When I look out any window in my home, I’m often reminded of a quote I heard once: “The magic of the window is not in itself but in the view it shows outside!” I believe most of us feel that way, but one might wonder how to find the “magic” when looking out a window in your humble abode.
One of ways to find magic is to have the “best” window treatment for that room. And, what’s “best” has many definitions and it ends up being different for every house—and every room! Each room has its own unique needs when it comes to window treatments. And though they serve an important purpose and can often take up some of the most real estate of anything in a room, window treatments can be tough to navigate. Of course, I’ll work with you in making that decision.
Here are several styles that can help you achieve your own “magic.”
While layering two types of window treatments isn’t necessarily new, the industry is now seeing more integrated systems that include dual-layered shades. The system combines a transparent light-filtering fabric shade in the front, which lets light through, and an opaque room-darkening roller shade at the back of the treatment. Another popular pairing for dual shade systems is woven wood shades in front with a simple cellular shade behind it.
The magic of cellular honeycomb shades is in their specially engineered honeycomb shape, a unique construction that traps air and creates a layer of insulation between the window and a room’s inside temperature. These shades offer superior energy efficiency, helping to keep your home warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer. This design has the advantage of still allowing some visibility out of the windows while blocking the view into your room which increases privacy without sacrificing light. You can even pair the shades with motorization to have full light control at the push of a button…going for a win-win!
Shutters were formerly used to uplift traditional décor themes. We’re starting to see plantation shutters available in larger, 4.5-inch louvers which creates a cleaner look with fewer lines than the traditional 2.5 or 3.5-inch louvers. Also growing in popularity are hidden tilt rods, which take the bar off the shutter’s front.
This window treatment style works efficiently regardless of the weather due to its insulating properties. They provide a sophisticated and elegant look that goes well with contemporary and Scandinavian interior décor themes. Shutters can be manually operated by tilting the louver with your hand or via remote control.
Roman blinds stay in trend almost every year. In fact, when it comes to choosing a ‘safe’ window treatment, Roman blinds are one of the top choices. They can be faux blinds if you’d just like to achieve the look, or functional ones that open and close.
Roman blinds (left) and rolling slides (right) follow the current minimalist trend. These two styles are preferred because of their functionality and the amount of light they let in:
They can also be made as a top-down / bottom up treatment, perfect for picture windows where you want to see outside but provide some privacy:
Another ‘vintage’ trend, floral retro curtains and window treatments, are making a comeback. Floral prints have always been a topic of conflict among interior designers. If you decide to use floral prints to emphasize certain décor themes, using them in every setting can ruin the look and feel of the interior. They go well with pastel and neutral themes, which is why this window treatment is gaining popularity.
The trend of accenting draperies with rods was long gone. However, interior designers are realizing the importance of emphasizing each and every detail that can bring the “magic” to the look and feel of the entire space. Drapery rods are the overlooked details that can be used as decorative accents. In situations where interior designers need to treat window treatments as the highlight of a space, decorative curtain rods are an effective solution. If you are going for a minimalist approach, I can help you pick the right accessories that will add a subtle touch.
Motorized and automated curtains are gaining popularity due to their efficiency and comfort. Since these curtains are not rare today, you can find motorized curtains within your budget. They come in a variety of styles and suit every purpose. For instance, electric roll-up curtains or automated awnings resist strong winds. Similarly, raft curtains are used to cover large openings and block visibility. Automated pleated blinds are another option that fall in this category. In addition, remote control blinds add a high level of child safety and convenience and are the perfect answer for hard to reach windows.
If you are going for a minimalist approach, then monochrome sheer curtains are your best bet. If your main purpose is to add a touch of elegance and sophistication, then monochrome sheer curtains are your go-to…but keep in mind this style cannot entirely block sunlight and can be somewhat see-thru. Since these curtains pair well with most accessories, you can use them with every theme. Furthermore, this style of curtain is affordable as compared to its counterparts.
As you can tell, there are just so many options: Do you go with curtains? Draperies? Blackout or sheer? Roller shades? Florals? Blinds…Roman shades??? Plus, given that they can be an investment piece, you don’t want to settle on the wrong one.
So, contact me at kori@horizoninteriordesign.com and we’ll find your “magic” together!
