Window Treatment Decorating Tips

The right window treatments can transform an ordinary room into a place people are drawn to.  They can add warmth, elegance, fun…anything!  No matter what your personal style is, there are treatments out there that will be a perfect fit for you and your home. 

Privacy with layers

Your privacy is important, but those mini-blinds or pull-shades just don't provide the right look ever since you moved out of the dorms.  Blinds and shades are still important, though, for both privacy and light control (remember that bright sunlight can bleach and dull the colored fabrics of furniture and rugs).  Add a layer of curtains or panels over the blinds to complete the aesthetic of your room without sacrificing the barrier between the outside and inside. 

Then again…

These days, blinds and shades come in almost as many varieties as drapes and curtains.  Many designers and companies are creating lovely shades from materials such as bamboo and rich woven fabrics.  Roman and pleated shades are becoming more and more popular because of their combination of good looks and convenient function.  Even the old vertical blinds have become more sophisticated, coming in different fabrics and colors, and these are still a great choice for sliding glass doors.

Glorious color

Curtains can be great way to add a splash of color to your rooms without the commitment of paint or expensive furniture.  Add cool lavender for subtle femininity or deep red for a touch of the dramatic.  Bring out the blues or greens from that Oriental rug by finding a matching curtain.  This is a great chance to take a risk and go for it!

Staying neutral?

If you aren't quite ready for the big leap to vermillion, try combining neutral colored fabrics with different textures.  This adds variety without disrupting the easy tone you have set for your room.

Top it off

Your shades or curtains don't have to be the end of the look.  Top treatments are a great way to go that extra step to completing your look.  Topper styles include valances, cornices, swags, and scarves.  For a more traditional and formal look, try a cornice, the box-like frame that hides the curtain rod.  For a bit of whimsy and playfulness, a scarf or swag wrapped around or draped over the rod might be the ticket.  Match the color of your curtains or, even better, try a pattern that complements the palette of the whole room.  

Little Janie can't resist

Remember that long-hanging curtains can become an irresistible temptation for small children and pets.  Stick with short drapery or shades for rooms where the mischievous ones might start to get ideas about tugging. 

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