Window treatments are like the finishing touches to the decor. They complete the look with their style, color, texture, and functionality. Therefore, it is wise to include your window treatment in the design process; this will save you from the last-minute changes and even chances of spending more than the budget.
Experts believe that window treatments are integral to the design process. So, whenever you begin designing the room, think about them and try to create a uniform look. However, before starting on how window treatments offer a fresh look to the rooms, here are all the available window treatments and how they are different.
Drapes: They are different from curtains. They are floor-length fabric panels that are hung on the rod and create a formal look. With drapes, you can create a layered look, and they are more preferred in the living room or formal dining rooms.
Curtains: They offer a more relaxed feel and usually have a breezy fabric, though you can have blackout curtains as well. Like drapes, they too hang from a rod.
Shades: like curtains and drapes, they are made out of fabric, but their operating mechanism is different. They don’t hang from a rod. Instead, a cord can be raised or lowered at different positions to control the amount of privacy you desire.
Blinds: Like shades, blinds are attached to brackets, and they have a lifting mechanism. They, however, have slats or louvers instead of fabric that can be tilted at angles for better control over light and privacy.
Shutters: They don’t hang or attach to brackets. They are fitted in the window opening and open or close to your preference. They have slats that you can tilt to various angles for better outside viewing or maintaining privacy.
How to choose window treatment to freshen up the look?
Choose length based on function and style – a long fabric panel, like drapes, will create a more formal but less functional look. Think how often you’re going to open or close them before deciding on the length. For playrooms and nurseries, floor-length panels would get in the way.
Blinds or shutters for slanted ceilings and dormer windows – with sloping ceilings like in the attic, it’s challenging to hang a rod. In such places, blinds and shutters are a better choice.
Don’t opt for a different look for every room – Consistency has always been a popular trend, and it creates a cohesive look. You can use a similar window treatment for every room, play it up or down or pair it with other window treatments, etc.