How to Design an Octagonal Window

Use a calculator to determine the length of each side of an octagonal window

An octagonal window adds a different dimension to a room decor. The 8-sided window is an unusual sight when viewed from the exterior of a home or building. The shape is not the normal square or rectangular window shape and provides uniqueness in a wall. The first step in designing an octagonal window is determining the size of the circle or desired opening in the wall. The rest of the design process uses mathematical calculations.

Things You'll Need

• Paper
• Pencil
• Calculator

Instructions

1. Determine the diameter of the desired octagonal window. Example: The desired width of the window is 18 inches.

2. Multiply the diameter by 3.14 or pi. Example: Desired width is 18 inches. The circumference of the circle is 56.52 inches.

3. Divide the circumference by 8 because there are 8 sides in an octagonal window. The answer is the length of each side of the octagonal window. Example: The circumference of an 18-inch window is 56.52 inches. Divide 56.52 by 8 and the answer is 7.065 inches.

4. Use a 22.5 degree angle on the end of each board.

References

• Math Goodies: Circumference of a Circle
• Math Open Reference: Octagon Definition