Modern Comfort Meets Mid-century Charm in Full-Home Window Upgrade
A 1952 limestone ranch gets a much-needed energy update.
Project Details
Project Type:
Location:
McPherson, KS
Age of Home:
1952
Area of Home Involved:
Entire Home
Products Used:
This mid-century ranch in McPherson, KS had great bones, but the original 1952 windows had clearly seen better days. Single-pane glass and deteriorating frames weren’t just making the home drafty; they were driving up energy bills and dragging down the overall look of the house.
Energy efficiency was the homeowner’s top priority going into the project. But they also wanted to maintain the character of their stone-clad exterior while giving the house a fresh, more modern feel. The Pella Kansas team helped strike that balance with new Lifestyle Series wood windows featuring a bold black exterior finish and a mix of interior looks that blended into each room seamlessly.
From Peeling Paint to a Striking Corner Window Statement
One of the most dramatic transformations took place at the front of the home, where aging windows with chipped green paint once wrapped the stone façade. In their place, a black-clad corner window brings fresh dimension and functionality. With crisp lines, expanded glass, and a modern frame profile, the new unit enhances curb appeal while letting in more natural light—without straying from the home’s original character.
Inside, the same window becomes a defining kitchen feature. A bright white interior frame ties in seamlessly with the cabinetry and subway tile backsplash, creating a clean, intentional look that elevates the space from every angle.
Details That Make a Difference
While black-clad windows were selected across the entire exterior to create a unified, modern look, the interior finishes were carefully tailored to suit each space. In the kitchen, crisp white frames were the natural choice—blending seamlessly with the cabinetry, tile and countertops to keep the space feeling open, bright, and clean. It’s a subtle update that complements the kitchen’s existing design without overpowering it.
In other areas of the home, the Pella team worked closely with the homeowners to develop a custom stain that matched the original wood trim. This attention to detail ensured that the new windows felt like a natural continuation of the home’s mid-century character—not a departure from it. Rather than feeling like a stark replacement, the windows elevate each room while preserving its unique charm.
But the benefits of this full-home update weren’t purely visual. The replacement windows come with advanced performance features, including dual-pane glass and energy-efficient options that help regulate temperature and reduce outside noise. The result is a noticeably more comfortable interior environment—quieter, more consistent and ready for every Kansas season.
A Clear Transformation with Lasting Benefits
This project highlights the powerful impact of a well-executed window replacement, not just in terms of how a home looks, but how it feels to live in. The transformation went beyond surface-level improvements. With better insulation, smoother functionality and high-performance glass, the new windows enhanced the home’s comfort, efficiency and everyday livability. At the same time, the black exterior frames and carefully chosen interior finishes gave the house a refreshed, modern appearance without losing its original charm.
For the McPherson homeowner, this wasn’t about changing the character of their home—it was about honoring it. The updates respected the craftsmanship and materials of the 1950s build while solving real problems caused by outdated, failing windows. Now, the home is not only easier on the eyes and more aligned with the homeowner’s style—it’s better equipped for the seasons ahead, ready to stand the test of time once again