7 Transom Window Covering Ideas

Published 6/5/2024

Transom windows that frame doors and large windows add architectural design and dimension but can be tricky to cover. Follow our guide to find the right balance between privacy, light control, and aesthetics. If you need more inspiration, take a look at these 2024 window trends. 

From sleek blinds to stylish shutters, there are plenty of innovative window treatment options available to enhance the beauty and functionality of your transom windows.

What’s a Transom Window?

Maybe you’ve never heard of a transom window, but you’ll know one when you see it. Transom windows are those small, horizontal types of windows typically located above glass doors or other windows. They add character and elegance to a space by allowing natural light to filter in to the interior.

Why Are Transom Windows Difficult to Cover?

The size and shape of transom windows present a unique challenge. Their narrow width and elongated height often don’t align with standard window treatment sizes, making it difficult to find off-the-shelf solutions that fit properly. Privacy is also a significant concern, especially in bedrooms and bathrooms. 

Placement is another factor that complicates the selection process. Transom windows are commonly situated above French doors or other windows, which can affect the functionality of traditional window treatments. For instance, drapes or curtains might obstruct the door’s movement or interfere with the operation of lower windows.

The combination of size constraints, awkward placement, and the desire to preserve natural light can make choosing the right window covering a daunting task, but luckily Norman® has solutions!

7 Ideas to Cover Your Transom Windows

There are plenty of innovative window treatment options available to enhance the beauty and functionality of your transom windows. Here are our favorite ideas:

Solar Shades to Keep Natural Lighting

Solar shades are designed to filter sunlight gently, reducing glare and heat while allowing ample natural light to penetrate the room. This feature is perfect for transom windows and bay windows, helping to maintain the brightness and openness of the space.

By reducing solar heat gain, Soluna® roller shades offer a simple solution for improving energy efficiency, lowering energy bills, and contributing to a more sustainable and environmentally friendly house. They even preserve the quality of your furniture, flooring, and artwork by blocking harmful UV rays!

Homely Comfort with Wood Blinds

The warm, organic look of natural wooden blinds adds a touch of timeless charm and comfort to any space, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal of tall windows. Available in a variety of custom sizes, finishes, and stains, wood blinds offer versatility in design to suit your living room interior décor.

Known for their durability and longevity, Ultimate™ Normandy® Wood Blinds are a practical investment. High-quality hardwood materials resist warping, cracking, and fading, so blinds maintain their appearance and functionality over time.

Faux Wood Blinds For Kitchen Transom Windows

Faux wood blinds are made from highly moisture-resistant materials such as PVC or vinyl, making them a great option for the Kitchen & Bathroom where splashes and humidity are common. 

Unlike real wood blinds, Ultimate™ Faux Wood Blinds are even less susceptible to warping, cracking, or fading. They retain their appearance and functionality even in high-traffic areas.

Additionally, Faux wood blinds are typically more budget-friendly than their real wood counterparts, making them a cost-effective option for covering transom windows in kitchens.

Flat Roman Shades For a Clean Look

Flat Roman Shades feature a clean and modern appearance that complements the horizontal orientation of transom windows and arched windows, creating a cohesive and visually appealing look. Centerpiece™ Roman Shades can be custom-made to perfectly fit the dimensions of your window for a tailored and professional finish with no gaps or overhangs.

Available in a wide range of fabric options, including light-filtering and blackout materials, homeowners can choose a material to suit their desired light and privacy levels. Roman Shades are easy to operate and convenient for hard-to-reach areas.

Motorized Cellular Shades: Avoid Any Hassle

Motorized cellular shades offer convenient and accessible operation for unparalleled safety. Ditch the cords and effortlessly raise or lower your cellular shades with the push of a button or through smartphone and tablet control.

Motorized cellular shades allow for precise adjustment, allowing you to fine-tune your light and privacy levels. You can even program your shades to open or close at specific times of the day, optimizing natural light and temperature control around small windows.

Get a Polished Look with Roman Shades

Roman Shades feature soft, cascading folds that add an elegant and tailored look to transom windows. With a variety of colors, patterns, and luxury fabric options available, Roman shades can be customized to complement any interior design style.

These shades provide versatile light control and privacy options. Raise or lower them to adjust the amount of natural light entering the room and maintain the desired ambiance while minimizing glare and UV exposure. They are a modern alternative to standard draperies or drapery panels. 

Custom Shutters For a Perfect Fit

Custom shutters are made to precisely fit the unique dimensions of difficult windows, ensuring a seamless and polished appearance. Constructed from high-quality durable materials such as wood or composite, coverings like Normandy® shutters provide long-lasting performance and resistance to daily wear and tear.

Whether you prefer a traditional, rustic look or a more modern, sleek aesthetic, shutters feature clean lines, and customizable stains and design options to suit your aesthetic.

Choose Your Window Treatment Carefully

Be mindful that not all window treatments are suitable for this unique window style. Factors such as the type of room and its intended use, budget constraints, desired materials, and maintenance requirements should all be considered. How much light enters the space, and your desire to balance privacy with views of the outdoors is also important.

Additionally, think about whether you plan to operate the window treatments manually, or opt for a motorized option. Investing in a pole for raising and lowering may be necessary, especially for transom windows situated in hard-to-reach areas. 

Alternatively, Norman®’s collections of motorized shades and shutters are particularly beneficial for transom windows, as they eliminate the need for manual adjustment and provide enhanced accessibility for all users. 

This level of convenience, coupled with the stylish design and functionality of our products, allows you to find the perfect transom window treatment solution to enhance the beauty and functionality of your space.

Cover Any Window with Norman®’s Quality Products

Explore our extensive collection of transom window treatments to find the perfect solution for your space. Whether you’re looking for sleek and modern options or classic and elegant designs, we have something to suit every style and preference. Browse our selection and discover the possibilities for enhancing your home or office space.

Experience the quality, craftsmanship, and innovation of Norman® window treatments firsthand. For personalized assistance and expert advice, we encourage you to visit your nearest Norman® retailer.