How to Make Windows Look Bigger: Simple Design Hacks
How to Make Windows Look Bigger?
To make windows look bigger, there are several tips you can follow.
First, mounting drapes a few inches higher than the window frame can create the illusion of a taller window and room.
Opt for floor-length curtains as they add elegance and softness to the window, making it appear larger.
Consider choosing the right type of curtain and fabric, such as velvet curtains, to enhance the overall look and feel.
Framing the window with floor-length curtains can also make it a focal point in the room.
Extending the curtain pole slightly or beyond the window frame can create the illusion of a larger window.
Additionally, positioning window treatments high up, either up to the crown molding or just below ceiling level, can create the illusion of height.
Covering the entire wall with curtains on smaller windows can make them appear larger.
Hanging sheer drapery in front of the entire wall can make the walls look blown out from the light, creating the perception of a larger window.
Using a single curtain rod for multiple windows in a small room can create a balanced and uncluttered look.
Roman blinds are recommended as they make the window look more “dressed” and attractive.
Orienting window treatments from the top can maximize the window and allow more natural light to come through.
Patterns on window treatments and surrounding walls can create the illusion of a larger window frame.
Positioning blinds on the outside of the window frame can make the window look bigger.
Mounting blinds outside the window reveal wider than the window on either side can minimize light bleeding and achieve a proportionate look.
Hanging drapes on just one side of the window can make the window and room look bigger.
Considering the proportions in the rest of the room, furniture size and placement, and fixture placement can also affect the perception of window size.
Using white window frames with black lead divisions can create a more substantial appearance.
Mounting a valance or pelmet above the window can add height and make the window look larger.
Painting the window frames to match the walls can help make the window appear bigger.
Blending in window treatments with the walls through color drenching can blur the lines and create the illusion of a larger space.
Using blinds that blend into the wall color can also give the illusion of a larger space.
Painting the surrounding area of a window in a dark color can make the window look larger and bring in more light.
Opt for subtle and sleek hardware, such as slimline curtain poles, to avoid visual bulk.
Roller blinds and Venetian blinds are recommended for smaller windows as they don’t involve bulky fabric and can be fitted snugly within the window frame.
Using lighter colors or matching the blinds to the window frames can create a sense of space.
In kitchens, no treatments or using a subtle blind is recommended to create a larger appearance.
For bedrooms and living rooms, curtains offer more flexibility in making the room feel larger.
Finally, hanging curtains from floor to ceiling and higher than the window frame creates the illusion of more height and larger windows.
Choosing vertical or horizontal stripes for curtains can exaggerate the proportions of the space.
By following these design tricks, you can create the illusion of larger windows and views outside.
Key Points:
- Mount drapes higher than the window frame to create the illusion of a taller window
- Opt for floor-length curtains to add elegance and make the window appear larger
- Choose the right type of curtain and fabric, such as velvet, to enhance the overall look
- Position window treatments high up, up to crown molding or just below ceiling level, to create the illusion of height
- Use patterns on window treatments and surrounding walls to create the illusion of a larger window frame
- Hang curtains from floor to ceiling and higher than the window frame to create the illusion of more height and larger windows
Did You Know?
1. The concept of larger windows dates back to ancient Rome, where the wealthy used mica, a transparent mineral, to enlarge their small openings and let more light in.
2. In the Middle Ages, some castles and palaces employed clever architectural tricks to create the illusion of larger windows. They would paint or carve false window frames on solid stone walls, giving the appearance of expansive windows that could not be opened.
3. The first large-scale use of glass for windows began in the 17th century, with the construction of the Palace of Versailles in France. The palace utilized expansive windows to showcase the stunning gardens and allowed natural light to illuminate the grand halls.
4. To make windows appear larger without actually increasing their size, interior designers often employ specific techniques. Hanging curtains or blinds slightly higher and wider than the window frame, for example, creates the illusion of larger windows and a higher ceiling.
5. A mirror strategically placed across from a window can give the impression of a larger window and reflect more natural light into a room. This technique is commonly used in small spaces or areas with limited access to natural light to make the room feel more open and spacious.
Mounting Drapes Higher For Taller Windows
When it comes to making windows look bigger, one effective technique is to mount drapes a few inches higher than the window frame. By doing so, you can create the illusion of a taller window and room. This simple adjustment can make a significant difference in the overall appearance of your windows and enhance the visual height of the space.
In addition to boosting the height of your windows, mounting drapes higher also offers functional benefits. It allows for more natural light to enter the room and gives you the option to fully reveal the window and maximize the view outside. The extra height also creates a sense of airiness and openness that can make your room feel larger.
Adding Elegance With Floor-Length Curtains
When it comes to window treatments, floor-length curtains are a recommended choice if you want to make your windows look bigger. These curtains add elegance and softness to the window, creating an illusion of grandeur and making the window appear larger. The cascading effect of the fabric reaching the floor instantly transforms the space, making it feel more expansive.
By opting for floor-length curtains, you can also frame the window like a piece of art and make it a focal point in the room. This, in turn, draws attention away from the size of the window itself and directs the gaze towards the beauty of the curtains and the view outside. The long drapes create a sense of verticality, further enhancing the perception of a larger window.
Choosing The Right Curtain And Fabric
Choosing the right type of curtain and fabric plays a significant role in making windows look bigger. Velvet curtains, for example, can create a luxurious and sophisticated look that adds depth and richness to the window. The tactile texture of velvet curtains has a way of capturing attention and diverting it away from the actual window size.
When selecting a curtain fabric, consider the overall look and feel you want to achieve. Lighter fabrics, such as silk or sheer materials, can make a window appear airy and open. On the other hand, heavier fabrics like velvet or jacquard can add warmth and a sense of coziness to the space. Ultimately, the choice of fabric should complement the room’s decor and enhance the illusion of a larger window.
Creating A Focal Point With Framed Curtains
One effective way to make windows look bigger is by framing them like a piece of art.
Floor-length curtains can achieve this effect by creating a focal point around the window.
By extending the fabric beyond the window frame on either side, you create a visual frame that draws attention and makes the window appear larger.
To enhance this illusion, consider choosing curtains with patterns that complement the surrounding walls. By matching the patterns on the curtains and the walls, you can blur the lines between the two and create the impression of a larger frame.
This design trick is particularly useful in smaller rooms where you want to create the illusion of space and make the windows stand out.
- Extend the fabric beyond the window frame on either side to create a visual frame
- Choose curtains with patterns that complement the surrounding walls
- Match the patterns on the curtains and the walls to blur the lines and create the impression of a larger frame.
Extending Curtain Pole For A Larger Window Look
When it comes to making windows look bigger, the positioning of the curtain pole is crucial. By extending the curtain pole slightly or beyond the window frame, you effectively create the illusion of a larger window. This simple adjustment can have a significant visual impact, giving the window a more expansive and grander appearance.
Extending the curtain pole wider also comes with the advantage of being able to fully reveal the window. This maximizes the amount of natural light that enters the room, resulting in a brighter and more open space. Additionally, adjusting the position of the pole gives you control over the amount of privacy and lighting options in the room, making it more functional and versatile.
Positioning Treatments For The Illusion Of Height
To make windows appear bigger, it is crucial to consider the positioning of window treatments. One effective technique is to position them high up, either up to the crown molding or just below the ceiling. This trick creates the illusion of height and makes the room feel more spacious.
By positioning the curtains or blinds higher, you draw the eye upward and create a sense of verticality. This helps to visually elongate the window and give it a more substantial presence. This technique is especially useful in rooms with lower ceilings as it can compensate for the lack of height and make the windows stand out.
In addition to the height, another technique is to cover the entire wall with curtains on smaller windows. This design trick makes the windows appear larger by creating the perception of a continuous expanse of fabric. The seamless flow of curtains along the wall makes the windows blend in and gives the impression of an expanded space.
Making windows look bigger is not just about the windows themselves but also the window treatments and design elements surrounding them. By mounting drapes higher, opting for floor-length curtains, choosing the right fabric, and positioning window treatments strategically, you can create the illusion of larger windows and enhance the overall aesthetic of any room. Whether you want to create a grand and elegant ambiance or a bright and airy space, these design hacks can help you achieve the desired effect and make your windows the highlight of your home.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I make my windows feel bigger?
There are several ways to make your windows feel bigger and create the illusion of more space. One approach is to layer curtains and shades, which can add depth and dimension to the window area. Additionally, using sturdy fabric for your curtains can help maintain a sleek and structured look. Covering the walls with curtains or painting a border around the window can also draw attention and make the window appear larger. Hanging the curtain rod higher than the window frame and avoiding white walls can further enhance the visual effect. Another trick is to give the window trim a pop of color, which can make it stand out and create the illusion of a larger window. Lastly, investing in low furniture can help maintain a sense of openness and allow more light to flow through, making the window area feel more spacious.
How do I make my outside windows look bigger?
One effective way to make your outside windows look bigger is by using mirrors strategically. By placing large mirrors on the walls adjacent to the windows, the reflection will create an illusion of expanded space and larger windows. Another helpful tip is to opt for sheer and light-colored curtains or blinds that allow more natural light in, enhancing the sense of spaciousness and making the windows appear larger.
How do you make windows look bigger with shades?
One way to make windows appear bigger with shades is to opt for outside mount window shades that are larger than the actual size of your window. This illusion creates the impression of a larger window by covering more wall space and drawing the eye upwards or outwards. Additionally, outside mount shades can create a sense of grandeur and give the appearance of a more spacious room.
However, if you prefer a cleaner and custom look, inside mount shades are a great alternative. These shades are installed within the window frame, creating a streamlined and seamless appearance. Although inside mount shades may not physically increase the size of the window, they provide a neat and tailored aesthetic that can give the illusion of an enlarged window by drawing attention to its shape and details.
Do windows make a room look bigger?
Adding windows to a small room can indeed create the illusion of a larger space. Natural light cascades through the windows and gives an airy and expansive feel. Opting for larger window styles like picture windows, bow windows, bay windows, or architectural windows not only maximize the amount of light coming in but also provide a sense of openness and spaciousness. By incorporating windows strategically, a small room can be transformed into a brighter and more visually expansive area, offering a pleasant and welcoming ambiance.