How to Choose the Perfect Window Treatments for Your Home
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PHOTO CREDIT: PINTEREST
When it comes to selecting window treatments, we believe in combining form and function to create a beautiful dressing for your home. More than privacy and light control, window treatments are an essential part of a room’s overall look that enhances the room and makes it feel more polished. As such, the style, materials, embellishments, and hardware all make a big difference in your enjoyment of a room.
PHOTO CREDIT: PINTEREST
You may already have an idea on what you’d like in your window treatments, or you might be starting from scratch. Either way, we’re here to help you with the finer points so that you can find the perfect window treatments to complement your space.
Types of Window Treatments
There are four main types of window treatments, so before looking at infinite options, start by narrowing down your selection to one of the options below.
PHOTO CREDIT: PINTEREST
Curtains - Classic curtains, like the ones seen in this recently designed living room, are made from fabric suspended by a rod at the top of your window. They are typically made from lightweight fabrics and can be floor-to-ceiling or shorter depending on your preference.
Drapes - Heavier in weight than curtains, drapes have a lining on the back that blocks out light and provides extra insulation. They usually extend from the top of the window to the floor and are often used in formal settings, such as dining rooms and living rooms. They are perfect if you want to add some elegance and drama to a traditional home.
PHOTO CREDIT: PINTEREST
Blinds - Window blinds are a great option for those seeking complete privacy and light control. They are available in various hard materials, like wood, metal, and plastic and cover just the area of the window. They feature slats that fold as you pull the lifting mechanism.
Shades - Shades are typically made from fabric and operate in a similar way to window blinds in that they fold up to the top of your window. There are various styles of shades available, including Roman shades, roller shades, and cellular shades.
Key Considerations
There’s a lot to think about when you’re selecting window treatments and it really depends on the room you are designing. As we mentioned, privacy and blocking out the light are the most important factors, so start with thinking about that and the intended purpose of your room. Bedrooms and bathrooms will need complete privacy whereas a living room or kitchen can have more airy window treatments like sheer curtains.
It’s very common to leave window treatments as the last decorating choice because it narrows down your options and makes it easier. For example, if you have a minimalist home filled with neutral colors and light wood, you’ll likely want an inconspicuous shade, wooden window blinds, or sheer curtains. If you have a traditional-style home, you may want to consider more ornate window treatments such as drapes or curtains.
Popular Window Treatments for 2023
This year, across all Chicago interior design firms and beyond, there’s a mixture between using boldly patterned and minimalist, classic window treatments. For those who are leaning into bright colors and more cozy, vintage styles, we’d recommend patterned curtains with handmade, beautiful details like embroidery and scalloped edges. On the other hand, timeless window coverings such as plantation shutters and Roman shades continue to be popular as a more sleek and unobtrusive choice. Lightweight, sheer curtains are also on the rise in popularity this year.
Making Window Treatments Look Expensive
While custom window solutions can cost a small fortune, there are other ways to make your treatments look and feel more luxurious. Start by looking for high-end materials like linen, silk, velvet, and if you are getting plantation shutters, natural wood. From there, add embellishments like decorative trim, tassels, or fringe that will make your drapes or curtains feel more ornate. Finally, choose a rod and hardware worthy of your beautiful window treatments.
Your window treatments are hopefully going to last you for years, so it’s worth it to do some research and invest in a beautiful, high-quality choice that complements your home. Often, for the sake of curb appeal, clients choose the same treatments for the front rooms of their house. This makes choosing treatments an even bigger decision, but not to worry – it’s also possible to mix up your options and add them one at a time. If you have any questions about what window treatments will be best for your home, please get in touch. Our Chicago interior designers have years of experience choosing timeless window treatments that won’t go out of style.
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Talk to you soon,
Paula