Cover Up: Part 3

Style and Decoration

Windows are major architectural components in a room. The fact that light, view and usually ventilation enter the room the window expanse means that attention is directed to the windows. The way the window is treated- it’s style and theme- is crucial because the window structure occupies a large area and literally “greets the eye” upon entering a room. This makes window treatments a major and highly visible fashion element to be used to establish or carry out an interior design style or theme.

(Check out Part 1 and Part 2 of this Window Treatment Series)

Window treatments can be planned to accomplish one of three goals:

1. To be structural. To demand no attention and remain barely noticeable, neutral and simple by blending in as a part of the background.
2. To be architecturally or decoratively supportive. To harmonize with the background by using the fabric to match to coordinate with other interior textiles, or by using the shape, style or trimming to make the window treatment visually commanding.
3. To be the center of attention, or focal point. To use color, pattern, texture, shape, style or trimming to make the window treatment visually commanding.

Aesthetic (Décor) Considerations:

1. Window treatments can add color, pattern and texture into an interior.
2. The line or shape of the window treatments should coordinate with the architectural elements and furniture in the room.
3. The proportion (size) of window fashions components should be pleasing. (Don’t overwhelm a small window with too much drapery, it drowns a space).
4. The window treatment should be balanced. Symmetrical balance is a mirror image and looks distinct and accurate in a room. Using asymmetrical treatments, you create a sense of creativity and can firmly anchor an interior style through the use of valances and side-panel draperies. Radial balance can add grace and elegance to a room and can be achieved using swags and tiebacks.
5. Rhythm can be accomplished through window fashions. Rhythm is the “beat” that carries the eye around the room- seen in repetition of lines, colors, patterns and texture.
6. Window fashions can establish a feeling of harmony or unity in a space. (See picture below)

Practical Considerations: (You want to look at these before determining the best window treatment for your space)

1. Consider the amount, direction and quality of light that is desirable, and then select a treatment that will allow the user to change the light to the best advantage.
2. Protect furnishings against the damaging effect of ultraviolet light and intense heat.
3. Evaluate the need for increasing energy efficiency.
4. Determine any potential danger or hazard in the window or selected treatment, especially in kids rooms.
5. Consider the need for ventilation or operation of the window & plan accordingly.
6. Emphasize personal protection and peace of mind! Select window treatments that provide privacy in bedrooms, bathrooms and other areas. A general rule of thumb is that if the user can see out in the day through closed treatments, others can see in at night!

Decisions, Decisions…

Following are a few suggestions for considering the factors of shape, style and purpose.

1. Is the shape of the window in pleasing proportion to the area around it?

If YES, then the window treatment should preserve that shape by keeping the same proportions or dimensions.

If NO, then the window treatment can be extended beyond the window frame to make the window appear taller, longer or wider.

2. Is the window style appropriate for the selected interior design?

If YES, then the treatment can be simple and undemanding of attention on its own, allowing the attention to be drawn to the window.

If NO, then the window can be camouflaged, or visually altered to take attention away from the architecture by focusing on the decorative or artistic qualities of the window treatment fashion. This can be done with attractive draperies, top treatments, shades or blinds, in a combination that emphasizes shape or form, color, pattern, texture and perhaps even trimmings. In this way, the style of the window becomes unimportant, and the beauty of the window treatment itself becomes the focus of attention.

3. What is the purpose if the window?

a) Ventilation? Then the window treatment must stack off the window so that incoming breezes will not cause the treatment to rattle or become damaged.

b) Admitting light? Judge the amount of light that is desirable and select accordingly. If there is a need to darken the room, select a treatment that will provide that option. Remember if you like light and darkness (depending on your function), use both blinds (shutters or shades) and drapery panels.

c) Emphasis of architectural detail. This refers to the window itself, the moldings that surround it on their relative importance. So, if you have decorative moldings, do not hide them! In this case, the treatment may be simple and when open, stack out of the way. Or, another often equally successful approach is to design window treatments that are as important and impressive as the architecture and mount them inside the window frame or over the top of the framing. (See picture below… the window treatment emphasizes the architectural shape of the window itself)

So, questions? Do share & we will answer!! Have you bought any window treatments lately? We want to see!! Stay tuned for more information on window treatments this week! W will be talking about pattern and texture!

 Images courtesy of My Home Ideas & House Beautiful.