When the topic of home decor comes up, rarely do window treatments emerge on top of the list, nor do they generate a lot of buzz in general. While it may not seem like something to get excited about, taking the time to explore your window treatment options can open up your home to a world of stylish possibilities.
Below are some of the most common window treatments that are worth considering for your next home decoration project:
1. Interior Shutters
Shutters reached the height of their popularity back when glass windows had not yet been developed. They continued to be popular when glass was finally utilized for windows but was still too expensive (and needed added protection). However, interior shutters fell out of the public’s favor during the Victorian era when draperies became all the rage. But even back then, interior shutters were typically made of wood and came in different styles, from solid panels to louvered shutters.
Paint or stain them. Either way, interior shutters are charming.
Today, interior shutters made of poly, which is a more durable material that requires less maintenance than real wood, are now available. If you’re considering getting interior shutters for your home, it’s worth noting that there are three main types of available shutters:
- Plantation Shutters. With an extremely versatile look,it’s not difficult to see why plantation shutters are the most widely used among the three. Whether you paint them or stain them to retain their natural look, plantation shutters will look great for your home, whether you’re inside looking out or outside looking in.
- Cottage Shutters. Cottage shutters look like they came straight out of a fairy tale, with designs that are both practical and aesthetically pleasing. Cottage shutters are popular on the East Coast, as homeowners in that area are quite taken by how these types of shutters have small louvers and are attached to the window frame using hinges.
- West Coast Plantation Shutters. These types of shutters are all the rage in California. West Coast plantation shutters are larger than their counterparts, with bigger louvers and panels that come up at about five to six feet tall. In the Midwest, standard shutters are only three feet tall.
2. Window Blinds
VENETIAN BLINDS: The perfect way to block out light and still get a good view outside.
By definition, window blinds are any type of slatted window cover made of various materials, including wood, plastic and metal. Held together by cords or strings that run the length of the slats, they can be operated either manually by tugging at the cords or via a remote to achieve the desired level of light blockage. The most popular types of window blinds are perhaps the bamboo blinds and the Venetian blinds.
Bamboo blinds are easy to install and operate, providing an effortlessly chic yet functional look for your home’s interior. Another good thing is that they are affordable enough that you can buy one for every window in your home without burning a hole in your pocket.
Venetian blinds, on the other hand, have been around for centuries (a true classic) and are probably what comes to mind when window blinds are mentioned. You can’t go wrong with Venetian blinds either because they effectively block out light while still providing a view.
3. Window Shades
WHEN IN ROME: You don’t have to travel far to experience the ingenious way Roman shades can spruce up any interior.
Shades operate pretty much the same way as window blinds, with a lifting mechanism that pulls the window treatment up and down. One key difference between shades and blinds is the material. Shades are made of lengths of fabric, whereas blinds are made of hard materials. The most popular type of window shades would have to be Roman shades, which provide a soft yet structured look for your home.
In the case of window shades, choosing the appropriate type of fabric is crucial for achieving your desired light blockage and, of course, your desired interior aesthetics.
4. Curtains
VARIETY AND FUNCTIONALITY: Curtains are endlessly customizable and extremely functional – a win-win for every homeowner.
If you’re the type of homeowner who likes to switch things up every once in a while, then curtains just might be the thing for you. You can indulge in a wide selection of fabric colors, patterns and textures. There’s simply no way you’ll run out of options when it comes to curtains. On top of the style variety, you can also customize the length of your curtains. Some go for the dramatic effect of floor-length curtains while some prefer a shorter panel cut that’s easier to maintain.
Curtains can be hung with the help of curtain rods, which can be made of wood or metal (depending on the style of your interior and the weight of your curtains). You can use curtain rings and grommets as well to hang up the fabric uniformly on curtain rods.
5. Drapes
Draperies are an elegant way of adorning your home while blocking out unwanted light from outside.
Drapes, also known as draperies, are also made of fabric. They differ from curtains in that drapes are made of heavier fabrics such as velvet, damask and silk. Due to these materials often being labeled as luxurious, drapes are often associated with more formal settings. In reality, however, you can use drapes in just about any room, where you need the sunlight to be completely blocked out.
At a glance, window treatments may not seem like an important aspect of home decor. However, they are more than just accents to spruce up your interior spaces, adding function and beauty to every home. Window treatments can do a lot to easily take your property to the next level so don’t hesitate to give them a shot. To learn more about interior shutters, blinds, shades, curtains and drapes, get in touch with a reputable window treatment expert in your area today.
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Author Bio:
Sabiha Patel is in charge of marketing, production and day-to-day operations for Wholesale Shutter Company. With a keen sense of detail, she supervises the delivery of custom shutters to customers in and around Southern California, ensuring everyone gets the shutter solutions they want and need. For updates from Sabiha, check out the company blog!