Arched, bow, bay, corner and curved windows are very charming in any home, but when it comes to adding window treatments for these windows, people face a big dilemma: to cover, or not to cover. On one hand the window speaks for itself in it’s uniqueness, but on the other hand the windows look bare without putting a dressing on them. If this your problem, there is no need to worry – there are many window treatments available for such windows, including draperies, blinds, shades and even shutters. Curved or arched curtain rods can be a wonderful solution if you consider adding draperies, or brackets can be used for a window scarf to knot a scarf on your non-standard windows.
Curved curtain rods can be used not only for windows, but also for shower curtains as well, giving you much more elbow room in the shower. These curved shower curtain rods can easily be obtained in your local hardware and department stores for very affordable prices. Often a curved rod for an arched or curved window has to be custom made since almost every curved window or wall has a unique curve to it. There are however some inexpensive bendable and flexible drapery rods and tracks for lightweight fabrics such as sheers that not only look good but are easy to install as well.
Before looking for the drapery hardware, decide what style of drapery or window treatment you want for your curved or arched window. Do you need privacy, do you want to hang blinds? Do you want to hang draperies? If so, will they be heavy weighted draperies or light sheers? Are you going to add a valance, a cornice or perhaps some swags with jabots? Maybe you plan to put a decorative window scarf above the arched window to enhance its beauty and have them puddle on the floor? For every one of these choices you may need a different type of curved window rod.
Do your homework, look at decorating magazines and design websites. Find a window that is similar to the one you need to dress and have some fun.
by Susan Dorbeck