Is there a way to set transparency of windows in GNOME?

Sometimes ago I used KDE 3.5 I think, and really liked the transparency option for windows, which gave all my text editor a really killer look and feel, really nice/ethereal environment for coding.

I haven't managed to find such a possibility with GNOME.

Any idea if it is possible and how?

Solution 1:

Assuming that your system is able handle the Opacify compiz plugin then you just have to install Advanced Desktop Effects Settings

sudo apt-get install compizconfig-settings-manager

and play with the Opacify settings till you get your desired effect.

To start the CompizConfig Settings Manager you go to System -> Preferences -> CompizConfig Settings Manager

Solution 2:

Yes, it is possible, and was actually planned as a feature in ubuntu (possibly may come in Natty+1 or +2 if the bugs are fixed). It is not supported however, and you may find some applications crash, misbehave, and throw tantrums and chairs.

Here is a link to the instructions: http://gnome-look.org/content/show.php/RGBA+Gtk%2B+module?content=100556