Curved windows are like architectural gems until it’s time to cover them. Then, you find yourself facing some decorating headaches; standard blinds look ridiculous and chopped off mid-curve, while curtains bunch awkwardly or hide the beautiful shape entirely. Don’t even get us started on custom quotes; those quotes make you wonder if privacy is worth a second mortgage.

Here's what the professionals know: only two treatments consistently deliver beautiful results on curved windows. Everything else is either a compromise or a Pinterest fail waiting to happen.

The 2 most popular curved window treatments are:

1. Curved Blinds
2. Curved Shades

Heads Up! If your windows are more “normal”, you may find this other article more helpful.

1. Curved Blinds

Curved blinds use multiple narrow panels that follow your window's arc, either on a flexible track or as separate sections mounted to approximate the curve. You get the clean lines of traditional blinds with the flexibility to handle any curved shape.

Professional interior designers recommend using vertical slats rather than horizontal ones. Each slat hangs straight down while the headrail follows the curve, creating smooth operation without binding or gaps. Many modern versions use wide fabric panels or wood slats that look quite sophisticated.

This approach works beautifully when you want precise light control and a structured, architectural look. The multiple panels let you open sections independently, shading the sunny side while keeping the shaded side open. Installing them requires careful measuring of each segment, but the modular approach means it’s easier for you to fix mistakes than with one continuous treatment.

Professional installation runs about $800 – $2,000 for most curved windows, depending on size and materials. Wood or high-end fabrics push toward the higher end, while faux wood or basic verticals stay more reasonable. DIY kits exist for simpler curves, but complex arcs benefit from professional measuring and installation.

2. Curved Shades

Curved shades use a single piece of fabric mounted on a flexible track that bends to match your window perfectly. Think of it as a regular roller or cellular shade that follows curves instead of straight lines.

Cellular (honeycomb) shades work particularly well because their construction stays intact even when curved. You get excellent insulation properties (important for large glass surfaces that can turn rooms into greenhouses) while maintaining a clean, uninterrupted look when closed.

Installing it demands precision measuring and a steady hand. You'll trace the curve with flexible measuring tape, then mount the track with brackets every 24 – 36 inches to prevent sagging. Wide spans often need multiple tracks to maintain smooth operation; the fabric has limits on how far it can stretch without distorting.

Budget around $700 – $2,000 for professional installation, with cellular construction toward the higher end due to the specialized manufacturing required. The investment pays off in energy savings and that seamless, custom appearance.

Measurement Reality Check

Both treatments demand accurate measuring; this isn't the place to eyeball dimensions. You'll need the arc length (following the curve where the treatment sits), the chord (straight-line distance between endpoints), and the projection (how far the window extends into the room).

Most manufacturers provide measuring templates, but for complex curves or high-end installations, professional measuring is worth the cost. A bad measurement is the top cause of expensive do-overs with curved treatments.

Consider your daily routine too. Blinds with multiple panels give you more control options but require more maintenance. Single shades look cleaner but offer less flexibility in light management.

Making the Call

Choose curved blinds when you want maximum light control and don't mind the segmented look. They're more forgiving of measurement errors and easier to service if something goes wrong.

Choose curved shades when visual continuity matters most and you want that high-end, seamless appearance. They're ideal for prominent windows where the window treatment becomes part of the room's focal point.

Both options need professional installation for best results, so budget accordingly. This isn't the place to save money with DIY shortcuts.