The Ultimate Guide to Window Treatments

When it comes to choosing window treatments for a room, the possibilities are infinite. The treatment you decide on will either MAKE or BREAK your design though, so if you haven’t given window treatments much contemplation or you aren’t sure how to incorporate them into your space, read this post before you undertake your next design project. The Lilla rugs team has put together a list of ideas that will dramatically improve your view.

 

Window treatments are divided into 3 categories:

• Hard Window Treatments: Shades, blinds and shutters made from hard materials like wood or vinyl.

 

• Soft Window Treatments: anything made of soft materials such as curtains, drapes, sheers, swags, valances, roman shades.

 

• Layered Window Treatments: A combination of both.

 

Rattan Blinds

Image Credit (left to right) - Pinterest, Smith & Noble

If you want your kitchen windows to stand out, but your style is more eclectic, try Rattan blinds. These woven wood shades let a little natural light shine in, giving your window space texture and visual interest, whilst still providing some privacy. Rattan is the perfect blend of refined and approachable, with a great blend of natural materials and prints.

 

Frosted Glass

Image Credit (left to right) - Decoriate, A Beautiful Mess

Frosted glass windows allow for ultimate privacy without blocking any light from entering. This treatment helps maintain a clean-lined modern aesthetic without having to hang any curtains. If you’re looking for a fun way to decorate your windows, there are other window film designs which can do the trick

 

Farmhouse Shutters 

Image Credit (left to right) - Pinterest

Farmhouse shutters allow you to adjust access to light whilst playing up the classic shabby chic look. These beautiful window treatments are fashionable and add a perfect finishing touch to your space. This could also be a fun DIY restoration project if you're up for the woodworking challenge.

 

Colourful Trim

Image Credit (left to right) - Pinterest, Ikea Hackers

Want to grab people’s attention? When a room's personality comes from stylish pops of colour, let your window treatments assist. Choose curtains with a neutral base and a colourful trim, or choose a reversible fabric and face the neutral hue inside. This will add a little pop of colour into the room without overdoing it. 

 

Cohesive patterns

Image Credit (left to right) - The Style Files, Pinterest

Mix and match patterns, usually go against decorating 101, but using smaller patterns together can be easier on the eye. When an inviting living room is layered in designs it creates a striking backdrop, introduce complementing materials and textures to give it depth. Not all interiors can handle a dose of pattern, the bigger the area, the easier it is for you to re-create this look.

  

Floor-to-ceiling

Image Credit (left to right) - Apartment Therapy, Nordic Design

Hang ‘em high! Windows appear larger and taller by hanging curtains above the top of the window frame. This indulgence adds to the sense of warmth and fullness, while the clean linens and classic chairs bring in a timeless touch. We love how they stretch from floor-to-ceiling for a playful take on window treatments, so use your space as inspiration if you think your room could use a little more depth and dimension.

 

Sheer Coverage

Image Credit (left to right) - Pinterest

Sheer shades are the perfect window treatments if you want to control the natural light streaming in through your windows. Sheer shades or curtains manage to look romantic, open, and airy while also being grounded and adaptable. It's important to consider the amount of sunlight a room gets when selecting the colour of your curtains. If the room gets a lot of light, it's best to avoid bright colours, since they tend to fade faster. Warm brown leathers and woods contrast nicely with the dreamy neutral sheers.

 

Bring the Drama 

Image Credit (left to right) - Love Happens Mag, Pinterest

Indulge in the drama! Windows crowned with opulence reinforce the dramatic, formal style in a space. Contrasting colours define the shape even further, to create a focal point, you don't want a window treatment that competes against the window itself.  Deep, sumptuous colours are the epitome of elegance and make a huge impact when guests walk into your home.

 

Beyond the Window 

Image Credit (left to right) - Pinterest, Freshome

Instead of hanging curtains right over the window, create a cosy little oasis inside your bay window. Bay windows are often left forgotten about, by hanging tall curtains in front of a window seat, you then create a charming reading nook for yourself and your family to enjoy.

 

Double Up 

Image Credit (left to right) - Pinterest

Refuse to choose between two window treatment styles. If you have blinds in your home, make them more bespoke and distinguished by layering them with curtains. Matchstick blinds let the light come inside, while fabric curtains totally block out the sun. Keep them neutral so you can have fun with vibrant pops of colour.

 

What are your opinions on window treatments? Do you think you will be trying any of them out this season? Click here and check out our previous blog post to inspire your next summer home makeover.