Window Treatment Solutions for Awkward Window Shapes

Window Treatment Solutions for Awkward Window Shapes in Sacramento Homes

As a Sacramento homeowner, you know that unique architectural features like specialty-shaped windows can add tremendous character and charm to your home. However, when it comes to finding the right window covering for these non-standard shapes, the process can quickly become overwhelming. From arches to bay windows, difficult window shapes present unique challenges that standard curtains or blinds simply can’t address effectively.

At Blinds of Sacramento, we understand the challenges that come with covering awkward window shapes. With over 18 years of experience serving the greater Sacramento area, our team has developed expertise in creating custom solutions for even the most challenging window configurations.

Common Awkward Window Shapes in Sacramento Homes

Sacramento’s diverse architectural styles feature a variety of non-standard window shapes that require specialized treatment solutions:

Arched windows: Elegant curved tops that add sophistication but can be difficult to cover with standard window treatments
Circle and half-circle windows: Dramatic accent windows that create visual interest and often appear as transom windows above larger windows
Angled windows: Sloped or triangular windows often found in modern homes with unique ceiling angles
Bay window and bow window configurations: Multi-paneled projections that create additional space and require coordinated window treatments
Skylights: Ceiling windows that bring in natural light from above but can create temperature control issues
Trapezoid windows: Windows with parallel but unequal sides that challenge standard window covering options
Palladian windows: Architectural windows featuring an arch above rectangular windows flanking a central unit
Hexagon or octagon windows: Unique geometric shapes that serve as architectural focal points

Each of these specialty shapes presents unique challenges when it comes to light control, privacy, and aesthetic integration with your home’s interior design.

Why Standard Window Treatments Don’t Work for Specialty Shapes

Many Sacramento homeowners make the mistake of trying to use standard rectangular curtains, blinds, or drapes for specialty-shaped windows. This approach often results in:

Gaps around the window frame that allow unwanted light to enter
Unattractive coverage that detracts from the window’s architectural beauty
Improper fit that creates an unfinished look, especially with curtain panels on unusual windows
Limited functionality that fails to address your privacy and light control needs
Potential damage to the window treatment due to improper installing techniques
Awkward curtain rod placement that doesn’t accommodate the window’s unique shape
Wasted space above the window where standard treatments don’t extend

Instead of compromising on both function and aesthetics, custom window treatment solutions are designed specifically for your unique window shapes.

Custom Window Treatment Options for Specialty-Shaped Windows

Plantation Shutters: The Ultimate Solution for Awkward Windows

Plantation shutters are arguably the most versatile and effective window treatment for specialty-shaped windows. As noted on our shutters page, “Shutters are the perfect treatment for challenging specialty shaped windows.”

Benefits of plantation shutters for specialty windows include:

Custom-built precision: Each shutter is measured and crafted specifically for your unique window shape, including arched window configurations
Permanent solution: Adds value to your home as a built-in feature that enhances the whole window
Superior insulation: Provides excellent heat, cold, and noise reduction for windows and doors
Versatile light control: Adjustable louvers allow you to control natural light precisely
Timeless appeal: Complements virtually any interior design style, from traditional to modern
Low maintenance: Easy to clean and built to last, unlike fabric curtains or drapes that collect dust

Our composite shutters are “guaranteed not to warp, crack, peel or discolor,” making them an excellent long-term investment for Sacramento homes facing our hot summers and cooler winters.

Custom Drapery and Curtains for Specialty Windows

For a softer, more luxurious look, custom drapery can be tailored to fit unusual window shapes. This solution works particularly well for bay window treatments, palladian windows, and floor-to-ceiling window configurations.

Custom curtain solutions include:

Specialized curtain rods: Curved or angled curtain rods that follow the window’s shape
Custom-cut drapery panels: Precisely measured to fit the exact dimensions of your difficult window
Layered treatments: Combining sheer and blackout drapes for versatile light control
Valance additions: Decorative valances that can disguise the space above the window while adding stylish texture
Motorized drapery systems: For large or hard-to-reach windows, allowing easy operation

Custom drapery offers endless possibilities in fabric, color, and weave options to complement your home’s interior design while effectively addressing the challenges of unusual window shapes.

Cellular/Honeycomb Shades for Specialty Shapes

For energy efficiency combined with a sleek appearance, honeycomb cellular shades can be custom-made for many specialty window shapes.

Advantages for Sacramento homeowners:

Superior insulation: Helps maintain comfortable indoor temperatures during Sacramento’s hot summers and cooler winters
Clean, minimalist look: Provides a contemporary appearance for modern interiors
Light filtering options: Available in various opacities from light-filtering to blackout fabrics
Potential tax credits: Some products qualify for energy efficiency tax incentives
Child-safe operation: Available with cordless lift systems for enhanced safety
Custom-shaped options: Can be manufactured to fit arches, angles, and even circular windows

Roman Shades and Roman Blinds for Angled Windows

For angled or trapezoid windows, custom roman shade options offer an elegant fabric solution that can be designed to precisely fit the window’s dimensions.

Key benefits of roman blinds include:

Soft fabric appearance: Adds warmth and texture to your space
Variety of fabrics: Choose from numerous colors, patterns, and weaves
Light control options: Available in light-filtering or room-darkening fabrics
Clean lines: Creates a tailored, sophisticated look even for difficult window shapes
Space-efficient: Folds up neatly when raised, unlike bulky drapes

Roman shades work particularly well in window nooks, breakfast nooks, and other cozy spaces with unusual windows.

Woven Shades for Natural Texture

For homeowners seeking a natural aesthetic, woven shades crafted from bamboo, jute, or other natural materials can be custom-sized for specialty windows.

Benefits include:

Natural texture: Adds organic warmth and visual interest
Filtered light: Creates a soft, diffused glow while maintaining privacy
Eco-friendly materials: Appeals to environmentally conscious homeowners
Complements many styles: Works with both traditional and contemporary décor

Vertical Blinds and Panel Track Systems for Sliding Doors

For sliding glass doors or french doors with unusual dimensions, vertical blinds or panel track systems offer practical solutions.

Advantages include:

Easy operation: Slides parallel to the door for convenient access
Custom sizing: Can be made to fit non-standard door dimensions
Various materials: Available in fabric, vinyl, or woven options
Modern aesthetics: Panel track systems offer a contemporary look for sliding doors

Motorized Options for Hard-to-Reach Specialty Windows

Many specialty-shaped windows are positioned in hard-to-reach areas like vaulted ceilings or above doorways. For these challenging installations, motorized window treatments offer the perfect solution.

As noted in our FAQs, “Blinds of Sacramento can motorize and/or automize almost every product we sell. Motorized products are easy to use, child safe, and can be automized to do all of the work so you don’t have to.”

Benefits of motorization for specialty windows:

Convenient operation: Control hard-to-reach windows with the touch of a button
Smart home integration: Connect with home automation systems for windows and doors
Enhanced safety: Eliminates dangerous cords, ideal for homes with children
Programmable settings: Set schedules for automatic operation based on time of day
Extended product life: Reduces wear and tear from manual handling
Perfect for larger windows: Makes operating treatments on oversized windows effortless

Window Treatment Ideas for Specific Awkward Window Types

Solutions for Bay Windows and Bow Windows

Bay window treatments require special consideration due to their multi-faceted design. Options include:

Individual treatments: Separate blinds or shades for each window section
Continuous curtain rod: Custom-bent rods that follow the bay’s contour
Inside-mounted treatments: Roman shades or cellular shades mounted within each window frame
Outside-mounted drapery: Curtains hung from ceiling-mounted tracks that span the entire bay

Arched Window and Palladian Window Treatments

For arched windows or palladian-style windows, consider:

Specialty-shaped shutters: Custom-built to match the exact arch dimensions
Fan-fold cellular shades: Specially designed to open and close while maintaining the arch shape
Stationary treatments: Fixed fabric panels that showcase the arch while providing light control
Sunburst design: Shutters or fabric treatments that radiate from the center, highlighting the arch

Angle-Top and Trapezoid Window Solutions

For windows with angled tops or trapezoid shapes:

Custom-angled shutters: Precisely measured to fit the window’s exact angles
Specialty blinds: Manufactured with angled headrails to accommodate the window shape
Custom drapery: Designed to follow the angle while providing full coverage

Transom Window Treatments

For transom windows (the small windows above doors or larger windows):

Stationary shades: Fixed in place to provide consistent light filtering
Specialty-shaped shutters: Custom-built to the exact transom dimensions
Stained glass film: Decorative window film that adds privacy while preserving light

The Custom Window Treatment Process for Specialty Windows

At Blinds of Sacramento, we’ve refined our approach to handling specialty window shapes through our years of experience serving Sacramento homeowners. Here’s what you can expect when working with us:

1. Expert Consultation and Precise Measurement

The process begins with a free in-home consultation where our design professionals will:

Assess your specialty windows and doors
Discuss your light control, privacy, and aesthetic preferences
Consider your home’s architectural style and ceiling height
Take precise measurements using specialized techniques for curved or angled surfaces
Present appropriate product options with samples, from curtains to shutters

This consultation typically takes about an hour, allowing enough time to thoroughly evaluate your unique windows and discuss all available solutions.

2. Custom Design and Fabrication

Once you’ve selected your preferred window treatment, our team will:

Create detailed specifications for your custom order
Work with quality manufacturers to fabricate your specialty window treatments
Ensure every curve, angle, and dimension is precisely accommodated
Maintain communication throughout the production process

Custom specialty window treatments typically require 2-3 weeks for blinds, shades, and curtains, while plantation shutters generally take 6-8 weeks due to their more complex fabrication process.

3. Professional Installation

The final step is professional installation by our experienced team who:

Have extensive experience with specialty window shapes and installing window treatments
Use specialized mounting techniques for non-standard windows
Ensure perfect fit and functionality for your curtains, blinds, or shutters
Demonstrate proper operation and maintenance
Leave your home clean and your windows beautifully dressed

Common Specialty Window Challenges in Sacramento Homes

Dealing with Direct Sacramento Sun on South-Facing Arched Windows

Sacramento’s abundant sunshine can create challenges for homes with south-facing arched or specialty windows. The intense summer sun can fade furnishings and create uncomfortable hot spots, letting in a lot of light when unwanted.

Solution: Consider solar screen roller shades custom-cut to the arched shape or plantation shutters with adjustable louvers that allow you to direct sunlight away from sensitive furnishings while still enjoying natural light.

Energy Efficiency for Vaulted Ceiling Skylights

Many Sacramento homes feature skylights in vaulted ceilings that, while beautiful, can contribute to significant heat gain in summer and heat loss in winter.

Solution: Custom-fitted cellular shades with honeycomb construction provide excellent insulation. Motorized options make these easy to operate despite their hard-to-reach ceiling location.

Privacy Solutions for Street-Facing Specialty Windows

Front-facing specialty windows in neighborhoods throughout Folsom, Roseville, and other Sacramento communities often require a balance between aesthetics and privacy.

Solution: Top-down/bottom-up shades allow light in through the top while maintaining privacy at eye level. Alternatively, plantation shutters with adjustable louvers provide precise privacy and light control while preserving the architectural feature.

Window Treatments for Floor-to-Ceiling Windows with Unusual Shapes

Modern homes often feature dramatic floor-to-ceiling windows with angled tops or unusual configurations that can be difficult to cover with standard treatments.

Solution: Custom drapery that spans the entire height, motorized shade systems, or a combination of treatments that address both the standard and specialty portions of the window.

Real Sacramento Success Stories

Transforming a Folsom Home’s Challenging Arched Windows

A Folsom homeowner contacted us struggling with light control for two large arched windows in their living room. Standard curtains failed to cover the arched portion properly, creating glare issues during afternoon sun exposure.

Our solution: Custom-designed composite plantation shutters with separately operable sections for the rectangular and arched portions. This allowed precise light control while highlighting the architectural beauty of the windows.

The homeowner reported a noticeable difference in room temperature and comfort following installation, along with enhanced curb appeal visible from the street.

Solving Privacy Concerns for Granite Bay Home’s Octagonal Windows

A Granite Bay client had unique octagonal windows in their master bathroom that created privacy concerns while they wanted to maintain the natural light and architectural interest.

Our solution: Custom-fitted cellular shades with top-down/bottom-up functionality, allowing privacy at eye level while still permitting natural light from above. The specialized manufacturing process ensured perfect coverage of all eight sides.

Bay Window Makeover in Roseville

A Roseville family struggled with outdated vertical blinds on their kitchen bay window that failed to provide adequate light control and detracted from their home’s interior design.

Our solution: Custom roman blinds installed within each window frame, allowing independent operation of each section while creating a cohesive look. We selected a woven fabric with a subtle texture that complemented their kitchen décor while providing the light filtering they desired.

Making the Right Choice for Your Sacramento Home’s Specialty Windows

When considering window treatments for your specialty-shaped windows, keep these factors in mind:

Architectural integrity: Choose options that enhance rather than hide your window’s unique shape
Climate considerations: Sacramento’s hot summers and cooler winters make energy efficiency important
Maintenance requirements: Consider how easy the treatment will be to clean and maintain
Long-term value: Quality custom solutions may cost more initially but provide lasting benefits
Functionality needs: Prioritize your requirements for light control, privacy, and ease of operation
Stylish appearance: Select treatments that complement your interior design and draw the eye to your windows as architectural features

Window Treatment Ideas for Difficult Windows in Different Rooms

Living Room Solutions

For living room windows with unusual shapes:

Layered treatments: Combine sheer curtains with drapery panels for versatility
Statement drapery: Use bold fabrics or green curtains to make architectural windows a focal point
Motorized options: For convenience with larger windows or windows flanking fireplaces

Bedroom Specialty Windows

For bedroom windows requiring both style and function:

Blackout solutions: Custom blackout curtains or cellular shades for optimal sleep
Soft treatments: Roman shades in luxurious fabrics for a restful atmosphere
Privacy prioritization: Ensure complete coverage for personal spaces

Kitchen Awkward Windows

For kitchen windows with unique configurations:

Easy-clean options: Shutters or faux wood blinds that resist moisture and food splatter
Light-filtering choices: Treatments that reduce glare while maintaining brightness
Space-conscious solutions: Treatments that don’t interfere with sink or counter usage

FAQs About Specialty Window Treatments

Q: Are custom window treatments for specialty shapes much more expensive than standard windows?

A: While custom treatments for specialty shapes do typically cost more than standard rectangular windows of similar size, the investment provides precise fit, proper functionality, and enhanced aesthetic appeal that off-the-shelf solutions simply cannot match. At Blinds of Sacramento, we offer options at various price points to accommodate different budgets.

Q: How long does it take to get custom window treatments for specialty windows?

A: The timeline varies by product type. Custom blinds, curtains, and shades for specialty windows typically take 2-3 weeks from measurement to installation, while plantation shutters generally require 6-8 weeks due to their more complex manufacturing process.

Q: Can motorized options be added to any specialty window treatment?

A: Most window treatments for specialty shapes can be motorized, including cellular shades, roller shades, curtains, and some shutter styles. This is particularly valuable for hard-to-reach specialty windows. Our team can advise on the best motorization options for your specific windows in your house.

Q: Will specialty window treatments affect my home’s energy efficiency?

A: Yes, and often quite significantly. Proper window treatments for specialty windows can help reduce energy costs by providing insulation against Sacramento’s hot summers and cooler winters. Cellular shades and plantation shutters offer particularly good insulating properties.

Q: What are the best window treatments for an awkward window in a bathroom?

A: For bathrooms, we typically recommend moisture-resistant options like composite shutters, vinyl blinds, or polyester fabric shades. For unusual shapes, custom-fitted shutters often provide the best combination of privacy, light control, and moisture resistance.

Q: Can you create window treatments for windows flanking my fireplace?

A: Absolutely! Windows flanking a fireplace often have unique dimensions or shapes. We can create matching custom treatments that complement your fireplace as a focal point while providing the light control and aesthetic appeal you desire.

Trust Sacramento’s Specialty Window Experts

As a woman-owned local business serving the Sacramento area since 2006, Blinds of Sacramento brings nearly two decades of experience in creating custom solutions for even the most challenging window shapes. Our team understands the unique architectural styles found throughout Sacramento, Folsom, Roseville, Citrus Heights, Fair Oaks, and surrounding communities.

We pride ourselves on offering personalized service without high-pressure sales tactics, ensuring you get the perfect solution for your specialty windows. Our showroom in Orangevale allows you to see and touch various window treatment options, or we can bring samples directly to your home during a free consultation.

Ready to transform your awkward-shaped windows from a design challenge into a beautiful focal point? Schedule a free consultation today or call us at (916)-790-8689 to discuss your specialty window needs. Our team is ready to help you find the perfect custom solution for every window in your Sacramento home, no matter how unique its shape.