 A few of my recent projects have involved arched windows. One project was a residential condominium and the other two were custom homes. Arched windows are wonderful architectural features, but they can present challenges when it comes to light control and privacy.
Solutions should be based upon how much room there is for outside mount or inside mount treatments, whether the desired look is tailored or soft, whether total blackout or simple light filtering is required, and whether complete window coverage or partial window coverage is desired.
One option is to not add any window treatments. Let the light shine in! However, if you're in search of some privacy or need to block some of the light entering the room, there are several options. Here are just some of them:
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Solar Shades - these unobtrusive and streamlined shades filter the light with different grades of filtering available. Generally installed as outside mount, solar shades can be fully raised to expose arched windows or lowered to provide partial or total coverage. Solar shades do not provide blackout or total privacy, and basically serve as a screen.
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Inside Mount Privacy Sheers - for a look that is both tailored and soft at the same time, sheer fabric shirred on a rod (at top, or at top and bottom) is a nice solution. A bit more traditional in appearance than shades, privacy sheers can be installed inside mount in order to preserve the integrity and lines of the arched window, and can be installed at the highest point possible before the arch begins, or at a lower point if desired. This type of treatment can create privacy and coverage while still allowing an open area at the arch.
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Cellular Shades - probably one of the more flexible and cost effective options, cellular shades can be installed outside mount for a simple solution. Installed above the window opening, an outside mount cellular shade can be dropped fully or partially for adjustable light control. Cellular shades can be translucent or opaque, depending upon the lining. Inside mount cellular shades are also popular, and can feature top-down / bottom-up controls that enable the shade to be raised up partially or fully from the window sill. Cellular arch infills are also available enabling the arched section of the window to be filled in. These infills can be stationary or can be opened as needed.
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Shutters - for a substantial and architecturally interesting solution, shutters provide privacy, light control and flexibility. Depending on dimensions and customization, shutters could potentially cost quite a bit more than shades or fabric treatments. Plantation style shutters with large blades and rails, installed inside mount, provide a clean, and tailored solution. Shutters are generally installed to fill in partial height rather than full height, but full height shutter treatments are possible.
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Drapery Panels - whether sheer or lined for privacy and light control, traversing panels that are mounted above and outside the arched window provide a warm, decorative look that is also fairly simple and very functional. When open, panels create a soft framework for arched windows that can help tie a room together. When closed, panels provide privacy and light control of varying degrees, depending upon the fabric and lining used.
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