Layers of rich materials from around the world are readily available and top treatment designs can boggle your imagination. This is an area of interior design that should not be rushed. Designers can lead the way and local fabric dealers can open doors to stunning results.

Window treatments can also make a significant difference in the energy efficiency of your home. Insulated draperies have long been available, but new developments in window shades create exciting alternatives and combinations. Shades can be fabricated for any shaped window and can be raised upward, pulled downward or moved sideways. They employ many new insulating qualities and they can be opaque or designed to allow a specific amount of light or even limited visibility.

Double pane window design now allows changeable panels or shades to be sandwiched between panes, keeping them clean and allowing even greater energy efficiency. Quick and easy change-out of panels allows different colors and patterns to be utilized for highlighting a season, party décor or simply a changing mood.

Window treatments can actually be the foundation of a room or simply the finishing touch. Special shades or heavy draperies may require fortified or modified framing, so push yourself through the early planning process whenever possible.

Conversations with the Experts

Is it easier to switch out window coverings to fit the décor or change the décor to fit the window coverings?

I feel usually it is easier to switch out the window treatments. Window areas are usually smaller areas (than floors and walls). Adding a simple valance and panels can change the overall look of a room. –Bernadette Valdes

We have found that it is easier (and more cost effective) to change the window coverings to fit the décor. There are a multitude of options to choose from. The choices are almost endless from blinds, shutters, roman shades, roll-up shades, fabric panels, cornice boards and the list goes on. With the furniture and accessories in place, we can draw the colors and design from these elements. –Lynda Power

It’s definitely less expensive to switch out your window coverings to fit your décor, than vise versa, but a very important part of your room. –Sherry Franzoy

How do you determine what type of window coverings work best in specific areas of the home?

We used to use shutters extensively but now I am taking them out and putting back curtains and lots of Roman shades. Again the new curtains with low E lighting are a huge help with light control. –Anne Steele

There are several criteria to consider when selecting window coverings for a home:
1. Determine what role natural light will play in the specific area.
2. Is total light control desired?
3. Do you need to diminish heat and glare?
4. Do you want to protect furnishings from the damage caused by direct sunlight?
5. Should the window treatment provide privacy?
6. Is there a view from the window that you want to retain?
7. Does the client have a certain style in mind, modern, traditional, spa or romantic?
8. Does the client want a retreat or a bright cheery space?
9. Is there a color palette preference?
10. What are the design details you want to incorporate?
11. Does the client have a budget and is it realistic for what they want to accomplish?
12. Don’t forget that window treatments can impact the look from outside as well so keep curb appeal in mind by keeping continuity in the design. –Lynda Power

Window coverings in the southwest are a major decision. How important is heat and light control? What direction is the window facing? What type of function do you need? Do you want fabric or wood? These are all important questions for what works best in your home or office. One of the best selling window treatments for this area is a honeycomb blind. Being made of a fabric with the highest R-Value of all blinds, it’s great for softening and taking up sound and echo. It doesn’t have a tilt option, but top\down\bottom\up, is a wonderful feature. –Sherry Franzoy

What is the best way to save money when incorporating window coverings in a home?

Working with a professional. We work closely with clients to determine their wants and needs. Saving money is so wise in today’s economy. We make the client aware of our top quality products and we offer professional service with selection and installation. Window treatments should be enjoyed for years. Consider the sun exposure, heat, cold and privacy. With our fabulous sunshine, consider the importance of the R-value. R-value is a measure to resist heat flow, especially important in the cool months. The higher the R-value number, the more insulation it provides and the better it is at reducing heat loss. Solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC) is the amount of solar heat that passes through a window. The lower SHGC, the less solar heat it transmits and the cooler the home will stay in the warm summer months. UV exposure can cause fading, damage to furnishings, flooring, and fine art. Many products have options that help filter out these harmful rays. All of this will save money on utility bills, conserve natural resources and lessen fading of carpets, fabrics, artwork and wood. –Bernadette Valdes

Window coverings can play an important role in a design project without breaking the bank. Start with a very basic treatment such as 2-3 inch faux wood blinds or a simple cornice that can be layered or added to as the budget permits. Another clever and cost effective approach is the use of sheets fabricated into a valance or panels to coordinate with existing bedding or upholstery. This is especially effective in children’s bedrooms where a particular theme is used throughout. Another consideration is Plantation Shutters that although are initially more costly, can add value at resale and return savings over the years through lower utility bills. –Lynda Power

When selecting windows, get the best R rated window you can afford and this will help in the overall cost of your coverings because you do not need to block as much heat. –Fran Timbrook