Window Treatment Ideas

Bow Window Treatment

February 21, 2008

Bow windows can look very elegant and majestic especially if you know how to provide the right treatment. The approach is fairly simple and you don’t even have to spend much trying to find the perfect look that matches your style and savvy. Here are some of the options available as well as a few guidelines to follow during installation.

Designing the Bow

There are two main ways to treat your bow windows. The easier route would be to choose individual window shade treatments. Perhaps four or more windowpanes comprise the curve of your bow window so getting single treatments will provide each one with its own shade drop-down style. Make sure you choose the ones that match the area where you’re planning to place them. The colors should also be complimentary and consistent to avoid clutter.

Bow windows are generally considered to be an attraction in the home. It is equally important that the treatment you choose will bring out its beauty and shape more. You may choose window shades that provide more privacy when you need it as well as window shades that try to draw more attention to the bow window. Individual café curtains have less privacy but focus more on providing a nice view and aesthetic appearance.

The window treatment should look good from the inside and outside. A useful solution would be to find a cloth roller shade having designs or colors that compliment when viewed from the outside and another different pattern or tone when viewed from inside the house. You may need to have one made just for your window to perfectly suit the environment.

Your second option would be to get a custom-made cloth roller shade that specifically follows the curve of your bow windows through a track. There are a number of manufacturers that customize shades and blinds. You also get to spend a lot of effort and time in this manner since you can freely choose the design and color you need. Double track roller shades are also good if you feel that the environment supports it with enough light.

The design of the room or area where you’re planning to install these is also important since you will be dealing with color combinations. It is important to maintain the integrity and consistent aura of the room or you risk having your window looking separated from everything else. You can choose colors that provide a good contrast or lean towards the main tone. Roller shades are also more convenient and practical compared to blinds because of its slick and easy mechanism.

Other Stylish Options

Shutters can provide a more fixed look compared to draperies. You may choose floor length or cut-to-fit ones depending on the size of your bow windows. Fabric shades are also a nice alternative to draperies providing you with adequate light and privacy. Draperies come in handy if the window has overwhelming seats.

Valances are very effective in boosting light entering the room. Wall-and-rod bow window treatments are useful in putting emphasis on the window by hiding the wall. If you have an excellent view outside, choose a color that will help frame the shape. Very large bow windows can be detailed with curtain panels and swags to create a very elegant and captivating appearance. This kind of treatment will definitely make it a highlight.

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