Arched windows feel like architectural jewelry to show off, until you try to dress them, then they feel like architectural nuisances. But that’s because showing off these beauties requires a different approach, and we’ve shared 4 of the simplest ways to make it work.

All 4 Arched Window Treatments at a Glance

1. Custom-Fit Cellular Shades
2. Flexible Rod Drapery
3. Sunburst Plantation Shutters
4. Layered Combination Treatments

Heads Up! Prices below are US-market estimates checked before September 2025 via national retailers and local installers; ranges are national averages. The final cost depends on the window size, material choice, and whether you choose DIY or professional installation. Use the ranges as a planning guide and get at least two local quotes for custom work.

1. Custom-Fit Cellular Shades

Cellular shades can be precision-cut to follow your arch's exact curve, creating a sleek, integrated appearance. Their honeycomb construction provides excellent insulation, which is important for large glass surfaces that can turn rooms into greenhouses in summer or ice boxes in winter.

A better approach is the top-down operation. Lower the shade from above to let natural light flood through the arch while maintaining privacy at eye level. When you raise them fully, they disappear completely into the arch, preserving your view and architectural details. They can be great conversation starters, too! (There’s your opportunity to show off, lol).

These work beautifully in energy-conscious homes and modern spaces where clean lines matter most. Installing them requires precision measuring (most manufacturers provide detailed templates to ensure a perfect fit). Budget around $120 to $700+ per window, which is reasonable considering the energy savings and custom appearance you'll get.

2. Flexible Rod Drapery

Using a bendable curtain rod shaped to match your arch allows drapery panels to follow the curve naturally. This approach is quite dramatic and puts the architecture front and center while giving you complete light and privacy control when needed.

Choose sheer fabrics for an ethereal, light-filtering effect, or go bold with velvet or linen for maximum impact. Be sure to make sure your rod can handle the fabric weight (look for spring steel or memory wire options designed for curved applications).

This window treatment shines in traditional homes, eclectic interiors, or anywhere you want serious visual drama. You have to be very patient when installing, as you'll need to bend the rod gradually and secure multiple mounting points along the curve. The process has a moderate difficulty, and you'll spend about $150 – $600 depending on fabric choice. Measure by tracing the arch with a flexible measuring tape, adding extra length for proper draping.

3. Sunburst Plantation Shutters

Don’t let the name fool you, these are just custom shutters built to fan across your arch while screaming, “Look at me, I’m an architectural masterpiece”. The louvers adjust in a beautiful sunburst pattern, giving you precise light control while maintaining the window's elegant proportions.

This is a premium solution that adds real estate value and lasts for decades. Once you install them, the shutters look like original architectural elements rather than later installments. The craftsmanship required means professional installation is necessary, but the result justifies the investment.

They work best in farmhouses, classic, or transitional homes where the traditional elements feel natural. Professional measuring ensures a perfect fit, and you'll invest $400 – $1,700+ per window. While they’re pricey upfront, quality shutters never go out of style and require minimal maintenance over their lifetime.

4. Layered Combination Treatments

A lot of smart budget-conscious homeowners often treat the arch and rectangular sections separately. They install blinds or shades on the functional lower portion for privacy and light control, then add a decorative element to the arch itself, sometimes frosted film, a sheer fan shade, or even leaving it bare (still looks beautiful, though).

These covering balances cost with style while maintaining the arch's visual impact. You’ll get full functionality where you need it most without paying a fortune for a completely custom solution.

This works perfectly for mixed-style homes, rental properties, or anywhere budget is a primary concern. You'll manage two separate installation projects, making it moderately difficult overall. Each section gets measured separately, and the total cost runs just under $100 – $500 per window. The rectangular portion uses standard window treatments, while the arch can use something as simple as decorative window film applied directly to the glass.

Quick Decision Guide

Window Treatment	Style Impact	Installation	Budget Range	Best For
Custom Cellular	Sleek + Modern	Professional	$120–$700+	Energy efficiency, clean aesthetics
Flexible Rod Drapes	Dramatic + Traditional	Moderate DIY	$150–$600	Statement-making, classic homes
Sunburst Shutters	Architectural + Permanent	Professional	$400–$1,700+	High-end, traditional styles
Layered Combination	Flexible + Budget-Smart	Moderate DIY	$100–$500	Mixed styles, rental properties

Note: all ranges are US-market oriented; labor, materials, and shipping/location dramatically affect the final price.

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How to Choose

Consider how much light control you actually need versus how much you want to show off the architectural feature. Arches facing busy streets will benefit from privacy solutions, while those overlooking private gardens can stay more open to highlight the scenic view.

Budget plays a major role in choosing, but don’t forget durability. If you're planning to stay there for years, invest in shutters or custom shades that become part of the home. But if you’re renting or unsure about long-term style preferences, flexible rods and combination treatments offer beautiful solutions you can take with you.

Whatever you do, don’t ignore the arch completely; standard rectangular treatments that cut off the mid-curve look like design afterthoughts.