In modern kitchen design, pass through windows have become popular for seamlessly connecting indoor and outdoor spaces. These windows not only enhance the overall aesthetics but also provide practical functionality. This blog will explore the best pass through windows to elevate your kitchen experience: Gas Strut Windows, Folding Windows, and Fold-Up Windows.
What are Pass Through Windows?
Pass through windows allow you to connect your patio, deck or pool with the interior of your house. These space-saving windows are an excellent way to move from one area to another. These multi-functional windows occupy less room than a door but offer the same ventilation and natural lighting conveniences.
Many windows can be made as the pass through windows. However, the gas strut windows, folding windows and fold up windows must be the best top 3 pass through windows for your kitchen.
Pass Through Window Types
1. Gas Strut (Lift-Up) Pass-Through Window
Opens upward on gas struts like a mini garage door, creating a full open countertop opening.
Best for: Outdoor bars, kitchens → patio, modern homes
Pros: Wide opening, minimal frame, acts as canopy
Cons: Higher cost, needs overhead clearance
2. Folding / Bi-Fold Pass-Through Window
Panels fold to one or both sides along a track (like folding doors but in window size).
Best for: Large openings, commercial bars, modern designs
Pros: Fully opens the wall, flexible width
Cons: More moving parts, higher price than standard windows
3. Sliding Pass-Through Window (Stacking or Bypass)
Panels slide horizontally—can stack behind each other or slide into wall pockets.
Variants:
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2-panel sliding
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Multi-panel stacking
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Pocket sliding (disappears into wall)
Best for: Limited exterior space, minimalist look
Pros: No swing clearance needed
Cons: Doesn’t fully open unless pockets are used
4. Awning Pass-Through Window
Hinged at top, swings outward using a crank or push-out arms—works even in light rain.
Best for: Kitchens, bathrooms, coastal or rainy climates
Pros: Weather-friendly, affordable, good ventilation
Cons: Smaller opening than gas strut or bi-fold
5. Double-Hung or Single-Hung Pass-Through Window
Two vertical sashes that slide up and down.
Best for: Traditional homes, farmhouse/cottage styles
Pros: Classic look, good ventilation control
Cons: Half the opening is blocked (only one sash open at a time)
6. Hopper Pass-Through Window
Hinged at bottom, opens inward—less common outdoors but used for basements or service counters.
Best for: Indoor serving counters, basements
Pros: Good airflow, simple hardware
Cons: Not ideal for outdoor bars due to inward swing
7. Flip-Up Garage-Style Window (Counterweight / Hydraulic)
Industrial-style system where the entire panel lifts upward, sometimes with pistons or mechanical counterweights.
Best for: Restaurants, modern industrial architecture
Pros: Dramatic look, commercial strength
Cons: Expensive, may require pro install
Comparison Summary Table
| Window Type | Opens | Space Needed | Best Use | Cost Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gas Strut | Upward | Overhead space | Outdoor bar | |
| Bi-Fold | Folds sideways | Side clearance | Large openings | |
| Sliding | Sideways | None outward | Minimalist patio | |
| Awning | Outward | Small outward | Rain ventilation | |
| Double-Hung | Vertical | None outward | Traditional homes | |
| Hopper | Inward | Interior clearance | Basements, service | |
| Flip-Up Industrial | Upward (mechanical) | Large overhead | Restaurants |
Top 1: Gas Strut Windows
Gas strut or gas spring windows offer a sleek and sophisticated solution for your kitchen pass-through. These windows use gas struts, allowing a smooth and controlled opening and closing mechanism. The primary advantage of gas struts is that they make lifting the window effortless, enabling easy interaction between the kitchen and the adjoining space. When 90 degrees fully opened, the window sash acts as an awning and doesn’t take up any space in your kitchen or living room. This pass through window type is ideal for people who value style and convenience in their kitchen design.
Key Features
- Effortless operation with gas strut technology
- Modern and elegant design
- Controlled opening and closing mechanism
This window has a gas strut mechanism and is made of an aluminum frame with double glazed glass. The aluminum frame can be customized to different colors to match your kitchen and dining room’s aesthetics. The glass can be tinted or coated with Low-E to improve energy efficiency.
Top 2: Fold-Up Windows
Fold-up windows are a space-efficient solution that combines functionality with a compact design. These windows open vertically, folding upward to create an opening that allows easy serving and interaction. It can be manually operated or electrically operated. Fold-up windows are particularly suitable for kitchens with limited space, providing an efficient way to connect indoor and outdoor areas without compromising style or functionality.
Key Features
- Vertical folding design for space efficiency.
- Ideal for kitchens with limited space.
- Functional and stylish solution.
Folding Windows: Maximizing Space and Connectivity
Folding windows, also known as accordion windows, are an excellent choice for those looking to maximize space and connectivity between the kitchen and outdoor areas. When opened, these windows have multiple panels that fold and stack neatly to one side. Folding windows provide a wide and unobstructed view, creating a seamless transition between the indoor and outdoor environments. This pass-through window type is ideal for spaces where you want to merge the kitchen with a patio, deck, or garden.
Key Features
- Space-saving design with folding panels.
- Unobstructed view and connectivity.
- Versatile application for various kitchen layouts.
Conclusion
Choosing the right pass through windows for your kitchen involves considering both design preferences and practicality. Whether you opt for the effortless elegance of gas strut windows, the space-maximizing features of folding windows, or the compact functionality of fold-up windows, each option offers a unique blend of style and convenience. Evaluate your kitchen layout, aesthetic preferences, and usage requirements to select the pass through windows that best complement your lifestyle and enhance the overall appeal of your kitchen space.
Oridow offers three types of pass-through windows for wholesalers, builders, and homeowners. Whether you need a few pieces or a large quantity, we can customize the size and specifications to meet your needs. Additionally, we provide an optional door-to-door delivery service. Contact us today to get the perfect pass-through window for your kitchen.
