Hi Jaci, get a curtain rod that bumps out the same 4 inches or greater from the wall and just continue the curtains pass the AC. In other words get a longer rod that give the appearance that your window is longer, but really its covering the AC, could possiblly work in summer to cause the AC could blow thru curtain if its thin enough.

I forgot to mention that I can't have the curtains that close to the stove. What about a tapestry that just covers it? I could put a bookshelf from floor to ceiling there.

You could try shorter curtains, like 63 inches depending on the length of the actual windows. Not sure if the tapestry would work because you would have another rod so close to the rod for the curtains and it would be a different height. What if you got two tapestry for each side of the window and put them on the same rod that the curtains are on. Bookcase could work if the AC fit exactly in the space between the shelves.

Thanks for the input. I am getting more ideas now. Maybe a shadowbox painting that just fits over the AC and then one above another (smaller shadowbox) paintings on the opposite side to balance it. I could also include the rock wall to camouflage the eyesore AC, too. I don't like short curtains. Will be changing these out to velvet when budget allows.

Hi, Jaci! We think your idea of a tapestry is good ( http://www.atgstores.com/tapestries_1459.html?), considering the location of the window and fireplace and your ability to take it down when summer comes. We would suggest a tapestry that is wide enough to "center" between the curtains and the edge of the wall that's mounted far enough out to not reveal the bulge of the unit behind. Something wide short may work, or something both wide and long. We've posted a few examples to give you ideas of different shapes. All are more than 50" wide. Good luck!

Hi Jaci

The simplest solution may be to add a 4" + horizontal frame/cleats to the back of a large framed painting, (around the perimeter) and attach heavy duty hanging brackets to the cleats. Then install anchors to support the painting, on the wall (secured into the studs) and painted the same color as the wall. The benefit to having the cleats attached to the painting vs the wall is that when you're using the AC in the summer, you can remove the painting and will barely notice the anchors on the wall.

Steve

Great Idea Steve. I am now thinking (and your idea fits in) of putting a rock wall with a mantle on it that comes right to the bottom of the AC. Your idea for the picture would fit right on the mantle. Then I can display more items on it - maybe make it kind of a corner mantle. I think that would be a bold statement. Any comments?

add painted or dark stained 2 x 4 on edge from floor to ceiling spaced 5" apart from the corner behind the heater to a point just past the air condition unit. Including on top and below the unit. Then add beveled 1 x 3" on top of the 2 x 4's. Short point of the bevel to the rear. This will act a vains to direct the air flow of the unit. I'd nail this all together except the pieces covering the unit which you would screw for future access.

Thanks Jaci. If you do install the rock wall with a mantel I'd suggest doing it on both of the walls for symmetry. Two pieces of artwork may also work best for balance

Steve

Can you pull the curtains aside so we can see what the other windows are like? I'm thinking to add another "faux" window with framing and use plantation shutters on all of them to unify the wall and hide the AC.

Will post more pictures shortly. Have to run errands. I do so appreciate all the info. I don't know when I have had so much fun. It's so true that think tanks work best. Thanks

At the moment you don't have another focal to focus on which is why you notice the a/c unit so much. Your idea of a stone wall with decorative elements on a mantle will help make the a/c far less noticeable to you.
I assume the view in nice in the daytime and you leave the draperies open but close them at night. I also feel the sofa must be facing a TV and that's why it's in front of the window instead of across and facing the window and fireplace.

At the moment you don't have another focal to focus on which is why you notice the a/c unit so much. Your idea of a stone wall with decorative elements on a mantle will help make the a/c far less noticeable to you.
I assume the view in nice in the daytime and you leave the draperies open but close them at night. I also feel the sofa must be facing a TV and that's why it's in front of the window instead of across and facing the window and fireplace.

Yes, Joanne, that is ALL true. It's a one room cottage. That is actually a daybed. There are other nice features in the room - a kitchen and eating nook on the opposite side. Lots of windows and wildlife frequents the area. My favorite place to sit is on the daybed and watch the wildlife.

We can sometimes put a microscope to our own environment. I feel no one would even notice the a/c based on what you have just written. However, I do relate to wanting to improve what you notice everyday as an eyesore - hope your project works out for you. Good Luck

Putting anything that reduces airflow in front of AC is NOT a good idea. If it really bothers you, you might consider a 2 piece unit. They are slim and used all over the world. The Japanese developed them. http://www.fujitsugeneral.com/end_user_home.htm

I don't use the air conditioner in the winter or the stove in the summer so I will trade off on the decor. Whatever I put over the AC will be removed for the summer. Thanks.

I vote a metal room divider. You can move it in the corner for decor when you use the AC.

That's a great idea. One with a nice design. It could also be used for privacy at night if a guest is sleeping on the day bed (in the summer).

We will have to agree to disagree. with the bevel on the 1x there may be a little increase in air flow speed, but not enough to impede normal function. (I did commercial air systems balancing in my younger days)

Thanks. I appreciate the input. Not sure how to go about it yet. I am looking for faux rock wall panels now. I will start there. Any one know of a good supplier?

Hi Jaci,
I had a very similar layout issue! The very talented Layla Palmer (The Lettered Cottage) designed a great layout for me to disguise my AC unit. Although you wouldn't be able to do the same layout, it might trigger some ideas for you about how to draw focus away from the AC. Hope it helps!
Here's the link to Layla's post: http://theletteredcottage.net/virtual-living-roomdining-room-consultation-for-nick-meredith-and-jack/

Thanks Meredith - I have perused that site before. Good ideas there. Thanks for sharing.

@Meredith - I *love* what Layla created for you! Thanks for sharing that!
~ Steve

I'M Abdel . I learn my Moroccan art Design from My Father Since 1982 till now , I hope and wish to find some one to admire what i do like Moroccan Islamic Art plus craft too just call me at 704 720 9553 or email me at artman_63@hotmail.com you will be surprised for my beautiful art ,,,i can do all can of furniture Ceilings with art and craft of course ...thank you i live in NC USA Best Regard
Abdou Errahmani