Welcome to week 4 of  #studioinsights – three #windowtreatment ideas to dress your windows to maximum effect

 As an interior designer you get asked a lot about windows, how to dress them, how to maximise space, conserve heat, and at the same time ensure privacy without compromising light. Here are my top tips.

1#WORK WITH THE STYLE OF THE HOUSE

First off I always work with the style of the interior and house when recommending the best window treatment options.

If you are looking for a more traditional approach there is enough space in the window area I would always recommend full-length curtains combined with a sheer curtain or blind,  and a blackout blind (especially in bedrooms). This combination will enable you to maintain light levels without sacrificing privacy.

For the curtains, the best are lined and interlined which give a lovely rich feel and are great for conserving heat and providing acoustic qualities. Wool blended fabrics, silks, or velvets for your curtains will give a glamorous look, whilst linens and cottons will be more relaxed and rustic in appearance.

 

2# WHERE’S YOUR HEAD AT…

Window headings are another big area of choice. Our house standard is a French pleat(also called a double pinch) on a metal rail. For a more contemporary look, another railed heading that we use a lot is the ‘wave’ heading which has character but isn’t too traditional, it also stacks back from the window very neatly if you are tight on space. There is also an increasing selection of poles to choose from, varying in style of from ultra contemporary Perspex to a more traditional carved wood. You can also dress your curtains with trims and tiebacks to add some additional character. This brings me to…

 

3#TRIM IT 

We are known for our love of trims, for us they are a key part of our design tool kit. If you are looking to reinvent an existing pair of curtains or blinds a trim is a fast track to a refresh. Sometimes we will even double trim with a braid or bobble to the leading edge seam of the curtain and then an added tape trim to the front

TOP TIP

It goes with out saying to create a strong window look using an experienced curtain maker and fitter will make everything easier; they can recommend solutions for tricky windows and offer choices of fabrics. I always recommend you bring together a few images of styles you like when are making your selections and discussing your needs with them so you stay on track!

Hope you enjoyed todays insights!

Any questions pop them in the comments below

Sara

#windowdesign #irishinteriors #windowdecor