When the Window Is Different, the Solution Has to Be Different.
Arches, angled openings, skylights, oversized glass and unusual architectural spaces often require more than a standard rectangular shade. Specialty treatments are planned around the actual shape, scale, mounting conditions and function of the window.
Some Windows Need More Than a Standard Treatment.
The challenge may be the shape, the scale, the location or the surrounding architecture. The examples below show some of the most common specialty situations and the decisions that matter when planning a treatment for them.
What kind of window are you working with?
Choose the closest situation for a quick overview, then explore the applications below.
01
Arched Windows
Arched windows are designed to be seen, so the treatment should respect the shape instead of simply hiding it behind a rectangular covering. The right solution depends on the exact arch, its proportions and how much of the opening needs to remain operable.
Preserving the architectural shape while still providing the desired level of light control and privacy.
- Specialty cellular treatments
- Custom shutters
- Shape-specific shades
- Combined upper/lower systems
- Exact arch geometry
- Fixed vs. operable sections
- Mounting depth
- Privacy needs
02
Angled & Unusual Windows
Triangular, trapezoidal and angled windows often appear in vaulted rooms, rooflines and custom architecture. Because gravity, shape and mounting conditions affect how a treatment can operate, these windows require especially careful planning.
Precise geometry, realistic operating expectations and a treatment that works with—not against—the architecture.
- Specialty shades
- Custom shutters
- Fixed specialty panels
- Combination treatments
- Angle and orientation
- Mounting surface
- Accessibility
- Need for operation
03
Bay & Bow Windows
Bay and bow windows create depth by combining multiple window sections at different angles. The key is deciding whether each window should be treated independently or the entire architectural feature should read as one coordinated installation.
Coordinating several window sections without losing the depth and character that make the bay or bow attractive.
- Roman shades
- Roller shades
- Cellular shades
- Custom shutters
- Window angles
- Handle clearance
- Inside mounting space
- Consistent alignment
04
Oversized Windows
Large windows create impressive views and natural light, but the scale changes how a window treatment must be designed. Fabric width, total weight, mounting strength, stacking space and ease of operation all become more important.
Designing a treatment that can handle the scale of the opening without becoming difficult to operate or visually heavy.
- Roller shades
- Solar shades
- Large-scale drapery
- Motorized systems
- Width and height
- Fabric / treatment weight
- Stacking space
- Motorization
05
Skylight Treatments
Skylights can bring tremendous natural light into a room, but their overhead position can also create glare, heat and difficult access. Treatments designed specifically for skylights are held against the opening rather than simply hanging vertically like a conventional shade.
Controlling intense overhead daylight while ensuring the treatment remains securely positioned and practical to operate.
- Specialty cellular shades
- Track-guided systems
- Room-darkening options
- Motorized operation
- Window accessibility
- Sun and heat exposure
- Mounting conditions
- Remote operation
06
Window Seats & Custom Applications
Some spaces need more than selecting a shade or blind. Built-in window seats, upholstered cushions, coordinated fabric work and unusual architectural areas can be treated as one integrated design rather than a collection of unrelated pieces.
Coordinating the window treatment, fabric, surrounding architecture and custom details so the entire area feels intentional.
- Window-seat cushions
- Custom upholstery
- Layered fabric treatments
- Built-in window areas
- Fabric coordination
- Built-in dimensions
- Window operation
- Overall room design
Specialty Windows Require More Than the Right Product.
With a standard rectangular window, product selection may be relatively straightforward. Specialty windows add geometry, access, scale and architectural constraints that need to be considered before the treatment is fabricated.
Start With the Window — Then Build the Treatment Around It.
Specialty projects are best evaluated in the actual space. Window geometry, trim, sunlight, privacy requirements, accessibility and the surrounding room all influence which solution is appropriate.
Specialty openings often require much more than standard width-and-height measurements.
Decide whether the priority is glare, privacy, darkness, heat control or preserving the architecture.
Determine how often the treatment needs to move and whether it can be reached comfortably.
The final treatment should solve the window without fighting the surrounding architecture and design.
Let’s Look at the Space and Find the Right Solution.
RWC can evaluate the opening, professionally measure it and help determine which specialty treatment or custom approach makes sense for the architecture and the way you use the room.