How to Dress Arched Windows: The "High & Wide" Method

INTRODUCTION

No window structure compares to an arched window. The architecture is elegant, soft, eye-catching, and can light up every space. With the unique curved tops and flat or rectangular lower halves, arched windows are functional and enhance natural lighting. However, arched windows pose certain problems: limited privacy, a dated sunburst-blind look, and the need to hang a curtain rod without ruining the window's shape. Most guides do not clearly address these challenges. 

This guide simplifies everything. We break down what actually works today, arched window covering ideas, and how to choose curtains for arched windows. You'll also see why the high-and-wide method is now the most functional, beautiful, and cost-effective way to dress arched windows.

The 3 Common Mistakes to Avoid

Mistake 1: The Cut-in-Half

The Cut-in-Half technique with arched windows involves hanging the curtain rod directly under the arch, under the curve of the arch. The rod starts at the base of the arch where the curve begins. With this technique, the curtain covers only the lower, rectangular portion of the window, leaving the curved upper section exposed. The main idea behind this technique is to keep the curve visible. The problem with this technique is that it visually divides the window into two. The curtain rod, a straight line, divides the overall tall window shape into two parts: an upper semicircle and a lower rectangle. It makes the space look unbalanced, as the upper part of the window is left exposed.  The space is not entirely private because the upper section remains visible to outsiders. It also allows excessive and uncontrolled sunlight into the space. The horizontal division also makes the space feel shorter and draws the eye downward rather than upward. Working around the shape with custom panels is expensive and often results in poor draping.

Mistake 2: The Dated Sunburst

The Dated Sunburst technique is a design created by spreading slats or fabric in a fan shape from the bottom centre of the arch. With this technique, the paper or plastic fan blind used covers the arch and matches its exact shape. Homeowners tend to love it because it sits on the arch perfectly and looks aesthetically pleasing.  The problem with the dated sunburst technique is that it doesn’t function like a traditional curtain. It is permanently fixed, so it is difficult to adjust when you want an outside view or fresh air. It is also difficult to layer drapes or sheer curtains with the position. It is not flexible because the setting doesn’t support fabric changes. The fan structure of paper and certain plastic blinds can easily accumulate dust, and these materials are not suitable for harsh cleaning methods. This technique is also considered old-fashioned and doesn’t work well with modern interior decor. It can also be damaged and fade easily due to moisture, humidity, and sun exposure, as the material doesn’t compare to actual lining. 

Mistake 3: Skipping Proper Lining

Dressing your arched windows without proper lining is not a good option. The idea behind this is to save costs, but it comes with many disadvantages. Unlined curtains on arched windows are more exposed to stronger UV rays than they would be with regular windows. Without this protective layer, even high-quality curtains can fade and discolor quickly. Unlined curtains tend to look flat when hung because they lack the structure and weight that lining provides. Also, once the lights come on at night, sheer curtains become semi-transparent, decreasing privacy. Blackout lining is often recommended for arched windows because it offers stronger light control and protects your curtains. It also helps your curtains hang with a more elegant, finished look. 

The Best Solution: The High and Wide Method

The high-and-wide method is the best choice for designers when hanging curtains on an arched window. This method involves hanging a straight rod above the highest point of the arch. Also, the rod should extend 6 to 10 inches beyond the window frame. This extra width exposes the glass completely when the curtain is pulled back, maximizing sunlight entering the room. In rooms with high ceilings, the rod can be installed close to the ceiling. The curtain should also be long enough to either kiss the floor or create a puddle, making the space feel more luxurious. Using this method, the window appears taller than it is, creating a strong illusion of height by drawing the eyes upward. This is more flexible and cost-effective than using curved or arch-shaped custom rods. The curtain must not hang above the floor, as it makes the space look unfinished. 

The high-and-wide method creates a visual effect that turns the curtain into a frame for the window’s architecture. Since the curtain stays above and around the window, not directly on the curved shape, the window arch remains visible. The height, width, and vertical lines outline the window’s shape. To achieve this luxurious look, you need a rod wider than the window so the curtains can stack back completely clear of the glass.

Alternative Solution: Ceiling Tracks

When the arch meets the ceiling or crown moulding, a ceiling-mounted track (ripple-fold or wave track) is the most seamless, invisible option. This is because there may be no space above the arch to hang a traditional rod. A ripple-fold or wave track is a type of curtain track that controls the fabric by creating smooth, even waves from the ceiling to the floor. Ceiling tracks provide a clean, secure place to hang your curtain. With a ceiling-mounted track, the curtains appear to extend directly from the ceiling, creating a continuous vertical plane from the ceiling to the floor. The curtain track is not visible, providing a clean, modern finish. The ceiling tracks are strong enough to support heavy fabrics without sagging or breaking. High-quality ceiling tracks also allow curtains to slide more smoothly than complex curved rod systems. For very tall rooms, a ceiling track is one of the best ways to get a truly invisible top. So, the curtain fabric simply becomes a wall extension. However, the installation process for ceiling tracks requires professional expertise, is not easily adjustable, and can be more expensive than installing straight rods and standard brackets. 

Choosing The Right Curtain

Choosing the right curtain for arched windows goes beyond style. The right length, weight and fabric are important to achieving a functional and durable look. 

For length, the fabric must touch the floor to achieve a finished, luxurious look. With long curtains that reach the floor, the space appears taller and offers a visual appeal that shorter curtains cannot. It is also important to avoid curtains that stop midway or hover above the floor, as they create an awkward look and can let light escape into the space below. This makes accurate measurement very important, as even small mistakes can affect the overall look. Measure vertically from the mounting point down to the floor at multiple points. If using ceiling mounting, measure from the ceiling. For a full step-by-step measuring guide, see the Three Girls measurement guide. 

The drapery fabric should also be substantial, with a medium to heavy weight. A thin sheer curtain cannot effectively block light or provide privacy. The curtains should also be lined, as lined panels add weight and improve thermal performance, helping prevent heat gain. When purchasing your curtains, select 'Add Blackout Lining' at checkout. Heavy fabrics look luxurious but will also require strong rods to properly support their weight and prevent them from falling under pressure. With the Three Girls' new curtain collection, you have a variety of choices to select from. These windows require extra-long panels; therefore, shrinkage is a disaster. Our Pre-washed curtains ensure your calculated length stays perfect.

Beautiful And Intelligent Solutions

Arched windows are stylish, beautiful, and speak volumes about your personal style. However, they demand that the window treatment installation be smart and precise. With this guide, you’re one step away from getting that modern, designer-level window treatment for arched windows.