What’s the Reason Behind ‘Witch Windows’ in Certain Homes?

A Clever Fix for a Common Problem

Imagine living in a two-story house with a sloping roof. On the gable end—where the roof sides meet in a triangle—you have windows on both floors. Now picture adding a one-story extension to that side. You want to avoid expensive roof work, so you leave the existing roof untouched.

But there’s a catch: the new addition blocks the original windows on the gable end.

A Design Dilemma

You can easily add windows to the first floor of the new extension. But the second-floor windows don’t have enough space. Without them, that upper room might turn dim and gloomy.

So what can you do?

Enter the Witch Window

Homeowners in parts of Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine found an ingenious solution. Instead of removing or awkwardly squeezing in the old windows, they reinstalled them at a slanted angle—the only way they’d fit.

These quirky installations are known as Witch Windows.

Why the Name?

The term “Witch Window” stirs up curiosity. Folklore claims witches can’t fly through diagonal spaces, so a tilted window would keep them out. Of course, that’s just a fun tale—not a serious belief.

In truth, locals coined the nickname because of the windows’ unusual appearance and the legends attached to them.

How They’re Built

Typically found on older New England farmhouses, Witch Windows are double-hung and tilted at a 45-degree angle. The window’s long edge runs parallel to the sloped roof of both stories on the gable end. This smart placement preserves light on the upper floor while accommodating the new addition.

More Than Just Practical

Witch Windows started as a practical fix, but over time, they became a hallmark of regional charm. They add a whimsical, offbeat touch to otherwise traditional homes.

Today, they stand out as a symbol of New England creativity and architectural heritage.

A Symbol of Ingenuity

These windows now fascinate tourists and locals alike. They reflect the resourcefulness of early homeowners—people who solved design problems with imagination rather than demolition.

So next time you spot a tilted window on a farmhouse in New England, remember: it’s not about warding off witches. It’s about clever design, local folklore, and making the most of every inch of space.