Houseways: Windows, Looking In and Looking Out

I recently found a few photos of windows in my files. In both older and more modern houses, the goal of a window is to allow the movement of air, without allowing anyone to see inside the building. In older houses, this is done with wooden decorations (mashrabiyya). In modern homes, this is done with gauze, voile, lawn or muslin curtains during the day and a heavier, second layer of curtains pulled across the window at night. The second layer is usually made of silk, rayon, velvet or blackout material.

Below are some examples of older houses. Note that some have boards behind the window because the house is not in use now.

Here are some modern examples. In one, because the balcony door is above street level and set back, the door can be left open as there is no angle to see inside the building. Note also that windows have reflective covering which also makes it impossible to see inside.