Unique Window Shapes and How to Outfit Them With Roller Shades
While rectangular windows are common, many homes also feature windows with unique shapes. Arched windows, circular windows, and skylights make rooms feel more spacious and add architectural interest. Tailoring window treatments for these uniquely shaped windows can be tricky. The good news is that versatile custom fabric roller shade systems can adapt to outfit almost any window beautifully.
Outfitting Arched Windows with Roller Shades
Arched windows instantly give rooms a touch of old-world charm and grandeur. Their curved tops echo the shapes found in French doors and architectural arches. When outfitting arched windows with shades, look for systems that can follow the window’s contour.
Custom Arched Hem Bars
Roller shades with a custom arched hem bar precisely match the curve at the top of an arched window. This creates a perfectly tailored look. The shade rolls up into a traditional straight roller over the window, then curves down seamlessly.
Segmented Shades
Another option is to create a series of rectangular roller shade segments that connect together to follow the window’s arch. Each segment mounts individually, but operates as a coordinated unit. The layered look adds visual depth.
Half Moon Shades
For a simpler approach, one or two half moon roller shades can be mounted to fill the arched space from base to peak. Half moon shades roll side to side into compact housings. They can be layered together for optimal coverage.
No matter the approach, careful measurement of the arched window’s dimensions ensures a well-fitting roller shade treatment. The right arched shade solution transforms awkward arched windows into focal points.
Roller Shade Options for Circle Windows
Circular or round windows and porthole windows add unique personality to a space. Their rounded shape calls for a creative shade solution. Here are some top options:
Quarter-Circle Shades
Mount individual quarter-circle roller shades in each quadrant of the round window. Each shade rolls up into its own compact roller housing. With coordinated fabric, the segmented shades give full coverage.
Half-Moon Shades
Two half-moon roller shades mounted horizontally or vertically can fill a circular window. For larger circles, quarter moon shades in each quadrant provide a clean look. Layer sheers and blackouts for versatile light control.
Custom-Shaped Shades
For true customization, opt for a single roller shade cut in the precise circular shape of the window. The shade rolls up into an oval housing following the window’s contours. Makes a beautiful focal point.
Perfectly crafted quarter-, half- or full-circle roller shades transform awkward portholes into stunning architectural features. Careful shade selection balances functionality with creating a showstopping aesthetic.
Skylight Roller Shade Solutions
Skylights brighten up rooms with open ceilings and exposed rafters. Yet sometimes too much sunlight shines through. Tailored skylight shades allow you to filter light as needed. Consider these easy roller shade options:
Slope Cut Shades
Slope cut roller shades are trimmed so their bottoms are shorter in the center and longer at the sides. This matches the natural slope of a skylight and provides full coverage when lowered.
Rectangle Shades Off-Center
Mounting rectangular roller shades closer to the uphill edge of the skylight can mimic a slope cut. The shade hangs parallel to the skylight angle when lowered. Easy and effective.
Multiple Panel Shades
Cover large skylights with a series of rectangular roller shade panels. Each panel mounts separately but operates together using connectors or a motor. The segmented shades follow the skylight’s angle for tailored shading.
Properly installed roller shades let you control skylight glare and heat gain without losing the open feeling the skylights provide. With custom sloped or shaped systems, skylights can be dressed beautifully.
Roller Shade Solutions for Triangle Windows
Triangular windows, common in Cape Cod style homes, can also be tricky to cover. But well-designed roller shades can handle the task in several ways:
Quarter Round Shades
Use two coordinated quarter-round roller shades mounted vertically to match the angles. Quarter rounds hug the sloped sides and meet cleanly in the middle.
Custom Triangle Shades
For a seamless look, opt for roller shades cut in the triangular shape of the window. The shades roll up into compact triangular housings that tuck cleanly out of sight.
Segmented Shades
Break the triangle into rectangular segments mounted closely together. Connected rectangular shades operated as a unit offer full adjustable coverage. Choose fabrics that complement each another.
Don’t overlook the design potential of uniquely shaped windows. With the right roller shade solutions, these special windows become highly functional showpieces that add character to any room.
