Forget Basic Curtains: These Will Be The Biggest Window Treatment Trends Of 2026

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Certain interior design elements can instantly modernize  — or date  — any space, and window treatments are high on the list. Curtains with dated prints, overly puffy balloon drapes, or those shiny mini blinds of yesteryear can drag down the entire room, making it look hopelessly behind the times. Interior designers know window treatments play a significant design role in any space, and HGTV stars love to demonstrate the power of the perfect window treatment to transform a room. Styles that are expected to dominate next year include Roman shades, modern cornices, smart blinds, and eco-friendly window treatments.

But the right window covering must not only look great but also control natural light and provide privacy for your home. Ensuring all these elements come together in an on-trend window treatment choice isn't always easy. Considering the needs of a particular space along with design colors, textures, and theme can be challenging to blend. Thankfully, the window covering trends designers are gravitating toward right now are more versatile than ever. Be inspired to refresh your whole space with window treatment trends for 2026 that go beyond basic curtains.

Roman shades have been on trend for a while, and designers like Joanna Gaines insist the classic window treatment isn't going out of style anytime soon, thanks to their functional versatility. She favors the timeless window treatments in smaller rooms, like an entryway, to add texture without bogging down the space with heavy drapery. Roman shades are also a great way to bring in luxurious textiles to your design at a fraction of the cost of traditional drapery, since you won't need nearly as much material for the treatments.

Valances, or fabric draped over a top treatment, are a great layering option to add depth and texture to the design without drowning the whole treatment in extra fabric. Valances also draw the eye up and are another way to incorporate high-end fabrics on a budget. Done wrong, however, and valances can make your space look dated. Ensure they add a modern touch to your space by embracing the layered look with patterns, textures, and colors that complement the other elements in your window treatment instead of being an exact match.

Distinct from valances, cornices are hard-structure top treatments, such as a fabric-covered box or a wooden frame. What was once thought of as an outdated window treatment is now making a comeback in 2026. Why? Designers love the ability to customize cornices to suit any style and space while adding structure and interest to the overall design, and DIYers can get even more creative, putting their own spin on a homemade cornice. Transform a boring window with a sleek and modern box frame, an elegant scalloped frame, or a stately arch.

The explosion of glass film designs in recent years has catapulted this simple peel-and-stick window element into a major design trend. Whether you want to add a stylish touch to your windows sans fabric, need to filter light, or want your regular old windows to look like stained glass, there's a glass film for you. Window film is an excellent way for renters to personalize their homes because it can be removed without causing any damage.

Single-layered window treatments have had their day in the sun; it's time for layering panels to once again take the spotlight. Pairing sheer fabrics with heavy, blackout curtains achieves the ultimate day-to-night look for windows. The trend is the perfect combination of form and function, as the contrasting textures add depth and interest to any space while also filtering light and adding privacy as needed. Install a double curtain rod for a seamless look.

You already control just about everything in your life with your phone; why not your window treatments, too? Smart features have arrived in window treatment design, providing more optionality than ever before. Set your treatments on a daily schedule to enjoy the optimal balance of light and privacy from sunup to sundown. Motorized blinds make everyday adjustments a breeze, even on your impossibly high or oddly shaped windows. Added comfort, energy efficiency, and privacy with the touch of a button (or a swipe on your phone) — this is a trend that is here to stay.

As consumers continue to be drawn to sustainable, earth-conscious goods, embracing natural elements in interior design is also topping the trends. Textiles like bamboo, linen, and organic cotton wrap windows in warmth with unlimited styling options. Blinds made from natural, woven fabrics work with the biophilic trend that is expected to continue to dominate into 2026. They also have the advantage of creating privacy without blocking too much light.