When it comes to interior design, the myriad of options available when revamping your home can be an exciting prospect indeed. From swatch-testing different shades of paint to scouring Pinterest for inspo, styling your space is often a meticulously planned operation. But, unfortunately, there’s often one thing that’s left out of your décor decisions; an afterthought that is sometimes left to a flippant stab-in-the-dark choice. Your windows!
While getting caught up in the flurry of furniture, fixture and fitting choices, window treatments are rarely given the attention they deserve. Yet in spite of their perceived lack of importance, how you choose to dress your window can actually make or break your room.
That said, understanding your options is key to making the right design choice. Despite what you may think, the possibilities when it comes to window treatments are extensive and considering how your window space will bring your entire space together is paramount.
To help you choose the right window treatment for your space, we’ve broken down the top five most popular options so you can understand when and how to use them…
Drapery
Drapery or curtains can be used to create a multitude of different looks depending on your ideal style. From the bold and dramatic to fresh and casual, the fabric and color you chose can influence the overall theme and feel of your room. Long, heavy drapes bring an air of luxury and sophistication to a room, while drapes light in weight and color set a fresh and breezy tone. You can also use a combination of drapery and blinds for an effective layered effect.
Use if: you want to create a statement. Drapery is so effective in living areas because of the added element of design that it achieves. That said, the versatility of drapery means that it’s not limited to these areas and other areas of the house may also lend themselves to this design choice. Drapery usually works best with larger windows, especially those which take up a good portion of the space between the floor and ceiling.
Roman Shades
Roman shades are another option which affords you the versatility of color, pattern and fabric. Unlike drapery, though, they do not pack the same statement-making punch, but they do still help set the tone of a room. Fitting nicely into the window area, roman shades allow you to showcase as much of the fabric as you want, creating the aesthetic you require without drawing all the attention.
Use if: you don’t have much space around your windows but still want to have your windows reflect your overall aesthetic. Kitchens, bathrooms and areas with limited wall space surrounding their windows are great contenders for roman shades.
Cellular Shades
Cellular shades are an extremely practical option when it comes to window treatments. Although they come in a range of colors, the design choices are limited in comparison to other options. That said, their effectiveness at filtering light and reducing external noise cannot be disputed.
Use if: you’re looking for a simple yet stylish option with functionality at its heart. Cellular shades are perfect in bedrooms and other areas where privacy is key.
Shutters
Shutters certainly set an elegant tone to your room, acting as a bold statement in even the smallest of spaces. Their simple yet effective design makes up for the lack of choice in terms of options. Colors are limited, usually to white, cream, black and brown tones, but that’s generally for good reason; patterns and vibrant colors don’t really fit with the overall vibe shutters bring!
That said, shutter styles do vary. Plantation shutters are the most popular style, covering the whole window and operating from a louver style mechanism which makes for easy opening and closing.
Use if: you’re looking to bring a specific feel to your room. For example, white shutters invoke a French provincial, country or cottage vibe while dark wood shutters create a sophisticated and elegant atmosphere.
Vertical Blinds
Vertical blinds are extremely popular as they’re easy to clean and one of the most affordable options. Available in a range of materials and colors, vertical blinds make covering large windows simple. Their easy operation, quick adjustment capabilities and ability to block out external weather (insulating against sunlight and cold) make them a great choice for houses in any climate.
Use if: you have a large space to cover. Vertical blinds are extremely effective when used on patio doors or other large window spaces but they may be considered more a functional option than a statement piece.
Whichever window treatment option you use, make sure you consider your choices as meticulously as you do the rest of your room. You may actually find that by choosing the right window option, you’ll cut down on how much you need to focus on the rest of the room!
