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Curtain inspiration for big, arched and recessed windows

Yvonne kneel product designer holding roman blindAuthor Yvonne KealProduct Management SpecialistWritten 02/03/2020
Tara Hall HeadshotEditor Tara HallContent Operations ManagerUpdated 25/08/2026
Mist slate patterned wave curtains on patio doors in dining room

Whether you’re looking for curtains for big, wide windows, or need inspiration for more unusual features like arched and recessed windows, the right made to measure curtains can transform your space.  

Explore curtain inspiration and tips for dressing large expanses of glass and uniquely shaped windows, while balancing privacy, light control and style. 

Green striped curtains frame a tall black‑framed window beside a bright dining area with colourful table décor. 

Transform your doors into a statement feature

When you enter a room with large expanses of glass, your eyes are naturally drawn to them, so it's a great idea to choose a curtain design that will add an extra wow factor. 

Doors and wide windows can easily accommodate bold colours, eye-catching patterns and luxurious fabrics without overwhelming the room. Choosing a statement design can help turn your windows into a standout feature while adding personality and style to your space. 

  • “Pattern is the quickest way to refresh a room - add a great window treatment, and you’ll instantly inject personality and pizzazz.” 

    Jonathan Adler, Interior Designer

A cozy living room features a green curtain beside a sofa with pillows and blankets. A wood burner is on the left, and a stack of books sits on a wooden table. Text on art: "L'ART DES FLEURS."

Mix and match curtains with voiles

This is a clever idea that looks great and is practical too. Instead of hanging a single pair of curtains across your doors, combine your favourite curtain fabric with a sheer Voile curtain for a layered look. 

This combination gives you greater flexibility throughout the year. During summer, Voiles provide daytime privacy while allowing natural light to fill the room. As temperatures drop, closing your curtains adds an extra layer of warmth and cosiness, helping to create a comfortable living space. 

Armchair holds textured pillows, beside a side table with a plant and lamp. French doors open to a garden, surrounded by dark curtains, creating a cozy, inviting setting.

Extend your curtain pole beyond the window frame

Large windows and glazed doors are often found in homes that enjoy beautiful views of the garden or surrounding landscape. To make the most of these views, it’s important to think carefully about how your curtains are fitted. 

By extending your curtain pole beyond the width of the window frame, the curtain fabric can sit neatly to either side when fully open. This allows maximum light into your room and ensures your view remain unobstructed. 

Curtain ideas for recessed windows

Recessed windows add depth and character to a room, but they can sometimes be challenging to dress. One of the simplest solutions is to fit window dressings inside the recess, allowing the fabric to frame the window and maximise natural light when the curtains are open.  

Floor length curtains work particularly well, adding softness to the architectural lines, creating an elegant finish. For recessed bay windows like this, made to measure curtains can follow the shape of the space for a seamless look while helping to enhance the height and openness. Rich textures and patterns are also a great way to draw attention to this distinctive feature. 

Velvet teal roman blind under white and green patterned curtains in a dark, modern dining room

Combine curtains with blinds for extra privacy

If your wide windows are overlooked, maintaining your privacy is likely to be a top priority. Rather than fitting curtains alone, consider combining your curtains with a blind to enjoy flexible light and privacy control throughout the day. A blind can help filter sunlight while preventing overlooking, while curtains add warmth and texture to the room.  

In this cosy dining room, we've chosen these contemporary Loxly Emerald curtains that tap into the trend for geometric patterns and paired with a Roman blind positioned halfway down to allow in some light while keeping a snug and private feel to the room. 

Two pairs of soho boucle spice pinch pleat curtains in bay window in living room

Curtains ideas for big windows

A large window can be one of the most impressive features in your home. However, dressing an expansive area of glazing with just one pair of curtains can sometimes make the space feel less balanced and reduce the flexibility you have over light control

So instead, try positioning multiple curtain panels across the width of the window. This creates the appearance of separate sections while giving you greater control over privacy, sunlight and the overall look of your space. It’s an effective way to maintain the visual impact of a large window while adding softness. 

  • “Windows are large and in charge and offer a huge canvas for expression. The right blinds and curtains announce to the world that you’re glamorous, fearless, and have impeccable taste.” 

    Jonathan Adler, Designer and potter

Jo Whiley's Interior Design with Voile Curtains in Wisp Grey

Curtains ideas for arched windows

Arched windows are a beautiful architectural feature, so it’s worth choosing curtains that enhance rather than compete with their unique shape. Full length curtains are a great solution, adding height and length to the window. If you’re wanting a bit more privacy whilst diffusing daylight, lightweight Voiles are the go-to choice, helping to maintain a bright, airy feel.  

For larger arched windows, wider curtain panels can create balanced proportions and ensure the distinctive shape of the window remains the focal point. If you’re looking to make a statement, bold colours and striking prints also work well, helping to draw attention to this unique feature whilst adding character to the room. 

Curtains hang beside a large window in a living room, surrounding a wicker chair and a table with plants. A sofa with cushions is nearby, and plants decorate the space.

Curtain inspiration for your home:

  • Make large windows a focal point with bold curtains and statement fabrics. 
  • Layer curtains with Voiles or blinds for flexible light and privacy control. 
  • Extend curtain poles beyond the frame to maximise views and natural light. 
  • Frame recessed and arched windows with full length curtains to highlight their unique features. 
  • Use multiple curtain panels to balance and dress extra-large windows. 

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