Instructions for making false illuminated windows with your own hands with video

When creating the interior of their apartment, people often resort to interesting design techniques that allow them to achieve maximum ergonomics of the room. To visually increase free space, experts like to use a technique called a false window. This element radically changes the interior, turning a blank wall into a “window to the world” and giving the home a new unique style. We will talk about the advantages of false windows, consider all their varieties and provide instructions for creating a decorative element with lighting.

Advantages and disadvantages

This design solution allows you to change the view from the window at will.

The high popularity of false windows among most designers is due to the fact that these designs do not have any disadvantages. Moreover, they allow you to hide the shortcomings of any room and even turn them into advantages. The advantages of false windows also include:

Any view that you want to see from the window of your room can be made into reality. An ocean landscape, a flowering meadow, a sunset - all this can be arranged in the interior of the room and endlessly admire the beauty thanks to the false windows.
High-quality drawings will bring maximum comfort to your home and emphasize the style and originality of the room.
Such windows fit seamlessly into any interior and visually expand its boundaries.

False window: the principle of self-production

Many people strive to create comfort in their own home with their own hands, without the involvement of professional designers and teams of repair workers. In such cases, you have to understand the intricacies of design craftsmanship: after all, all structures and compositions should turn out not only durable, but also beautiful.

First you need to decide on the location of your future window.

How can you make an optical illusion with your own hands so that it truly becomes a decoration of the interior decoration of your living space?

Before starting work, you need to resolve a couple of important questions:

You need to decide how urgent the need is for a false window. Perhaps some other solutions are more suitable in your case. A false window is an ideal choice for a combination of the following reasons: the need to expand the space, the presence of empty surfaces and the desire to create additional sources of artificial light. If there is no combination of all these factors, it is worth considering other possibilities.
Internal need. If you want to brighten up everyday dullness, diversify everyday life, or overcome the sudden onslaught of autumn depression, a false window will be a unique way to solve all these problems, lift your spirits and breathe in freshness.

When the decision is finally made, you can proceed directly to the development and execution of the plan. First you need to choose the type of false windows that best suits your needs and main stylistic direction. It is unlikely that a window overlooking Times Square will look good in a room designed in a Mediterranean style.

Construction of a plasterboard window with lighting

The main stages of practical work on creating a false window:

Selecting a suitable image on the Internet. If the window is relatively small, you can print the drawing on a printer. And yet, for a higher quality of the finished product, it is better to contact a printing house, where they will print the image for you in any format.
Cut a frame of the required size from a sheet of drywall. The depth can vary from 100 mm or more. Other dimensions must fully correspond to the printed image.
Tighten the cut parts using self-tapping screws, putty the fastening elements and joints. Paint in the chosen color. The frame of the future false window is ready.
Cut the beams so that their dimensions match the prepared box. The cutting angle of the edges should be 45 degrees.
Place an LED strip inside the box, preferably on an adhesive base. Make a small hole in the back for the cord.
Cover the box with a pre-printed sheet. Screw the frame to the box with self-tapping screws. Fill the joints and screw heads. Paint the frame with the same paint as the box.
Make a few more holes on the reverse side. Screw the anchor into the wall.
Place the structure at the chosen location. After this, you can do decorative work: fix the window sill and cornice, hang light curtains, etc.

The window can be decorated using polyurethane moldings

The ceiling of a children's room can be decorated with a window overlooking the starry sky.

The illusion of a window on a wall or ceiling allows you to expand your horizons and create a portal to another reality that meets your inclinations, fantasies and dreams. To achieve this, there is no need to contact specialists; a false window can be made independently with a minimum of effort.

In what cases are false windows used?

If there are any design flaws in the room, then this design technique can become a real lifesaver. So, it is almost impossible to do without a false window if:

there is a narrow partition between adjacent windows, which is inappropriate and only spoils the appearance of the elements of the wall structure;
the area and height of the room are too small, and you need to visually increase the space;
there are dark places in the room that it is advisable to additionally illuminate (for this, a false window with backlight is used);
it is necessary to fill the niches so that people do not have the feeling of an enclosed space.

A variety of materials allows you to make a false opening of any shape and size. And thanks to innovative software and modern printing equipment, you can make any “window” landscape three-dimensional, making it as close to reality as possible.

False with lighting in the interior of the room

There are two main types of decorative windows in living rooms:

on the wall;
on the ceiling.

The second type of decoration requires much more expense than the first. To make a decorative window on the ceiling, you must have certain skills and technologies. Therefore, we will focus on the wall version.

Related article: How to make a bench for your home yourself: wood, stone, metal

Wall decorative window openings come with or without lighting. A niche without lighting will not be able to fully perform the functions of visual expansion of the room and an additional source of lighting. In the interior, illuminated windows are most often used to make a small room more spacious.

Types of false windows

There are many options for simulating window openings, both wall and ceiling. Let's look at the most popular of them.

Photo wallpaper

Imitating windows with photo wallpaper is the easiest and cheapest way to transform an interior

Imitating a window using photo wallpaper is the fastest and easiest way to transform a nondescript view outside the window into a mesmerizing landscape. Wallpaper with images are very popular due to the widest range and low price. The product is glued to a flat surface, and the contours are fixed with a wooden frame or decorative polyurethane strips. To make such a false structure look as realistic as possible, you can install a window sill, plexiglass and hang a curtain.

painting

A false window with a painted landscape will help hide an unsightly wall

The false opening, along with the landscape outside the window, frame and other elements, can be drawn in its entirety. This window allows you to use an empty corner and create a colorful atmosphere in the room. However, wall decoration is an expensive pleasure. However, the result will leave even the most demanding customers satisfied. A well-drawn image will bring comfort to your home and emphasize the style and uniqueness of the interior.

Mirror design

The frame for a mirrored false window can be made of wood or plastic

Quite an interesting design technique, the main task of which is to visually enlarge the room. The materials used here are a solid mirror or tile. Installation of such a false window is usually done on a flat surface without a niche.

There are two ways to attach the mirror structure. The first option involves step-by-step installation of structural elements. That is, first a mirror is installed on the wall, and then framed. The latter can be made of decorative plastic or wooden planks. The second method of installing such a window involves fastening the assembled product. First, a frame with a lattice is prepared that imitates binding. After this, mirror tiles of the appropriate size are glued into the resulting cells. Finally, the assembled structure is installed on the wall.

Do not cover a mirrored window with curtains, since its main purpose is to reflect the room.

Ceiling option

False window on the ceiling - the beauty of the night sky all year round

This technique has been used in recent years no less often than decorating walls with fake windows. You can place the interior element on the main ceiling, which must be perfectly flat. But false windows look much more beautiful on suspended structures. In this case, you can achieve the effect of a glass roof. Of course, nothing can replace the stunning atmosphere in a room with such architectural sophistication, however, installing false windows allows you to create a beautiful illusion. The easiest way to install such a ceiling consists of three stages. First, a suspended ceiling with a niche is installed. Then the recess is covered with photo wallpaper depicting the starry sky. And at the end, the window frame with sash is assembled and fixed to the ceiling.

Illuminated window

A false window with illumination is a spectacular decorative element filled with real sunlight

Elements with lighting close to natural light can serve as a replacement for the main room lighting. Therefore, such windows are excellent for use in rooms with a lack of sunlight. Designs made of tinted, frosted stained glass or illuminated glass give the interior a touch of aristocracy and sophistication. In addition, such windows, thanks to the lighting, look very realistic.

Virtual room decoration

Virtual false windows are the most realistic

This is the most modern and technological way of interior decoration. The main advantage of a virtual window is its live view. So, you can watch the river flow, the snow swirl or birds fly - it all depends on the desire of the owner of the home. The window design consists of a liquid crystal panel connected to a PC and controlled by a special program. The quality of the demonstration video is very high, so most guests do not immediately realize that the picture is not real.

Ready-made models of false windows

Ready-made false window
When creating an imitation of a window on the wall, you can use ready-made solutions or do it yourself.

From the materials described above, ready-made solutions include the option of using photo wallpapers, of which there are quite a large number, differing in geometric dimensions, types of design and the base used on which they are made.

Another option for a ready-made solution for installing false windows, which is quite difficult to do on your own, is installing a ready-made window frame without constructing a window opening.

With this option of window imitation, a real window block is used, and instead of glass, an image of a particular landscape or another view from the window is mounted.

In some cases, glass is installed to give a natural look to the window opening, and images are mounted behind it.

With this option of false windows, various methods of its design can be used, these are:

Installation in a niche, on a wall or partition, on the ceiling.
Various color options and geometric dimensions of frames and transoms of the window used.
The presence or absence of glass, and if present, a different amount in the window frame (type of glazing - single, double, etc.).
Various geometric sizes.
With or without backlighting.

The most expensive option for simulating a window in the interior of a room, implemented as a ready-made solution, would be to use an LCD display. In this case, it is enough to decide on its location and installation method, then connect it to the power supply and turn on the image viewer.

Choosing a place for a false window and design tips

When planning to create an imitation window in a room, you should not only choose the type of false element and a suitable image, but also think about where it is best to place the decorative element.

Living room or hall

As a rule, the whole family gathers in these rooms and also welcomes guests. As a result, even in spacious rooms, there may be a feeling of lack of free space. A false window overlooking a bewitching landscape will visually expand the room and breathe freedom into it.

Choose an image with perspective. For example, not just a garden with trees, but a path in a park stretching into the distance.

In addition, you need to take into account the general style of the room, the furniture and the color of the walls or wallpaper. The Mediterranean style is perfectly complemented by photo wallpapers on a marine theme; for an eco-style interior, it is better to choose a window with a view of a grove or lawn, and for an urban style - with modern architecture. A large false ceiling window with a picture of the sky is also suitable for a living room or hall.

Children's room

When decorating a nursery, it is best to use a “window into a fairy tale.” Children will look with interest in the “magic” window for their favorite characters from cartoons and fairy tales. For preschool children, parents often install decorative elements depicting the life of sea animals - such a window will fit perfectly into the room of a “little sailor” or “young mermaid”. And of course, each of us as a child dreamed of watching dreams under the deep starry sky.

Bedroom

In the bedroom it is better to install a window overlooking a calm natural landscape

Images made in soothing colors are suitable here. It is desirable that the imitation window be edged with a frame made of natural materials, for example, wood. This way the design will be “warmer”, and the room will be filled with tranquility. An artistic painting depicting a window will look great near the head of the bed. In this case, the theme should be selected taking into account the interests of the customer, as well as the stylistic design of the room. An image of a colorful landscape with lush greenery will enliven the bedroom, energize you and lift your spirits every morning.

Workplace

You can add a beautiful and functionally useful decorative element to the interior of your personal office using a false window with built-in lighting. The workplace is often decorated with fake structures overlooking the big city. You can also use skylights with a view of the sky, looking at which you can relax a little and take your mind off hard work.

Bathroom

Installing a window in the bathroom completely changes its perception. But in most cases, it is impossible to install a real element of the wall structure in this room due to technical reasons. However, the bathroom can be decorated without any problems with counterfeit mirror products, windows based on photo wallpaper, supplementing them with lighting fixtures and all kinds of fittings. In addition to standard solutions, an imitation of a window in a bathhouse can also be made with mosaic tiles. At the same time, it is advisable to select it to match the color scheme of the bathroom.

Kitchen

If there is enough free space on the wall above the stove, then it is better to place a false window there. In this case, it is worth thinking about equipping the product with lighting. In small kitchens, it is recommended to install a large window the entire height of the wall. This will visually expand the limited cooking space. As for the image, it is better to choose it with perspective. Choose a picture in accordance with the color scheme and style of the kitchen.

Selection of materials for work

To design an imitation window, different materials can be selected for its manufacture, these are:

Photo wallpaper depicting a window and the space outside it.

This is the cheapest and simplest option for installing false windows, because... There are a lot of photo wallpaper options, and to stick them you only need a flat surface and wallpaper glue.

3-D drawing.

A more expensive version of photo wallpaper, which allows you to create the appearance of a three-dimensional structural element, which is false windows.

As a rule, a 3-D drawing is made individually, so it is quite expensive.

Use of mirrors.

When using this material, the visual volume of the room increases, but what will be reflected in the mirror will correspond to the interior decoration of this room.

Using an LCD display.

This is the most expensive and technically advanced version of the window simulator device. The display is connected to an electronic storage medium and the image behind the false window, based on it, can change depending on the user’s preferences or in accordance with the installed image viewing program.

Tools and materials

Today we will provide instructions for making a false window with lighting with your own hands. But first you need to prepare materials and tools. So, for work you will need:

photo wallpaper or artistic drawing of the required size;
sheet of drywall;
wooden platbands (overhead profiled shaped strips);
putty, roller and spatula;
paint for frames and window sills (the color is selected depending on the color scheme of the false window and the interior);
screws and dowels;
fluorescent lamps and transformers with fastenings;
screwdriver and hammer.

Possibilities of false windows in interior design ↑

Previously, in “Khrushchev” and “Brezhnevka” apartment buildings a window was installed everywhere between the bathroom and the kitchen, and apartment owners fought hard against this projector solution, closing up the unnecessary opening. Today, designers are looking for all sorts of options for adding windows to the bathroom interior or selecting a worthy replacement for them. It would seem like a paradox! In fact, there is nothing strange in either decision - tiny, unaesthetic windows with cloudy glass were really not needed. But fake or fake windows are objectively necessary:

to increase the level of illumination;
for masking wall niches;
to create panoramic views;
as an element of a certain design style.

A false window with a panoramic view will increase the space of the bathroom and add light.
A separate category includes false ceiling windows, which not only significantly increase the space in the bathroom, but also serve as an original solution for finishing the ceiling.

Instructions for making a false window with backlight

For maximum realism, designers recommend installing glass on top of the photo wallpaper and decorating the false structure with a cornice and curtain.

The materials and tools are prepared, so you can start creating a decorative element. The procedure is as follows:

First, a box is made in which the lighting will be placed. It is a plasterboard niche no more than 20 centimeters deep. We cover the structure with putty, and after drying, with water-based paint.
We prepare the platbands using power tools. In accordance with the dimensions of the future window, we cut the strips of the required length with a cutting angle of 45 degrees. Then we cover them with paint.
We mark the installation sites for lamps and transformers. The lamps should be located in the box at an angle of 45 degrees.
We make holes for the output of power cables in the designated places. We insert dowels into them and fix the fastenings.
We install lighting fixtures. We place transformers between the lamps.
We assemble an electrical circuit.
We bring the wires out through the previously made hole and install the switch.
Next, we move on to installing the photopanel onto the plasterboard structure. We fix it with self-tapping screws.
We install decorative strips along the perimeter of the false window. The screws can be coated with paint to match the color of the trim.

Instead of fluorescent lamps, you can use LED strip to illuminate the window, which also has excellent light characteristics.

Every owner who has an idea about interior design can make a false window. By spending a little time and effort, you will fill your home with comfort and give the room a special charm.

DIY window imitation

You can make an imitation of a false window yourself using mirrors or a 3-D drawing, although you will have to order the drawing from professionals who can draw it, because You can’t do this with your own hands.

When using mirrors, the work can be done as follows:

An existing window frame is taken and its location is determined (wall, partition, ceiling, etc.);
It is decided how the frame will be placed at the installation site (in a niche, hung, inside enclosing structures, etc.);
Mirrors are cut to fit the size of the window frames and then installed in them.
If there is a large mirror corresponding to the size of the window opening, the mirror may not be cut, but mounted entirely behind the window frame. In this case, window glass is mounted in the frame sashes.
The issue of the need for backlighting is being resolved. If necessary, electrical wires are installed to connect lamps used for these purposes (LED strips, LED blocks or spotlights).
The mirror, frame and lighting fixtures are mounted, framed and connected.

False windows: placement methods

The illusion of a window will look good anywhere in the apartment, equally decorating the space of both a dark corner and a well-lit room. But how to choose the optimal location to place the illusion of a window?

Fake windows are especially relevant in rooms or certain parts of the house where there are no real windows.

Recommendations from experts

Dark rooms without natural window openings, which most often include the bathroom and hallway.

An imitation window will come in handy in a dark hallway

In modern city apartments there is no natural light, so the idea of placing an artificial window in the hallway will look really fresh and original. If space allows, you can place a large window on a free wall, the dimensions of which are comparable to the natural window openings in other rooms. If the hallway is small, you can decorate a mirror, a key holder or a shelf for indoor plants under a false window.

A large window with a landscape will visually expand a narrow room

Several windows on an empty staircase wall will be an excellent alternative to traditional paintings

A similar ceiling design would be an excellent option, especially in small, dark bathrooms. Agree, taking a warm, foamy bath, lying under an azure sky with light clouds, is much more pleasant.

Spacious rooms with empty walls

False windows are often used to correct mistakes made by construction crews. Sometimes a wall literally asks for a window, but instead, residents and designers have only an empty wall at their disposal. In such a situation, it is usually advised to make the false window as realistic as possible; it is possible to use curtains and curtains to decorate it. If such a design solution is supplemented with lighting, the window will turn into the highlight of the entire interior of an apartment or house.

In a large room, an imitation window can be made across the entire wall