In today’s new homes we are seeing an emphasis on the volume and size of windows. This may be a result of the busy lives people lead. A window allows us to enjoy our outdoor surroundings while working inside. While windows are beautiful during the day, they turn into large, black spaces at night. The appropriate window covering can make any window a show piece, inviting the sunlight during the day and presenting an attractive appearance in the evening.

 

There are numerous ways of treating your glass with window coverings. Interior designers talk in terms of soft treatments or hard treatments. The term soft treatment usually refers to fabric valances, swags, draperies, etc. Simply put, soft treatments are created with some type of fabric and trim.

 

The term hard treatment refers to blinds.
This term encompasses horizontal, Venetian type blinds, cellular shades, pleated shades, woven woods, clutch roller shades, vertical blinds, solar shades, shutters, etc.

 

Window coverings set a mood or style in your home as well as control light, prevent
fading, give privacy, and insulate from heat or cold. Due to the vast variety of choices available in window covereings, it is wise to have an interior designer help with the decisions.

 

One of the many considerations is the direction of the window. Do you need to
control light during the day, as in tilting vanes for glare, or will the blind be up or down,
depending on time of day? There are many features available today. Some blinds are lowered from the top, have holes in them, or have easy up, easy down features. Blinds can also be motorized.

 

The most popular hard treatment or blind I sell today is a wood blind. This blind allows for light control or privacy. A
wood blind is pleasing to the eye and also allows light to enter, if that is your desire. Shutters are popular in other parts of the country and are gaining in popularity here. However, they are an expensive alternative that cuts down on the size of the window.

 

The most popular soft treatment I sell today is the custom valance. The valance offers many advantages: it does not have to cover a lot of glass, it softens the room and sets a mood with color, texture, and pattern. Swags and drapery panels are also still being used. The one most popular request I receive from my clients is “cover as little of the window as possible.” There are unlimited choices of fabrics and styles of custom soft treatments.

 

Window treatments for your home can be a sizeable expense. It is important to consult with an interior designer to insure you are receiving the results that meet your needs.

 

Written by Deborah Brahm-Interior Designer
Distinctive Design of Green Bay LLC
“Award winning design firm”