectural feature, the design team added visual interest while increasing daylight in the interior. 

Inside, the expanded glass area creates a comfortable, light-filled space with broader sightlines to the front yard. Outside, the balanced proportions and traditional grille patterns reinforce the home’s timeless style—making it a standout for Parade visitors and passersby alike.

In areas where airflow and ease of operation were priorities, such as bathrooms and secondary bedrooms, casement windows were selected. These windows open outward to capture breezes and provide excellent ventilation, all with a compact footprint. 

Slim frames and simple hardware keep the look consistent with the rest of the home, ensuring the mix of window styles feels intentional and cohesive rather than pieced together.

One of the most striking features of the renovation is the Pella® Reserve™ four panel sliding patio door in the great room. With two operable panels flanked by fixed glass, the door creates a wide opening that strengthens the connection between the indoor living space and the backyard. 

Whether opened for entertaining or closed to frame the outdoor view, the door delivers both functionality and architectural impact—adding flexibility while maintaining the refined look of the remodel.

Because the home originally featured decades-old windows, the performance improvements were immediately noticeable. Lifestyle Series windows and doors paired with advanced Low-E insulated glass help regulate indoor temperatures, reduce heat transfer and limit UV exposure. 

For the homeowners, that translates to fewer drafts, quieter rooms and more consistent comfort throughout the year—especially during Iowa’s cold winters and humid summers.

This whole-home window and door replacement didn’t just update the look of the property—it changed how the home feels and functions every day. Natural light now reaches spaces that were once dim. Fresh air flows more easily. And the exterior presents a balanced, timeless appearance that aligns beautifully with the remodel’s transitional design. 

With the support of Pella Central Iowa, the homeowners were able to combine modern performance with classic aesthetics, creating a home that feels both refreshed and rooted in its original character.