Treat your Windows Right!
The right window treatment can take a room from bland to beautiful. Here are a few pointers to help you choose window coverings that meet your needs while also enhancing your décor:
Analyze your requirements. Is privacy the primary concern, or is it the sun’s glare that you want to control? Is heat and sound insulation important, and is room darkening a must? Do you need to camouflage a window with an unpleasant view? Before choosing your window treatments make sure you know exactly what purpose they will have so you don’t end up selecting the wrong ones.
Transform the look of your windows. Update an ordinary window by adding an attractive wood trim. Create the illusion of a larger window by hanging drapes past the length and width of the frame. Apply decorative window film to mask defects.
Define the style of your room. Shutters and blinds offer a clean look for contemporary settings while curtains and sheers are softer and better suited to more traditional décors. Vivid colours and patterns add interest to neutral walls and upholstery.
Add warmth to your room. Wood, plastic, bamboo and metal materials provide contrast to carpeted rooms, and fabrics temper colder wooden and tiled floors. For depth, mix materials such as a wooden blind flanked by fabric drapery.
Choose curtains and sheers made from quality materials. Ensure durability with reinforced hems, weighted bottoms and a sturdy top panel to hold the curtain’s weight. Depending on the material, curtains can provide privacy and light protection.
Install roller or roman blinds for easy set-up and room darkening capacity. They come in standard dimensions and are available in a variety of colours and fabrics. Cellular shades offer the best sound absorption and boost energy efficiency.
Invest in venetian blinds or shutters for a sophisticated look. Available in a wide range of colours, they will last for years when constructed from quality materials. You can adjust light at a touch and increase privacy by angling them appropriately.
Complete your look with complimentary hardware and accessories. Curtain rods are available in a variety of styles, colours and tones.
Custom window treatments are often included in a home’s purchase price as they are usually less moveable than standard window treatments. Neutral-coloured or sheer window coverings are ideal when selling your home as they are compatible with a broad range of design styles and can appeal to many different buyers.