6 Clever Ways To Dress a Circular Window
They say that the windows are the eyes of the home, so it’s no wonder that window dressings are an important element of the aesthetic. However, while it’s easy to embellish regular, square windows with an array of choices when it comes to curtains, blinds, and shutters, unusually shaped windows are a completely different matter.
Take circular windows, for instance. Whichever way you look at it, round windows are unique. They were put there by the architect to make a statement, whether as essential style element of a period building or to enliven an otherwise unremarkable new build with the addition of a quirky architectural feature.
Dressing a round window doesn’t have to be difficult, as long as you stay clear from the usual standard box thinking. Here are 6 creative solutions for you to consider.
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Ignore the shape
Ironically, the easiest way to treat a circular window is to ignore its shape completely and pretend that it’s square! Whether you’re downstairs or in an upstairs bedroom, all it takes is a straight curtain rail fitted above it and a generous length of gorgeous curtain fabric to cover it all up. The same effect can be achieved with a standard Venetian Blind or a made-to-measure Roman Blind.
If you prefer the window to retain its visual impact during the day when the curtains are open, keep the curtain or blind material the same colour as the wall so it blends in, letting the round window shine. Instant wow factor guaranteed.
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Treat the glass
If you’re not keen on covering up the beautiful circular window but still need privacy in the room, or if there’s simply no space for an elaborate window dressing, have you considered changing the glass? Frosted glass or even decorative stained glass could be perfect for a downstairs cloakroom or bathroom. Yes, it’s a job for a professional glazier or stained glass artist, but could make a big difference to your home’s appeal.
For a quicker, cheaper solution that you can implement yourself, why not experiment with window film? Widely available from DIY stores, specialist craft stores and online too, window film comes in a range of designs with varying degrees of opacity, including etched effect film, and it comes in different colours too. Cut to size and apply – simples.
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Install made-to-measure window shutters
Circular windows in any room of the house can be fitted with wooden plantation shutters that are made to measure and fixed in place inside the window reveal. The lovely round shape is retained for all to see, while movable slats allow for opening and closing to adjust for light and privacy requirements.
Plantation shutters are available in various materials including sustainable hardwood, MDF engineered wood and ABS composite plastic. They can be painted in many different colours to perfectly complement the interior design of any room.
Find a reputable local window shutter company and make an appointment for a home visit and quotation, which is typically free.
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Fit custom made blinds
Round shaped Venetian Blinds or porthole blinds can be custom made to fit the circular opening. Because of the round shape you won’t be able to pull the blinds up beyond the halfway point, but you will be able to tilt the slats to between the open to closed position to adjust the incoming light.
Consult a local supplier for available fabrics, colours and all the design options as well as a free quote.
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Make a shade panel
If you’re artistically inclined, why not get creative and make a circular shade panel to put into the window reveal at night? Try customizing a large parasol or umbrella, find a hula hoop or large embroidery/quilting ring and cover with fabric or make a Hobbit door out of wood! You could play up the porthole character and give the window a nautical styling. As ever, the only limitation is your imagination.
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Don’t dress the window
Finally, here’s a revolutionary thought: why don’t you simply leave the window as is it? Does it really need a window treatment? A circular window can make a wonderful focal point for any room and should be celebrated for the uniqueness that it brings to the architecture of your house. Take a look at these gorgeous examples of how a round window can enrich your home in so many ways.