How to Select the Best Window Treatments Based on Your Design Style

How to Select the Best Window Treatments Based on Your Design Style

Each of us is wired with a distinct design DNA. One person loves bold patterns and colors, while another person is overwhelmed with more than a subtle palette and texture.  This is why the design industry has so many options available in fabrics, tiles, wallpapers, etc. But as much as we're individuals, people tend to gravitate to one design style or another. A person who loves contemporary may see their preferences become more nuanced over time and maybe even bring in some influences from other design styles, but they'll still be drawn to contemporary design.

So how does all this apply to window treatments? I'm glad you asked! I'm going to share some insider information on how I help my clients determine what style of window treatments will work with their design DNA.

1. The Traditionalist

The person who loves traditional design will have a home filled with classic patterns and textures. Florals, stripes, and even plaids are loved by traditionalists! They're rounded out with furniture that has some curves to it; sofa and chair arms are rolled, curved furniture legs are mixed with straight legs to soften the lines. Antiques fit right into to these details that are usually carried out in thoughtful color schemes.

If that describes your design DNA, then you'll love a beautiful Roman shade. And plantation shutters make your heart swoon with their classic simplicity. Or you want drapery panels that have traditional finishing features like pleats and trim details. These can be used separately, or if you like, be layered to create more interest without overwhelming your space.

2. The Contemporary

Simplicity is the key for the contemporary design lover. Subtle textures, sophisticated color palettes, bolder patterns, and fewer curves are all key to creating a contemporary look in a room.

Keeping it simple is the key when looking for window treatments for a contemporary room. Roller shades in a textured material will add interest but won't be a distraction from the rest of the room. Vertical blinds can add height to the room which can make a room feel larger.

3. The Transitionalist

The transitionalist likes to straddle both traditional and contemporary looks. They love the softness of a traditional style but want it to feel more modern. This is done by mixing contemporary textures and patterns with more traditional styles. A traditional chair upholstered in a bold, colorful contemporary fabric will make the room look fresher and more modern.

This category has the most flexibility with window treatments. Roman shades in a textured fabric will have the benefit of having a traditional style but done in a contemporary fabric. Or if you want the ease of the roller shade, use a textured fabric in a neutral and add drapery panels to soften the look.

4. The Mid-Century Modernist

Mid-Century Modern is a very popular look because of the clean lines, interesting organic forms, and the emphasis on streamlined high functionality. Sleek and new drove the design of this time period and those elements are still synonymous with this look.

Clean lines, minimal ornamentation, and texture are components to look for when looking at window treatments for this style. Wooden blinds are a good choice for this look. They're high functionality plus the strong clean lines help keep the emphasis on the furnishings in the rest of the room

5. The Industrialist

Where Mid-Century Modern likes clean lines and minimal ornamentation, the industrialist takes those same cues but adds rustic, reclaimed, and weather-worn elements to the mix. Distressed wood, exposed bricks mixed with metal accents are common to this look.

Window treatments need to have a high functionality but also add beauty and the look of the hand made to the room. Cellular shades can be a great way to bring texture into an industrial space. Barn doors with metal accents also are a great window treatment for the industrialist design lover.

6. The Rustic

The design elements for a rustic style room focus on natural materials, subdued color palettes, and a no-fuss aesthetic that reinforces the feel of living simply. Natural elements that are right at home in this design are wood beams, stone or slate, and simple, comfortable furnishings.

Window treatments for this look emphasize texture and simplicity. A Roman shade made out of fabric that looks similar to burlap will be appropriate. Wooden plantation shutters to evoke the feel of a rustic cabin would be another good choice for this style.

Even with all the different design styles, there are a couple of things that you can do that will elevate your window treatments and give them a designer look. Layer the window treatments. This could be as simple as having a blind and drapery panels. Add details that are unique to your room. Don't forget to add interesting trim or colorful hardware to add a designer look too.

And finally, have fun with your window treatments. Don't shy away from adding color, texture, and design interest to your room with your blinds and draperies. Of course, if you're overwhelmed by all the choices and unsure of your design style, give me a call. I’d be happy to help you beautify your windows!

Until next time,

Beth