Welcome to the world of arched windows – a timeless design choice that combines elegance and history. These versatile windows have been popular for centuries, offering a unique aesthetic that can elevate any home's exterior and interior alike. Whether you're renovating a classic home or building a brand-new dream home, these arched window ideas will transform your approach to design.
What Are Arched Windows?
Arched windows, also known as curved windows, are characterized by their rounded tops, which add an elegant and dramatic design element to a home. While they all have arches, they come in a surprising variety of shapes, from simple half-circle transom windows to pointed arches and partial arches.
Arched windows create more visual interest and give home a unique look, offering a break from the traditional rectangular window shape. They have an elegant, timeless feel that instantly adds sophistication. Their shape also maximizes natural light, making them ideal for homeowners who want to brighten up an interior space, like a sunroom.
Arched Windows Through the Years
Arched and curved windows aren’t tied to a specific architectural style. Thanks to their elegant look and ability to increase light and ventilation, many styles have incorporated arched windows over the years.
Romanesque Architecture
Years: Around 800 AD to 1200 AD
Location: Throughout Europe
Romanesque architecture emerged in medieval Europe and is recognized for its solid, robust structures with thick walls and rounded arches. Arched windows in Romanesque buildings tend to be small and narrow, often grouped in series to allow more light penetration while maintaining the wall's strength. In addition to windows, the style also uses arches in doorways and ceilings.
Renaissance Architecture
Years: 14th century to 17th century
Location: Originated in Italy and spread across Europe
Renaissance architecture was derived from the classical Roman and Greek architecture and focused on symmetry, proportion, and geometry. Arched windows in Renaissance buildings are typically well-proportioned and balanced, often set within a square frame to highlight their symmetry. These exterior arched windows not only allowed for ample light, but were framed by intricate stonework that turned them into decorative elements.
Baroque Architecture
Years: Late 16th century to early 18th century
Locations: Originated in Italy, but was the first style with worldwide influence
Baroque architecture is known for its dramatic use of space and light, ornate decorations, and overall sense of movement. Arched windows in Baroque buildings are large and dramatic, with complex, curved shapes that went beyond simple semicircles. Baroque arched windows were seen as part of a larger vision that included intricate stonework, sculptures, and elaborate murals.
Mediterranean and Spanish Colonial Styles
Years: 16th century onward, with modern revivals continuing today
Locations: Coastal Mediterranean, Latin America, the Philippines, western and southwestern United States
Mediterranean and Spanish Colonial styles are adapted to warm climates with elements like stucco walls, red tiled roofs, and an emphasis on shade and ventilation. Arched windows in these styles are large and open so they can effectively cool interior spaces. The arches provide a visual contrast with the straight lines of the building itself and are also used in hallways and doorways, bringing everything together with that classic Mediterranean look.
Types of Arched Windows
Arched window’s blend of functional benefits and visual beauty means they continue to be popular today. Whether incorporated into a Gothic revival church or a sleek, modern house, arched windows have the power to elevate any building's design.
Gothic Arched Windows
Gothic arched windows are known for their pointed arches and intricate tracery, or the designs within the window itself. Often paired with stunning stained or colored glass, the arches are typically sharp and elongated, drawing the eye upward and creating a sense of awe. While they were originally used in cathedrals in the Middle Ages, Gothic windows remain a popular shape in modern homes, universities, and government buildings.
Arched Transom Windows
Transom windows are fixed sections of glass that are installed above a door or window to enhance natural light and visual interest. They’re typically the same width of the door or window below, but can be any height, creating a seamless look while brightening the interior space. In historic homes, transom windows often feature decorative glass or simple grid patterns, adding a touch of elegance and charm.
Arched Casement Windows
Casement windows hinge at the side and open outward, offering excellent ventilation and unobstructed views. Arched casement windows feature a classic, rounded top that adds an architectural touch to any home. Ideal for spaces that require a window with both charm and functionality, they're commonly used in heritage homes, cottages, and anywhere you want a touch of elegance without sacrificing convenience.
Modern Arched Windows
Modern arched windows focus on clean lines, simplicity, and sleek frames. They’re incredibly versatile and can be adapted to fit any style, from minimalist to industrial. In a modern house with arched windows, architects might choose this shape to add a touch of softness to angular rooms or combine them with minimalistic styles to create striking contrasts. Thanks to modern materials like strong, durable vinyl, they can be designed with large panes of glass, sometimes extending from floor to ceiling, to make a room look larger and brighter.
Window Treatments for Arched Windows
The unique shape of arched windows makes them both a focal point and a design challenge when it comes to choosing the right window treatments. Here are a few ideas for how to cover arched windows to increase privacy while maintaining their elegance.
Custom Blinds for Arched Windows
Best for: Modern and minimalistic designs that emphasize clean lines and practicality
Custom blinds for arched windows are specially designed to fit their unique shape. Unlike standard blinds, arched window blinds can be stationary (fixed in a fan-like fashion for semi-circle arches) or operable (able to open and close, usually for extended arch designs). Materials vary from wood and faux wood to metal and fabric, depending on personal preference and light filtering needs. Blinds are excellent for contemporary and minimalist interiors, providing a sleek, clean look.
Shutters for Arched Windows
Best for: Homes that feature classic, Mediterranean, or farmhouse styling
Shutters come in many styles, but are always a classic window treatment, especially in coastal areas. Shutters for arched windows are customized to match the exact curve of the window and can be fully functional, allowing the slats within the arched portion to be adjusted for light and privacy, or fixed. Painted or stained wood shutters complement Colonial, Mediterranean, or country French styles, adding warmth and character.
Modern Curtains for Arched Windows
Best for: Customizable for any style
Modern curtains offer the greatest flexibility for arched windows because the fabric and pattern can be customized for nearly any decor style. Curtains for arched windows can serve as a soft backdrop in minimalist designs or a bold statement piece in rooms with an artsy feel. They can be custom-made, but you can also find pre-made curtains and curtain rods for arched windows, making this an even easier solution to incorporate into any home.
Are Arched Windows Right for Your Home?
Arched windows can be adapted to a wide range of settings and design styles, from historical restorations to contemporary new builds. However, there are a few things to consider before jumping in.
Cost of Arched Windows
Arched window prices are generally higher than standard rectangular windows due to the complexity of their design and the customization required to fit and install them. The cost can vary widely based on factors such as size, material, type of glass, and whether the design is standard or custom-made. With energy-efficient features and many customizations, arched window prices can be significantly higher than standard windows.
Matching Your Design Style
Arched windows are incredibly versatile and can complement a wide range of architectural styles. With traditional designs like Victorian, Colonial, or Mediterranean, their classic curves add elegance and historical authenticity. Yet they also provide a striking contrast to the clean lines of modern homes. The key to integrating arched windows into any design lies in choosing the right framing and detailing to match the home’s overall aesthetic.
Installation Considerations
Installing arched windows as a replacement project can be challenging, especially if it involves altering the structure of the walls. The effort and cost involved in retrofitting arched windows into an existing structure will typically be higher than for standard window replacements. Arched windows are much easier to integrate into new construction, where they can be planned from the start of the design process.
Explore Arched Windows for Sale
Arched windows are a smart choice for many homeowners, whether you want to bring in more natural light, improve your view, or give your home a more sophisticated look. If you’re ready to incorporate arched windows, check out our collection of specialty windows to get started. Need more guidance? Get inspired by our gallery or connect with a Certified Dealer today. Wherever you are in your planning process, we can help you move your project forward.
