A brilliant alternative to frosted glass and net curtains, window film is revolutionising our homes with its smart, modern looks and ease of application. With hundreds of decorative designs and the option to have the film made to fit your window – whatever the shape or size – it's a stylish option for both a new build or a period property.
Whether you're looking for window film to give you privacy in the kitchen, living room, bathroom or kids' rooms and bedrooms, or want to add interest to internal door with a glass panel, it's an affordable option that can – in some cases – be easily removed, perfect for renters and homeowners, alike. Here's a round up of our 10 favourite window film design ideas.
When you've finished reading, check out our dedicated window treatments hub page for more advice and inspiration.
1. Go for a pretty window film in bedrooms
Why you can trust Real Homes
If you're a renter in a house share and have a ground floor bedroom, or if your bedroom or living room are overlooked, a pretty window film is a great option to give you more privacy. Wallpaper and fabric designer, Layla Faye, has teamed up with The Window Film Company to design a range of decorative window films in her distinctive retro style. Wallpaper and a lampshade can be found in the same print if you like the idea of a cohesive look.
Hex Window Film by Layla Faye, available at The Window Film Company.
Find more stunning bedroom window treatment design ideas in our gallery.
2. Improve kitchen privacy with window film
If your kitchen windows overlook a neighbour’s space or a busy street, it may be worth investing in window stickers that specifically complement the space, while also giving you a little more privacy.
These Kiss The Cook and Cutlery Window Films from Brume are perfect for a kitchen and can be positioned to your specifications: either filling a small kitchen window or in the centre of a larger window.
Find more kitchen window design ideas in our gallery.
3. Add pattern in a plain space with an intricate design
If you're designing a living room with a white scheme and modern style, consider opting for a window film with an intricate, grey toned pattern. Delicate lines will add interest to your scheme without detracting from a more minimalist style.
Find this Cumulus Window Film at Purlfrost.
Find more pretty living room window dressing ideas in our gallery.
4. Choose a colourful frosted film for a kid's room
A window film is a great option for adding colour and interest to a kid's bedroom design and can be easily removed as they get older. Opt for a frosted finish with an all over pattern to ensure that light is let in and incorporate the key colours throughout the rest of the scheme.
Find this Cheery Patterned Window Film at Pulfrost.
Explore more window treatments for children's bedrooms in our gallery.
5. Coordinate window film with wallpaper
If your living room has a specific style, for example you've incorporated Mid-century modern decor, it's important to choose a window film that complements the rest of the space.
MissPrint has designed window films using their distinctive designs, each of which were originally drawn by hand so have that charming, unique quality. Use their wallpaper and window film in the same room for a cohesive look. Little Trees Window Film from MissPrint.
6. Make a visual impact with window film
Choosing a design that sits centrally in your window can have a great impact visually. In addition to making your window a focal point, it can also pull together the rest of your scheme.
Find this Tree of Life Window Film, available in either a transparent or frosted form, at Purlfrost.
7. Use window films to incorporate trends into a space
As window films are both affordable and easy to apply, they're a great option for incorporating trends into a space. Cacti have been on-trend all year and are perfect for creating a tropical feel within a living room – particularly when paired with house plants.
We love this Cactus Window Film from The Window Film Company.
Want more tips on creating an indoor garden? Check out our feature.
8. Create interest with a pretty cut out
Aside from creating privacy, you can choose window film designs with a pretty cutout that let you peek through. Cut out of the frosted film, they can be positioned anywhere within a window frame; though they look best positioned a third of the way down or centrally.
Find this Butterfly Window Film at Brume.
9. Match a window film to your setting
It can be lovely to incorporate a scene that's appropriate to your home's setting – a seascape is a great example if you live near the coast, for example.
This charming Little Boat design from Not on the High Street gives the impression of sandblasted glass and would work well in a bathroom, kitchen or at a landing window.
Find more bathroom window design ideas in our gallery.
10. Choose a stained glass window film to create drama
With many real stained glass windows now being removed and replaced by renovators, a stunning stained glass effect window film can help recreate the look of light streaming through coloured glass. This look would be particularly successful in a period property done up on a budget.
Sapphire A Window Film from Purlfrost, in either a frosted or non-frosted finish.
Looking for more window design inspiration?
- How to choose window blinds
- How to choose window shutters
- Match window film with the best bedroom curtains
Join our newsletter
Get small space home decor ideas, celeb inspiration, DIY tips and more, straight to your inbox!
Sophie has been an interior stylist and journalist for over 22 years and has worked for many of the main interior magazines during that time both in-house and as a freelancer. On the side, as well as being the News Editor of indie magazine, 91, Sophie trained to be a florist in 2019 and launched The Prettiest Posy where she curates beautiful flowers for the modern bride.