Most people see a bare window and think it looks unfinished. Most windows have some sort of window treatment—whether they be blinds, curtains, valances, or a combination of the above. You probably know that you “should” have window treatments of some sort on your windows, but why is that? What can window treatments do for you? The purpose of window treatments is not purely aesthetic—they can serve many practical purposes, as well.
Aesthetically, window treatments can enhance or create a theme in a room. The right window treatments can highlight or establish a theme, whether it’s traditional, contemporary, country, period, or anything in-between. Window treatments can also provide a focal point to a room. They can set the tone for the rest of the room or bring a space together and make it more cohesive. Changing the color or style of a window treatment can quickly and easily change the feel of a room and give it a fresh new look.
Practically, window treatments serve many purposes that are often underestimated of overlooked. One of the most obvious of these purposes is controlling the light in a room. It’s important to have window treatments that are adjustable for changing needs and circumstances. Because different times of day come with different sunlight conditions, the orientation of the windows and personal preference should be considered when deciding on a type of window treatment. An east-facing bedroom may need room-darkening window treatments if a late sleeper doesn’t want to be disturbed, or treatments that let in more sunlight for someone who likes to wake up early but doesn’t like to set an alarm.
Window treatments can also block an unpleasant view or frame a great view. They can compliment the architecture or compensate for a design flaw in a room. They can provide privacy and peace of mind for those of us who watch too many scary movies and are a little freaked out by bare windows when it’s dark outside. Window treatments can also help to insulate a room, keeping a room warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer—and lowering your heating and cooling costs.
Window treatments aren’t just to make a window look nicer. They serve many purposes in a room and throughout a home. Be sure to think about these functions and determine the purposes of your window treatments before you decide what type of treatment you’re looking for. Being conscious of your desires and the function of your treatments will make it easier to choose a window treatment and will ensure that you’re satisfied with the result.
by Susan Dorbeck