How to build a stud wall around a small window

[cowboy25]

This is for a small window for a bathroom in a shepherds hut which I'm building from scratch. The bathroom is very small so will just have one small window. The size of the wall space is w 121.6 cm by h 195.2 cm and the window is w 48.5cm x h 91cm. Obviously the wall space is quite small so I was wondering if I can just have two vertical studs with the window,window header and window sill contained within as in diagram B. Would this be structurally sound? Or do I need 4 vertical studs as in diagram A?

 

The first photo is the window and the second photo is the bathroom wall space in question between the existing vertical studs.

 

Edited May 17 by cowboy25

[Nickfromwales]

Diagram B every time 👌. 

[Nickfromwales]

If the gaps exceed 600mm add 2 pieces as shown. 
 

[SimonD]

Is this timber frame wall a load bearing wall or is it just internal framing? If it's load bearing then you really want to follow standard timber framing methods. I would almost always use the 3rd option from left, but sometimes use option 1 if short of cls.

[cowboy25]

On 17/05/2026 at 17:22, SimonD said:

Is this timber frame wall a load bearing wall or is it just internal framing? If it's load bearing then you really want to follow standard timber framing methods. I would almost always use the 3rd option from left, but sometimes use option 1 if short of cls.

 

Its an external wall, so I guess that makes it load bearing? So basically add in one or two cripple studs and double up the king/jack studs. Got it.

 

The header I assume should be a thicker stud as well.

[elite]

47 minutes ago, cowboy25 said:

 

Its an external wall, so I guess that makes it load bearing? So basically add in one or two cripple studs and double up the king/jack studs. Got it.

 

The header I assume should be a thicker stud as well.

 

For the header I would use 2 of your studs nailed together rotated on end as they will be much stronger in that direction than the floppy way

[cowboy25]

I now have two quite heavy triple glazed rationel windows I want to place directly on top of one another, this is to provide air flow for a double bunk bed for the top and bottom bunk area, so each area the lower bunk and top bunk both have a window that can be opened on hot nights to let cool air in. Is this possible? Seems like there won't be enough stud support for the upper window. How might this look? Do I just have to ensure there is a suitable gap between the windows for the stud work to carry the load of the top window rather than having them too close to one another?

 

 

[Mr Punter]

With some of the Rationel frames you can couple them in a stack.  Have a look at their install literature or ask their tech dept.