10 Kitchen Window Curtain Ideas: Creative and Functional Curtain Ideas for Your Kitchen WindowsElena MorrisSep 24, 2025Table of Contents1. Sheer Café Curtains2. Roman Shades3. Bamboo Roll-Ups4. Patterned Valances5. Tiered Curtains6. Minimalist Roller Blinds7. Lace Panels8. Curtain and Blind Combo9. Color Block Curtains10. No-Curtain LookFAQFree Room PlannerDesign your dream room online for free with the powerful room designer toolStart for FREEA few years back, I had a client who insisted on velvet floor-length curtains… in the kitchen. Yes, you read that right. Between the spaghetti splashes and constant cooking steam, it was a disaster. That episode reminded me how small kitchen details — like window curtains — can make or break the space. Small spaces push me to be more inventive, and today I’m sharing my 10 favorite kitchen window curtain ideas that balance style and practicality.1. Sheer Café CurtainsI love café curtains for their light and airy look. They give you privacy without blocking sunlight, perfect for a bustling cooking space. I once matched them with a rustic wood counter, and the warmth was unmatched.save pin2. Roman ShadesRoman shades bring a tailored appearance to a kitchen. Choose linen or cotton for easy washing. For a recent remodel, I used a subtle stripe pattern, and the client loved how it played with the sunlight. I often plan fabric and hardware during the room planning phase to avoid last-minute mismatches.save pin3. Bamboo Roll-UpsThese add texture and a natural vibe. They’re perfect if you want a hint of shade but still let in a soft glow. The only caution: they can warp in very humid kitchens, so good ventilation is a must.save pin4. Patterned ValancesValances are playful and can hide less-than-pretty curtain hardware. In one small city apartment, a bold floral valance became the focal point of the kitchen and tied together mismatched chairs beautifully.save pin5. Tiered CurtainsThis layered approach lets you control light from top and bottom separately. I’ve used it in kitchens that double as breakfast nooks for a charming café feel. Pairing tiers with a smart floor plan design can help define spaces visually.save pin6. Minimalist Roller BlindsFor a modern kitchen, roller blinds in a neutral tone are sleek and easy to clean. They work especially well if you have bold backsplash tile and want the window treatment to fade into the background.save pin7. Lace PanelsRetro but timeless, lace panels scatter natural light in such a romantic way. I sometimes caution clients about grease — positioning them away from the stove helps.save pin8. Curtain and Blind ComboCombining blinds for function and curtains for style can be a winning mix. In a recent coastal home project, textured blinds kept midday sun out, while airy curtains softened the look.save pin9. Color Block CurtainsThese make a bold design statement without overwhelming small kitchens. I once paired mustard and cream panels with a walnut counter, which made the whole space feel brighter. Planning bold choices alongside a kitchen layout mockup can prevent regrets.save pin10. No-Curtain LookSometimes the best design is none at all. If you have a stunning garden view, why hide it? I’ve had clients who worried about privacy initially, but with strategic landscaping, it turned into their favorite ‘design feature.’save pinFAQQ1: What fabric works best for kitchen window curtains?Cotton and linen are my go-to because they’re washable and durable against kitchen moisture.Q2: Are sheer curtains practical in the kitchen?Yes, if placed away from heavy cooking zones. They let in light while offering some privacy.Q3: How to clean bamboo roll-up shades?Use a soft cloth or duster weekly, and wipe with a damp cloth for deeper cleaning. Avoid soaking them.Q4: Can I use long curtains in a small kitchen?It’s possible, but they can get in the way. Opt for café length or rollers for efficiency.Q5: Do Roman shades work with modern kitchen designs?Absolutely — choose a simple fabric and minimal folds for a contemporary look.Q6: How do I choose a curtain color for my kitchen?I match it with either the countertop or backsplash for a cohesive palette, as suggested by the National Kitchen & Bath Association.Q7: Is it okay to mix blinds and curtains?Yes, especially for balancing light control and aesthetic. Just keep fabrics complementary.Q8: Are valances outdated?Not if styled well! Modern fabrics and clean lines can make valances fresh and current again.Start for FREEPlease check with customer service before testing new feature.Free Room PlannerDesign your dream room online for free with the powerful room designer toolStart for FREE