Saturday, October 17, 2009

design tips: window treatments

My inspiration and color palette for the new bedroom came from a vintage curtain panel that had been languishing in the linen closet.   I decided that I finally had to put the lonely, but really fabulous, panel to use.  I considered using it behind the bed (see previous post on headboards!), but ended up using it in it's traditional manner.  My intent was to block light, sound and weather from our windows, so I put up a pair of heavy, lined curtains in a solid color, then hung the single panel as an accent.  I also kept our roller shades for yet another layer of color, texture and light diffusing. 


You can employ this method if you have one stunning panel or want to avoid  too much pattern or color in a room.  Doubling curtain panels, using a double curtain rod, can also be an effective way of layering textures and colors.

In our living room, I hung a pair of great barkcloth window panels on the outside of our piano window.  I did not need to cover the window for any reason, but I wanted to use the same panels that I had used in the dining room to visually connect the two rooms.  This also provided a solution for a rather awkward wall space on either side of the piano window.  Instead of hanging something on the wall, the curtains provide a soft wall treatment and fill the space nicely.  Window treatments do not always have to be hung in the traditional manner to be effective.  These panels create the look, but suit the needs of the room and my design.
 
When considering window treatments for your house, you should think first about your desired result. Do you want total privacy, some light filter, or just a pretty accent for you room? Once that is decided, feel free to play around with different combinations to suit your needs. Layering blinds, shades and curtains can be an effective way to add interest and still be very functional.

Once your windows are dressed, there is no need to stop there.  Keep in mind that curtains, blinds and shades can all be employed in a number of creative ways in your home-as room dividers, closet doors, sink skirts and anything else that you can dream up.

1 comment:

  1. I pretty much liked your window framing due to its wooden finish, but as a friendly reminder, I think that more light should penetrate the room to give it a lively aura. In my case, every summer due to my light sensitivity, I usually use Indianapolis blinds to regulate the light entering my home. But if there are news of an extreme weather, as early as possible, I'll call for the window treatments (Indianapolis-based service), to protect my windows from damage.

    ReplyDelete