This paper presents the results of a numerical and experimental study on thermally efficient windows. Experimental investigation using spectrophotometry was realized on simple and composite glass samples filled with air or phase change material. The transmittance and reflectance tests indicated large reduction in the infrared and ultraviolet radiations while maintaining good visibility. The number of glass sheets, their thickness and the gap between them were also investigated. The numerical model is based upon one-dimensional formulation of the composite window. The program was optimized and the predicted results are presented and discussed. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.211819091923