Advice Home Decor How-To Window Panels

5 Things to Consider Before Deciding on Window Treatments

Oct 5, 2016by Kimberly Foerst
When you’re ready to redecorate a room, window treatments may not be what you’re most excited about, but they should be heavily considered. Whether you’re updating your living room, kitchen, bedroom, dining room or bathroom, chances are you will have at least one window to dress up. So if you're replacing old curtains or starting fresh with new window treatments, here is a list of things you'll want to consider.

Night Sky Window Curtains by Lush Decor

Ask yourself these 5 questions before making your decision:
  • 1. Curtains, valance, blinds or a combination?

    • This comes down to how much coverage and privacy you would like. Sheer curtains let in more light but still offer limited privacy. Valances leave the window uncovered but add a decorative touch. Blinds, when closed, offer privacy but don’t typically add as much of an impact on the design. Non-sheer curtains generally offer the most privacy and the largest design impact.

  • 2. What size do you need?

    • If you’re looking at a valance, you need one wide enough to cover the window from one side to the other, so the width is the most important measurement. If you are looking at blinds or curtains, you need to determine the height as well. If you buy curtains too long, you may have to hem them. If you buy them too short, it might look odd. It is generally recommended that your curtains just brush the floor.

  • 3. What material will you use?

    • Are you looking to add texture? If so, velvet curtains, or styles with frills or ruffles will be ideal. Are you looking to let light in? You’ll want to go with a sheer curtain. Conversely, if you want to block sunlight or help with energy efficiency in all seasons, you should consider blackout or room darkening styles of curtains. As for blinds, you can typically find them in plastic, wood or various metal options.
  • 4. Solid color or pattern?

    • Whatever you choose needs to look great in the room. Make sure the colors work, and if you have a lot of bold patterns in other areas of the room, you might want to consider a solid color for the window treatments. Alternatively, if you have an otherwise pattern-less room, the window treatments might be the perfect place to add some floral or geometric designs.
  • 5. Is the price right?

    • Have you ever had your heart set on a specific look and style, but you needed five panels and your budget only allowed for two? Don’t fall into that conundrum. Shop around because between promotions and coupons being offered, you will probably be able to find something that meets the look you are going for within your budget.
    Keep in mind that your window treatments can be the focal point of your room, or they can be used for functional purposes only. Either way, you can make sure you get the right ones for your space and your budget by answering the questions above.

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