In a world where social status is constantly evolving, a new marker has emerged that sets the ultra-rich apart from the rest: curtain-less windows. These massive, stunning windows made of fine materials have become a symbol of wealth and privilege in the gentrified areas of the world’s great capitals. The private lives of the owners of renovated apartments are on full display for all to see, creating a spectacle that has captured the attention of onlookers and social media users alike.
According to reports from prestigious publications like The New York Times and The Guardian, neighborhoods like Brooklyn Heights and West London are now filled with these “ethnological dioramas” of the white and millennial inhabitants who call them home. Passers-by can catch a glimpse of luxurious open-plan spaces adorned with expensive pieces like grand pianos, designer furniture, and extravagant chandeliers. The absence of curtains is seen as a bold statement of opulence and a way for the elite to showcase their wealth.
The trend of curtain-less windows has even made its way into popular culture, with TV shows like “Succession” depicting ultra-rich characters living in homes with unobstructed views of the city. The concept of transparency, both literal and metaphorical, has become a defining feature of modern architecture and design, reflecting a desire for openness and authenticity in a world where privacy is increasingly scarce.
While some attribute the lack of curtains to historical and cultural factors like Calvinism or minimalism, others see it as a form of exhibitionism and a subtle way of signaling wealth and status. The decision to live with bare windows has been linked to family wealth, with higher-income individuals more likely to forgo curtains in favor of a more open and transparent living space.
Experts in the field of architecture and design offer varying perspectives on the trend, with some seeing it as a reflection of our digitalized lives and the blurring of boundaries between public and private spaces. However, not everyone is on board with the idea of curtain-less windows, especially in countries like Spain where privacy is highly valued and curtains are seen as essential for maintaining a sense of security and comfort.
Ultimately, the trend of curtain-less windows represents a complex interplay between architecture, culture, and social status. Whether it’s a bold statement of wealth or a subtle nod to modern design principles, the sight of these naked windows serves as a reminder of the ever-changing landscape of social status and the ways in which the elite choose to display their privilege for all to see.