Some may just trust blind luck, but when it comes to blinds, drapes, curtains and other window coverings, it pays to listen to expert advice. After all, the window is a portal to the soul of the home, and window coverings can control that portal in more ways than one.
Window treatments are a stylish and practical addition to any room and are a key component in establishing the look of a home and how light and shade play out within. A beautifully tailored window treatment can easily enhance the style of any room.
Rooms with a view
There are many different types of window coverings, and they are mainly meant to filtre light and provide privacy. But they can also affect the look of a home, add texture and bring a new dimension to its style.
Window treatments come in a variety of sizes, styles and price points. And there are plenty of scenarios to consider when it comes to applying the right combination to a room.
There are also different window treatments for each space, depending on its function.
For kitchens, it’s important to have good lighting and easy-to-clean window coverings. There is also a bit of moisture to consider in most kitchens, and fire safety should always be top-of-mind.
The amount of light in a bedroom is probably the biggest consideration for that space. Outside lights at night can interrupt sleeping, but during the day, sunlight is welcome. A good bet is to use curtains or shades that make it easy to darken and lighten a room, while ensuring privacy.
For the living room, you’ll likely want some natural lighting and a pleasing, inviting look and feel. Coverings such as shades or blinds for night-time privacy, paired with sheer curtains and dressier drapes for during the day, are a common combination. Some living rooms have large windows, so vertical coverings may also be a good option.
The bathroom, on the other hand, generally requires window treatments that can withstand humidity and moisture. They should also be easy to clean. Privacy is a big concern, so opt for shades and blinds and if they open and close, make sure they’re easy to adjust.
Factors to consider
“There are so many factors to take into consideration [for window treatments],” says Danielle Paul, president at Designers Edge Corp. “Size of windows, numbers of windows, product, and then each product has a different pricing based on fabric, headrail options and cord controls.”
At the low end, she says you might spend around $1,500 to $3,000 if you are just covering a few windows with more of a standard product such as a faux wood or roller blind. “But if you are planning on a whole home solution, which includes drapery, motorized blinds and a premium product, it is not uncommon for budgets to reach $15,000 to $20,000 plus.”
Top tips
Paul says that besides budget, the next thing to think about when choosing the type of window treatment is ease of use and light control.
“Ease of use refers to how intuitive and practical your window coverings are in everyday life. For example, cordless systems or motorized controls can make a big difference, especially for larger homes with lots of windows, hard-to-reach windows, or high traffic areas.
“Light control plays a big part in terms of comfort and ambience. It also helps you protect your furniture and floors from UV damage. Whether you want soft, filtered light in a living area or room darkening in a bedroom or media room, the ability to adjust light levels impacts comfort and functionality.”
While it’s certainly possible to make selections on your own, navigating the countless options can quickly become overwhelming, says Paul. “Each product comes with multiple configurations, fabric choices and decisions. And if you’re not familiar with the pros and cons of each option, you could end up with something that doesn’t suit your requirements or isn’t going to work in your space.”
There’s no reason why someone handy can’t install blinds on their own, but that is probably best for something really basic.
“If you’re after a more tailored and cohesive look or dealing with challenges like hard-to-reach windows, specialty shapes, specific light, privacy needs, or smart-home integration, working with a professional is definitely the way to go.”
What’s on trend?
Roman shades are said to be making a comeback; linen paired with woven shades are hot, too.
“For me, drapery is always on trend,” says Paul. “What changes with the trends is the fabric and header styles. Right now, ripplefold drapery is my style of choice, especially when it’s paired with a linen or any light airy fabric. It adds softness, movement, and a tailored look to any space, while making windows feel grander and ceilings higher. It brings warmth and texture, whether layered over shades or standing on its own.”
And of course, anything motorized. Whether it’s for convenience, child safety, or seamless integration with your smart home, automated window coverings are a game-changer.
There are a variety of automation options available, including battery-powered, plug-in, hardwired and solar-powered systems. “Each has its own advantages depending on window location, usage and whether you’re working with new construction or retrofitting an existing space,” Paul says.
Each manufacturer offers their own set of controls and smart home integrations, ranging from handheld remotes and wall switches to full app control. “Because features and compatibility vary between systems, it’s important to understand what you’re getting and how you want it to function within your home.”