There are many different ways to approach window treatments. Anything that can be used to fully or partially cover a window is referred to as a treatment. The reason for using them is varied. We can use them to add style, regulate light exposure, temperature control, or provide privacy from the outside.
Although there are many different types of window treatments, they all seem to fall into four major categories. They all provide advantages and limitations. Just like an outfit that you wear, the treatment will say much about your personal style and lifestyle.
Blinds
Blinds are slats that will tilt or rotate in order to open or close. The slats are referred to as louvers in the business and can be made in a wide variety of materials. Some of the more common choices are metals, pvc, pet, vinyl, or wood. They are available in an infinite choice of finishes such as painted, enameled, upholstered, stained, or clear top coat finished. The louvers can be horizontal or vertical. They can be very practical and effective at light control. However, there seems to be many people who find them more appropriate for commercial spaces. When carefully considered, they can be very aesthetically pleasing, especially if used in conjunction with other options such as drapery.
Shades
These are one piece of material, usually fabric, that is controlled by the use of a chord or remote device. Depending on the materials used to fabricate them, they can have varying levels of effectiveness when it comes to light control. Some popular styles of window shades are Roman, woven, cellular, pleated, or roller. There is a wide range of decorative models. Some combine materials such as wood or bamboo with fabric or twine to create pleasing textures.
Drapes
Curtains or Drapes are terms that are often used interchangeably. We have an article already published describing the terminology used to fabricate curtains. Because they are made with textiles, there’s an endless choice in finishes and qualities. Some can be inexpensive synthetic fabric, natural fibers like cotton, earthy like jute, or exotic silk. They can be custom made or bought in ready made common sizes. Unless the budget is very limited, we often advise our clients to opt for a custom or semi-custom option. Think of it as buying off the rack vs having something tailored specifically for you. To the drapery panels, we can add all sorts of techniques and accessories to make them something particularly special. For example, they can be customized with header styles, valances, tie-backs, trims, finge, appliques. They can also be layered in different finishes to provide even more functionality and style. Referring back to the clothing analogy, a translucent panel and a heavier drapery can be used in conjunction like a dress and an overcoat.
Shutters
They can be interior or exterior and in our area, historically, they make a lot of sense. Because we are in a hurricane zone, when closed, they provide excellent protection from high wind window damage, moisture or sunlight. Traditionally made of wood, today’s shutters can be made of manmade materials such as vinyl or pvc. These require less maintenance and are very fade resistant, but they unfortunately lack the richness of natural materials like wood or bamboo. Shutters can also be static, used for aesthetic value only or functional with a range of possible adjustments to provide versatility of use.
Because these are items that are usually at eye level, they have a huge impact on your spaces. We recommend that our clients invest smartly because they will have these items for a very long time and quality really matters. For most of our clients, we provide a no cost consultation that includes proper measurements of each window to facilitate designing something truly special.
#interiors #design #decor #interiorstyling #luxury
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