Treatments For Every Window
Which window treatment is right for you?
Windows come in all shapes, lengths and sizes; from quaint, turn of the century sash windows to large picture condo windows that span a story or two. With all these variations, choosing the perfect window treatment can be more complicated than you thought.
In the past we’ve shared our favorite must-have window treatments, but we thought we’d delve a little deeper and lend some advice on choosing the proper window treatment specifically for your window-style.
Modern Picture Windows
These types of windows are common in modern homes and condos. They feature lots of glass, so choose a quality curtain lining to keep your room well insulted from the summer heat or winter chill.
Modern window frames don’t have much architecture, so be generous with the fabric you choose.
Hung outside the window frame, we suggest floor-length curtains that puddle, just a bit, at the bottom. These will add a touch of softness and romance to what could otherwise be a very stark space, while keeping your picture window –and your view- the focal point of the room.
Long Horizontal Windows
These windows tend to have unusual proportions and require careful thought to balance the proportions of the room.
Try ditching the dress curtains for roman shades and position them well above the windows to create or accentuate height; then, drop the shades to the top of the windows, fabulously showcasing the pattern or color you choose.
This technique can heighten the look of a single story room and make a high ceilinged room feel wondrously spacious.
Piano Windows
Piano windows are a series of small windows placed high towards the ceiling, originally intended so you could place your piano underneath. They act as more of a light source and are common in older homes and basement apartments.
Simple blinds are your best option, however you could forego the blinds and opt for trendy frosted film. Frosted film decals are great because they provide privacy and light.
Since most of us don’t have pianos in our homes anymore, try accentuating the open space underneath your piano windows with a beautiful statement piece like Worldwide Homefurnishing’s Roland Hallway Bench In Cappuccino; especially if you have an older home and your piano window is located in your home’s entrance.
Bay Windows
A bay window projects outward from the main walls of a building to form a bay in a room.
They’re extremely sought after, so if you’re lucky enough to have one, make sure play it up.
We suggest enhancing its beauty by installing a curtain track that follows the line of the window frame. With a bay window, the architecture is the star of the show so keep your curtains simple. Our advice? Go with white or cream sheers to soften the sun but keep the space bright and airy.
If you’ve had the foresight to install a window bench, the focus should be on the pillows you choose. Again, simple sheers won’t compete and are your best bet.
Skylights
Skylight are so beautiful, but they’re also an awkward fit for window treatments. We love them so much we normally wouldn’t try to cover them, but sometimes the sunlight can be extreme.
Purpose made blinds are available, but heavy on the wallet, so we suggest ordinary roman, venetian or roller blinds. Simply add wooden battens to the frame to keep it in the right place.
Pairs Of Windows
When there are two or more windows side by side, they should be treated as a single unit. A curtain pole across both windows with floor length curtains unifies all windows into a solid look.
If there is a large space between two windows, treat them separately with a set of curtains at each side, and of course, their own set of blinds.
Arched Windows
Arched windows are a beautiful focal point in any room so you’ll want to choose a window treatment that emphasizes its unique qualities.
If you’re traditional, a curtain pole extending across the square portion of window is ideal, allowing you to pull back the curtains using elegant tiebacks to show off the arch.
For a more modern look, leave the arched portion of the window completely bare and try a simple blind on the square portion of the window.
Are there any windows we’ve missed? If yours didn’t make the list and you need a few pointers, leave a comment below and we’ll get back to you as soon as we can.
