Amp Up Your Kitchen Design with Creative Window Covering Ideas

Kitchen windows present a fun design opportunity to elevate your space. The right window treatments not only provide privacy and light control, but they can also make a bold decorative statement. We're here to inspire you with creative ideas to take your kitchen window coverings from bland to grand.

When choosing window treatments for the kitchen, it's important to think about both form and function. You'll want options that are stylish, but also durable and easy to clean from accidental splatters and stains. The good news is there are endless possibilities that meet both criteria.

Explore the Main Types of Kitchen Window Treatments

Let's start with a quick overview of some of the most popular kitchen window covering options and their key benefits.

Drapes and Curtains

Drapes and curtains are classic choices that frame windows beautifully. Go with vivid colors and bold prints to add interest. Or layer sheer and opaque curtains to control light and privacy. Floor length curtains make a luxurious statement while cafe curtains keep things casual.

Valances

Valances are decorative fabric pieces that disguise curtain rods and hardware while providing a pretty focal point. They come in varied shapes and sizes to match any space. Use them alone or pair them with drapes or blinds.

Blinds and Shades

Effective at controlling light and visibility, today's blinds and shades come in a range of materials like wood, faux wood, vinyl, and solar screens. Consider shades made of natural woven woods or grasses for texture. Blackout cellular shades can darken a room on sunny days.

Shutters

Both exterior and interior shutters infuse charm into a kitchen. Made of materials like wood, faux wood, and vinyl, you can choose cafe style or full height. Go for white or a fun color to liven things up.

Get Creative with Your Kitchen Window Treatments

Now that we've covered the basics, here are some creative ways to make your kitchen window treatments stand out.

Incorporate Unique Architectural Shapes

Windows come in all different architectural shapes like circles, triangles, and octagons. Embrace these unique forms by tailoring window treatments to fit. An arched window cries out for a graceful roman blind, while a circular window could have a tailored valance. Geometric shapes add modern flair.

Display Collections with Floating Shelves

Take advantage of the space above windows by adding floating shelves. These built-in ledges become the perfect spot to show off cherished kitchenware and decor. For a light and airy look, install glass shelves. You can even coordinate with window box planters full of fresh herbs.

Pick an Unexpected Color Scheme

Most people stick with safe neutral window treatment colors, but don't be afraid to get creative! Contrasting stripes or bold geometric prints grab attention. Or pick an unexpected color like olive green, coral, or indigo blue. Mismatched colors on separate windows also liven up the room.

Use Alternative Materials

Think outside traditional fabrics with more unique materials. For instance, capiz shell window panels have an eye catching luminosity. Bamboo roman shades provide laid-back texture. Jute, burlap, or reclaimed woods exude organic sensibility. Wrought iron coverings have an industrial edge.

Tailor Window Treatments to Specific Kitchen Spaces

Not all windows in your kitchen serve the same purpose, so let the function of the space guide your window treatment choices.

Maximize Natural Light Near Sinks and Counters

Abundant daylight is ideal near prep areas and sinks. To allow light in while maintaining privacy, opt for solutions like top-down bottom-up shades. These allow you to lower the top and raise the bottom separately. Valances and short cafe curtains work well over smaller windows in these spots too.

Soften Banquette Seating

Floor length curtains that puddle slightly onto banquette or bar stool seating helps soften the hard lines and edges of built-in benches and chairs. Layering sheers behind opaque curtains builds additional coziness.

Extend Treatments for High Windows

Using extra long rods and panels that extend all the way to the ceiling helps tall windows feel more balanced. Suspended sheers behind valances or canopy treatments also do the trick. This elongates the eye upward, accentuating height.

Embellish with Decorative Hardware

Designer details take your window treatments to the next level. Bold finials, medallions, and oversized rings add a little something extra. For a rustic feel, natural wooden rods and antique brass hardware pair nicely. Braided trims, tassels, and fringe infuse character.

Incorporate Coordinated Lighting

Sconces flanking the window provide both stylish accent and extra illumination. For windows situated over a sink, add matching pendants or chandeliers to complete the layered lighting look. Motorized blackout shades also help darkened things fully when desired.

As you can see, the options for creative window treatments in the kitchen are endless. Use your windows as an opportunity to personalize your space and reflect your own style. Coordinating your treatments with countertops, cabinets, and decor ensures everything flows together seamlessly. With the right combination of form, function and a touch of ingenuity, you can take your kitchen design from mundane to marvelous.