Ask Joshua: What Are the Best Window Treatments for Tall Windows?

Hi Joshua,

My husband and I have been debating the best window treatments for the tall windows in our home. We have 9- to 10-foot ceilings and large floor-to-ceiling windows that bring in plenty of natural light, but they also create a few challenges.

We'd like more privacy and better control of the afternoon sun during the summer months, but we're not sure whether curtains, shades, shutters, or another option would work best. I personally like Roman shades, but my husband worries they may feel too traditional for our home.

Another concern is accessibility. Since the windows are so tall, we're worried about how practical certain window treatments will be to operate on a daily basis.

What are the best window treatments for tall windows, and how can we make these oversized windows look beautiful while still being functional?

Thank you,

Jane – Nashville, TN

AI-generated visualization created to help illustrate one approach to dressing tall windows with white Roman shades. This industrial chic living room was styled by virtual interior designer Joshua Jones of JJones Design Co.

Hi Jane,

Tall windows can be beautiful architectural features, but they also present some unique challenges that homeowners don't always anticipate. Between privacy concerns, glare from the sun, and the difficulty of reaching treatments mounted high above the floor, it's important to choose a solution that is both attractive and practical.

One thing I should mention is that Roman shades aren't just for traditional homes. Depending on the fabric, color, and fold style, they can work beautifully in traditional, transitional, coastal, modern farmhouse, and even some contemporary spaces. So I wouldn't rule them out quite yet.

For tall windows, I generally recommend starting with function first. Since your windows extend from floor to ceiling and are difficult to reach, accessibility should play a major role in your decision. The last thing you want is a window treatment that looks beautiful but becomes frustrating to operate every day.

Because of that, I would strongly consider motorized shades. Motorized roller shades, Roman shades, and woven wood shades can all provide privacy and light control without requiring you to climb on furniture or stretch to reach cords and controls. Many homeowners with tall windows find that motorization quickly becomes one of their favorite features in the home.

If you're still comparing different options, I recommend reading my Complete Guide to Window Treatments, where I break down the pros and cons of shades, blinds, shutters, drapery, privacy levels, and light-control capabilities.

When it comes to appearance, I typically prefer treatments that complement the height of the windows rather than compete with them. Tall windows naturally draw the eye upward and make a room feel larger. The right window treatment should enhance that effect.

For oversized windows, simplicity is often your friend. Rather than introducing multiple layers or overly complicated treatments, I usually recommend choosing a solution that allows the windows themselves to remain the focal point. After all, the reason homeowners invest in tall windows is to enjoy the natural light, views, and dramatic sense of scale they bring to a room.

If you're considering adding drapery to your tall windows, be sure to read my Complete Guide to Drapery. It covers everything from fabric selection and fullness to installation tips and design considerations.

For your particular situation, I would likely choose motorized shades paired with full-height drapery panels. This combination provides privacy, reduces glare during the summer, improves accessibility, and highlights one of the most impressive features of your home—the tall windows themselves.

Tall windows are meant to make a statement. The best window treatments should support that statement while making the space more comfortable and functional.

Thank you for your question!

Warmly,

Joshua Jones

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