10 Kitchen Window Ideas Over the Sink: Creative and Stylish Ways to Elevate Your Kitchen Sink AreaLydia HartwellSep 24, 2025Table of Contents1. Frame It with Open Shelving2. Go for a Garden Window3. Add a Statement Light4. Extend the Backsplash Up5. Use Black Steel Frames6. Install a Cafe Curtain7. Create a Pass-Through Window8. Install Folding or Sliding Panels9. Match the Counter Material10. Add a Narrow Ledge for PlantsFAQFree Room PlannerDesign your dream room online for free with the powerful room designer toolStart for FREEOne time, I designed a kitchen where the sink faced a blank wall — and the client joked she felt like she was “washing dishes in solitary confinement.” Ever since, I’ve been obsessed with finding ways to turn that space above the sink into a little moment of joy. Small spaces have this magic: they push us to get more creative, and kitchen windows are no exception. Today, I’m sharing 10 ideas I’ve used (and sometimes learned the hard way) to make that spot shine.1. Frame It with Open ShelvingI once installed slim open shelves flanking a window, and it instantly felt like a styled café. It’s a perfect way to store pretty dishes, but be honest with yourself: dusting will be part of the deal. Still, it’s a gorgeous trade-off if you love that airy vibe — I even mocked it up using a room planner before approval.save pin2. Go for a Garden WindowGarden windows extend outward, creating a mini greenhouse. Herbs thrived there, and my client swore washing dishes became therapeutic. Just remember, they need regular cleaning inside and out — all those glass panes love to collect dust.save pin3. Add a Statement LightA pendant or mini chandelier hanging in front of the window adds drama, especially at night. You’ll need to hide or style the cord neatly so it doesn't ruin the view.save pin4. Extend the Backsplash UpCountersplash to ceiling around the window can make it look custom and luxe. One marble slab install I did made the whole wall a focal point, but you do lose a chance for wall storage there.save pin5. Use Black Steel FramesSwitching from a plain PVC frame to slim black steel made one of my projects look straight out of a design magazine. A touch industrial, a lot stylish — but budget accordingly, as custom frames add up.save pin6. Install a Cafe CurtainThis is such a cozy option. Light filters in from the top, while the bottom half hides the inevitable dish pile. Simple rods, sweet fabric, and you’ve got charm for days.save pin7. Create a Pass-Through WindowIn one small cottage, we cut the wall open above the sink and added a counter ledge into the dining room. It doubled as a serving hatch and opened up the space beautifully. Mapping it out first in a free floor plan creator saved us from layout regrets.save pin8. Install Folding or Sliding PanelsAccordion or sliding windows make indoor-outdoor entertaining a dream. I loved doing this for a client who hosted Sunday brunches on her deck. Weather sealing can be the tricky bit here.save pin9. Match the Counter MaterialCasing the inside of the window with the same stone or wood as the countertop makes everything flow. It’s a subtle designer trick, but fabrication costs might climb.save pin10. Add a Narrow Ledge for PlantsA slim built-in ledge just inside the window is perfect for succulents or a row of tiny vases. In one remodel, the plants practically became the art. We fine-tuned the measurements in a kitchen layout planner to make sure nothing blocked the faucet.save pinFAQ1. What’s the best height for a kitchen window over the sink?Typically, the bottom of the window should be level with or slightly above the countertop, around 36 inches from the floor.2. Can I add a larger window without major structural changes?It depends on the wall’s load-bearing status. Always consult a contractor; the International Residential Code sets safety standards for alterations.3. Do garden windows work in cold climates?Yes, if you choose insulated glass and quality seals. Condensation can be an issue without proper ventilation.4. What window treatments work best above the sink?Lightweight, washable fabrics or vinyl shades are ideal — think easy to clean and moisture-friendly.5. Are black steel window frames more expensive?Yes, they tend to cost more than wood or vinyl, but they’re durable and offer a sleek, timeless look.6. Can I DIY a pass-through window?You can, but it involves cutting into a wall, so professional assessment for safety and electrical rerouting is crucial.7. How do I design around a small window?Extend shelves or backsplash, and add lighting to enhance its presence without changing the size.8. Should I match my window trim to my cabinets?Not necessarily — contrasting trim can be striking. Just make sure it harmonizes with your overall palette.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