33 Stylish Window Treatment Ideas That Dress Up Interiors In An Instant | Architectural Summary

It’s a hard truth to accept: just as most people are better dressed (sorry, that’s true!), so are windows. Curtains, blinds and blinds should not be an afterthought, but an important part of the design of the room. Additionally, window coverings add privacy, conserve energy, and bring an extra element of pattern or color into a space.

Whatever your intention, window treatments are the perfect way to enhance or soften a room, Houston designer Kara Childress said. Patterned draperies can add depth and create a focal point in a room, while natural or plain-textured woven panels add an extra layer of detail to a space. Plus, a sheer panel acts as a petticoat, gently adding a soft layer that blocks out unsightly objects or harsh light.

Whether you’re hoping to maximize natural light in your living room or add the perfect finishing touch to home decor, we’ve rounded up a plethora of window treatment ideas from designers and the ADVERTISEMENT archives to do the job well.

What is the most popular window treatment today?

Wading through window treatment ideas comes with a problem akin to ordering coffee at Starbucks: too many options. Luckily, the designers were ready to weigh in with some insider interior design tips. Simplicity is timeless and never really goes out of style, says Vermont-based designer Dorset Joshua Smith, who loves tailored European pinch pleats and classic Roman shades. It may not be the trend, but it’s still beautiful, light and fresh in more traditional window coverings. Pinch pleats are also a staple of the Minnesota designer Bria Hammel, who likes them to look tailored and classic without being too fussy (a major plus).

If you’re a nicer person, you’re also in luck: We were definitely seeing a rise in draperies that have a cornice above them, and tassels, trims and tiebacks, Smith says. Miriam Dillion of Washington, D.C. Barnes Vanze Architects notes that customers are asking for automated Roman shades behind more traditional pleated panels, while Eddie Maestri, principal architect, creative director and owner of Dallas study teachers, sees both Panels and Roman Shades taking the top spot. Whatever you choose, remember: draperies are a big part of the budget, so we want them to last. It’s not something you want to overdo and be tired of the pattern or detail in a few years, Smith says.

What types of curtains are in fashion?

Many of my clients want to use lightweight, airy fabrics, like linen, says Susan Spath, director of Solana Beach, California. Kern & Co. It gives window treatments a softer look and is not as heavy. We also do a lot of sheers. The sheers frame the window nicely and give an extra layer to make the home even cozier. Perhaps thanks to great millennials around the world, Maestri is seeing a triumphant return to old-fashioned cornice boards and even new versions of balloon shades, as well as micro-shutters.

What can I use instead of curtains?

Maybe you’re not a fan of dusting, or maybe you just don’t want to shell out all your shekels for draperies. If you’re looking for an alternative to heavy fabric options like drapery panels or floor-to-ceiling curtains, Dillion recommends recessed woven shades that offer texture and interest but aren’t too bothersome to the eyes. Stained glass windows and outdoor solar shades are part of Spath’s non-curtain ideas and will not detract from the architecture. Of course, there may be a more natural solution, especially for first-floor bedroom ideas, as Maestri says: even greenery outside can add strategic privacy.

Whether you’re looking for simple roller blinds, preppy pleats or whimsical ruffles, you’re sure to find inspiration for 33 designs to suit the style of your window, your room and, most importantly, you.