I and A Mag Sep19

Choosing a Window Treatment
Curtains, blinds or even shutters – the right window treatment can make or break a
room. We look at how to choose the best option for your home.
While maintaining privacy and blocking earlymorning
light may be their primary functions,
window treatments are also a key part of an
interior design scheme, adding colour, pattern,
texture and an essential element of sophistication.
They can also correct a badly proportioned
window, disguise an unattractive view, filter bright
light and provide a visual link between inside and
out. But where should one start?
While aesthetics are important, practicality should
come first. Is the window overlooked? What does
it look onto? Is it an unusual size or shape? Is
there room for curtains to ‘stack back’ on each
side? What is below the window? Is complete
blackout in the room necessary? Does the window
treatment need to be splash-proof? Once you
have considered all the basics, think about the
overall style of your home and what else is in the
room, and start to narrow down the options.
Curtains
When choosing curtains, the colour, pattern and
weight of the fabric are the important factors, as
is the style of hanging. Generally, grander curtains
tend to suit larger, period rooms (pelmets, swags
and tails may also be an option in this case), while simple curtains
are more suited to modern properties. Check the heading, as
this determines the way the curtain will hang: usually, a tape
sewn to the top of the fabric is pulled to form either loose
gathers or more formal pleats, and is hooked onto curtain rings.
Other styles include tab, tie, eyelet or hemmed tops, which look
decorative but can sometimes be harder to draw.
Curtain poles are designed to be on show and come in a variety
of materials, with finials at each end that are either simple
or ornamental. Sometimes, however, a curtain track is more
suitable than a pole: they can be mounted either on the wall or
the ceiling, can be bent around bays, and need less clearance
above a window.
To gain maximum natural light, fit a pole or track that hangs far
enough from each side of the window to allow the curtains to
be drawn right away from it. Floor-length curtains are generally
better than sill-length, though shorter curtains may be more
appropriate when radiators, window seats or furnishings are
in the way. Linings are essential on all but sheers; they help
curtains hang neatly and protect them from fading, dirt and
condensation. Blackout linings are ideal in a bedroom, while
thermal linings can be as effective an insulator as double glazing.
Blinds
Perfect for smaller rooms, blinds are also great for modern
homes and in bathrooms and kitchens – and they tend to be a
lot cheaper than curtains. Roller blinds are the most basic style,
while roll-up versions, tied with tape or ribbon, have a pretty yet
still simple look. Roman blinds are smart and versatile, suiting
almost every room. Choose fabric that is mid-weight and not too
textured, as blinds need to roll or fold easily against themselves.
Image: Faux Wood Impressions Urban Grey venetian blind with Anthracite tapes, fully
made to measure, Blinds 2go: 0800 862 0464; www.blinds-2go.co.uk.
There is nothing to stop you combining more than one colour or
pattern, in the form of smart, contrast borders down the sides or
along the bottom of the blind. And sometimes it is a good idea
to combine a plain and a sheer fabric, to allow light through at
the top of the window while giving privacy beneath. Plain blinds
can be boosted with a good-looking pull (think leather, glass,
raffia, stone or rope) or trim (such as ribbon, pom poms, ric rac,
stitching, fringing, shells or buttons). If you want a dressier look,
add curtains as well.
Shutters
Good-looking in an unfussy way, shutters suit both old and
new properties. They are expensive but are good at blocking
out sound and light, and can even provide extra security. The
plainest shutters feature a timber frame and solid centre panel (a
local joiner should be able to make them for you), while louvred
versions (from specialist shutter companies) offer privacy while
also controlling light. Both types can be left as natural wood or
painted whatever colour you like. They can be made as a pair,
bi-fold, tri-fold or more, either full-height, half-height or one set
above another, and fitted within a reveal or to fold back against
the walls.
Budget options
One of the least expensive options is frosted window film,
which you can cut to any size and shape as you wish and stick
on yourself. It’s easy – provided you follow the instructions
carefully. Alternatively, a muslin panel hung from hooks or a
slender pole will provide instant privacy, as will a simple roller
blind or unlined, ready-made curtains.
by Kathrine Sorrell
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