How Can You Dress Unusually Shaped Windows?
In the UK, many of us love period properties because of the architectural features they offer. However, this can also present a challenge when they feature unusual window designs that don’t work with “standard” curtains or blinds.
But it isn’t only period properties that can have unusually shaped windows. Many modern, contemporary homes have interesting features like asymmetrical windows, which can pose just as much of a challenge when you’re seeking the right window dressing.
So, how can you dress a quirky window without detracting from this feature of your architecture?
We’ve got some ideas for a range of irregular-shaped windows, but if you don’t find the inspiration you’re looking for here, contact us to find out more about how we can help with made to measure curtains in London, or wherever you live.
Take a look at our suggestions for some of the unusual-shaped windows we get requests for curtains and blinds for.
Bay windows
While a common feature in many Victorian homes, that doesn’t mean bay windows can’t be a bit of a challenge for your window dressing.
What’s more, not all bay windows are the same. For instance, some have window seats, which means you need to take a different approach to bay windows without that feature.
If you’ve got a bay window that features window seats, we recommend Roman blinds for a stylish and effective window covering. These work well because they don’t get in the way of the window seat, even when they’re down.
They also look stylish when they’re retracted, adding a softness to the top of the window frame with the fabric.
However, if you don’t have window seats in your bay windows then we think full-length curtains that play into the drama of this architectural feature are a good way to go.
Because we make our curtains to measure, we can create a window dressing to suit the specifications of your home. If you want to lean into opulence, you could opt for velvet curtains, for example.
Alternatively, for a lighter and more airy feel, a lightweight voile fabric in a pale shade can be a good way to provide privacy without blocking out all the light from your bay windows.
Apex windows
These kinds of windows are increasingly common given that more and more homeowners are converting their loft spaces into rooms.
In fact, research from Nationwide found that 24 per cent of people who carried out home improvements between 2020 and 2025 converted their lofts. This was also considered one of the best projects for boosting property value.
One of the challenges with a loft conversion can be getting plenty of light into the space, which is why apex windows that mirror the pitch of the roof can appeal. Full-length curtains can also soften the sharp lines of this kind of window.
Asymmetrical windows
In modern architecture, unusual shapes are popular and that means some properties feature asymmetrical windows (those with unequal sides, irregular shapes or non-uniform positioning, for example).
In these situations, a made-to-measure curtain is essential to both block the light and create a cohesive effect with the rest of the room.
We believe a single curtain that can be tied to one side of this kind of window is often the best choice, because it won’t block too much light when the curtain is open but will be able to completely cover the window when the curtain is closed.
Arched windows
There are several ways in which arched windows can feature in a property. Some are large and grand, particularly where the archway leads to glass doors rather than just a window. In other homes, the glass may be in an arched shape but the window is set in a standard frame.
In either situation, you will likely want a window dressing that runs a little wider than the window itself to block all the light and give you full privacy.
If your arched windows are set into standard frames, depending on the height of the windows you could consider blinds instead of curtains. This will work best for windows that are more standard size, rather than floor-to-ceiling arched windows or doors.