Window Treatments Made Simple
Window dressing leaves a lot of homeowners scratching their heads. Yes, there really are great ideas for windows that don’t look like outdated, heavy draperies that your Grandmother asked your Grandfather to install.
Today’s window treatments are more simple than complicated and address function as well as style. There is a window treatment option appropriate for every window application. To get ideas, you can collect ideas from design magazines and local stores. When it is time to make a decision, I strongly recommend calling a designer to visit your home and help you with ideas for your windows. Many of the do-it-yourself methods and sales people aren’t trained to help you determine a window’s function and aesthetics. A designer gives you unlimited options and doesn’t represent just one or two lines of windows treatment companies. Besides most designers (including Angela Todd Designs) will gladly apply the cost of the window consultation into the cost of the window treatment order.
Here are some questions to ask yourself when dressing your window.
Style
What is the style of the room and furnishings?
Will you be changing colors or styles in the room in the near future?
Do you like the view outside of the window?
Are there styles, colors, patterns or textures that appeal to you?
Is the room missing something in visual weight, texture, or color that the window could address?
Function
What is the sun exposure into the room?
What type of privacy do you desire?
Is energy efficiency a concern?
How much light control do you need?
How much insulative value is important to you?
Do you require total darkness when the treatment is closed?
One common way to address windows these days is to have a functional “alternative” window treatment, added to a “soft” or “creative window treatment”.
Featured is a lovely example of woven woods (alternative) with a textured silk fabric panel (creative.) The look is sophisticated and interesting – without appearing too stuffy. The color in mahogany colored dining table and framed chairs is repeated at the windows. Texture and line interest was added for interest.
This classic example of mixing the function and creative aspect of the window is done in many combinations with drapery panels. You can try this look with wood blinds, cellular shades and roman blinds. This look works well for most of today’s updated styles. The style can be expressed through the materials and patterns you utilize. Try a mix that works for you, and keep in mind the panel doesn’t have to function. It is decorative, so traversing (opening and closing) in this case isn’t necessary. Less fabric, less money, less fuss. The alternative window treatment does all of the work.
Alternative window treatments can be used alone without a creative window treatment (fabric) option. In the above photo, this homeowners woven woods are used exclusively for a contemporary, updated look. Using only a functional window treatment works particularly well in decor that is simplistic with clean lines. It also works well for two story windows that homeowners and commercial clients don’t want overly “dressed”.
Alternative Window Treatments
Horizontal Blinds
Woven Woods
Cellular Shades (also called Honeycombs)
Solar Shades
Shutters
*Roman Shades
Creative Window Treatments
Drapery Panels
Cornices
Swags
*Roman Shades
Roman Shades are timeless and are popular with the current trends. They function as a creative and functional window treatment all in one. Roman Shades are great for windows with moulding to showcase, and they also bring color and pattern to eye level in a room. They can look contemporary, casual, retro, and country depending on the style and fabric you select.
Are you looking for an updated solution to your sliding door that doesn’t include vertical blinds introduced from the 1990’s? There are many updated solutions for sliding doors today. For starters, solar shades, woven woods and shutters can be made to slide on tracks for a clean look.
Roman type shades that cascade in a waterfall down the sliding door is also a great look. Also, keep in mind drapery panels that traverse are also a great look for sliding windows and French doors.
Simple drapery panels also make a great statement at the windows for almost any style of decor. I love the way they elongate any room. I especially like the style in dining rooms, living rooms and bedrooms. When hanging panels consider raising them above the window moulding 6 to 8 inches. Also, consider not compromising your lighting and view, by placing hardware so the panel is only an inch or two over the right and left of the window.
Solar shades are also gaining popularity. Once used primarily for commercial applications they are now being used for a clean, uncluttered look. They are best used in an application when privacy isn’t important, but the view is valued. They block glare and UV rays and come in many colors and textures. I love including them with a wireless option two story window applications like great rooms.
There is a window style and function that can be personalized to you. Please contact me to discuss interior design ideas for your windows. We will make window dressing fun!