Best Window Treatments for Arch Windows

Arch windows add architectural beauty, natural light, and visual interest to a home. However, finding the right window treatment for an arched window can be more challenging than covering a standard rectangular window. The shape of the arch, the amount of privacy needed, and whether the arch is attached to or separated from the main window all affect which solution works best.

Fortunately, there are several attractive options available, including shutters, cellular shades, arch blinds, and decorative treatments designed specifically for arched windows.

What Is an Arch Window?

An arch window is any window with a curved upper section. Some arch windows are complete half circles, while others have a more gradual curve often referred to as an eyebrow arch.

Arch windows are commonly found above entryways, in living rooms, great rooms, stairways, and other areas where homeowners want to add architectural character and natural light.

Types of Arch Windows

Attached Arch Windows

An attached arch window shares the same frame as the rectangular window below it. The arch is integrated directly into the main window opening.

These windows often require separate treatments for the arch and the rectangular portion below because very few window coverings can cover both sections as a single operating unit.

Separated Arch Windows

A separated arch window has its own independent frame above a rectangular window. Because the arch is separate, homeowners have more flexibility when choosing window treatments.

In many cases, shutters can be manufactured to cover both sections while maintaining a coordinated appearance.

Perfect Arch vs Eyebrow Arch Windows

Perfect Arch Windows

A perfect arch is a true half-circle shape. The width of the arch is exactly twice the height of the arch.

Because of their consistent shape, perfect arches are generally easier to manufacture custom window treatments for.

Eyebrow Arch Windows

Eyebrow arches feature a shallower curve and often vary from one window to another.

Because eyebrow arches are not standardized, manufacturers frequently require a template to accurately create custom shutters, shades, or specialty arch treatments.

Best Window Treatments for Arch Windows

1. Plantation Shutters

Interior Plantation shutters are one of the most popular window treatments for arch windows. Custom shutters can be manufactured to match the exact shape of the arch, creating a built-in appearance that complements the architecture of the home.

Shutters are also one of the few window treatments that can often cover an entire arch as a single unit.

• Excellent light control


• Custom fit for arches


• Long-lasting durability


• Architectural appearance

2. Cellular Shade Arches

Honeycomb Cellular shades are another excellent option for arch windows. Specialty arch cellular shades can be manufactured to fit many arch shapes while providing privacy and energy efficiency.

For attached arch windows, homeowners often combine a fixed arch cellular shade with an operable rectangular cellular shade below.

Cellular shades are especially popular because they can improve insulation and energy efficiency.

Related Guide: Do Cellular Shades Save on Energy Bills?

3. Cover Only the Rectangular Portion of the Window

One of the most common and cost-effective solutions for an arch window is to leave the arch uncovered and install a blind or shade only on the rectangular portion of the window below.

In this configuration, the window treatment spans the width of the opening and is mounted at the point where the arch begins. The curved portion of the window remains uncovered, allowing additional natural light to enter the room while preserving the architectural beauty of the arch.

This approach works particularly well when the arch is positioned high on the wall or when privacy is only needed for the lower portion of the window.

• Allows more natural light into the room


• Often less expensive than covering the entire arch


• Preserves the architectural appearance of the window


• Works with most blinds and shades

4. Using a Palladian Shelf for Large Arch Windows

For wider arch windows or window coverings that cannot be side-mounted, a Palladian shelf can provide an excellent solution. A Palladian shelf is a horizontal support installed at the point where the rectangular window transitions into the arch.

The shelf creates a solid mounting surface for wider blinds or shades that require center support brackets. Without a center support, larger blinds and shades may not operate properly or could experience excessive stress on the headrail.

The blind or shade is mounted below the Palladian shelf, while a separate arch treatment is installed above it to cover the curved portion of the window.

This approach allows homeowners to combine a fully functional blind or shade with a custom arch covering while maintaining proper support for larger window openings.

• Provides support for wide blinds and shades


• Allows the use of center support brackets


• Works well with cellular shades, wood blinds, and faux wood blinds


• Creates a clean transition between the rectangular and arched portions of the window

5. Wood and Faux Wood Arch Treatments

Custom wood and faux wood arch treatments provide a traditional appearance while complementing existing wood or faux wood blinds throughout the home.

These treatments are often selected when homeowners want a coordinated appearance throughout multiple rooms.

6. Drapery Panels

Decorative drapery panels can be used around arch windows without covering the arch itself. This allows natural light to enter through the arch while still providing privacy for the lower window.

Arch Windows and Energy Efficiency

Large arch windows can contribute to heat gain during summer and heat loss during winter. Cellular shades are often recommended because their honeycomb construction helps reduce heat transfer through the glass.

Related Resources:

• Best Window Treatments for Bay Windows


• Best Insulating Window Treatments


• Energy Efficient Window Treatments


• Best Window Treatments for Arizona Heat


• Do Cellular Shades Save Energy?

Arch Windows and Privacy

Privacy needs vary depending on the location of the window. Entryways, living rooms, and street-facing windows may require greater privacy than decorative arch windows positioned higher on the wall.

Cellular shades and shutters are among the best options when privacy is important.

Arch Windows and Light Control

Many homeowners choose arch window treatments to control glare, reduce direct sunlight, or protect furnishings from UV exposure. Cellular shades, shutters, and custom arch blinds can all help manage light while maintaining the beauty of the window.

How to Measure an Arch Window

For perfect arches, measure the width at the widest point and the height from where the window begins to curve to the highest point of the arch.

For attached arches, measure from the point where the rectangular portion of the window transitions into the curved section.

Eyebrow arches often require templates because the curve may not follow a standard shape.

What Is the Best Window Treatment for an Arch Window?

The best solution depends on your goals.

• For privacy: Shutters or cellular shades


• For energy efficiency: Cellular shades


• For architectural appeal: Plantation shutters


• For maximum natural light: Leave the arch uncovered and cover only the rectangular portion below


• For large arch windows: Use a Palladian shelf with separate arch and rectangular window treatments


• For matching existing blinds: Wood or faux wood arch treatments

Final Thoughts

Arch windows can be one of the most beautiful features in a home, but they often require custom solutions. Whether you choose shutters, cellular shade arches, wood arch treatments, decorative drapery, or a Palladian shelf system, selecting a treatment designed specifically for the shape of the arch will provide the best appearance and performance.