For privacy, I like venetian blinds. Not the old aluminum ones, but thicker wooden blinds. In white. They really are the good for light control and privacy. Then, I would do simple panels.

Another idea could be a bamboo shades, also flanked by panels. Looks like by keeping them drawn halfway during the day, you would get the privacy needed.

It has been a while since elaborate window treatments. Many of us opt for none!

Along with all the decorating sites, I would look at homes for sale. High end homes in upscale neighborhoods. You will get to see what people are currently doing in real life.

Yes, 1” wood or faux wood blinds would be good for letting in some light when needed. A custom Roman shade with lining would work too. For a more dressed look you can add a bit of trim.

We have the wider faux blinds on almost all of our windows. They’re affordable and work great for privacy and controlling light. They do require cleaning which can be a pain however, we like the way they look and fuction so it’s worth it to us.

Also, I know they’re not as popular maybe as they used to be, but you could add a nice valance or some faux roman blinds as well. That will to help add some color and interest to the room. I had some custom made on Etsy with a fabric I chose. They did a great job and I like the way they soften up the space a bit. If you’re interested, I can post a pic for you later today.

2" faux wood! Perfect!

eld, do you think we could put panels up even with the steps to the left?

You could put panels up if you don't mind them covering the windows on each end. And put the rod up as high as you can to make the ceiling look taller.

I agree wit gracie. But to be honest, I didn't notice your steps.

Start with 2 inch white wood (faux or real) blinds, and then we can reevaluate.

We have also used faux blinds on many of our windows, the only place we added draperies was in our master bedroom. We used California shutters in our living room but the area and windows suits them.

I'm one of those who didn't want window treatments at all but was overruled.

So it's looking like white blinds would be simple and clean. And easy, a bonus which TBH would be nice for a change ;)

Has anyone considered/used/have suggestions for a particular woven or bamboo shade?

Just wondering if light filtering instead of total blackout might make this little cottage airier...

Just putting it out there that I think in cottage style decor that curtain length doesn't have to be to the ground!

https://www.houzz.com/discussions/the-case-for-short-curtains-dsvw-vd~3357357

I agree with the blinds suggestion. Sometimes a room just needs the fabric/texture/ color of curtains, and if that is the case in your room, you have room for simple straight hanging panels. Only you can know that based on your other furniture and accessories.

In many situations, suggestions are made to extend the rods out to make the window appear wider or to let in more light. In your situation, if you choose to hang drapes, I would cover most of the side panels in something light and breezy - should not interfere with your stairs.

If you have the ability to mount something inside you can also look at the cordless top down/bottom up light filtering cellular shades. They provide privacy but also a softness of fabric without hanging drapery panels. Something like https://www.selectblinds.com/cellular-shades.html

robo, thanks so much for that link. I had forgotten about it. You made me look at short curtains in a whole new light!

This look is something different and would suit “a charming cape” , I think. ( However, I am always a fan of plantation shutters or blinds for the option of complete privacy.) — Faux panels at the sides will soften the window , while not taking up as much space , combined with a cafe drape -

If you decide to get two-inch wood blinds, get real wood, not faux. I have both and the the faux wood slats are heavy when you pull them up. And thicker. Spend the extra money for real wood.