Your living room window is a focal point of the space – it lets in natural light, provides views of the outdoors, and is often one of the first things guests notice when entering your home. Choosing the right decor to put in front of your living room window can be tricky. You want to maximize the window without blocking too much light or cluttering the space. Here are some tips on how to decorate and what to put in front of a living room window.
Consider the View
Take some time to think about the view from your window. Is it a vista of the neighborhood or a woodsy backyard? Do you look out at a busy street or have a close-up view of your neighbor’s home? The view will impact the kind of decor you choose.
Play Up an Interesting View
If you have a great view, you’ll want to maximize it. Discover what to put between two windows in living room to enhance your space. Avoid putting decor items directly in front of the window as they will obstruct the outlook. Go for window treatments like sheer curtains that filter light but don’t block your line of sight. You can also add accents like tall leafy plants in planters along the sides of the window to frame the view. A telescope or binoculars would allow you to fully appreciate an interesting vista.
Softening an Undesirable View
What if your view isn’t so scenic? Large bushes or fences right outside the window can be eyesores. You can use window decor to mask the unsightly parts. Opt for opaque curtains in a complementary color that you can keep drawn. Hang wooden blinds and angle them to direct sightlines away from the unpleasant areas. Tall bookshelves filled with decorative objects can also help block the view. Just be sure they don’t stick out too far to obstruct the light coming in.
Adjusting Window Height
Sometimes the problem with your view is that your window is too high or too low. If your window is up high, your sightlines may be of the rooftop or treetops when you’d rather be seeing further out. For low windows, your perspective may be of the ground or a close solid fence. In these cases, consider adjustments like lowering high windows if possible or elevating low ones by replacing them with French doors. That can completely change your viewpoint and open up better views.
Decorate for the Room’s Purpose
The way you use your living room should also inform what window decor you choose. After all, you want the accents to complement the room, not clash with its design and purpose.
Formal Living Rooms
If your living room is more formal and reserved for entertaining guests, go for refined window decor. Heavy draperies in damask, velvet, or silk evoke an elegant feel. Corbels and architectural trim around the window add striking visual interest. For furnishings, choose refined pieces like crown molding, Roman shades, and dressmaker details on curtains for sophistication.
Informal Lounging Spaces
For casual, everyday living rooms, the window decor can be more relaxed. Try breezy linen curtains or furry corduroy blackout shades for texture. Natural wood blinds also give a laidback vibe. Simple metal rods and minimalist hardware keep the look unfussy. For furniture, lean into comfort with oversized rattan chairs, poufs, and cozy knit pillows.
Kids’ Rooms
In children’s living rooms or play areas, let the window decor spark their imagination. Playful Roman shade fabrics with prints like horses, flowers or colorful stripes liven up the space. Try hand painted window sills or let the kids decorate the bottom of plain roller shades themselves. Moveable curtains on a whimsical patterned rod turn it into an interactive plaything. Include cozy window seats with toys and books within easy reach.
Media Rooms
For spaces focused on television watching and movie nights, light and glare control take center stage. Blackout curtains and shades are a must in media rooms. Layer blackout roller shades under curtains to block light for daytime viewing. Cordless options help avoid accidents with children and pets. For whole home theater vibes, consider motorized curtains operated by remote. Built-in media cabinets with component storage below the window work nicely as well.
Optimize the Lighting
Sunlight is lifeblood of a living room. But you want to optimize the light so it works with your space, not against it. Fortunately, window decorations give you lots of control over lighting.
Soften Harsh Sun
If you have intense direct sun glaring into your living space, it can cause more harm than good. The brightness strains the eyes while heat and UV radiation damage furniture and art. Thankfully, curtains and shades can help filter the harsh light. Light colored sheer curtains diffuse the glare. Solar shade fabrics specifically block UV rays while still letting in light. And blackout shades can block glare completely when needed.
Brighten Dark Corners
Does your living room have dim corners far from the window? Strategic placements and reflective materials can bounce natural light from the window to the darker areas. Install floor lamps or standing lamps with reflective shades near the window. Their metal parts will also reflect light. Position a large mirror on the wall opposite the window to reflect more light in. And choose semireflective sheer white curtains to distribute daylight around the room.
Regulate Temperature
Windows can lead to heat and cold loss that warms up your energy bills. Counteract temperature extremes through window decor selections. In hot climates, solar shades block heat gain from intense sun exposure. During cold months, insulated curtains and thermal blackout shades add extra insulation over the windows to prevent drafts. In all seasons, opening and closing curtains as needed helps regulate comfort.
Set the Mood with Natural Light
The shifting sunlight throughout the day creates different vibes. Play into the mood by adjusting window accents. Draw sheer curtains closed midday when sunlight is harshest or keep blackout curtains closed for a moody effect. Dim the light in the evenings by only opening the curtains halfway or lighting candles nearby. This turns low evening light into an atmospheric glow.
Complement the Design Aesthetic
When it comes to aesthetics, the options for window decor are endless. It’s generally best to decorate window accents in a way that complements your overall interior design style. Otherwise, the window could end up looking disjointed from the rest of the room.
Modern and Minimalist
For contemporary living rooms, less is more when it comes to windows. Skip the ornate and opulent drapes in favor of simple linen curtains in neutral solids for a clean look. Add warmth with natural wood blinds. Floating curtains with hidden rods keep the lines simple and sleek. Minimal metal hardware and unadorned shade pulls blend in. Skip clutter on the window sill to keep it looking open and airy.
Rustic Farmhouse
Play into the cozy farmhouse style with window accents to match. Rough-weave linen curtains in natural hues feel charming. Faux wood blinds with a reclaimed look fit in. Go for simple gathered curtains and classic exposed rod brackets. Layer patterned curtains over the base window panels for dimension. Hammered iron hardware and antique-inspired pulley systems suit the timeworn style.
Traditional and Classic
For traditional decor, ornate window dressings steal the show. Embrace opulence with velvet curtains, tassels, and trimmings. Look for period-style details like swag valances and jabots. Iron scrollwork rods and finials add flair. Add classic Roman shades or richly colored drapes in heavy fabrics like brocade or damask. Vintage charm comes from touches like lace sheers and tiebacks.
Eclectic Bohemian
Windows mirror the eclectic mix of a boho space. Mismatched thrifted curtains in patchwork patterns, macrame with beads, or vibrant African mud cloth add artful asymmetry. Brass rods with ball finials introduce metallic accents. Display houseplants for a lived-in look. Top blackout roller shades with lightweight cotton curtains for a bohemian texture. Keep the vibe relaxed and carefree.
Make It Multi-Purpose
Don’t limit your living room window to just views and lighting. Use smart decor to make it multifunctional.
Added Privacy and Security
Sheer curtains allow light in while obscuring sightlines, giving privacy. For extra security, install motion sensor lights right outside the window. Shutters, whether functional or decorative, also make windows harder to see into. Make windows extra secure with pin locks, flip latches and key locks on shutters or sliding windows. Reinforce glass with security film to prevent easy breaking.
Display Space
Turn your window into a decorative display case. A tall bookshelf in front of the window shows off accent pieces while blocking unsightly views. Hang wall art or framed photos on clip curtain rods installed in front of the window. Attach hooks to the window framing to display air plants, wreaths or other 3D objects. Add a mirror for an artful infinite reflection effect.
Reading Nook
Carve out a cozy reading nook in front of a living room window. Add a comfy chair or cushioned window bench surrounded by shelves of books. Include a swing-arm sconce for night reading. Draw sheer curtains partway to let in natural light while maintaining privacy. Place a small side table for snacks and drinks next to your comfy seat. Add a blanket and pillows to get extra cozy.
Cat Perch
Make your living room window a favorite spot for furry friends. Install sturdy cat shelves along the sill for them to lounge on. Place cat scratching posts nearby so they can stretch and scratch. Hang bird feeders outside for kitties to gaze at. Open the bottom window partially so fresh air comes in. Keep the top shuttered for security. Draw lightweight curtains so cats can’t accidentally claw them down.
Incorporate Greenery
Plants bring any living space to life. They look especially lovely framed by windows that match their natural light needs.
Hanging Plants
Let greenery drape in front of windows to soften their hard edges. Spider plants, pothos and philodendrons are low light plants perfect for bright, south-facing windows. Hang them from macrame plant holders. Opt for trailing plants like ivy or wandering Jew in front of east and west-facing windows that get some direct sun. Hang climbing plants in front of north-facing windows that only get indirect light.
Windowsill Gardens
Line your windowsill with potted plants for bursts of life. Match low light succulents like jade or echeveria with bright southern windows. Pair air plants mounted on driftwood or mini cactus gardens with eastern or western light. Give northern windowsill gardens a boost by choosing low-light ferns, peace lilies or Chinese evergreens. For safety, use window boxes or secure pots with clips.
Faux Greenery
If you love the look of plants but lack a green thumb, faux greenery brings similar vibes. Silk plants in pots atop shelves, garlands draped over curtain rods and eucalyptus stems provide an effortless plant style. Take them outdoors seasonally for easy cleaning. When paired with real flowers or fruit, faux plants look surprisingly realistic.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size curtains should I get for my living room window?
For the most attractive fit, choose curtains that are at least 2-3 times the length of your window. Curtains that are too skimpy look out of proportion. If your ceiling height allows, opt for extra long curtains that puddle on the floor for a luxurious effect.
How do I make my living room window feel bigger?
Use tricks that visually expand the window:
- Hang rods and curtains as high above the window as possible to extend vertical space.
- Choose lightweight sheer curtains that allow maximum light flow.
- Use slim curtain rods and hardware for a streamlined look.
- Add reflective accents like mirrors and metallics nearby to bounce more light around.
How can I decorate my living room window cheaply?
There are plenty of budget-friendly ways to decorate windows:
- Opt for basic roller blinds instead of expensive drapes.
- Thrift shops and discount stores have curtain panels and rods for less.
- Dress up plain curtains with DIY touches like trim and tiebacks.
- Use command hooks and tension rods for quick, non-permanent window treatments.
What colors make a room look bigger and brighter?
Aim for light, bright colors like white and pale yellow. Soft greys and blues also feel airy. Add mirrors or metallics for reflective light. Monochromatic color palettes keep the room looking open. Avoid dark, bold colors which can make rooms feel smaller.
What should I avoid putting in front of a living room window?
Avoid furniture like media consoles that completely block the window. Bulky valances and swags also obstruct views and light. Sheer curtains work better than opaque drapes. Limit clutter and knick-knacks on the windowsill that make the window feel crowded. Avoid heavy window treatments that overwhelm the room.
Conclusion
Decorating your living room window requires balancing aesthetics, functionality and comfort. Take stock of the room’s existing light, views and design style. Play up desirable vistas or soften unpleasant ones. Choose window accents that complement your decor and match the room’s purpose. Regulate lighting and temperature with curtains and shades. Exploring the question of whether living rooms need windows opens up opportunities to transform these spaces into inviting sanctuaries; by incorporating useful features like cozy reading nooks, security elements, and pet-friendly spaces, coupled with the addition of eye-catching greenery or curated collections, one can creatively and thoughtfully turn a living room window into a stylish focal point that adds unique character to the entire space.
