Window Treatment Styles: Selection Tips

When it comes to window treatment styles, there are literally as many options as there are windows.


Sorting through the alternatives can seem daunting. But deciding on the right window treatment styles for your space can be simplified by considering a few basic questions.

When selecting privacy treatments (also known as shades or blinds), keep these questions in mind:
  1. How much privacy is required?
  2. Do you need to protect against extremes of heat or cold?
  3. Does bright sun pose a problem (say by creating a glare on your TV screen)?
  4. Does the window’s position or size require special operating features (remote control or power options)?
  5. What type of lifting mechanism works best for your situation (cords, continuous loops, cordless)?
  6.  What colors and textures work best with your décor?
  7.  Is mounting the privacy treatments inside the window important? 
  8. If so, is the mounting unit the correct size to allow for inside mounting?
  9.  Do you like being able to keep your windows wide open?
  10. Do you prefer a more contemporary or more traditional feel?

Homeowners who enjoy open windows may opt for a treatment that can be raised and lowered, as opposed to wood blinds, which are usually left down.

A more contemporary style means that blinds or shades may be sufficient to create the right look for your space. If your tastes lean more toward the traditional, you may want draperies, panels or other fabric treatments to soften the look.

As you review fabric window treatment styles, make sure to consider these questions:
  1.  Are draperies that open and close a must?
  2.  Would a straight panel on each side of the window be enough to soften the look?
  3.  Would a valance or cornice accomplish the same effect?

Straight panels and valances often expose a good deal of the rod, so be prepared to review and select rods, finials and brackets to match your décor.

Often your best resource for selecting the right window treatment styles will be a local interior design expert, who can show you pictures of all sorts of treatments in a wide variety of settings.

A good interior designer also can help ensure you pick the right fabric weight for drapes or straight panels and simply ensure that every important detail is attended to.

Be sure to contact us for help in selecting your next window treatment styles.