Maybe you are moving to a new place and there are blinds everywhere but you want something that will feel a bit more like home and less like an institution. Or you just bought a new house and you are looking for ideas on how to create a cohesive style for the windows in your new home. The bottom line is there are a lot of types of window treatments out there and knowing where to start to achieve the style you long for can be a bit overwhelming.
Here we break down the most common types of window treatment and offer a few ideas you may not have thought of too.
DRAPERY
Drapes or curtains are often one of the first types of window treatment options considered when looking for window coverings. Drapes can add softness, drama and beauty to a room and there is no limit to the color, texture and pattern available on the market today.
Drapes serve to add beauty and style to your home as well as function. With options ranging from sheer to blackout, you can personalize your level of privacy as well as light filtering. Layering multiple types of drapes together can also provide a more unique look to your home.
BLINDS
Most of us are familiar with blinds because they are the most common type of window treatment option in college housing and rentals. They are highly affordable and provide privacy and light filtering in the most practical way. But, often they can leave a lot to be desired in the style department.
Wood and Faux Wood Blinds
However, there are blind options that provide more style as well as unique features that can be important for families. Images of unfortunate or down-right ugly vinyl or metal blinds pierce their way into our brains, but a much prettier option is the wood or faux wood blind. These come in a range of colors and add texture and richness. While wood blinds are beautiful, faux wood blinds provide a more affordable option and they are more moisture resistant than regular wood blinds, making them a better option for kitchens and bathrooms.
Cellular Blinds
Cellular blinds are made of fabric designed with a honeycomb-like structure. They are a bit softer looking than typical blinds and also offer energy-saving insulation.
Childproof Features
There are various cord-free child-friendly options for blinds that help to reduce choking hazards for small children and make your home more family-friendly.
SHADES
Shades are a very common type of window treatment because of their versatility. There are a variety of style options and many can also be motorized. While they can stand alone, they are often paired with drapery panels to create a polished and cohesive appearance.
Sheer Shades
These shades look very similar to traditional blinds, but they have a more elegant appearance because unlike regular blinds, they have sheer fabric on both sides of the blinds. This offers a bit more privacy when they are in the open position as well as a softer and more polished appearance.
Roller Shades
While roller shades can be reminiscent of a grade school classroom, they provide a minimalist type of window treatment that can be personalized for your space by selecting a complementary color. The fill the essential privacy and light filtering functions of a window treatment but can easily be rolled up into a minimized space at the top of your windows when they are not needed. They also offer the option of partial visibility by unrolling them part or half-way.
Roman Shades
Roman shades come in a variety of colors and patterns to fit any style. While they provide a similar aesthetic to drapes, they don’t require as much space and offer an appearance that is both warm and tidy.
Woven wood or bamboo shades are similar in structure to the traditional roman shade however they add considerable warmth and texture.
Roman shades also offer child-friendly cordless options.
Solar Shades
Solar shades provide a clean and simple look that filters light without obscuring your view. This type of window treatment can be particularly helpful if you have a beautiful view that you don’t want to lose with heavier or overstated treatment options.
VALANCE
The window valance is often paired with blinds, shades or drapes; however, it is also a beautiful and impactful choice that can easily stand alone. Window valances are a versatile type of window treatment option and can designed to complement any home décor style. There are an endless number of options ranging from pleated and scalloped with feminine patters or bold colors, to simple and primitive stained wood valances.
SHUTTERS
Shutters offer a sophisticated and refined type of window treatment option for the classically decorated home. Traditionally, plantation shutters come equipped with slats that can be opened or closed to meet your needs throughout the day. However, solid, custom designed shutters can also be added to windows. This trend brings gorgeous style to any home and makes a big impact on the overall aesthetic of the room.
NO WINDOW TREATMENTS
If privacy is not a primary concern for you, then the absence of any type of window treatment may be the right option for you. In homes with gorgeous views, walls of windows, or indoor-outdoor living choosing to refrain from window treatments can be exactly what is needed to enhance your home and lifestyle.
Each type of window treatment comes with pros and cons, but with the variety of options available you are sure to be able to find the one that speaks to your style and home design.
If you are still having trouble narrowing down your options or feel a bit overwhelmed with your options and aren’t sure where to start, Marie and Maggs Interiors is here to help! Check out our Window Treatment Home Styling for personalized service to provide you with options customized for your style and home.