Window treatments for small kitchens require consideration of a number of factors, including light transmission, privacy, aesthetics, etc. Small windows, by their very nature, only let in limited natural light, so it's important to ensure you don't minimize the light let-in potential while still maintaining a comfortable level of privacy.
“Decorate the windows [even a small one] “Adding texture and pattern to a space can instantly elevate a plain kitchen,” says Linda Hayslett, principal of Los Angeles-based LH. Designs. “A patterned treatment, for example, can add a punch of color and movement, while something like a woven shade can add personality and visual interest.”
Luckily, your kitchen window treatments don't have to offer the same level of privacy as other spaces in your home, like your bedroom, giving you more leeway in your choices—though if your window treatment is over your kitchen sink, you'll want to consider fabrics that are resistant to mold and water.
How to decorate a small kitchen window
When choosing window treatments for a small room, don't be afraid to add color and pattern with Roman blinds, says Theresa Butler, president and founder of Atlanta-based Theresa Butler Interiors. “Or choose bamboo or rattan Roman shades to introduce a different texture, or choose a sheer fabric for a light-blocking effect. The possibilities are endless.”
To give you some inspiration, here are 7 small kitchen window decor ideas you’ll want to copy.
1. Choose neutral colors for a seamless, airy feel
(Image courtesy of Lauren Taylor. Design by LH. Designs)
Maybe you already have neutral kitchen cabinets and don't want to draw attention to the size of your windows, then seamlessly installing neutral blinds will create a light and airy finish.
“To achieve a timeless and versatile look, we recommend choosing neutral colors for your kitchen window treatments,” says Lauren Lerner, CEO and principal of Arizona-based studio Living with Lolo. “Neutral colors like white, beige, and gray blend seamlessly with a variety of styles and color schemes, helping to keep your kitchen looking consistent even as your décor changes.”
Alternatively, a neutral decor for a small kitchen window will blend in with a stronger decorative theme in the rest of the space.
“This is especially helpful in kitchens with bold elements, as neutral tones provide a balanced backdrop without casting shadows,” says Lauren. “Neutral tones enhance the sense of space and light, making them ideal for small kitchens or kitchens with limited natural light. Neutral window treatments create a sense of calm by blending in, and highlight the kitchen's features. Choosing neutral tones helps keep the kitchen spacious, airy and adaptable.”
2. Upgrade your small kitchen with sheer cafe curtains
(Image courtesy of Stephen Karlisch. Design by Maestri Studio)
Window treatments in small kitchens must be careful not to block too much light entering the space. As seen in the series of small windows in the above kitchen designed by Maestri Studios, sheer cafe curtains provide privacy, while the top third of the windows are left open to let in as much natural light as possible.
“Sheer curtains are great because they add verticality and drape without making them feel heavy or overwhelming a room,” explains Joshua Smith, president and founder of Joshua Smith Co. “They bring softness to very rigid architectural lines and allow light in while still providing privacy.”
Slub Texture Linen Blend Cafe Curtain Tier
price: Set of 2 for $14.19
color: White, Natural
3. Create texture with woven blinds
(Image courtesy of Life Created. Design by Living with Lolo)
If you're looking for an easy way to add texture and don't want to spend a fortune, woven shades or chic blinds are a great option for small kitchen window treatments.
“Woven shades are especially popular in kitchens and bathrooms,” says Joshua Smith, “and when it comes to understated elegance, it's all about texture, so if you're not too picky about color or pattern, texture is your best ally.”
Opting for something like woven bamboo blinds has the added benefit of being more resistant to moisture than other styles. Woven blinds not only add a touch of texture, but also allow light to filter through in a beautiful mottled pattern while still providing great privacy.
Lauren Lerner, who created the beautiful space above, agrees, adding, “Woven shades are a great, affordable option and perfect for coastal homes.”
Aymeric Semi-Sheer Roman Shade
price: From $55.99
was: $75.99
size: Over 40 sizes available
4. Choose Roman blinds for an easy yet elegant look
(Image courtesy of Julie Soefer. Design: Marie Flanigan Interiors)
Roman blinds (the favorite of window-decorating designers) are an especially good option for decorating small kitchen windows because they move up and down rather than taking up the space on either side of the window (which may not be the case).
“Roman shades offer the perfect balance of privacy and soft light filtering, making them a great way to beautify your kitchen,” explains Marie Flanigan, principal of Marie Flanigan Interiors. “Their versatile design will complement any kitchen décor and allow you to easily adjust light levels throughout the day.”
However, it's important to note that if you choose a fabric Roman shade, you should consider a wipeable fabric for maximum practicality.
5. Add color and pattern with printed blinds
(Image courtesy of Lauren Taylor. Design by LH. Designs)
Go bold with your small kitchen window treatments, says interior designer Theresa Butler. Just like bathrooms, the smallest areas of your home can sometimes offer the best opportunities for bold design. Try colorful, patterned curtains.
“Because your kitchen window is small, it's easy to design a window treatment using the window as is – you might just paint the frame to tie it all together,” she adds. “But having a window treatment makes the design feel more complete, so it's a great time to explore colors, patterns and textures.”
Letau Blackout Roman Shade Blinds
price: $69.99
color: Choose from 14
6. Add decorative elements to your small kitchen window
(Image courtesy of Life Created. Design by Living with Lolo)
Instead of covering it with fabric, you can get creative with your window treatment ideas and opt for something like a shelf for your kitchen window.
“Open shelving in front of a window is a unique idea that can add storage to even a small kitchen without sacrificing natural light,” says Lauren Lerner. “Simplicity is the key with open shelving; over-stuffing it can take away from the overall appeal. This is important, especially if you're placing the shelves in front of a window, as you want to make sure there's enough space for the shelves to let in natural light.”
Or maybe a small kitchen window. object Decorate your window space beautifully: consider potted plants, vases of flowers, and scented candles.
7. Ditch the window decorations
(Images by Matthew Delfenich, courtesy of Fisher & Paykel)
But when it comes to small kitchen window treatments, sometimes not covering them up completely is the best option. You don't want to block out the light, and privacy is generally less important in the kitchen, so it's fine to keep a small window simple and fuss-free.
