Desigining for Challenging Windows - Arched and Speciality

Arched and Specialty

Arched and Specialty shaped windows can be particularly challenging due to their unusual shapes and the inability to purchase something “off the rack”.  These windows typically require something custom made to fit the exact dimension of the window.  People often ask if they should dress the window at all or leave it completely exposed.  That’s a difficult question to answer and I think it depends upon many factors.  Things to consider are other architectural elements in the room and how the windows relate to it.  Typically window treatments are utilized to “dress” the window and not to provide any sort of functionality such as light control or privacy. 

Decorative medallions are often used for mounting window treatments on these types of windows because it gives the designer more flexibility in navigating around curves.    It also adds a decorative element that can be seen when viewed from far away such as on a two story window.  Rods can also be custom made to fit the exact arch of a window and rings can be welded to those rods to hold them in place.  These options are available “to the trade” only and would need to be purchased through your window treatment professional.   Since measuring can be tricky, you’ll be happy to leave this job to someone else!

There are hard treatments that can utilized for specialty shapes as well.  These would provide a functional treatment to control sunlight, provide UV protection and privacy.  Plantation Shutters and Cellular Shades are just some of the treatments available to fit arches, trapezoids and transom windows and most require a template for the product to be manufactured.