Curtains and Drapes

All About the Right Windows for Your Home

Choosing the right drapes or window curtains can be a real challenge. The shape and placement of the windows are just two key factors to consider when deciding on a window treatment. Combining these with other style considerations can add up to great looking windows.

Windows come in many shapes, sizes and features. Many windows are designed to stand alone, with no curtains or other treatment necessary. Most consumers purchase drapes and curtains for two reasons: Privacy and blocking the sun. If a window has been placed in a house where neither is an issue, covering it is not important. If that same window frames a view, most homeowners would keep it bare.

Once the designer has decided to cover the window, the window itself should be considered. Casement windows, for example, can open either to the inside or to the outside. This will dictate what style of treatment can be used. Arched and asymmetrical windows should be left unadorned. If covering is necessary, a fanned design or shirred curtain would give a custom look. Corner and multiple horizontal windows are handled differently. A variety of styles are available, but often are draped to give the illusion of one window.

After factoring in the window in the treatment design, there are some other tips and trends to mull over.

  1. Keep it minimal when possible. Aside from a formal room, the sleek look is in.
  2. Colors should be current. Colored drapes can make a big statement. If the room is small, the use of light cool colors can make it look larger. Warm, dark colored curtains have the opposite effect in making a large, open room appear more intimate.
  3. Texture is good. Rattan, bamboo, even burlap create interest with their texture alone.
  4. Add some curves. In a room dominated by straight lines - such as a kitchen - the soft lines of a valance, cafe curtains or swag will do much in making the room more pleasant and inviting.

One last option available for the fashionable window is the awning. A patio awning can succeed in shading multiple windows as well as entire decks and patios. Even swimming pools can benefit from an awning.