Hi there! We just found our own solution to this issue, which was to use Hunter Douglas top-down, bottom-up Duette honeycomb shades on our upstairs windows - two of which are patio doors.

The top-down, bottom-up option allows you to let in a little light along the top, while still maintaining privacy.

We also went with the room darkening option.

Here are a couple of pics of the ones in our bedroom. We haven't yet hung stationary panels - which I recommend for added softness - as we literally just had this done.

Regular old black out curtains with sheers or light-filtering shades underneath.

You just saw "sliding panels" somewhere else on Houzz. It might be your solution. No vertical blinds as they are so outdated.

Karemore55, I'm not sure what you mean by stationary panels? For where exactly? Thank you! Also, I neglected to mention that there's a sunburst window above the sliding doors. Is there such a thing as a window treatment for that that would complement the sliding doors and be easy to access? Thanks!!

Good morning, iteach! As Patricia mentioned, you can get a covering for a sunburst window. Hunter Douglas (and others) have a pleated shade option, and it doesn't necessarily need to be fixed. In the pic below, you can see that it is openable - if you want this feature.

I love my pleated shades (Duette Architella)! I considered full drapes, but a good third of my windows would be covered by them when opened, and I have a great view outside that I want to enjoy.

The top-down, bottom-up feature is the perfect choice for allowing light in during the day while maintaining privacy.

Fixed panels are meant to be there for show (softness and coziness), so you usually only need a single panel on each side of the window. I don't find them skimpy. I have done this in two other rooms, where I have used solar shades to control sunlight, and the panels to soften up the look.

I should mention also that with stationary panels, you would still use a curtain rod that runs the full width of the window. And, if there is enough room, extend the outsides to about 10" - 12" beyond the edges of the window.

The best options for blocking light(completely) or as we say, "room darkening" are either the honeycomb cellular shades, blackout roman shades, blackout drapes, or a blackout roller shade. Depending on the size of your slider, you may find some limitations on your selections. If you just need privacy, there are many more options. For your arch above the slider, you can do as Karemore55 mentioned. Keep in mind that specialty windows, such as an arch, can be much more expensive than standard window treatments (like a rectangle).

Love all these ideas - plenty to work with!!