Above Kitchen Window Decor to Brighten Your Space

Decorating the window over a kitchen sink provides an excellent opportunity to add style and function to this high-traffic area. With a few simple enhancements, the kitchen window can become a charming focal point rather than blending into the background.

Thoughtful choices bring out the best in this often overlooked space. A strategic refresh makes the kitchen more inviting and optimized for cooking and socializing.

Choosing Window Treatments to Complement the Kitchen

When selecting window treatments for the kitchen, consider the size and placement of the windows. Windows over the sink or cooktop usually need only simple styling since these spots require proper ventilation and light.

Start by taking stock of the existing style. The window decor should coordinate with the color palette, materials, and overall aesthetic of the kitchen. A sleek modern kitchen may call for unadorned windows, while a cozy cottage kitchen could incorporate cheerful curtains.

Simple options like open shelves, hanging plants, or spare artwork allow light to filter through while adding charm. If more privacy is desired, there are many creative window treatment solutions to explore.

Popular Kitchen Window Treatment Ideas

Kitchen windows are incredibly easy to decorate with a variety of options:

• Window valances and swags - Valances mounted above the window frame create a polished, finished look without obstructing the view. Swags of decorative fabric tied back at the sides provide a soft accent.
• Curtains and drapes - These allow for privacy and light control when made from light, opaque fabrics that prevent glare without sacrificing brightness.
• Shades and blinds - Available in materials like vinyl, wood, faux wood, and bamboo, these window treatments allow you to modulate incoming sunlight.
• Cafe curtains - Covering only the lower half of the window, these add a cute touch while maintaining visibility.
• Roman shades - The pleated fold design offers an elegant modern solution for screening the window.

The right window treatment depends on factors like the color and pattern of backsplashes and countertops, as well as the amount of natural light available in the kitchen. Cool tones like grays and blues pair well with stainless steel and marble materials, while warm neutrals complement granite, wood cabinetry, and farmhouse styles.

Kitchens with limited natural light benefit from lighter window treatments that allow sunlight to permeate. Northern exposure windows with ample light can handle heavier fabrics in deeper hues. Window height should also be considered - shorter windows nearer to the countertop may suit cafe style curtains, while taller windows can incorporate floor length drapes.

Cost-Effective Window Treatment Alternatives

For those on a tight budget, window treatments don't have to break the bank. Some affordable and creative options include:

• Repurposed bedsheets or tablecloths as makeshift curtains
• Painting faux wood blinds purchased from a dollar store
• Hanging a macrame wall hanging in lieu of drapes
• Reusing old curtains in a new room's color scheme
• Upcycling secondhand or thrifted window treatments

With a little DIY inspiration, even salvaged lace, fabric scraps, or bedsheets can be transformed into pleasant window dressings.

Creative Ideas for Above Kitchen Window Decor

For windows that don't require treatments, decorating the space above the window offers unlimited possibilities for adding personality. Some charming ways to dress up this area include:

• Display plates, cookbooks, or decorative objects
• Hang pendant lights or a chandelier as a focal point
• Add floating wall shelves for plants or spices
• Use a large mirror to reflect light
• Install an accent wall with wallpaper or color

The window ledge below can also be styled to match the room's aesthetic. For example, incorporate succulent planters, cafe au lait mugs, or a ceramic utensil holder.

Maximizing Small Kitchen Windows

Tiny kitchens and apartments often have modest windows. But even the smallest kitchen window can make a decor statement. Some tips for petite windows include:

• A mini floating shelf with petite accents like a vine plant or candle
• Framed artwork or an ornate mirror to draw the eye upward
• Sheer curtain panels to add softness without dominating
• Decorative window film or removable wallpaper for pattern
• Painting or highlighting window trim and sills

The space right above a small window can be filled with wall-mounted utensil racks, floating spice racks, or open shelves. For large-patterned backsplashes or boldly colored walls, the window itself can provide a welcomed neutral focal point.

DIY Accents to Frame Kitchen Windows

With some clever DIY projects, standard kitchen windows can be transformed into a decorative focal point. Try these budget-friendly ideas:

• Frame the window with trim or molding for added architecture
• Construct a simple wooden box frame to go around the window
• Add character with decorative tapes or stenciled designs
• Refresh the window with a coat of cheerful colored paint

The window frame and sill are often overlooked areas to enhance. Use paint or wallpaper to make these elements stand out. For a bold look, paint the window sill in a contrasting color to the walls like navy blue against white.

Removable wallpaper makes customizing window frames simple for renters. Try an ornate print or textured geometric pattern. Stenciling designs around the window also adds a special touch. Look for kits with vinyl stencils and specialty paint for glass.

Choosing Artwork to Showcase Above Kitchen Windows

From fine art to functional designs, artwork is a surefire way to amplify the visual appeal above kitchen windows. Consider these creative options:

• Paintings, prints, or family photos in complementary frames
• Framed collections of plates, spoons, or tiles
• Large floating wall hooks to display pots and pans
• Corkboard or whiteboard for reminders and lists

For a bit of whimsy, frame colorful dish towels or tea towels featuring food themes or retro motifs. Lean a vintage ladder against the wall to hang mugs and utensils.

Photo collages are an inventive way to celebrate memories, whether it's clippings from exotic travels or kids' artwork over the years. Try grouping framed photos in different shapes and sizes for visual interest.

An eclectic collection of artwork shows off your personal style. Combine flea market finds with new pieces in complementary hues. Or opt for a salon-style cluster gallery of artwork.

Coordination with Other Kitchen Elements

When decorating the space above kitchen windows, consider how the artwork coordinates with backsplashes, countertops, floors, and cabinets. Here are some tips:

• With neutral cabinetry, make a bold statement by choosing colorful art.
• Pick artwork featuring the same hues found in the backsplash or countertops.
• Metal finishes in the art coordinate well with stainless steel appliances.
• Wood frames pair nicely with warm woods featured in cabinetry or floors.

Repeating colors and textures found throughout the kitchen creates a cohesive feel. The window area presents an opportunity to layer in bolder accent hues as well.