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 <strong>and</strong> blocking earlymorning light may be their primary functions, window treatments are also a key part of an interior design scheme, adding colour, pattern, texture <strong>and</strong> an essential element of sophistication. They can also correct a badly proportioned window, disguise an unattractive view, filter bright light <strong>and</strong> provide a visual link between inside <strong>and</strong> 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 <strong>and</strong> what else is in the room, <strong>and</strong> start to narrow down the options. Curtains When choosing curtains, the colour, pattern <strong>and</strong> weight of the fabric are the important factors, as is the style of hanging. Generally, gr<strong>and</strong>er curtains tend to suit larger, period rooms (pelmets, swags <strong>and</strong> 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, <strong>and</strong> 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 <strong>and</strong> 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, <strong>and</strong> 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 <strong>and</strong> protect them from fading, dirt <strong>and</strong> 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 <strong>and</strong> in bathrooms <strong>and</strong> kitchens – <strong>and</strong> 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 <strong>and</strong> versatile, suiting almost every room. Choose fabric that is mid-weight <strong>and</strong> 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 <strong>and</strong> 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 <strong>and</strong> new properties. They are expensive but are good at blocking out sound <strong>and</strong> light, <strong>and</strong> can even provide extra security. The plainest shutters feature a timber frame <strong>and</strong> 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, <strong>and</strong> 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 <strong>and</strong> shape as you wish <strong>and</strong> 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 28
HOME INTERIORS Beautiful homes deserve BEAUTIFUL BLINDS See our breath-taking range of window coverings for yourself Take your time to browse our designer fabrics Experience the latest in automation with our live displays For impartial advice on plantation shutters, blinds <strong>and</strong> awnings visit our showroom or call us on 01746 768138 7a Whitburn Street, Bridgnorth WV16 4QN www.loveyourblinds.com loveyourblinds 29
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