If you like to decorate and redecorate your home, then you probably like to tinker with the window coverings as well. Windows are a major part of a home redecoration plan so you should not forget to deal with making them attractive and match your ambient. The good thing is, you can be as creative as you want with the window treatments as there are so several types to choose from that it might take you a lifetime just to take your window through each type.
For example, you might have furniture that has some interesting patterns, and you have some leftover material. You can make window blinds to match the furniture perfectly. So if you have some boring shades and drapes at your windows that you want to remove, now it’s the time to replace them with something modern, chic and even crazy if you feel like it. Don’t forget that the windows are the first things a person sees when entering your home, so you want to make your windows stand out and look purdy.
You can use window shades as treatments if you like your privacy and don’t want any peeping Tom hovering on the other side of your windows. Shades also keep away the sunlight from your room to give you that shadow that you crave on a hot summer day. You can find many different types of shades nowadays including Roman shades, cellular shades or honeycomb shades, and each of these types looks great as home window coverings.
If you rather prefer to use blinds as window treatments, then you are in luck as there are many types available and they can be very easily customized. You can have horizontal and vertical blinds, and there is no shortage of materials that you can use. Choose between different types of wood, vinyl or metal, and you’ll never run out of material to use for your blinds.
Drapes and curtains are very popular, and they have always been. Very easy to install, all you need is string them on the top of the blinds and shades, and they are good to go. You can, again, use material that matches your sofa, couches and other furniture perfectly and you can even design them yourself if you have the know-how. With curtains, you can have many different types of looks for your home. For example, a very popular style is the Victorian style due to its everlasting flowing look. You might also go for something more modern or an antique style. All is fair, and everything will look nice, provided it matches somewhat your surroundings.
Basic Guidelines for Window Treatments
Window treatments are an integral aspect of any room’s designs, and today they range from simple floor-length fabric or modern-styled blinds to elaborate fabrics and draperies that embody the style of any era. Ideally, you want to find window treatments that represent your own personal style while also matching the function of the room. These basic guidelines will bring together elements of budget, function, and style so you can find the perfect coverings for all the windows in your home
Budget
Before you are ready to start hanging curtains, you need to take some time to think about your budget. Window treatments can range from $100 to $200 per window or more, and often these figures apply to simple blinds in today’s market. Clearly, you need to be realistic about what you can afford, but once you set your budget and do a little homework you’ll be ready to start shopping for treatments. Professional designers recommend that you take some time to price fabrics, blinds, shutters, and ready-made drapes to help you choose a style within your budget.
With your budget in mind, you should also be prepared to set your priorities. Unless you can afford to do all the windows in your home at one time, you may have to choose which rooms are most important to you. Dress living room and bedroom windows first and then consider window treatments in the bathroom or kitchen, for example. Ultimately, you want to consider things like privacy when prioritizing, but also take some time to think about which windows treatments are the most expensive as well.
Function
The way a room is used actually has a direct impact on the kinds of window treatments that are the most suitable. If you have children or you entertain a lot, you will likely want to choose window dressings that are more durable. Similarly, delicate fabrics are not recommended in rooms such as the kitchen or bathroom. Heavier fabrics are ideal for providing privacy or to control light, delicate or intricate fabrics provide beauty, but not always durability, and some fabrics can even enhance noise and cold insulation. Blinds and shutters allow you to adjust light control; blackout shades can be an excellent choice for bedrooms, and more fabric can help to block noise. As you can see, it’s important to consider how you will use a room as well as the function of the window treatments.
Style
Once you have a good idea of your budget and what you want, you’re ready to consider style. The most important thing to remember is to let your own personal style shine. There are no real rules for choosing the style of window treatments, but professional designers usually like to play on the theme of a room. Colors, patterns, or traditional or modern motifs can be reflected in your window treatments. Start by browsing design magazines and books to get an idea of the kinds of window dressings you like best. Finally, think about the feeling you want a room to convey, and choose window treatments that promote those feelings.
Things to Consider Before Shopping For Window Treatments
Buying window treatments can be confusing because there are so many choices available and so many things to consider as far as your requirements. In addition to being decorative, they have to perform specific tasks and function in ways that meet your daily needs. Before deciding on what to purchase, consider these seven things:
- Privacy. Your need for privacy may vary from room to room, so having the same treatment in every room might not be the best choice. Before going shopping decide what kind of privacy you want for each room.
- Light Control. As beautiful as it can be, sunlight can be damaging. It can fade your furnishings and can also be annoying by creating glare on a TV or computer screen. The good news is there are window treatment products that reduce these problems.
- Energy Efficiency With the right products you can keep the warm air in your house during the winter and keep the air-conditioned air during the summer.
- Safety, Unfortunately, each year children and pets die because they play near the window and get caught up in hanging cords. Fortunately, there are products to prevent this.
- Decorating Your Windows Whether you want a simple treatment that blends in adding the finishing touch to a window, or you are looking for something to create a dramatic focal point in a room, how you dress your windows can have a big impact on your rooms décor
- Custom Made vs. Ready-Made Custom window treatments offer many more options then ready-made products. While they are more expensive, they may provide features that will end up saving you money on your heating and air conditioning bills.
- How to Measure Measuring correctly will ensure the treatment operates properly and looks good.
The best way to save money when decorating is to avoid costly mistakes and get it right the first time. Window treatments are not something you purchase every day, so it is important to understand your needs and then learn what products are available to satisfy those needs.
