Window Coverings and Treatment IdeasIt is easy to be overwhelmed by the different
ideas you have available for window coverings when deciding on
what type of window treatment to use. Your first step should
be to determine what type and size of windows you have to work
with. For example, French doors and bay windows will have
different choices of window covering ideas. Next, you need to
consider the style. The main variables to consider include
color, pattern, and texture, as revealed in your choice of
fabric, along with whether to opt for a traditional, classic
or modern look. However, style is only part of the window
treatment idea. Other practical issues such as quality of
light, importance of view and how the window coverings fit in
with the rest of your room d¨¦cor are just as important.
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Unlike artificial light, natural light is not uniform but
changes constantly in strength and color throughout the day and from
season to season. These subtle variations are what makes the
interior of the room interesting and therefore, places the
responsibility to accentuate this effect on your choice of window
coverings. If the quality of light is low and you want to make your
room brighter, then window treatments that frame the window but do
not obscure it may be preferable. However, the changing of seasons
may require you to moderate the brightness in the room. The best way
to achieve this is to use a combination of drapes and shades or
draperies and sheers. In this way, you get the best of both worlds,
filtering light in an interesting way without screening it
completely.
The quality of view is also an important aspect
in determining the type of window covering treatments you should
use. A stunning view needs little in the way of embellishment.
However, you may also want privacy during the evening. To be
practical, choose a combination of heavier shades or drapes with
some sheer or lace curtains, but keep them simple so they don¡¯t
distract or cover your windows during the day. On the other hand, if
what is outside your window is undesirable to look at, you will want
to consider treatments that overhang, such as swags or full
draperies with valances and cornices.
Color, pattern,
texture and how the window covering design fits in with the rest of
the room are important. For the most part, your choice of fabric
will affect this aspect the most. Traditionally, window treatments
are a significant source of soft furnishings in the interior and the
scope of suitable fabrics is quite wide. Recently, the addition of
blinds and shutters in a wide range of various materials such as
metal and wood has also added to the decoration ideas. Color shades
such as yellows, golds, pinks and earthly reds add a warm feeling to
a room with little direct light. Cool colors such as blue and
neutrals are airy, restful and light enhancing.
Finally the
inspiration for your window treatment ideas can come from many
places. If you want a more traditional look, try looking at
illustrations and pictures of various eras or visit a gallery. For
contemporary window treatments, try looking through interior
furnishing magazines and look at current styles of dress.
Surprisingly enough, window covering designs have followed the
fashion dress trends of the ages.
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