How to Dress a Stacked Window

Install drapes with the rod at ceiling height, so that the drapes will cover nearly all the wall. Choose drapes that either graze the floor or pool at the bottom. The drapes completely cover the windows when necessary, but don't draw attention away from the room's decor when open. Use a long curtain rod with rod brackets or a curtain track system to hang wall-to-wall drapes.

Cover just the top windows of high, stacked windows -- such as those found in a two-story living room -- with a tinted, patterned or frosted window covering made of plastic film. It blocks a portion of UV rays, prevents condensation from forming on the windows and adds privacy. Choose a permanent film with an adhesive backing, or a temporary static cling-type that is easily removed and reused.

Add curtains, shutters or blinds to just the top windows of stacked windows so they serve as a border, adding color and filtering the light without requiring large window treatments that cover all the windows. This works particularly well if you get a lot of strong sun in the summer and want to block it without having to reach up to close the highest windows. Coordinate the window treatments for the main windows with the upper window treatments. Use matching window treatments, such as shutters on both top and bottom, or complementary treatments, such as blinds on top and drapes on the bottom.

Consider the shape of the window when choosing your window treatments. Odd-shaped windows, such as fan-shaped or triangular windows, may need custom treatments. Cut film to fit the window shape, or have custom shutters, shades or curtains made.