Various embodiments employ a graphics tiering approach that utilizes multiple different tiers, each of which defines how a user interface is presented to a user. In accordance with at least some embodiments, a higher end tier is provided and utilizes a combination of both bitmaps and realtime window geometry computations to provide a user interface that can include both transparent and blurred user interface elements. In addition, at least some additional tiers repurpose the higher end tier by incorporating an opaque element behind the transparent element to satisfy the limitations associated with the additional tiers.