Choosing blinds for large windows
- Lynne Whitteker
- Consultant
In short
Large windows bring light and views, but they also raise questions of privacy, warmth and cost. For very wide windows, more than one blind gives better light control and avoids bowing. Lightweight options like vertical and honeycomb blinds work well at scale, a continuous cord loop makes big blinds easier to operate evenly, and pairing a curtain over the blind helps with warmth if your home is not double-glazed.
Large windows bring grandeur to a home, with beautiful views and plenty of natural light. Working against them are the potential lack of privacy and security, and ironically all that light has its own downsides. Choosing the right blinds for large windows takes a little thought, so here is what to consider and the best options.
Table of contents
What to consider before you choose
A few practical factors matter more on a large window than a small one:
Look and feel: when closed, a large blind creates a big flat wall of fabric or slats, so choose a style and pattern that suits the space.
Multiple blinds: for very wide windows, more than one blind keeps out glare and gives privacy without blocking all the light.
Materials: match the blind to the room. Living and bedroom windows are flexible, but in a kitchen or bathroom avoid fabric and wood because of the moisture.
Warmth: large glass loses a lot of heat. Blinds can be thermally lined, but for the best result pair a curtain over the blind in winter if your home is not double-glazed. See our guide on which blinds provide the best insulation.
Cost: larger windows need more coverage, so they will always cost more than an average-sized blind.
Security and operation: a continuous cord loop raises and lowers a big blind evenly, and for tall windows check whether an inside or outside mount suits best.
The best blinds for large windows
Roman blinds
Being fabric, roman blinds bring a warmer, softer look. Choose a larger pattern, as small intricate designs can look busy at scale, and allow enough wall above the window for the blind to stack when raised.
Roller blinds
Tidy and modern, roller blinds keep the view as the main event. They are easy to operate, and on very wide windows multiple rollers give better daytime light control.
Venetian blinds
The slats of venetian blinds give excellent privacy, security and light control. Larger venetians can be heavy, so on wide windows use several on one headrail to prevent bowing and make them easier to manage.
Vertical blinds
An excellent option at scale, vertical blinds can be made to very large dimensions. They are lightweight, easy to clean and unobtrusive when open; decide whether the vanes stack to one side or open from the middle.
Shutters
Sturdy and increasingly popular, shutters suit large windows well, with a range of panel folds to span wide openings.
Honeycomb blinds
The big advantage of a honeycomb blind is how lightweight it is, so there is no bowing of the headrail or slats, plus it looks good and adds insulation.
Not sure which suits your windows? Request a free in-home consultation and one of our consultants will measure up and talk you through the best options for your space.
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Guides
Choosing the right blinds for your home
Not sure which blinds will suit your home? From blind types and key features to room-by-room advice, this guide covers everything you need to know.
Frequently asked questions
What blinds are best for large windows?
Vertical and honeycomb blinds are lightweight and avoid bowing on wide windows, roller blinds give a clean modern look that keeps the view as the feature, and shutters are sturdy and highly customisable. The best choice depends on the look you want and how wide the window is.
Should I use one blind or several on a wide window?
For particularly wide windows, more than one blind (or several on a single headrail) gives better light control, avoids bowing of slats, and means each blind is easier to raise and lower evenly.
Do blinds keep heat in on large windows?
Thermally-lined blinds help, but a large expanse of glass loses a lot of heat. If your home is not double-glazed or well insulated, pair a curtain over the blind in the cooler months for much better warmth.
Can blinds be made for very tall windows?
Yes. For tall windows, check whether the blind suits an inside or outside mount and whether the headrail fits at the very top. A continuous cord loop lift makes a tall or heavy blind easier to raise and lower evenly.
Expert advice at home
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