While it is tempting to consider window dressing one of the finishing touches to your decorating project, making your selection early can help set the tone for your entire home. There are an impressive variety of window treatments to choose from today, from simple to ornate -- to match every style. In this article, we will explore some of the many choices and discuss how they are best used in a home.
Window Shades
Window shades are among the most popular choices. They provide structure similar to that offered by window blinds, but with the softness and color options available in curtains. If you decide on window shades, your selection process is still far from over. Some window shades have mechanical components to open and close either at the window or even remotely. Other window shades close by pulling a wand or cord at the side of the shade.
Window shades come in roller shade styles, perhaps the most inexpensive choice. There are Roman window shades where one section folds under the next for great insulation and a very clean look. These shades are generally more durable than typical roller window shades. Pleated window shades have extra fabric for softness. A new variation in the pleated window shade is the cellular shade, which has a honeycomb look from the side.
Window Blinds
Window blinds are an excellent alternative to window shades. They tend to have a clean, classic look that complements many modern or high tech decorating themes. These options, too, have a wide range, with wood blinds adding warmth and style to any decor. Wood blinds can be finished to have a modern look, left unstained, or sometimes mixed with metal for a unique and eye catching appearance.
Many people choose window blinds for bathroom applications although wood blinds are not optimal due to condensation. Window blinds have many options in addition to wood blinds such as vinyl and aluminum that work great in the bathroom or in kitchen applications where steam and grease can be hard on your window treatments.
Curtains
In the bedroom and living room, the beauty of curtains is popular and provides the opportunity to enjoy the outdoors during the day. This choice is often combined with window blinds for privacy when desired. Window blinds can be crafted in the same or complementary fabric for a coordinated look, or durable wood blinds work well -- especially in areas of high traffic or frequented by children.
If you are a third shift or swing shift worker, consider blackout options, to keep sunlight outside while you're trying to sleep. If this is not enough to dim a bright room, consider the addition of shutters.
Window Shutters
Window shutters have become more popular in recent years, and now include a range of materials and design options our parents never dreamed of. Traditional shutters have narrow shutter panels with louvers. These shutters are thicker in front, resulting in a wedge shape. Plantation shutters are thicker with larger slats or louvers. Combined with quality wood blinds light can be virtually eliminated from a room to meet the needs of daytime sleepers and to facilitate little ones' naps.
Most shutters are painted in colors complementary to your decorating scheme, but stained shutters are very attractive and have a warmer look. Many people still consider wood shutters the gold standard, but others are open to exploring the wide variety of material available for shutters today. Many of these options can have the look of wood with durability and water resistance that wood lacks. The price of your shutters can vary widely depending on the material choice selected.
Don't leave your windows as the finishing touch to your decorating project. When you're priming your walls, prime your design scheme by dressing your windows -- and the results will be a well-coordinated, well-decorated room!
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