How to choose window treatments for any room
Plantation shutters? Mini-blinds? Cafe curtains? Formal draperies? Homeowners’ options regarding window treatments for their homes are extensive, which can make outfitting home interiors challenging for novice decorators.
Some people do not pay a lot of attention to window treatments, failing to realize just how great an impact the right window treatments can have on a space. According to the design experts at Hunter Douglas, window treatments are often an afterthought because residents may not consider them necessities.
As a result, homeowners may install whatever is on hand or accept window treatments that came with a house or apartment. But ignoring window treatments, especially when they can fulfill certain needs, is a missed design opportunity.
One of the first steps to choosing window treatments is determining an end goal. Is privacy the main goal? Does a room need more natural light? Is there too much light?
Window treatments can serve multiple functions, and some treatments may make better fits, depending on homeowners’ ultimate goals.
Semisheer window treatments
Semisheer window treatments are often fabric and can help brighten rooms with natural light but offer little privacy.
They are usually appropriate for spaces where people gather, such as living rooms, dens or dining rooms.
Semisheer curtains may be paired with another complementary window treatment so privacy can be customized as needed. For example, sheer curtains let light into a bedroom, but shades can be drawn at night.
Maximum privacy
Bedrooms, workspaces or bathrooms can benefit from extra privacy. While some people may think privacy comes at the cost of light, that is not always the case.
Functional curtain panels can be drawn closed when privacy is desired and then opened to let in light. The thickness of the fabric will also dictate the amount of privacy the panels create. Short rod-pocket-panel tiers usually cover the lower one-third of a window. They’re popular choices to let light in from the top but obscure views from the bottom portion of the window.
Cellular shades are another option that provide privacy but still let in light. Cellular shades come in hard and fabric varieties, and their use depends on the room. Many cellular shades are constructed with a honeycomb design, offers the design resource Houzz, so they can insulate, as well as decorate, windows.
Blackout shades/shutters
Ideal for rooms where babies nap, shift workers rest during daylight hours or external light, such as from a street lamp, needs to be blocked out, blackout shades do just what their name implies. A dense fabric lining helps keep light out entirely.
Shutters can also block out light but add to the character of the room. They can be painted a bright color to make a statement or match wall colors to blend in seamlessly.
When selecting window treatments, shoppers can choose retail options or custom treatments. Many designers recommend custom window treatments because they are measured, manufactured and installed specifically for homeowners’ windows. However, there are many DIY options available at budget-friendly retailers.