When you imagine updating your home, you likely envision painting the walls, replacing some or all of the floors, or maybe something big, like redoing the kitchen. But have you ever really stopped to think about just how much of a difference window treatments can make? So many people tend to forget them, but curtains, shades or blinds can really transform the way a room looks and feels. They’re not just for blocking sunlight; they also provide privacy and even cut down on air-conditioning costs.

But here’s the tricky part — not all windows are designed the same. Sure, you probably have a few normal windows in your living room, but what about those unique triangle, arch or angled windows? While those architectural details are beautiful, they can make shopping for window treatments daunting. That’s precisely what this guide is here for: to make you think a little bit about what will work best in every room and for every window shape in your home.

How to Style Awkwardly-Shaped Windows

First, let’s discuss those uniquely shaped windows. Triangle windows are all the rage in contemporary designs. They’re what give homes that cool, custom look. But boy, do they cause a headache when it’s time to cover them up.

You can easily imagine you’ll need to go full custom. And yes, custom is often the way to go here, but don’t worry, it doesn’t have to be a huge production. The trick is to select treatments that highlight the shape and remain practical.

Options include:

• Blinds or shades cut to the correct size of the window frame
• Angle-following specialty drapes

If you’re wondering ‘how do I measure the windows, select the materials, and install them?’ look no further than this really good resource: www.sonashades.com/blogs/comprehensive-guide-to-choosing-the-perfect-blinds-for-triangular-windows. It’s a lifesaver for those looking to breathe new life into their windows.

Now, let’s break it down room by room and determine just how to use the right window treatments.

Living Room: Control Privacy and Lighting

You probably hang out in your living room a lot, watching TV, reading, relaxing or entertaining friends. So, your window treatments have some work to do. You will also need to consider how to hang the curtains. They should allow some soft light in, but also offer privacy when you want it.

Here are some winning picks:

• Sheer curtains: They filter the sunlight without making the room feel closed off.
• Double drapes: Hang sheer curtains underneath heavy curtains so you can control privacy and add more style.
• Automated blinds: These are pretty cool as you can control them remotely, even using your phone if you use an app. To be honest, it feels kind of fancy.

Bedroom: Keep It Cozy and Dark

The bedroom should feel like a serene retreat. No one wants to be jolted awake by the blinding sunrise slipping through the curtains early in the morning. That’s why intercepting light here is a big deal.

Here are our top picks for bedrooms:

• Blackout curtains: If you’ve never had these, you don’t know what you’re missing out on. They block out almost all sunlight and will help you sleep a whole lot better.
• Roman shades: They provide a tailored look and clean feel to your bedroom, and help control the influx of light.
• Layered treatments: Pair shades and curtains for light control and a fancy look.

Kitchen: Practical and Pretty

Kitchen windows are notoriously tricky to style. You have to consider heat, steam, grease and cleaning up. So yeah, you wouldn’t want to hang something heavy here.

Some very smart options include:

• Faux wood blinds: They’re moisture-resistant and easy to dust.
• Solar shades: These prevent glare if your kitchen gets blasted with direct sunlight, while still allowing you to see outside.
• Café curtains: These are adorable and allow a lot of light in while still keeping things private below eye level.

Bathroom: It’s All About Privacy

And let’s be honest: Privacy is no small ask in the bathroom. Moisture, though, is also a big problem, so you want your materials to cope with humidity and still look good.

Best choices include:

• Vinyl or faux wood blinds: These never warp and can be wiped clean with a cloth.
• Water-resistant roller shades: They are a practical and stylish pick.
• Frosted window film: If you would prefer to avoid fabric altogether, this may be the solution for you.

Home Office: Stay Comfortable and Focused

If you work from home (as so many of us do these days) you are familiar with the frustration of the sun’s  glare on your screen. The perfect window treatments can make an enormous difference and keep you comfortable and focused.

Here are some suggestions for your home office windows:

• Adjustable blinds or shades: These allow you complete control over the influx of light.
• Solar screens: These do a wonderful job at filtering the sun’s radiation while still allowing you to see outside.
• Drapes: In general, drapes soften a space and make it seem less ‘office-like’ and a little more welcoming.

Kids’ Room: Keep Safety and Fun in Mind

Decorating children’s rooms is fun, but you must also consider safety first – especially if you have little ones.

Here’s what works best:

• Blackout cordless shades: Great for napping and early bedtimes.
• Tapestries in colorful shades or curtains: You can coordinate these with the room’s theme.
• Cordless cellular shades: They are also energy-efficient and look very soft.

Window treatments are not an afterthought for a reason — they can make a real difference to how your home looks and feels. From figuring out how to make odd-shaped windows work to giving yourself a bedroom that is ready for better sleep, or making sure a living room is comfortable and cozy — your choice makes a huge difference.

A few final tips:

• Don’t rush the decision.
• Measure carefully.
• Consider how much privacy, light and maintenance you want.
• Enjoy mixing and matching treatments to your taste.

So, whether you’re freshening up only one spot or committing to every corner of the house, the right window coverings will tie the whole look together.