A Guide to Arched Windows

Arched windows combine a rectangular lower half with a gracefully curved upper half, offering a timeless design that brightens any space. The window type features a rounded design and a large glass surface which enhances the flow of natural light, making rooms feel more open and inviting. Perfect for both modern homes and traditional settings, arched windows serve as a stunning focal point that blends functionality with elegance.

This unique window shape brings both beauty and function to a space. Whether used as a statement piece or to complement other windows, arched windows offer several design and architectural advantages.

• Adds architectural elegance: The curved design instantly elevates the overall look of a home’s interior or exterior.
• Produces a sense of openness: A smooth arch draws the eye upward, making rooms feel more spacious and by emphasizing vertical space, ceilings may appear higher than they are.
• Makes a classical design statement: Arches seamlessly blend traditional and modern style together, adding a graceful and sophisticated look to any home.
• Softens hard lines in any room: To create a softer aesthetic, the arched top frame adds a smooth design element.
• Enhances natural light: These windows allow more sunlight, creating a brighter and welcoming atmosphere.
• Pairs well with rectangular and other window types: The curved top contrasts with the hard edges of rectangular and square shapes throughout a home.

The design of arched windows dates back to ancient civilizations, where arches were a revolutionary structural element in aqueducts, bridges and eventually buildings. Romanesque architecture appeared in the 11th century and is now known for rounded arches and sturdy walls, creating expansive interiors. In the Gothic period, arched windows reached new heights of artistry in cathedrals and churches, adorned with intricate stained glass that transformed interiors with vibrant light. During the Renaissance era, architecture emphasized the importance of proportions, evenly distributing arched windows throughout the exterior facade. In the 16th and 17th centuries, Baroque architecture was characterized by its dramatic features, using bold arched windows that draw the eye upwards. Windows were used as decorative elements incorporating stained glass and unique placements.

From classic to contemporary, these windows come in a variety of styles that complement different home designs. Whether you’re looking to enhance natural light, add a decorative element or create a bold statement, there’s an arched window to suit your space. Explore four distinct styles to find the perfect fit for your home.

Characterized by their distinctive pointed arches, gothic-styled windows are commonly featured in homes with arched doors and roof gables, or in Victorian or Tudor style homes.

Typically placed above entry doors, arched transom windows help to brighten a home’s interior with an abundance of sunlight without compromising privacy.

Recognized for their distinctive arched top and rectangular base, arched casement windows help regulate temperatures with their superior ventilation. They are hinged at the side and open outwards, bringing in lots of sunlight and air.

Defined by their clean lines and simple frames, modern arched windows are inspired by Gothic and Romanesque design. These windows are customized to fit the modern window aesthetic with their elegant, sleek frames and large glass panels.

Rounded windows can beautifully complement any home style. Whether you’re looking to replace an old window or add a new arched window to your space — there are a few factors to consider before beginning your window journey.

Structural Requirements

Arched windows bring elegance and charm to any home, but their unique design can make replacements more complex. Before starting, homeowners should consider the window’s distinctive shape and ensure the proper support systems are in place. For a one-for-one replacement, precise measurements are crucial for a seamless fit. If you're converting a rectangular window to a curved design, work with a professional to ensure all structural modifications and reinforcements are expertly completed to support the new style.

Design Compatibility

Rounded windows are compatible with a variety of home styles, especially traditional, Mediterranean and Tuscan where arched windows are commonly featured. When installing arched windows, homeowners should also consider the material and finish. Having matching frames and complementary colors will ensure the new arched windows add consistency to the home. Curved windows can be paired with other window shapes such as rectangular windows. To achieve a consistent design, you may consider matching your arched windows with the rest of the windows in your home. Using the same colors and grille patterns across different shapes and window types creates an intentional look and feel.

Cost

In most cases, arched windows are more expensive than rectangular windows due to their customizations and unique shape. The complex design and details of an arched window may require a specialized manufacturing processes which can increase production costs for window suppliers. Plus, if you need to widen your wall, you may incur additional expenses during the installation process.

Arched windows, with their graceful curves and rounded tops, create a striking contrast to the sharp lines of rectangular frames, adding a touch of sophistication and visual intrigue to any space. They act as a focal point, elevating a home’s aesthetic, without compromising on natural light. Get inspired as we share five of our favorite arched windows below.

The arched window décor highlights a traditional grille pattern, making an architectural design statement that acts as the focal point of the room. These living room windows were custom-built to match the homeowner’s favorite painting, displayed above the piano. It features beautiful wood arched top windows that make the room undeniably elegant.

To mimic the artwork, the homeowner selected custom Pella® Reserve™ wood windows. We love the sophistication these new arched windows offer, not to mention the abundance of natural light they let flood the space. The before and after pictures of this project show just how transformative new windows were for the space.

There are many things to love about this dining room arched window: expansive glass and graceful curves to name a couple. The dining room is a space for gathering family, entertaining guests and enjoying each other’s company. We adore the way this arched top window makes the room feel more spacious and welcoming by bringing in waves of natural light. Choosing a white window makes the space feel even brighter. The large dining room window invites the outdoors in, bringing the serene lake ambience to the room. From the graceful arched top window to the complementary arched ceiling beams, this room is classy, yet simple, in the best of ways.

What’s not to love about this arched window in the kitchen? Its subtle elegance dresses up the space, without overpowering all the other beautiful details. The white window with grilles blend the neutral walls and arched window trim. The full spring line window smoothly combines the soft curves of a circle with the sharp corners of a rectangle, adding traditional style to the space. Simply put, this kitchen window makes a delicate design statement that only adds to the grandiose feel of this space.

The sheer size of this large arched window is one of the reasons we love it. The custom window is bold, unique and eye-catching to the point that you can’t help but take it in! The homeowners wanted a modern cottage aesthetic for their window replacement project. This style combines traditional elements like arched doorways and vintage fixtures with modern elements like moody colors and different textures. The arched window perfectly achieves that vision with captivating curves and color contrast. Choosing black windows for the project creates a distinguished and expansive look against the stone exterior of the home. There’s no doubt in our minds that this arched window is working wonders when it comes to curb appeal.

Why did a bathroom make the list, you ask? While often overlooked, bathroom windows can make a tight space feel bigger and brighter. There are so many window ideas for a bathroom remodel – that’s why we admire the thought and detail that went into designing this spa-like oasis. The gothic-style arched window offers historical authenticity, while the dark and moody paint color incorporates chic modern style. It’s a gorgeous, one-of-a-kind combination that commands your attention.

When considering adding or replacing an arched window, finding the right style is a key consideration in this decision-making process. Arched windows will need to work well with the other decorative and design features throughout the home. Ensure that your arched window material, shape and color complements the other elements. To create consistency, all design features should have a unifying theme to create an aesthetically pleasing look.

Your first step in the arched window process should be enlisting help from local experts. Pella Windows and Doors have teams across the United States ready to assist you in finding the perfect solution for your home. We offer free in-home consultation with experienced professionals, easing the purchasing process. Our experts will show you a variety of window materials — vinyl, fiberglass and wood — along with design and customization options, bringing your arched window vision to life.