Curtain Call!
A simple fact in my mind – a room is not complete until the window treatments are in place!
Thoughtfully designed draperies will enhance any room. Whether your style is more contemporary or traditional – the right window treatment will make all the difference!
Keep reading for my tips on trending window treatments!
Consider the functionality
This penthouse had a lot of beautiful features – custom sectional, accent pillows, and motorized shades. But, it was the addition of the 12 foot high linen-like drapery panels that created the final “WOW-factor” for the space. An often overlooked function of window treatments is the impact on acoustics of the room, even lightweight tall draperies make a huge difference!
Something else that is often forgotten when planning, the impact of sunlight on window treatments. For this girls’ bedroom, I repeated the English garden print on the headboards, bed skirts, and full closing draperies. The window treatments were lined with white blackout lining to increase privacy and prevent the colored print from fading after repeated sun exposure.
Think Beyond Function when Hanging
I prefer to hang decorative rods 4-8 inches above the window casing. I never hang it directly from the ceiling. The negative space adds to the feeling of height in the room and keep things looking proportionate.
Coordinate your window casing trim and your drapery rod finish material (or any other metal finishes in the room). For our farmhouse, I chose an oil-rubbed bronze metal finish to complement the rest of the 1923 hardware in our home.
If you are placing window treatments on a smaller window, a simple sash tension rod is easy to use. And easy to clean!
Embrace the Look You Love
In our 1923 farmhouse, I wanted to call attention to the original leaded glass windows and Craftsman-style moldings of the casings. I chose neutrals for the draperies and the linen-like fabric matched the cream colored walls. For added texture, I placed a wide tape trim to accent the center edges of the window treatments.
Have you been seeing more sill-length, cafe style curtains recently? I love when interior design trends recycle – and this drapery trend is fabulous! Cafe curtains combine function and fashion by giving you a little extra privacy but letting the light shine through up top. Our sheer embroidered curtain fabric adds to the airy and ethereal feel in our upstairs bathroom.
For some families, a kitchen drapery resting on the counter may be a recipe for disaster. For me, I took advantage of my empty nest and indulged in my favorite fern fabric from Schumacher. “Les Fourgeres” balances my white farmhouse kitchen with its timeless colorful pattern and pairs perfectly with the natural wood shade I pull down in the evening. I can’t imagine my kitchen without this captivating fabric to anchor it!
Bottom line: follow your instincts and enjoy what you love!
See you next time,
