Did you know that the right window treatment can make your space look visually larger and feel more inviting? Depending on your home’s interior design, the window coverings you choose can also make your home look more expensive than it is.
The wrong window treatment, on the other hand, does the extreme opposite: it can cheapen the look of your home and make it look small and cramped.
Are you making these window treatment mistakes? Let’s find out.
1. Leaving windows bare
Don’t get me wrong – some windows can work well when left unadorned, such as massive glass walls that reveal the beauty of the outdoors or beautiful stained glass windows. But if you don’t have pretty windows, it’s better to cover them with the right window treatment for privacy, sunlight control, and temperature regulation.
2. Hanging curtain rods too low
Don’t hang curtain rods directly above the window. This leaves some awkward extra space between the window and ceiling which can make your vertical space look shorter. Instead, hang rods as close to the ceiling as possible and invest in long curtains that kiss the floor.
3. Choosing the wrong hardware
If you’re someone who pays attention to details, you’ll know if you’re choosing the wrong hardware (curtain rods, hooks, and finials). For instance, if your home’s style is sleek and modern, with brushed chrome lighting in the room, a bronze curtain rod may look out of place.
When choosing a window treatment hardware, make sure it looks appropriate for your home design. See if it can support the weight of your window coverings.
4. Ignoring function
It’s not enough that you found curtains or blinds that match your throws – they should be functional too.
Think about the room where you’ll be placing them in. Do they need to be sheer and lightweight to let in more light or do they need to be heavy to provide light-blocking abilities for improved sleep? Are you placing them in a room that requires more privacy or in a room where you want the beautiful view to be seen?
5. Picking the wrong size
There are three ways you can go wrong with the wrong covering; picking something that’s too small, something that’s too big, and something that’s just about the same size as your window.
When it comes to the length of the curtains, aim for curtains that touch the floor. You should also place the curtain rod closer to your ceiling or crown molding to make your windows look larger and more dramatic.
When it comes to blinds or shades, measuring is the key. Know the difference between inside and outside-frame mounted options, and measure accordingly to get the best fit. Leave at least 1-½” extra on the outsides.
6. Not considering materials
We’re not only talking about aesthetics and durability – but we’re also talking about safety. If you have small children and pets, make sure your window treatments don’t involve pull cords, chains, looped cords, inner cords, and lifting loops, which pose a risk of strangulation.
Additionally, make sure you’re placing easy-to-clean window treatments in areas that tend to accumulate more dust and dirt, like the kitchen, mudroom, laundry room, and bathroom.
7. Picking window treatments that don’t match your decor
You can find a plethora of curtains, blinds, shades, and shutters that match your decor.
- Modern Interiors – stick to drapery, roller shades, or vertical window panels.
- Transitional Interiors – go for sheer window treatments. If you’re opting for more texture, woven wood and honeycomb shades may be perfect for you.
- Traditional Interiors – if you’re not into heavy curtains, you may find wood blinds with wide slats and plantation shutters beautiful for your traditional interior.
8. Not matching window treatment to your actual window design
Do you have awkward windows that require special window treatments? You may be working with a bay window, arched window, or a dormer window? Determine first which type of coverage will work best for you. Don’t forget to take measurements.
9. Buying cheap window treatments
You can skimp on curtains as long as you know which size, design, and thickness you’re going for. But for other window treatments like blinds, shutters, and shades, which work to withstand heat, sunlight, and everyday wear, picking the cheapest choice might leave you unhappy with the results.
10. Not considering curb appeal
Ever considered what your coverings look like from the outside? Step outside and see what color and style would suit best for your home.
Most neighborhoods require everything facing the street is white. If you want a different color for your interior, consider layering your curtains. You should have one sheer white drapery, facing the street and one main drapery of your preferred design facing your interiors.
Author Bio: Carmina Natividad writes for iStyle Shutters, a leading provider of high-quality window coverings in Sydney including blinds, plantation shutters, and awnings. Writing about home improvement and interior design is her cup of tea.
