Dressing your windows

By Pocyline Karani

Of the many things that enhance outlook and beauty in a home, windows occupy a prime place. We draw curtains (if not old bed sheets held in place by pegs), during the day without ever thinking of paying any extra attention to them. This opening on a wall or roof surface meant to allow air and light in can be used to beautify any room.

Window treatments are more than mere coverings. Treatment refers to the entire packaging of the window as a design element rather than simply covering them for function.

The best of drapery is seen in daylight and shows a good taste when matched well.

Let us look at each of the design individually.

Valences

In the context of home decorating, valences stand for the various styles of fashioning. It is used to cover the top portion of a window. Many treatments of valences, also called fabric toppers, have the dual function of adding style and covering unattractive window hardware.

On a short window, valences can be hanged so that the bottom edge of the fabric barely covers the top of the window glass to make a window appear taller.

Vinyl

Very contemporary and way off from the traditional curtains, vinyl covering is popular window treatments for those who enjoy clean lines. Vinyl covering that mimics frosted or textured glass or an etching compound that permanently changes windows will give a wow reaction from visitors. This is an interesting way to create privacy instead of hanging curtains.

Drapes and curtains

These are the most common window treatments. With these, you may be able to create the illusion of a bigger space by using light coloured curtains and light fabrics.

These allow lots of light and create a sunnier room. They allow the breeze and sunshine with tiebacks that either match the curtains or provide a great accent.

If you wish to create a romantic opulent look, drapes are perfect design.

They give that elegant look to windows, especially if you choose colours and texture that are rich and luxurious.

For tall windows, use heavy drapes to keep the windows from overwhelming your window treatments. Lighter drapes look best in smaller windows.

Shutters and blinds

Shutters create a look that is similar to the plantations of the hilly central regions. They can be made with fabric, vinyl or wood. With shutters and blinds you get great control over light and privacy by simply opening or closing the louvers. They also offer great protection from wind and dust.

To achieve a country-style house or a nice remote beach house, shutters make a perfect window treatment for the home.

On the other hand, blinds also allow you to manipulate light and give you better control over privacy. For large windows try festoon blinds, available in upmarket fitting outlets.

Sheers fabric on the other hand is just one of the many types of fabric available. Unlike most fabrics that are opaque even if varying in thickness, sheer fabric is semi-transparent and flimsy.

Cornices are window coverings make from wood. A wooden cornice board can help provide a simple but elegant solution in addition to covering multiple rods, unsightly fixtures and ill placed windows. Any single cornice can be made to coordinate other windows.