When you are decorating your home, windows play a key role in how a room looks and feels. But not all windows are same; some are tall, deep, wide and high. Still others have queer shapes such as arches, skylights, or corner spots with no alcove at all. These windows can make your home unique and full of charm, but they can also be hard to cover.
If you’ve ever had trouble finding the right window covering for an odd or hard-to-reach window, you are not alone. This simple guide will show how to dress awkward windows and unique openings in a way that appears good. And works well too.
Why Awkward Windows Can Be Challenging
Awkward window treatment is often needed for windows that are too large or small to fit the standard treatments. They can include:
- Arched and round windows are difficult to cover with traditional blinds, curtains or shades.
- Skylights on the ceiling or sloped roof.
- Bay or corner windows which are at an angle, and need to be covered separately.
- Tall or wide windows requiring custom-sized solutions
- Windows at tricky places such as behind furniture and above staircases, or even in bathrooms.
It’s difficult to find a product that looks great and is also easy to use, while offering privacy, control of light, and convenience.
Solutions for Different Types of Awkward Windows
Let’s look at some common window types and simple design ideas that can help you dress them beautifully.
1. The Small or Off-Center Window
It is a classic. On one big wall, this small window looks as if it were misplaced, or not in the middle of them. It feels quite imbalanced that way altogether.
Simple Solutions:
- Install a large curtain rod to create the illusion of a bigger window. Extend the rod several feet beyond each side of the window. Hang curtains wide enough to cover most of the wall when open. The curtains will draw the eye to the entire wall and make the window appear larger.
- Use trims or mouldings to make a dramatic, larger frame. This gives your small window more of a purposeful and elegant presence.
The Best Blind for This Problem: Inside-Mount Roman Shades
Roman window shades are perfect for small windows. The inside mount allows you to install the shade inside your window frame. When you pull the fabric up, it folds neatly into horizontal pleats and stacks compactly. You don’t have to worry about losing any light or your view. And the window looks clean and uncluttered. The soft fabric is more cozier than a hard-sided blind and works well in small spaces.
2. The Extremely Tall or Narrow Window
This type of window can feel a bit like a tunnel. The task lies in balancing how tall they are against whether you still have room to move.
Simple Solutions:
- Hang the curtains above the top edge of the frame all the way to ceiling height. This enhances the height in your room and the height of the space will be highlighted.
- Just cover the lower part of the window to get privacy or block light, and leave the top section uncovered so natural light can still come through.
The Best Blind for This Problem: Vertical Blinds or Panel Track Systems
Vertical blinds are an excellent choice for tall and narrow windows, especially sliding doors. They are designed for height! You can simply twist the vanes to suit your needs, from completely blocking out light to letting it in.
Panel track systems are a great choice for a modern look. These systems use large, fabric panels that glide on a ceiling track hence why they’re called “panel tracks.” Perfect for wide areas that are high and long they can be pushed to one side when you want an unobstructed view.
3. The Corner Window
Windows that meet in the corner of a room are fantastic for light and views. However, they are difficult to dress so that the light is not blocked.
Simple Solutions:
- Use a bendable curtain rod that can be turned at a 90 degree angle. This gives a smooth and neat look.
- Individual Simplicity: Use a simple, minimalist window treatment on each window.
The Best Blind for This Problem: Roller Shades or Solar Shades
If you are styling corner windows, it is important to keep the lines clean and you also don’t want to block the beautiful light from the corner. Roller window shades offer the perfect solution. They can be mounted inside the frame (or outside) and rolled up neatly to keep them out of the way. You can use one shade per window, when they’re up, they almost disappear.
4. The Arched or Round Window
These arched or round window shapes might seem tricky, but the secret is to work with their design instead of trying to hide or change it.
Simple Solutions:
- Place a curtain rod below the arch and hang curtains that cover only the lower, square part of the window. This keeps the lovely arch visible.
- For a clean and stylish look, you can choose custom-made shutters or shades designed to perfectly fit the shape of your arched window.
The Best Blind for This Problem: Custom Shutters or Shades
For a truly seamless look, custom-shaped shutters are a winner. A company can make shutters that are precisely cut to follow the curve of your arch. They are fixed in place (they don’t open or close), so they act as a permanent, beautiful architectural feature.
General Tips for Any Awkward Window
No matter the shape or size of your window, these easy tips can help you make it look great:
- Hang Curtains High and Wide: Place the curtain rod a bit higher and wider than the window frame. It makes your window look bigger and the room feel taller.
- Keep It Simple: If your window has an unusual shape, go for something clean and simple, like plain roller shades or neat blinds.
- Make It a Highlight: Don’t hide your window! You can make it stand out by painting the frame in a fun or bold color.
- Think About What You Need: Before choosing a style, ask yourself what the window’s purpose is. Do you need privacy, less sunlight, or better sleep? Pick something that fits your needs first.
Final Thoughts
Awkward or unique windows don’t have to be a problem, with the right window covering, they can become one of the best parts of your home. Whether it’s a round, skylight, or corner window, there’s always a simple way to make it look good and work well.
By thinking about your needs, privacy, light, and convenience and exploring creative solutions like skylight shades, roman blinds, and custom coverings, you can turn even the most difficult window into a stylish highlight of your space.