Ideas for Arched Window Coverings

Architecturally speaking, arched windows are one of the most beautiful design elements that a room can have. However, when it comes to choosing window treatments for them they can be a bit of a pain to deal with. Traditional curtains and blinds don't work and you may be left scratching your head struggling to come up with ideas for how to cover them.

The good news is that there are actually quite a few options for window treatments for this style of window. Here are some ideas and solutions for arched window coverings to get you started.

A Simple, Inexpensive Solution

Window coverings designed specifically for arched windows can be costly. If you are on a budget you may want to consider skipping the customized blinds or draperies and opting for traditional drapery panels instead. Rather than hanging them directly on the window, though, try purchasing panels that are long enough to reach from your ceiling to your floor. Install a curtain rod on your ceiling in front of the arched window and hang the panels from it.

During the day you can open the drapery wide enough to expose the entire window so you don't lose the architectural detail. At night you can close the curtains and have the privacy that you need. Hanging them from the ceiling gives your room a feeling of greater height, as well.

Opt for opaque draperies if you live on the ground floor or sheer drapery panels if you live in a loft or upstairs apartment.

Fitted Arched Blinds

If you have a larger budget you can opt for blinds that fit directly in your arched window. Often times these blinds need to be customized to the shape of your windows which can greatly increase the cost. However, they are an elegant solution and even when the blinds are closed you can still see the arches from inside your room.

If you are going to go this route your best option is to contact a decorator or seamstress in your area to get a quote on how much custom blinds would cost.

Or, if you are a do-it-yourself type and are good with measurements you can modify a standard roman blind pattern to fit the curve of your window and sew some yourself.

Only Cover the Bottom of the Window

Usually arched windows are tall enough that only the bottom portion of the window needs to be covered for privacy. Try hanging curtain rods partway up the window where the curve of the arch ends and the straight sides begin. With this solution the upper arched part of the window will still be exposed, but the bottom portion where people could see in will be covered.

Choose a Flexible or Bent Curtain Rod

You can purchase bent curtain rods or you can bend your own if you find a flexible rod to start with. The problem with a bent rod is that the curtains will have a tendency to slide off it. To remedy this, look for hooks that lock in place on the rod. Or, glue a small strip of cork inside each ring to increase friction and help prevent slipping. You may need to hem or tie back the bottom of the curtains to prevent an uneven line at the base of the window.