DecoratingPhilly.com  

When decorating a home, most people don’t think much about the way the windows look. This is unfortunate, as the window treatments you choose can transform the look from dull to dazzling. And your choices extend far beyond traditional mini blinds and curtains.

Of course, there are other things you need to keep in mind when it comes to choosing window treatments for your home. Two other things you need to consider are privacy and the level of sunlight that comes in. In addition, you want to be sure to choose something that isn’t going to clash and rather will flow with the rest of your décor.

Some Reasonable Choices
The first step in choosing window treatments depends largely on what room you want them for. For the bedroom, for example, you only want a minimal amount of light to come in, so you may want a shade or blind that’s darker-colored or made of wood. But many people prefer sunshine and brightness in the kitchen, so for that room you may want to go with a lightweight shade or mini blind. You can choose either vertical or horizontal blinds, depending on your personal preference. Or instead you could go with a light-colored wood shutter that you can open up, giving you the full benefit of natural sunlight.

For the living area, you’re going to want to go with window treatments with more color. You won’t believe the difference adding color around the windows makes in the look of your home. It’s up to you, whether you want to choose colored shade made of luxurious fabrics or vinyl. Just be sure to consider your privacy and lighting needs, as well as the price, when you go to purchase your window treatments.

Privacy Counts as Well
Some people want to know that no one can see inside their home at night, which allows them to feel more secure. For this reason, some homeowners choose to hang a security shade, which is usually available at specialty stores. A custom roller shade with a one-way view is made of perforated material. When this shade is pulled down over the window, any would-be intruder cannot see in, yet the light still penetrates the room and you are able to see out.

If you treasure privacy in the evenings but still love the look of sheer curtains, don’t worry, as it’s possible to have both. Simply use sheer curtains that are three times wider than the window. This way, the gathers are so dense that it blocks anyone from seeing in. Voile and batiste are both great fabrics for this type of curtain.

Size Plays a Role
Do you have an extremely large window? If that window is 6 or 7 feet wide, then blinds and draperies might be your best option. First install panels of blinds across the width of the window, and then add style and color to the look by hanging some richly textured drapes. The blinds will provide all the light control and privacy you need, while the draperies work to dress up the room.

If this large window is taking up nearly an entire wall, then you also have the option of installing a track across it’s entire width. Then you can close your drapes or curtains partially around the window or open them up completely to expose the entire wall and window. You’ll be sure to attract attention in the room with this truly unique look.

Today’s window treatments are wonderfully versatile, allowing you to meet all your privacy, lighting and style needs. Thus, you can choose something that will give you the amount of light you want, the nighttime privacy you need, and the extra punch of style you desire.

About the Writer…
Leon Tuberman has been in the home furnishings and interior design industry for 4 decades. He owns and operates his family owned furniture store. They carry a large selection of American made solid oak furniture for your living room, dining room and bedroom. Whether you’re looking for a oak bookcase for your dorm or wood tv stands for your entertainment room then they have everything you need.