Decorating Ideas For Kitchen Windows

Grow herbs, such as rosemary, on your kitchen windowsill.

Although some homeowners prefer to leave their kitchen windows completely bare, others desire to decorate their kitchen windows. Instead of leaving it bare, which can create an unfinished look in your kitchen, or leaving boring blinds on it, dress it up with window treatments, colored glass or even architectural details.

Curtains

Curtains, or window treatments, are the first thing that most people think of when they consider decorating a window. Kitchen windows, however, require a light hand when it comes to curtains. Heavy, dark curtain panels do not work on most kitchen windows, as they are not only too formal but also block valuable light. Instead, consider a cafe curtain, which comes only halfway up the window, allowing light to enter from the top of the curtain. Alternately, consider hanging a valance, which decorates the top of the window but leaves the rest bare. One sheer curtain panel of lace provides privacy but allows light to enter. Finally, shades are an alternative to curtains. Install a plain roman shade accented with a bright ribbon.

Architectural Details

Add some architectural details to your window to make it stand out. For example, use ceiling molding to frame out your window. Paint the molding bright white and the kitchen walls a neutral color. Shutters are also a way to highlight a kitchen window. Small, narrow shutters on either side of a window give a kitchen a cozy, French country feel. You could also install small shelves on either side of the window and display items such as teacups, crystal or other kitchen collectibles.

Accessories

Consider adding items directly to and around the window to decorate it. For example, a stained-glass sun catcher adds warmth and color to any kitchen. Commission a custom piece for an upscale look, or create your own with a simple kit purchased at any craft store. Don't forget the windowsill. Fill your kitchen windowsill with plants that are useful as well as pretty. Herbs such as lavender, rosemary and sage are not only great to cook with but also thrive in sunny windows, creating a pleasing aroma in your kitchen as well as adding a fresh, green look to the room.

Tags: your kitchen, kitchen windows, architectural details, either side, either side window