Window Treatments 101 | The Basics

by Haus of Blaylock
Window Treatments 101 | The Basics

Window treatments are the cherry on top of a room’s design. They help complete the room. The transformation you feel before and after your drapery has gone up is incredible. My number one rule is always FABRICS FIRST and that includes selecting the fabric for the window treatments. This is very important because if you’re mapping out a room, you won’t be able to see the end goal of the design unless you have the fabric selections already selected! Once you have the fabrics and you begin space planning, you’ll really be able to see the design come together. 

I select fabrics that compliment the style and hang with specific intent. If I want a more formal look in a contemporary style I will use fabrics that hang straight and are sharp and edgy. If I am doing a formal look in a traditional, southern, or old-world I will use velvets and chenilles so that they drape and give a dramatic look. Every style and room drives my decision on what type of fabrics and what style I want for the room. This is why they are so important. They frame the room.

My go-to fabrics for drapery are fabrics that can be very helpful for light and noise control. Another one of my favorites is sheers. Sheer fabric is very soft and elegant and is perfect when you’re trying to go for that chic breezy vibe. It doesn’t overwhelm but it compliments. And they come in a variety of opacity if privacy is a concern. Although if you want something that’s a little bit stronger I’d definitely recommend using a roller shade, so when you do want privacy you can use it while also maintaining that sheer look. 

Panels and window treatments are a perfect combination. Shutters are probably my least used option, unless I’m working on a remodel and the shutters are 1) on the exterior of the house and 2) they match the style of the home. They can take up a lot of space, which is why I usually stick to drapery. Drapery is my favorite option for window treatments because you’re truly framing the window and using the scenery as the artwork. 

Colonial Styled Home w/ Shutters

PRO TIP: If you’re going to use roller shades, use powered versions so you don’t have to constantly change the batteries. Also, make sure to use the same lining, roller shades, or blinds throughout the home. You may not notice it but the people passing by your home will. Look for roller shades that look like fabric and are a little bit warmer in color. I personally like to use taupe roller shades. It really helps soften the light.

Window treatments can get pretty costly. Especially today and the number of windows that are used in new homes compared to older homes. Before you begin the process of choosing window treatments ask yourself, is this room at the front of the house or the back? Which direction are the windows facing? How large are the windows? Will you need privacy control? Noise control? Heat control? Think of it as an architectural detail of the home. Knowing these answers before purchasing can help you determine which windows of your home will need a particular window treatment. 

NEVER go for the cheaper alternative, it will throw your entire home off balance. Make sure you buy DRAPERY rods and the hardware for it. When selecting your rod, consider the weight of the drapery. And if you need to put a support piece in the middle, do it. Don’t just go to the edges of the casing, go wider. When the drapery is put to the side, you’re going to want to see as much of your view as possible. You’re also going to want as much light coming in so I’d recommend going about 10”-15” outside of each casing. The drapery will end up resting on the wall and grazing the floor. It’ll make the window appear taller, wider, and more grand. It’ll also make the room feel a lot larger too.

Every window poses it’s unique compilation. Whether it’s the placement in the room, the molding around it. So it’s important to have a professional ensure the right choice for your window. 

Are you or someone you know in need of some custom window treatments? Don’t hesitate, CALL TODAY! I’d love to create some window treatments for you! Check out my Instagram for inspiration!