How to Modernize Arched Windows: Transforming Traditional Elegance

How to Modernize Arched Windows?

To modernize arched windows, there are several options available.

One way is to use drapery or custom curtains, which can be customized in terms of opacity, color, material, and length.

Adding curves to the room by placing similarly arched items near the windows can help blend in their presence and create cohesion.

Incorporating square shapes alongside the arched windows can create a modern design touch.

Installing shades or shutters on the windows provides privacy and control over sunlight.

Adding a grille insert or decorative film can also enhance the window’s appearance.

These modernization options can be done as DIY projects and the cost varies depending on the chosen option.

Key Points:

  • Drapery or custom curtains can be used to modernize arched windows, allowing customization in terms of opacity, color, material, and length.
  • Placing similarly arched items near the windows can help blend in their presence and create cohesion, adding curves to the room.
  • Incorporating square shapes alongside the arched windows can create a modern design touch.
  • Installing shades or shutters on the windows provides privacy and control over sunlight.
  • Adding a grille insert or decorative film can enhance the window’s appearance.
  • These modernization options can be done as DIY projects, with costs varying depending on the chosen option.


Did You Know?

1. Arched windows were first used in ancient Rome during the reign of Emperor Nero, around the 1st century AD. They were considered a symbol of luxury and grandeur.

2. The largest arched window in the world can be found in the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque in Muscat, Oman. It measures approximately 16 meters (52 feet) in diameter and showcases intricate stained glass patterns.

3. Arched windows were a popular architectural feature during the Gothic period in Europe, which lasted from the 12th to the 16th centuries. These windows often depicted religious scenes and were believed to connect the earthly realm with the divine.

4. In modern times, arched windows have seen a resurgence in popularity due to their ability to add a touch of elegance and sophistication to both traditional and contemporary architectural designs.

5. To modernize arched windows, some innovative solutions include using smart glass, which can adjust its transparency for privacy or to control the amount of sunlight entering the room. Additionally, motorized blinds or curtains can be installed, allowing for convenient and effortless control of light and privacy levels.

Use Drapery

Arched windows are timeless and elegant architectural features that add character to any space. However, to modernize and update the appearance of your arched windows, consider using drapery. Hanging custom curtains can transform the windows’ aesthetic and help conceal their shape and size, if desired.

Custom-made curtains are ideal for arched windows as they can be tailored to fit the exact dimensions of your windows. This ensures a perfect fit and allows for customization in terms of color, texture, and length. When selecting curtains, consider the opacity and material to achieve the desired level of privacy and light control.

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To maximize the modernization effect, the placement of the drapery rod can play a significant role. Placing the rod above the window creates a sleek look, blocks out harmful UV rays, and allows you to control the amount of light entering the room. Alternatively, placing the rod below the arch allows external light to flow freely into the space, creating a bright and airy ambiance.

While custom curtains for arched windows can come with a price tag of between $250 and $1,500 per panel, the investment is worth it for the transformation they can bring to your space. With the ability to personalize every aspect of the curtains, they become a unique statement piece that enhances the modern appeal of your arched windows.

Add Curves To The Room

To create a cohesive and visually pleasing space, consider incorporating curvature throughout the room near the arched windows. By introducing similarly arched items or furniture, you can blend the presence of the windows and ensure a sense of balance in the overall design.

Curvaceous furniture, such as a rounded sofa or chairs with curved lines, can soften the angularity and draw attention away from the windows themselves. Additionally, decorative accents with curved shapes, such as mirrors or artwork, placed strategically around the room, can further promote cohesion and create a harmonious atmosphere.

When designing your space, think beyond furniture and décor. Accessories like curved lighting fixtures or curved baseboards can provide a modern touch while echoing the graceful curves of the arched windows. By incorporating curves throughout the room, you can modernize the arched windows and create a visually captivating environment.

Incorporate More Square Shapes

To add a modern twist to the traditional elegance of arched windows, juxtapose them with square shapes. Combining the soft curves of the arched windows with the clean lines of square objects can create an interesting visual contrast, resulting in a modern design touch.

Consider placing square furniture, such as coffee tables or bookshelves, near the arched windows to achieve this effect. Additionally, square-shaped artwork or mirrors hung on adjacent walls can complement the window’s geometric juxtaposition and enhance the modern aesthetic.

By incorporating square shapes into the room, you can elevate the overall design and create a harmonious blend of curves and straight lines. This approach allows you to honor the arched windows’ architectural charm while infusing a modern and contemporary feel to the space.

  • Juxtapose arched windows with square shapes for a modern twist
  • Place coffee tables or bookshelves near the windows
  • Hang square-shaped artwork or mirrors on adjacent walls
  • Honor the arched windows’ architectural charm while infusing a modern feel

Install Shades

Functionality and practicality are essential when modernizing arched windows. Installing shades is an excellent option to provide privacy and control the amount of sunlight entering the room. There are various types of shades available that can be customized to fit your arched windows seamlessly.

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Roman blinds or shades are a popular choice for arched windows. These shades can be rolled up or down, allowing you to adjust the amount of light streaming through the windows. Additionally, cellular shades, also known as honeycomb shades, provide excellent insulation and can reduce energy costs by regulating the room’s temperature.

When selecting shades, consider the color and opacity to complement the modern style you wish to achieve. Light-filtering shades can create a soft and diffused glow, while blackout shades offer complete light blockage for those seeking optimal privacy and darkness.

Installing shades on your arched windows not only modernizes their appearance but also enhances their functionality. This practical addition allows you to control the lighting and privacy in your space while adding a contemporary touch to the overall design.

Get Shutters

For a sleek and modern look, consider installing shutters on your arched windows. Shutters have long been associated with traditional and elegant aesthetics, but they can also provide a significant transformation when paired with arched windows.

Choose shutters that are specifically designed for arched windows to ensure a perfect fit. Opt for shutters with adjustable slats that can be individually adjusted to control the amount of light and privacy desired. This feature allows for versatility in creating different atmospheres throughout the day.

Shutters provide not only a modern aesthetic but also practical benefits. They offer insulation, soundproofing, and protection from UV rays. By installing shutters, you can modernize your arched windows while enhancing the overall functionality of your space.

Use A Grille Insert

If you’re looking to add a decorative pattern to your arched windows, a grille insert is a great option. Made of metal or wood, the grille insert can be placed within the window frame or on its surface, creating an attractive design.

Grille inserts are available in a variety of styles, from traditional to contemporary, allowing you to choose one that matches your preferred modern aesthetic. These inserts can be customized to fit your arched windows perfectly, seamlessly integrating them into the overall design.

Not only does adding a grille insert modernize the appearance of your arched windows, but it also adds depth and texture to the space. Whether you prefer a simple geometric pattern or a more intricate design, a grille insert can transform your arched windows into a captivating focal point.

updating your arched windows doesn’t require costly renovations or removing these unique architectural features. By incorporating drapery, curves or square shapes, shades or shutters, and grille inserts, you can effortlessly modernize the traditional elegance of arched windows. These options accommodate various preferences and budgets, making it accessible for anyone to revitalize their arched windows. So embrace this exciting journey of modernization as you breathe new life into your arched windows and create a space that reflects your contemporary style and personality.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do you hide arched windows?

One creative way to hide arched windows is by using decorative window film. With a variety of patterns and designs available, you can easily find a film that matches your style and provides privacy. This film can be applied directly to the glass, obscuring the view while still allowing natural light to filter through. Additionally, using blinds or shades that can be custom-fitted to the shape of the arch can effectively conceal the window when desired, offering a clean and polished look to your space.

What is the best treatment for arched windows?

One of the best treatment options for arched windows is using custom-made drapery. Drapery offers a versatile solution that not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of arched windows but also provides practical benefits. With custom drapery, interior designers can tailor the design, fabric, and length to perfectly fit the unique shape of the window, ensuring a seamless and elegant look. Additionally, drapery allows for precise control over light filtration and privacy, making it a practical choice for arched windows.

Another effective treatment for arched windows is the use of adjustable shades or blinds. These window coverings offer flexibility in controlling the amount of light and privacy desired. Adjustable shades or blinds designed specifically for arched windows can perfectly fit and complement the unique shape, providing a visually appealing and functional solution. These treatments can be adjusted to allow natural light during the day while maintaining privacy, and they can be fully closed in the evenings for complete privacy and darkness.

Are arched windows in style?

Arched windows continue to remain in style and are considered a timeless choice for many homeowners. Their distinct shape adds an elegant touch to any space and can enhance the overall aesthetic of a room. If you feel that your current windows are making your room feel outdated, there are simple solutions to refresh their look. Try experimenting with painting the trim in a different color, with black being a popular choice, or consider changing the window treatments to create a more modern and refreshed appearance.

Are arched windows expensive?

Arched windows can vary in price depending on factors such as size, materials, and installation requirements. While the average cost for an arched window with installation is around $660, the final price can range between $355 and $1,005. This range allows for flexibility and the ability to find a window that fits your budget. Despite potential variations in price, the timeless beauty and elegance that arched windows bring to a home make them a worthwhile investment.

References: 1, 2, 3, 4

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