What happens to your trusty old windows after you get them replaced (or some punk kid smashes one in with a water balloon)? Fear not – the rickety frames and panes can still serve a greater purpose, just as the creative do-it-yourselfers, artists and craftsmen have shown below. Welcome to the world of inventive upcycling.

Here are 7 creative ideas for your broken windows. Have an artsy day!

#1 – Garden Perfect

Windows can serve both decorative and practical functions. On the left, this cottage-style “window box” hangs from a cheerfully colored shed wall to spruce it up. And on the right, another gardener used three windows as a visual divider between her vegetables and hostas. You can do this by de-paning the windows and connecting them with a 2×4 on the top and bottom. Hang ornamental crystals and beads in the openings.

You can also reuse your window as a revamped trellis for climbing vines and roses, a brightly colored decoration to hang alongside a birdhouse or sit amongst flowers, or a rack over a potting table. Add hooks and hang gardening tools, gloves and your favorite floppy hat.

#2 – Indoor & Outdoor Window Art

There’s a story behind each of these windows. The 12-pane floral window was a DIY project using tile nippers, lots of caulk, glass pieces and glass globs for the flower centers. It turned out to be a wonderful art experiment. And if you’re not into paint, but still long for window art, photographs are the simple solution. Print the photos the size of each pane and tape it to the back – instant “deco-window.”

#3 – Divine Dividers

photo credits: http://www.hgtv.com/decorating/shabby-chic-living-room-makeover/index.html, http://www.robomargo.com/windows.html

Divide a room or an outdoor patio with windows. It’s great to have the division and still be able to see into the next space. Fastened together, windows can serve as standing room dividers as well.

#4 – Outside the Box

This living space, with plenty of windows of its own, has a ceiling built from reclaimed picture frame corners. There may just be an equally unique window frame design waiting to come under your roof.

#5 – Window-Furniture Transitions  

Windows make attractive furniture pieces for every room in the home. The frames offer a chic appearance in one space and a practical impression in another. A fresh coat of paint really modernizes the look, while sanded wood frames speak volumes for natural design. Decorators and designers are forever looking for “windows of opportunity” – share yours with us below!

#6 – Greenhouses Galore

photo credits: http://www.robomargo.com/windows.html, http://www.robomargo.com/windows.html

Large or small, walk-in or table-top, varieties of greenhouses are as endless as the assortment of windows. They’re used for the ceiling, walls and the door of these greenhouses. And those plants never had it so good!

#7 – See-Thru Getaway

Similar to greenhouses, these standalone screened porches and gazebos are a great escape from the indoors – and you don’t have to go any farther than your own backyard. Here’s a funky version of stepping out into the wild. It’s an outdoor getaway made from old windows. Inside, you’re still sure to get your daily dose of Vitamin D.

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