Don't Forget the Curtains
When decorating a room, the last thing to be considered (if ever) is the windows. I know they cost a butt load if you want something nice. Well, save up! They are a part of just about every room and require as much attention as the rest of the room. When you decorate, don’t forget to give the windows the royal treatment.
What is it about a window? They allow in light. They keep the insects and stupid teenage boys out (most of the time). They allow us to see the world beyond from the safety of our home. Windows do a lot and are an integral part of any room.
Privacy
Windows provide a barrier between you and prying eyes. During the day, curtains are thrown open to let in more light. At night, those same windows reveal all our activities.
At night curtains are designed to protect our privacy.
For privacy, try curtains that let in light but are also dark at night. Light colored curtains don’t hinder the natural light as much as darker shades. At night, your privacy is intact.
If curtains are not your forte, try light filtering shades. These window treatments protect your furniture from harmful sunrays that fade and warp. At night, they allow you to turn on every light if you want without alerting anyone outside.
Function
Window treatments accent the room. The colors of your curtains valance or blinds don’t detract from the rest of the room. Wooden blinds present a neutral shade while controlling the light from outside and protecting privacy. The cords can be shortened so that kids and pets can’t get at them.
Special shade treatments are a less costly alternative for palladium windows and skinny windows. Fabric shades that can be cut to fit are perfect for irregular shapes.
Window treatments can be fitted inside the windows so there are no marks on your walls. Take your measurements on the inside of the wall to ensure the blinds or curtains will not be too wide.
Use curtains with back panels to prevent fading. The sun will eventually change the color of your curtains if they do not have any backing. The exception would be light colored sheer panels. Use them with the blinds of your choice to provide light, function and privacy.
Most window treatments can be adapted to let in as little or as much light as you want. For rooms that get no sun, opening curtains and blinds lets in the maximum amount of light. Roman shades filter light and also provide a soft look to windows in any room.
Considering the amount of light in a room is important when choosing the shade of paint for your walls. If you are going for a low light effect, choose window treatments that allow in the smallest amount to light possible.
Like the eyes are the windows to your soul, your windows are the eyes into your home. Window treatments are meant to complement your room décor. Don’t leave them out of the equation.