Small windows are common in new build homes, flats and some terraced houses. They can feel like a drawback at first. There may be awkward recesses, low light in the winter and a need for privacy once it gets dark. But all these things can be solved with the right shutters or blinds for small windows.
First steps: what to think about when you have small windows
Before you choose any blinds, take a moment to look at your space and think about the way you live in it.
Ask yourself:
- How small is the window, and what shape is it?
- Does the room feel overlooked by other homes?
- Is it north facing, street facing, or open to strong afternoon sun?
- Is this a bedroom, a home office, a kitchen or a main living space?
In winter, there are a few extra things to think about.
- Does the room feel chilly near the window?
- Do you lose light very early in the afternoon?
- Do you want a softer, cosier feel once the lights are on?
Blinds for small windows: compact and space-saving styles
Roller blinds that sit neat and tidy
Roller blinds are a simple and versatile choice for small windows. The fabric rolls up into a slim tube at the top in the daytime, and can be pulled back down over the window for darkness and privacy. As there are many different fabrics to choose from, they suit most rooms. You can choose blackout rollers for better sleep in a bedroom, moisture resistant fabrics for kitchens and bathrooms, or light filtering fabrics that soften daylight without leaving your home on show.
Perfect Fit and Intu blinds for PVC windows and doors
These blinds sit inside a slim frame that clips into uPVC beading. The blind moves with the window or door. Perfect Fit or Intu blinds are useful when you have tilt and turn windows, if you have balcony or patio doors that open inwards, or you want a very clean look with no free hanging cords. They are ideal in small rooms where there is not much space for a standard blind to hang.
Pleated and Duette blinds for warmer winters
Pleated blinds are made from a single sheet of fabric that folds into neat pleats to save space. Some come in a honeycomb or cellular design. This structure traps air and can help reduce heat loss through the glass. Although small windows tend to leak less heat than large windows, if your house is poorly insulated or you live in an old/listed building with single glazing you may want a little extra help with staying warm in the winter. Cellular or Duette blinds give you extra comfort on cold evenings without bulky curtains. Their soft, slim profile suits compact rooms. They work well in bedrooms, home offices and on smaller conservatory windows or roof skylights.
Shutters for small windows: when to choose them
Shutters are not only for large bay windows. Made to measure shutters can work very well on small windows too.
- They are built to fit the window shape and recess
- Shutters give excellent control over light and privacy
- They feel solid and can help reduce draughts around older window frames
We recommend choosing shutters for period terraces, sash style windows and main living rooms facing the street. Some shutters are also suitable for high-moisture rooms like kitchens and bathrooms. They can be made to measure to fit any shape of window, even irregularly shaped ones like circular porthole style windows. However, if you rent your home, we recommend blinds as a less permanent solution with a lower initial cost.
Tricky recesses, balcony doors and awkward windows
Many converted flats in older buildings have tricky details. However, it’s possible to have made to measure blinds to suit any dimensions.
Small windows with deep recesses and narrow reveals
A deep recess means your window is set quite far back into the wall, and a narrow reveal means there isn’t much space at the sides of the window frame. These shapes can make fitting blinds a little difficult, but there are solutions like slim cassette systems and top fixed brackets to work around these issues.
Balcony and patio doors in small spaces
Access to a balcony or terrace is precious when you live in a flat. You need privacy without blocking the route outside. We recommend Perfect Fit or Intu blinds on the door panels so the fabric moves with the door. Or for wide doors that you walk through often, choose Allusion blinds as the soft fabric panels part and settle again with ease.
Unusual shapes and roof windows
Top floor flats and loft rooms often have unusually shaped windows, skylights, or roof lanterns. We offer shaped blinds, roof lantern solutions and specialist systems for overhead glazing. One of our specialists can check the fixing points and recommend the safest, neatest option.
Colour and fabric choices for small rooms
- Choose light neutrals to reflect limited daylight
- Use warm whites and stone tones to avoid a cold look
- Try subtle textures or wood effects for interest without clutter
- In bedrooms, a dark coloured blind can help with sleep
- In bathrooms and kitchens, pick moisture resistant and wipe clean fabrics for easy care
Visit our Solihull showroom
Small windows can make a big impact when they have the right blinds or shutters. They can feel warmer, more private and more stylish, even in the depths of winter.
If you would like help choosing blinds for small windows, visit our showroom. You can explore real displays, compare fabric samples and talk through your situation with an expert. Bring along a few photos of your home and any questions you have – our team will help you find the best blinds for your small windows.
