You need electronic shades as they are so high up, these additions will increase resale value if you sell sooner than later. Window treatments are never inexpensive unfortunately but will make it easier to enjoy living there. Good luck with this, let us know if you need help!

So, if I went with the motorized shades up top, could I do something different on bottom windows or should they all be the same? What I really want is curtains on bottom. Thanks for your reply and suggestion!

You really need to speak to a local professional for help with these windows. Yes, you can add panels for warmth/color. Good luck!

I would go with CaliDesign's suggestion and install window film. I live in S. FL and most of my windows are tinted. When I saw the tint at the window showroom, I thought it would be too dark, but it's wonderful! My full-glass, front door, isn't tinted and because of that, I have to keep the shade down. It's a beautiful door, but I seldom get to enjoy it because of the strength of the sunshine glaring through.

Check these options !

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You have an abundant amount of options with these beautiful windows. Investing in motorized window treatments would ultimately be the most convenient for you. Check out our blog on remote controlled window treatments. http://blog.allaboutblinds.net/installing-remote-controlled-window-shades-in-your-new-home

In this situation, customization is key. Your windows are a variety of shapes and cannot be treated with any old solution. Read other entries on our blog for a more detailed look in other window treatment options and don't hesitate to contact us if we can be of any further assistance. http://blog.allaboutblinds.net/

Good Luck! - All About Blinds in Jacksonville, FL

You're definitely not alone. Many people buy homes with these tall, impressive windows, but later find it very challenging and expensive to cover them. You really need a window treatment professional. I'd look for an interior designer who specializes in window treatments or a local drapery workroom.

For the top windows, window film would be a good option to consider. Another possibility would be custom Tableaux faux iron with a solar screen behind it.

If you want draperies that follow the arch, I'd consider having them hung from holdback/knobs. Just make sure to select ones that have a large diameter. For something that high, you don't want tiny knobs. Here's an example of tied-back draperies hung from knobs:

I agree totally with Angela that you need a professional's help for this. Those windows are huge and almost any treatment will be many $k. That is the reality of these huge windows. OTOH, relative to Angela's example, I would say, do anything you can to avoid a similar setup (i.e. non-functional side drapes). They don't look good and they also do nothing to solve your overwhelming issue, which is light control.

Making this huge space with huge windows cozy can be a real challenge. Unfortunately, the charm you might achieve with curtain in a more conventionally rectangular room with smaller windows, won't realistically be possible here. It's not likely that curtains on the lowest row of windows (and something else, or blank glass, above) will cozy up the room the way you want. With a very different room shape, you need different approaches. Hence the suggestion for a pro.

Just to clarify, the draperies that I mentioned would not provide any sun or light control. I just mentioned them as a possibility if you wanted draperies in addition to another window treatment. While this room isn't the same as yours, it's a nice example of how tall draperies can really make a space feel cozier...IMHO. I can hardly imagine this space without them.

you could do motorized blinds or cell shades, or you could frost the upper panels and do something different below.

those windows are so pretty, though.

Window film will be less expensive than motorized shades and depending upon the product more energy efficient. A local professional will be able to show you a wide range of samples and help make a recommendation to meet a balance between comfort and look. Of course you will be able to keep your view and if you need privacy add something to the lowers.

The first image shows an installation of an 80% glare reduction, 71% heat rejection film for a client who wanted to really control the sun. The second image shows a 40% glare reduction, 55% heat rejection film for a client who wanted more light in the space.

Always happy to help with questions you may have. Good luck!

HI -- Unfortunately your house has the most difficult windows to dress and not cheaply done . Maybe do this on the upper windows.... Wallpaperforwindows.com ... then have drape side panels over blinds(optional) on the lower windows .

These are gorgeous! I recommend tinting the top windows. For the lower windows you could put sunscreens to allow you to still have your view, however if you are interested in being more energy efficient you will want something that provides insulation properties such as honeycombs. Please know nothing will be inexpensive for this requires a true professional and the work needs to be custom.