Windows, the “eyes” of a home, not only allow in light and provide views but can also be transformed into striking architectural features with the right trims.
This guide delves into the array of styles, materials, and colors available for window trims, offering ideas to complement any home decor, from traditional to modern, rustic to chic.
More than just aesthetic, the right window trim reflects your taste, suits your home’s style, and can even boost your property’s value. Discover how to choose the perfect trim to enhance your windows and elevate your home’s overall design.
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1. Wooden Window Trim
Wooden trims provide a warm, natural look to a room, effortlessly creating a rustic or traditional feel. Consider using dark-stained wood for a more formal setting or lighter shades for a breezy, Scandinavian touch. This style pairs well with earthy wall colors and hardwood floors.
2. Board & Batten Window Trim
This trim style lends a charming, cottage-like appeal to windows. Use wide boards flanked by narrow battens to give a structured yet simplistic look. It’s ideal for homes aiming for a farmhouse or country aesthetic and works well with pastel or neutral wall colors.
3. Bay Window Recessed Window Trim
For bay windows, a recessed trim can create a sense of depth and elegance. Paint the recess in a contrasting color to the wall to draw attention to the window area. This design suits modern and minimalist decors, emphasizing the architectural feature of the bay window.
4. Colonial Window Trim
A colonial trim, characterized by its clean lines and symmetrical form, suits both historical and contemporary homes. To achieve this look, use a combination of wide lower sills and narrow side casings. This trim complements traditional furnishings and classic color schemes.
5. Decorative Window Trim
Use ornate trims to add character and detail to windows, ideal for period homes or spaces wanting a touch of sophistication. Select designs with intricate molding patterns and pair with elegant drapery. Works well in rooms with high ceilings and detailed architectural features.
6. Layered Window Trim
Layered trims, combining different molding styles, create a rich, textured look. Start with a simple base trim and add additional layers with varying profiles. This approach suits eclectic interiors, allowing for a mix of modern and classic elements.
7. Craftsman Window Trim
Characterized by its sturdy and straightforward design, Craftsman trim is perfect for adding a touch of artisanal quality. Use natural wood or earth-toned paints, and pair with handcrafted furniture for a cohesive Craftsman style home.
7. Crown Window Trim
Crown molding at the top of window frames adds a luxurious touch. Painted in a contrasting color to the wall or the same color for a subtle effect, it works best in formal or traditional settings and complements high ceilings and grand decor.
8. Recessed Exterior Trim
This trim style gives depth and dimension to exterior windows. Paint in a bold color to contrast with the home’s exterior, adding visual interest. Ideal for modern and contemporary homes, this trim adds sophistication without overwhelming the facade.
9. Round Window Trim
Round windows are a unique architectural element. Frame them with a simple, streamlined trim to maintain focus on their shape. This trim style is particularly suited to nautical or whimsical-themed rooms.
10. Black Window Trim
Black trim frames a window with striking contrast, particularly against light-colored walls. It’s a bold choice that suits industrial or modern decors, and pairs excellently with metallic accents and minimalist furniture.
11. Victorian-Style Window Trim
This ornate trim style, with intricate designs and elaborate moldings, suits period homes or those seeking a vintage look. Paint in rich, deep colors to highlight the detailed craftsmanship.
12. Stained Glass Window Trim
Stained glass windows are a focal point in themselves. Frame them with a minimal trim to avoid competing with the glass design, letting the colors and patterns stand out. This style suits both traditional and contemporary homes.
13. White Window Trim
White trim offers a timeless, clean look that can brighten and open up a space. It’s versatile, working with any wall color and in any room, from kitchens to bedrooms. It’s particularly effective in coastal or Scandinavian-themed interiors.
14. Minimal Window Trim
For a sleek, modern look, use a minimal trim or even a flush finish with the wall. This style suits contemporary homes, emphasizing clean lines and uncluttered spaces. Pair with simple window treatments or bare windows for a minimalist aesthetic.
While you could leave your windows bare, this can leave your rooms feeling unfinished. Window coverings are like the jewelry of a well put together outfit. You could look nice without jewelry, but adding it gives you a finished and a polished look. If the windows in your home lack treatments, then it’s time to step up your interior design style by adding the finishing touch. Dress up the windows in your home with these window treatment ideas.
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1. Blinds for Light Control and Privacy
Adding blinds to your windows is a simple and affordable method for adding light filtering and privacy. You could invest in real wood blinds, but they can be quite expensive. You’ll likely need to custom order them.
A more affordable and popular alternative is to order faux wood blinds instead. They look and feel like wood but are more durable and affordable. Other blinds options are vertical blinds or roller blinds. These give your window a different effect and work better on certain sized windows. For example, vertical blinds are better for oversized windows.
2. Versatile Curtains for Comfort and Style
Blackout curtains are a must for your bedroom. These curtains have a special lining on the backside that helps to prevent the natural light from coming into the room. You can buy them in a variety of sizes and designs.
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Curtains are also good for the large window in your living room. You may not need the light-blocking variety. However, these curtains can be useful when you have a window that receives a lot of hot afternoon sun. The light-blocking quality can help to keep the room cooler. You can also choose a thicker fabric that can help prevent heat loss in winter. While plain curtains are popular, don’t be afraid to make a statement with patterned curtains.
3. Decorative Drapery Panels for a Polished Window Aesthetic
Similar to curtains, drapery panels dress up a window to give it a more polished and finished look. They are typically fabric panels that frame a window. Unlike curtains that you can pull close to cover the entire window, drapery panels frame the window. They aren’t meant for closing over the window. While they may be less functional, they are better equipped for dressing your window.
For looks and functionality, consider a multi-bar curtain rod. Then you can hang decorative drapes on the front bar and a functional curtain on the behind bar. This creates a multi-layered effect.
4. Luxurious Window Treatments for an Opulent Interior Decor
If you’ve taken a luxurious approach to your interior decor, your window dressings should match. Add luxurious custom window treatments to your windows and glass doors. This works well for French doors where they can look plain without the drapery panels.
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Another look of luxury is to embrace modern window treatment trends that utilize technology. Motorized shades make it simple and easy to manage the amount of natural light you allow in. Some even have an app that lets you schedule their opening and closing.
5. Elegant Roman Shades for Soft and Stylish Window Dressing
Roman shades or Roman blinds are a popular window covering option because they create a soft window covering. They are made from fabric that gently folds as you draw them up to open them. They are more elegant than cellular shades with a honeycomb structure. You commonly see cellular shades encased in two sheets of glass that are in a patio door.
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Roman shades can look elegant in a dining room. Choose a fabric that complements the rest of the textiles in the room. You could even choose bamboo shades that are made from sustainable and environmentally friendly materials.
6. Decorative Pleated Shades for Bedroom Windows
If you’re looking for a decorative bedroom window treatment, consider a pleated shade. These simple shades are made from a wide variety of decorative fabrics and fit inside of the window frame. Typically, this style of window covering isn’t the best at blocking light.
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Shades are typically not made from thick material, so they will allow light to filter through. Even shades with a light-blocking backing don’t fully cover the window. This allows light to come through in the gaps on either side of the shade.
7. Sheer Shades in Delicate Weaves
If you’re concerned about the amount of natural light coming into a room and want to create privacy, then sheer shades are ideal. These lightweight curtains are made from thin fabrics and have a delicate weave.
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A sheer curtain is good in a bathroom where you don’t want to use heavy materials that dry slowly. You can also layer sheer curtains with heavier fabric curtains. This gives you more flexibility in how you cover your window.
8. Go with Window Film or Solar Shades for Big and Tall Windows
The tall windows in your home present a unique challenge. These oversized windows can be too tall to be able to use the typical window covering options. Unlike a bay window, you won’t be able to reach the top of the window. Additionally, trying to gather a window covering at the top of the window would become overwhelming.
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Alternative options are window film or solar shades. These window coverings are highly effective at blocking UV rays to help keep your rooms cooler. They are also effective at filtering the amount of light coming into the room without completely eliminating it.
9. Louvered Shutters for a Charming Cottage-Style Home Decor
Louvered shutters give your home a cottage look. Depending on how you finish the shutter, this can give your home a farmhouse, country cottage, or coastal feel. These shutters could be mounted to the window frame on the inside or outside the house.
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Window shutters mounted on the inside of your window require a lot of space. This makes them less ideal for small spaces. They also aren’t great for large windows. The larger the window, the larger the shutter needs to be. This means the shutter will swing out further into the room, making them awkward to open and close.
10. Textured Woven Shades for Rustic and Coastal Interiors
Add a touch of texture with woven shades. They could be made from fabric or be woven wood shades. They typically roll up to open and then unroll to extend down and cover the window. This type of window shade looks best in a rustic, farmhouse, tropical, or coastal interior design style.
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You’ll typically find them in neutral colors, such as shades of brown, tan, beige, grey, and white. What’s nice about these woven shades is that they filter light for a gentle illumination throughout the room.
Take a look around your home. What is on your windows? It’s probably a set of curtains, right? But have you thought about adding a valance? This is the piece of fabric that goes across the top of the window to frame the window and complete the look of the curtains. Before you do a hard pass, there are plenty of options that don’t look like the dust-covered lace valances in your grandma’s house.
Give the windows in your home a fresh look by adding one of these window valance ideas.
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1. Dress Up A White Window With Prints
A printed valance curtain can transform a plain white window into an eye-catching spectacle. With its vibrant color, bold patterns, and delicate embellishments, it instantly revives a stagnant room and adds a delightful touch of style to the decor.
It instantly transforms an otherwise dull white window into a bold statement with its vibrant colors, patterns, and textures. This dress-up is sure to impress any guest who steps foot in your house, as it adds a depth of texture and elevates the entire room from ordinary to extraordinary.
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2. Decorate & Embellish
Looking for that special touch to add a personalized touch to your home? Why not try embroidering a sheer valance curtain with your family name? This stunning decorative piece is sure to pull any room together and also bring a spark of joy as you remember what it stands for.
By taking the time to embroider this delicate, elegant valance with your initials or family name, you’ll be able to create unique memories in each and every space that the embroidered curtain will grace.
Don’t hesitate – an embroidered sheer valance is the perfect way to tie any room together and show off your creative side!
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3. Keep It Flat For A Modern Look
A flat valance curtain is a perfect addition to any modern interior. Whether you are outfitting a minimalist home or searching for the perfect accent piece, flat valance curtains can bring a touch of style and sophistication to any room.
These flat panels add a hint of texture and interest while maintaining an understated aesthetic – perfect to liven up a modern, minimalist space. With flat valance curtains, you can keep your home looking both chic and comfortable.
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4. Pleat It For A Clean Look
The pleated valance curtain is the perfect way to bridge both traditional and modern decor in a transitional interior. Its sleek and elegant silhouette can add dimension to a room while providing added window coverage for privacy.
Whether draping grandly from a tall window or cascading down more petite frames, its pleats provide just the right amount of visual texture to draw attention without overwhelming the other elements in your space.
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5. Stand Out With A Protruding Valance
Valances are a great way to amplify the aesthetics of your room. With protruding valances and curtains, any bedroom or living room can become more dynamic with an eye-catching look. The luxurious drape of the protruded valance will bring the presence of the room together and create a modern yet cozy environment.
Whether you’re aiming for a classic style or something more eclectic, adding a protruding valance with curtains will instantly add dimension to the room and serve as an accent that ties in all the other elements of your design.
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6. Go Traditional With Swag Valances
The simple act of layering a swag valance or swathing it in different colors can inject new life into any room without changing much else. For those looking for something more traditional, adding a plain or patterned valance in layers over drapery gives windows a timeless aesthetic.
Not only do swag valance curtains highlight your window frames, but they also give off an instantly cozy atmosphere that sets the perfect tone for any room.
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7. Style With Some Fringe
Transform your bare window into a beautiful valance masterpiece! All you need is a valance curtain with a charming fringe that is sure to add a stunning touch of modern elegance to the room.
The valance’s soft textures and intricate design will tie the entire space together for an impressive look without being overly flashy. Your valance curtain will spark conversations and envy among anyone who steps foot in the room.
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8. Be Extravagant With Balloon Valances
Adding valance to a room can give it a sophisticated and extravagant feel. One creative way to do just that is by using valance curtains with balloon draping, which gives the room a more traditional look. It’s the perfect way to bring some life into an ordinary space by accentuating its style.
The valance creates a sense of depth with its fullness while also providing privacy and sun blockage control. With valance, any setting can be transformed into an exquisite interior façade that is as unique as it is opulent.
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9. Layer Valance Curtains For Dimension
Diversifying the layers with prints, fabrics, and colors is an easy task that can amplify the entire atmosphere of any living space. Whether you’re looking for curtains that make a statement or just want to create simple yet commanding layered valances, there is a design for everyone’s taste and style.
Not only do layered valances provide a sophisticated and regal look, but they also give anyone who enters your home an air of sophistication and high-end finery.
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10. Lace Crochet Inspired
A lace crochet-inspired valance curtain is the perfect way to give any room a touch of daintiness. With its subtle detailing, it’s sure to make any space look incredibly charming and inviting. From bedrooms with its sweet lace edging to living rooms with a lace crocheted accent, this breathtaking window treatment will create an idyllic atmosphere in no time.
Not just decorative, the lace crochet-inspired valance is highly practical as well – the delicate overlapping lace panels diffuse sunlight while still allowing natural light from outside to come in. It’s definitely an accessory that’ll stylishly elevate any surroundings and complete your cozy home decor.
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11. Create More Coverage With Venetian Blinds
Valances are the perfect addition to any home to not only enhance the aesthetic of a room but also provide more coverage from the sun. Venetian blinds can be used as valance curtain that combines with bright colors and textures, making any ordinary window look luxurious.
The best part is they come at an incredible price compared to some other window treatments! With so many options, you are guaranteed to find something that perfectly suits your style and gives you that extra layer of sun protection.
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12. Coastal With Blue Valance Curtains
Giving any room an instant dose of coastal charm, blue valance curtains bring the feeling of the seaside to you as soon as you walk in. Hang a blue valance with a repeating pattern on a window and transform your interior into an oasis with turquoise blue tones that bring paradise-like vibes to your home.
Use gorgeous ocean blue fabrics to add a beautiful touch to any living room or bedroom, letting dreamy blues and foamy whites evoke memories of walking barefoot along the shoreline between crashing waves. Bring some of this serenity indoors and make your own seaside paradise at home – it’s just a blue valance curtain away!
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13. Diffuse Soft Light With Sheer
When sheer valance curtains are hung in the window, they lend an airy, graceful tone to the room. The sheer fabric diffuses and softens the light that shines through, creating a subtle warmth and comfort.
Whether used alone or as part of a layered window treatment, sheer valance curtains can bring harmony and balance to any room.
They offer a simple sophistication—creating a sense of understated luxury and elegance in even the plainest of spaces.
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14. Enliven The Living Room With Valance & Floor Curtain
Valance curtains offer a perfect balance of aesthetic and practicality, blending beauty and structure while enhancing the overall atmosphere of any home. In addition to providing light control and privacy, valance curtains add visual depth with their layered look when combined with floor curtains.
Installing valance curtains as part of interior design will help create an ambiance that is welcoming yet classic – one that every guest can appreciate. From airy materials to luxe fabrics with striking shades, valances provide your space with unique style and charm.
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15. Jazz Up A Farmhouse Kitchen With Gingham
Picture a gingham valance curtain draped artfully in a farmhouse kitchen as the perfect finishing touch for a classic country-style look. Its delicate pattern and rich earthy colors bring an aura of rustic nostalgia to any home, transporting you back to simpler times with unmatched charm and whimsy.
Whether your style is traditional or modern, gingham valance curtains are sure to be a great addition that adds timeless appeal and style to any room.
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16. Make It Versatile With Monochrome
If you’re looking to enhance the look of any room in your home, monochrome valance curtains are a great choice! Not only do they look stylish and modern, but they are also incredibly versatile. You can mix and match colors to create subtle high contrasts or an ombre effect.
The monochrome offers endless possibilities as accent items, making them perfect for tying together any type of themed decor. Valance curtains come in a range of designs and styles, so no matter how intricate or plain you’d like the look to be, there’s something for everyone.
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Many homeowners dream of a cozy window seat for the aesthetic alone. While window seats are synonymous with vintage-style homes, they are also becoming more and more popular in modern, contemporary, and other trend-forward design trends.
Between secret storage and extra seating, it’s hard to deny the practicality of a window seat. (And if you have a small dog or cat, they’re sure to appreciate a sunbathing spot!)
The hardest part is deciding which type of window seat is best for your home. Check out these window seat ideas to discover just how broad the concept of a private reading nook can really be!
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1. Get A Backless Couch
Sitting at a backless couch by the window must be one of the most delightful coziness anyone could ever experience. Cuddled up in a backless couch with warming sunrays peeking in and gentle breeze commencing through, we find ourselves lost in comfort and peace. Luckily, such backless couches are usually movable so you can easily find the perfectly snug fit for any window seat.
What’s more, you are able to take it off when not needed and leave enough room for other activities! All of this makes having backless couches your best choice when looking for comfort at the same time suitable for limited living space!
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2. Throw A Comfy Foam Over It
Sitting by the window never felt so cozy — why? Thanks to a foam window seat! This makes it a little easier to forget about the world outside and just enjoy your view. It makes a great substitute for extra furniture that takes up too much space and makes cleaning all the harder. Get ready for hours of relaxation with just one simple addition of some foam!
Not only could you turn any old seat into an extraordinary place to sit, but this upgrade also makes it so much more comfy — no need to bring out the extra cushions! So while you’re busy taking in your view from your window seat, let foam make it that much better.
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3. DIY A Mural Artwork
A window seat can be so much more than a place to sit — it adds an accent to any room in the house, especially when you personalize it with beautiful mural artwork. The perfect summer project, you’ll love bringing home colorful doodles of houses and flowers.
There’s nothing as special as seeing your own creativity reflected in the space around you – your little corner by the window just became something truly unique.
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4. Hang A Pendant Lamp
Transform any window seat into something special with a pendant lamp. The ambiance adds charm to the space and serves as designated lighting for a reading or resting nook. Whether minimalistic or glamorously styled, the addition of this simple fixture adds character and practicality to your window seat.
Enhance its aura with luxurious accents and details; you’ll end up with a cozy place ideal for snuggling in and taking in the pleasures of your surrounding view.
5. DIY A High Seating Area
Creating your own window seat is an exciting design opportunity, especially when you factor in the ability to design your preferred seating height. Allowing you to work with reclaimed wood or panels gives an extra touch of creativity and character, setting your design apart from off-the-shelf pieces.
Finish it off with a plush cushion atop your creation and you’ve got a unique spot for R&R that is true all your own.
6. Add Cabinets
Window seats provide the perfect opportunity to utilize space in a creative way. By including cabinets beneath the seat, an extra storage area is revealed. A window seat with cabinets makes it easy to store items away from view while keeping them close at hand, creating a clutter-free atmosphere.
Enjoying a book or cup of coffee never felt so good as when nestled inside your own cozy corner surrounded by all of the treasures stored within its drawers and shelves.
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7. Install A Curtain
A window seat with a curtain lends privacy and coziness to any room. Pulling back the curtain for a view of the outside world is a small but powerful moment for the mind and body. Sitting for a time in such a spot brings peace, as if your thoughts can flow with the breeze wafting inside.
It’s no surprise that so many daydreams start on such comfortable perches. Whether solitary or shared with the company, there are few spaces more inviting than one filled with sunlight, secreted away by its drapes.
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8. Incorporate Plants
Nothing brightens up a room more than a window seat adorned with plants. Incorporating greenery is an easy way to bring life and brightness into any space. From succulents to ferns, the possibilities are endless! To truly personalize your window seat, incorporate handmade macrame holders for your plants to hang from.
Not only does this incorporate texture into your room, but there’s something special about surrounding yourself with the art you have created yourself. The combination of the two provides an idyllic touch to any room in the home.
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9. Add Beams
Cozying up to a window seat surrounded by cozy rustic wooden beams is the perfect way to spend an afternoon. These beams have character and give any space they are part of a unique charm, and adding them to the cozy seats of a window can be the perfect cozy nook for reflection or study.
They are sure to add that little something extra to any room, bringing in a homey feel and cozy energy for anyone who takes a seat.
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10. Install An Under-the-seat Bookshelf
With the perfect window nook created, let your imagination take flight! A window seat with an under-the-seat bookshelf is perfect for curling up with a cozy blanket and a good book.
The extra shelf space offers plenty of storage possibilities to keep essentials nearby: tuck away note cards, postcards, and other items that make perfect conversation pieces when you have visitors.
11. Utilize Empty Wall Spaces For Styling Shelves
A window seat is a wonderful way to express your creativity and styling flair. Placing items on the shelf that sets the mood of the room around it is a great way to make your home more personal.
Whether it’s styling fallen branches, accentuating with wooden sculptures, or simply displaying pictures, adding styling shelves to the window seat will truly maximize its coziness. Don’t forget pops of color and texture to bring life into your space!
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12. Turn Into A Dining Area
If you’re looking for an innovative way to turn your cozy window seat into a dining area, then you’ve found the perfect solution. With its built-in table, that window seat can be transformed into a personal dinette in no time – great for small spaces where space is limited and every inch counts!
Plus, you’ll get to enjoy those lovely views while enjoying your meal. Whether it’s breakfast, lunch or dinner, you’ll always be able to turn that window seat into an outdoor oasis of sorts – no matter what the season!
13. Add Window Blinds
There’s something special about window blinds that add an extra charm to a room. A window seat provides comfort, beauty, and versatility with an easy-to-access window that allows natural light to stream in. The window can also be outfitted with window blinds for privacy as well as temperature and light control.
Not only is having a window seat a great way to save space, but it is also low-maintenance and adds a nice shadow during the day when the sun shines brightest. It’s almost like gathering around the window seat offers one a peaceful refuge, no matter what season of life you find yourself in.
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14. Opt For Linen Roll-Up Blinds To Diffuse Light
Modern window seat designs are made even better with the addition of linen roll-up blinds. They provide a crisp, clean look while diffusing light to give an inviting and inviting atmosphere. Not only modern and stylish, but these blinds also require low maintenance for years of effortless appeal.
They’re perfect for those who want to give their space a modern touch without sacrificing practicality and convenience. Enjoy peace of mind knowing you now have the modern design you’ve been dreaming of, but with less upkeep!
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15. Add A Coffeetable
Window seating with a low coffee table is the perfect combination for cozying up and breathing in the beauty of your surroundings. Such a setup allows you to make the most of natural light for relaxation or productivity while keeping low furniture close by for functional use or styling display – picture books, vases, plants, and more!
Whether opting for an alcove seating nook or installing an entire window seat unit, take into account not only your design preferences but also how you plan to use it. Treat yourself to this cozy escape while increasing both style and functionality within your home!
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16. Build A Spacious Reading Nook
Imagine a spacious window seat with a reading nook in your home; it’s almost like having an extra bed without taking up too much space. Relax in the cocoon of pillows while absorbing the sun’s rays flooding through the windows. Store all your favorite reads in the built-in book shelves so you never have to worry about running out of great stories.
Surround yourself with canvas fabric and downy soft cushions, bringing comfort and luxury to your space. Fun-filled dreams await within this tiny oasis, ready for you to create them anew.
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17. Utilize The Windowsill With Decor
There is something so calming about window seats. Whether you opt for a window seat as a place to relax or add window sills with decor to make the window even more inviting and warm, any window seat will be the perfect addition to your home.
You could also consider having a narrow, recessed shelf below the window sill for extra surface area and storage for any items you may need easy access to in that room. Window seats remain timeless and unique no matter what type of home you create around them.
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18. Go For Black Framed Windows
Nothing quite compares to the bold contrast of a window seat with its black framed windows. Not only is it visually striking, but it gives any room a certain industrial-modern vibe that’s guaranteed to make an impact.
Whether it’s used as a spot to sit and read or simply admire the view outside, the bold contrast of such window frames is bound to bring an eye-catching touch of modern style and drama to your cozy atmosphere.
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19. Elevate With A Step
An elevated window seat provides a cozy spot to curl up with a good book and enjoy a private view of the outdoors.
With an added step for elevation, you can create a miniature paradise in your living space that is perfect for large windows.
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20. Keep The Windows Low
Sitting in a window seat with low windows is an experience like no other. No problem if you can’t see the full picture – you can still cozy up, grab a good book and relax. Start custom building your own seating area near low windows to enjoy the view from your own comfy spot; whether it’s during sunrise, sunset, or simply just when rain is pouring outside.
A low window seat setup can be the most fulfilling area of your house without having to actively go out and explore what’s behind the window!
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21. Play With Printed Upholstery
An eye-catching window seat with printed upholstery is the perfect way to play with prints and create an inviting atmosphere in your living space. You can mix and match different throw pillows of varying prints and sizes to create the ideal balance between functionality and style.
By changing it up seasonally, you can transform the look and feel of your room while still staying true to your core aesthetic. Investing in a window seat with printed upholstery adds sophistication and playfulness combined into one.
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22. Add Basket Organizers
A window seat with basket organizers can add a touch of style to any room, not to mention valuable storage space! Built-in shelves with basket organizers allow for lots of open storage without sacrificing aesthetics.
Baskets enable you to store a variety of items such as books, throws, toys, or extra cushions and pillows in a neat and tidy way, allowing you to keep the area looking fresh and uncluttered. Add your favorite throw blanket or plush cushions for comfort and you’ve got an excellent spot for family movie nights!
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23. Add Seasonal Decor
A window seat with up-to-date seasonal decor is a great way to make your space feel more alive. It’s like bringing the outside in! In the winter, you can decorate with wreaths and create an inviting atmosphere. For the summer, you can use bright and bold colors to show off that up-to-date style.
Or consider some unique color palettes like pastels or a mix of warm and cool tones. So what are you waiting for? Let’s spruce up your window seat and add some life to your home!
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24. Frame The Window With Wooden Elements
A rustic vibe is created when adding a window seat with wood-framed windows. Not only does the warmth of the natural material create a feeling of comfort, but it also creates visual interest. Picture a morning spent lazily reading your favorite book, knowing that with every glance out of this rustic window, you’ll be taking in some stunning scenery.
The clean lines and subtle curves of the frame will create leading lines up to whatever breathtaking view awaits outside. Such a spot is sure to draw more than one admiring glance from friends and family.
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25. Keep It Bright With White
A white window seating arrangement is an all-white dream come true! Their clean and bright presence brings a minimalist appeal that stands out from traditional furniture pieces. It almost sparks ideas of hosting a gathering or even daydreaming with friends while gazing outside.
The all-white design reflects natural light and allows the home to be filled with some major style points. It’s the perfect choice for anyone wanting to leave a good impression on guests.
“I went window shopping today! I bought four windows.” – Tommy Cooper
An old window may seem like an odd thing to buy—four of them even more unusual. But as home décor experts know, there are dozens of creative ways to repurpose old window frames into something beautiful. Decorating your home or garden with vintage windows instantly adds a casual, historic charm.
From wall hangings to wreaths, we’ve collected an impressive gallery of repurposed old window ideas. As you scroll through, imagine the ways you can transform these discarded objects into useful, lovely keepsakes.
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1. Make a Chalkboard from an old Window
Transform an old window into a functional chalkboard. Start by cleaning the glass thoroughly. Then apply a coat of chalkboard paint directly onto the glass surface. Allow it to dry completely before adding a second layer for durability. This chalkboard can be a great addition to your kitchen for grocery lists or a fun message board in a child’s room.
2. Repurpose Into a Pegboard Frame
Convert an old window into a stylish pegboard frame. Remove the glass and replace it with a pegboard panel cut to size. Paint the pegboard in your desired color to complement your room’s decor. Add hooks and shelves to the pegboard for a customizable storage solution that works great in craft rooms or garages.
3. Use as a Table Decor
An old window can become a unique centerpiece for your table. Lay it flat and place a variety of decorative items on the panes, such as candles, small potted plants, or seasonal decor. This creates a charming, rustic vibe for dinner parties or everyday elegance.
4. Hang String Lights
Create a whimsical lighting feature by attaching string lights around an old window frame. Hang the window on a wall or suspend it from the ceiling. The lights will cast a warm, inviting glow, perfect for a cozy reading nook or a romantic dinner setting.
5. Create a Wall Art
Turn an old window into a piece of wall art. Paint the frame in a color that matches your decor, or leave it rustic for a vintage feel. You can add wallpaper or fabric behind the glass for a pop of color, or leave the panes empty for a minimalist look.
6. Use as Jewelry Organizer
Convert an old window into a chic jewelry organizer. Attach small hooks or knobs to the frame for hanging necklaces and bracelets. For earrings, stretch a piece of lace or wire mesh across one of the openings. This organizer is not only practical but also adds a decorative touch to your room.
7. Create a Picture Frame
Utilize an old window as a multi-pane picture frame. Clean the glass, then attach your photos to the back of each pane using double-sided tape. This approach allows for a creative display of family photos, travel memories, or artwork.
8. Paint or Print on the Glass
Unleash your creativity by painting or printing directly on the glass of an old window. You can create a stained glass effect with glass paints or use stencils for precise designs. This personalized art piece can serve as a focal point in any room.
9. Build a Small Greenhouse
Assemble a mini greenhouse using several old windows. Construct a box frame to fit the size of your windows, then attach the windows as the roof and sides. This greenhouse is perfect for growing herbs or small plants and adds a charming touch to your garden or balcony.
10. Install a Rustic Mirror
Give a new life to an old window by turning it into a rustic mirror. Replace the glass panes with mirror tiles cut to size. The weathered frame combined with the reflective mirrors creates a vintage yet elegant look, suitable for bathrooms or hallways.
11. Turn into a Plant Rack
Create a hanging plant rack using an old window. Install shelves across the frame, ensuring they are securely fastened. This rack is ideal for displaying small potted plants, creating a living wall effect that brings freshness to any room.
12. Frame Dried Flowers
Preserve the beauty of your favorite flowers by framing them in an old window. Arrange dried flowers between glass panes, creating a natural and delicate display that captures the essence of each bloom.
13. Use as a Styling Tray
Transform an old window into a stylish tray. Add handles to each side of the frame for easy carrying. This tray is perfect for serving drinks, organizing perfumes and cosmetics, or as a decorative coffee table piece.
14. Hang a Wreath
Utilize an old window as a backdrop for hanging a wreath. This combination adds depth and character to your wreath display, making it a striking focal point in any room, especially during the holidays or special occasions.
15. Vintage Gallery Wall
Create a vintage gallery wall by arranging multiple old windows in different sizes and styles. Fill some with photos, others with art, and leave a few empty for a varied and interesting display. This gallery wall adds a unique charm to large, empty walls.
16. Make a Key Holder
Turn an old window into a practical key holder. Add hooks along the bottom of the frame, and you have a perfect spot to hang keys. This idea is especially useful in entryways or mudrooms, keeping keys organized and accessible.
17. Display Typography Art
Show off your favorite quotes or sayings by displaying them in an old window. Print or paint the typography directly onto the glass. This personalized piece can serve as daily inspiration in your living space or office.
If you own an older house, especially one built in the Victorian era, there’s a good chance you have at least one bay window in your home. There’s also a good chance that you have no idea how to decorate it.
Bay windows might not be as popular as they once were. But that doesn’t make them any less stylish. You just need to know how to get the most out of this design element’s unique function and aesthetic.
These bay window ideas will help you decide on the perfect furniture, decor, and window treatments to pair with your home’s classic architecture.
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1. Transform Your Bedroom with a Bay Window
The master bedroom (or any bedroom, really) is a prime candidate for a bay window. Bay windows let in plenty of natural light, which can make your bedroom feel larger and brighter.
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The space in front of your bay window is ideal for a reading nook, vanity, or dressing area. Take advantage of the extra floor space to store furniture or decor that would otherwise crowd the room.
While it’s great that these windows let in tons of sunlight, this isn’t always desirable in a bedroom. More windows also mean more concerns about privacy. Be sure to include a reliable set of curtains or blinds in your bay window design.
2. Create a Cozy Bay Window Bench
Bay windows and benches tend to go hand-in-hand. Seating is a great way to take full advantage of the natural light and view from your bay window.
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If permanent seating isn’t an option, place an ottoman or bench in front of your bay window. Add a seat cushion or throw pillows to your window bench for a personalized style and added comfort.
Whether you’re upgrading an existing bench or installing a brand new one, don’t overlook the potential for extra storage. Include compartments in your bay window seat for more functional storage and organization.
3. Select the Perfect Blinds for Bay Windows
Many homeowners struggle to choose the right window treatment for their bay windows. With the sheer number of window panes to be covered, it’s important to opt for sleek, low-profile blinds for your bay window.
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A Roman shade is a great option that looks nice pulled up or down. Wood blinds mimic the look of shutters without the permanence or expense.
You want your bay window to look bright and open, not weighed down by blinds or curtains. Choose a window treatment that matches the surrounding wall or window frame for a uniform appearance. Or draw attention to your bay window with contrasting blinds in black or white.
4. Design Bay Windows with Curtains and Shades
Bay windows can make the perfect backdrop for your favorite furniture and decor. Leave the window panes bare for tons of natural light and a great view. You can also use curtains, shades, or blinds to add a dose of color to your bay window design.
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Use windowsills to display decor but be sure not to block too much of the window itself. Potted plants are a great option, and most will thank you for being left in a bright window.
Add comfortable seating or a desk in front of your bay window — unless, of course, it’s already outfitted with a built-in bench seat. This is also the spot to tuck your favorite holiday decorations depending on the season.
5. Enhance Your Dining Room with a Bay Window
In many contemporary homes, the dining room feels like an afterthought. This room often offers limited floor space and suffers from a lack of natural light. Installing a bay window can fix these common problems.
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A large bay window makes the perfect accessory to a formal dining room table. If you prefer a more casual dining experience, transform a corner of your kitchen into a breakfast nook with a bench seat and a small table.
Finish your dining room or kitchen bay window with roller shades or a drapery panel. Also, don’t neglect the light fixtures. Your bay window won’t do you much good after the sun sets, at least in terms of light.
6. Create a Focal Point in Your Living Room
Use your bay window as a reverse accent wall for your living room. Keep the wall around your bay window neutral while painting the adjoining walls a more dramatic hue. This will also open up your living room space, making it feel larger.
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If you want to strike a balance between natural light and privacy, cover the bottom of your bay window with a valance or half-shutters.
For a more formal living room, you can use drapery as a bay window treatment. You can hang a tension curtain rod across your entire bay window area for a simple solution. Or install a custom valance and curtains over each window for a more polished appearance.
7. Modernize Your Space with a Bay Window
For a modern take on bay window design, keep things clean and straightforward. A sleek bench seat is your best option, but you can also go with something like a desk or mid-century chaise lounge.
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Don’t overload your extra seating with pillows and blankets. Instead, keep the space clutter-free. You can add texture to the area with velvet upholstery, potted houseplants, or unique window treatment ideas.
The bigger your bay window the more dramatic and stylish the finished design will look. While you can’t change the size of an existing bay window, you can create the illusion of a larger window frame with strategic curtain placement.
If you have a bay window sitting empty — no matter the room — few design ideas are as quintessential as a reading nook. Your top priorities for this project should be comfortable seating and adequate lighting.
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Finding the right window seat can be tricky — go with your gut. Choose something that looks great and stays comfy throughout hours of reading. Set up window blinds and a lamp so you have full control of the area’s lighting.
Many readers refuse to let go of their hardcovers and paperbacks. But if you enjoy using a Kindle or tablet on occasion, you can bring your quaint reading nook into the modern era by making sure you have access to an outlet.
9. Install Custom Shutters for Privacy
Indoor shutters are sturdy and easy to adjust if you need a change in lighting or privacy. Shutters are great for areas like the bedroom, where blackout window treatments are necessary. They’re also less bulky than many other window coverings.
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You can still finish your bay window with a set of traditional curtains. Drape a decorative curtain on each side of your window or hang sheer panels over the shutters themselves.
If your bay window is surrounded by a white wall, white shutters will make the space feel nice and put together. Natural wood shutters go with everything. On the other hand, contrasting shutters can be a great complement to your room’s color scheme.
10. Decor Solutions for Small Bay Windows
Most bay window designs assume that your window is large enough for a full-length bench or sofa. If you’re looking for ways to decorate a small bay window, though, finding inspiration can be hard.
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Instead of a long bench, try placing an accent chair or ottoman in front of your windows. A sturdy chest can double as seating while also offering hidden storage — throw a cushion on top for comfort.
Keep the space directly in front of your windows clear to maximize the amount of sunlight that comes through. Curtains will weigh down small bay windows. Opt for Roman shades or Venetian blinds for privacy.
11. Style a Square Bay Window with the Right Decor
Box bay windows — bay windows with a squared-off design — can add beauty and intrigue to the exterior of your home. They can also be an interesting addition to your interior floor plan.
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Depending on the size, a box bay window can be turned into a private alcove with a bench seat, armchair, or writing desk. Use a screen divider or tall houseplants to separate this space from the rest of the room.
When it comes to choosing blinds or shutters for a box bay window, there’s little room for error. Make sure your measurements are accurate, or else you’ll end up with window treatments that gap or overlap.
12. Add Victorian Elegance to Your Bay Window
Many homeowners strive to make their houses look as contemporary as possible. But if you relish in the vintage details of your home’s architecture, decorating a set of bay windows can be a real treat.
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The best way to dress Victorian bay windows is to mostly let them stand on their own. Stick with basic window coverings, like sleek blinds, shutters, or a custom curtain set.
Keep your decor and window treatments as simple as possible. Instead of placing decorative items on your windowsills, adorn a small cocktail table or bench set in front of the window.
13. Build a Bay Window Seat with Storage
Whether you’re dreaming of a private reading nook or some extra seating for your kitchen or living room, a bay window is the perfect spot to bring this idea to life.
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Many bay windows are accompanied by built-in seating. You can also use a freestanding banquette bench, armchair, or loveseat. Make wooden bench seating more comfortable with an upholstered cushion and throw pillow arrangement.
Get creative with your window seat ideas — the only rule is that the furniture must fit the space. Place a small table or desk in front of your window seat for a casual dining or work area with plenty of natural lighting.