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HOW TO BLOCK ON UNATTRACTIVE VIEW Print E-mail



Perhaps you have a wonderful view from every window in your apartment. Perhaps you see a distant cityscape or a rolling green meadow. Perhaps you are so happy with your views that you don't even worry about window coverings.

But then again, perhaps your views aren't quite so perfect. Looking out a window and seeing a less-than-attractive site is a common occurrence for apartment dwellers just about everywhere. And if your window treatment budget is tight or if you're a short-term renter, making an investment in something unique and spectacular may seem out of reach for you. But it doesn't have to be. And if valances, blinds, draperies, and other old standbys just don't seem creative enough for you, you don't have to stick with them. Consider these ideas:

Stained glass. When you think of low-budget ways to dress your windows, perhaps stained glass isn't the first thing that comes to mind. But an old stained glass window can be suspended by wire or chains in front of your window or even propped up on a window sill. Sure, you could opt for blinds, but you may be surprised at what one stained glass window can do for a room. (It may even become your focal point.) If you have one window that catches beams of morning or afternoon sunlight, imagine what it will look like from the inside of your apartment as light streams through the sections of colored glass! If you're worried about the expense, here's something that may surprise you: I've picked up small to medium sized, antique stained glass windows at flea markets for as little at $40.

Cling-on decals. On a recent trip to Home Depot, I found something called Wallpaper for Windows (by Etch Art). It stays on your window thanks to static cling qualities, and it has the look of etched glass. You can put it up, clean it, and just peel it off when you're ready to move. (And it's very affordable.)

Glass frosting. Use glass frosting spray (be sure to properly ventilate the area while you work) to create a design on your window that lets the light in but provides some (but not always absolute) privacy. Stick lace (with spray adhesive) or tape a stencil onto the window, and then spray the glass frosting solution directly onto it. (It may require several coats.) You can still clean your window without damaging the design, but you can also remove it with a razor blade if you change your mind or move out.


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