Honoring History with Light Control: A Timeless Window Treatment for the Brittingham House

Preserving the elegance of a historic home while meeting the demands of modern living is no small feat. At Incredible Windows, we had the honor of helping achieve that balance in one of Madison’s architectural treasures—the Brittingham House.

A Glimpse Into the Legacy of the Brittingham House

Perched atop a hill in The Highlands, the Brittingham House has stood as a symbol of refinement since 1916. Originally built by Thomas and Mary Brittingham, the Georgian-style residence is now the official home of the University of Wisconsin System President. With its rich legacy and distinguished past, every design choice in this historic property must be deliberate—respecting the home’s origins while ensuring it functions beautifully for today’s needs.

When the time came to revitalize the formal dining room and sitting area, Incredible Windows was selected to provide a custom window treatment in Brittingham that would complement the historic aesthetic and protect the cherished interiors.

Thoughtful Window Solutions with a Heritage Focus

We collaborated closely with the caretakers, architectural team, and UW representatives to land on a solution that enhanced both form and function. Here’s how we helped preserve the home’s character:

  • Product Chosen: Hunter Douglas Designer Roller Shades in Nero fabric, color Augustus, offering light filtering and UV protection while staying true to the home’s refined character.
  • Style Choices: To reflect the early 20th-century charm, we opted for standard clutch mechanisms over motorization, keeping the functionality aligned with the home’s historical context.
  • Layered Elegance: We collaborated with Lost Woods Sewing to create custom drapery panels and cornices, adding a rich, period-appropriate aesthetic to the windows.
  • Sun Protection: The south-facing windows, which flood the home with light, are now equipped to minimize fading to antiques, fine rugs, and artwork—preserving the interiors for years to come.

The Results: Elegance Reinforced by Purpose

The result is a striking blend of historical reverence and modern-day practicality. The updated window treatment in Brittingham not only enhances the visual harmony of each room but also adds a layer of protection from Madison’s variable climate—particularly its strong summer sunlight and reflective winter brightness.

Incorporating designer shades ensures the furniture, fabrics, and heirlooms remain shielded from harmful UV rays. At the same time, the clean lines and quality craftsmanship of Hunter Douglas Designer Roller Shades add polish without overpowering the traditional design elements of the home.

A Heritage Home Reimagined

Each room tells a story—and these windows now whisper one of careful restoration, thoughtful upgrades, and lasting beauty. From the stately dining room to the music-filled sitting area, every shade was carefully selected.

Thinking about your own historic home or new build? Let these images inspire your next chapter. At Incredible Windows, we’re proud to partner with homeowners, designers, and institutions who want their spaces to be both beautiful and timeless.

Choose Shades That Honor Your Home

Window treatments do more than simply dress a space—they protect your investment, add comfort, and define the overall ambiance of your home every day. In Middleton, WI, and surrounding areas, the right window coverings can help manage sunlight, preserve furnishings, and offer effortless beauty that suits your lifestyle and climate.

At Incredible Windows, we specialize in bringing your vision to life with personalized service and premium products. Whether you’re reviving a century-old residence or building your dream home, our team is ready to help you find the ideal solution.

Book a complimentary consultation today and let us help you write the next chapter in your home’s story—with window treatments that are as functional as they are unforgettable.