Don't be afraid of color. Many people play it
safe and select neutral window treatments. Yet, mixing two colorful
window treatments is a simple way to inject energy and excitement into a
room. Select tones from opposite sides of the color wheel -- for
example, pair a golden honeycomb shade with deep aubergine velvet panels
-- to brighten and add punch to your windows.
Vary textures when mixing neutrals. If bright
colors aren't what you are after, mixing subtle colors in wonderful
textures can instantly bring elegance and ease to your rooms. For
example, combining rich silk in an earthy bronze with delicate, sheer
georgette in a creamy color results in a beautiful effect that goes with
any décor. Woven reeds, grasses and bamboo shades perfectly complement
tailored herringbone edge bindings.
Use a corner to your advantage. In homes with
wall space between two corner windows, use panels or draperies with one
side stacking to the left, the other to the right. Panels meet in the
corner for the dramatic look of one continuous window. In contemporary
homes where windows meet without wall space in between, honeycomb shades
are a wonderful solution. When closed, the windows appear as bold bands
of color; when open, shades virtually disappear for an unobstructed
view.
Give small windows big impact. Don't be stumped
by small or unattractive windows. One terrific way to make small windows
appear larger and more dramatic is by using light-colored panels that
start well above the window and puddle onto the floor. To enhance the
width of a narrow window, specify panels significantly wider than the
window and hold them open with tiebacks-the effect draws the eye
outward. Then, build on the visual impact with details like ring tops,
prominent wood poles, finials and brackets.
Design in stages. If your dream windows are a
little out of reach right now budget-wise, don't fret. Designing windows
is an evolving process that doesn't have to be finished all at once.
When you move into a home, privacy and light control are most important,
so focus on installing functional blinds and shades that will be the
foundation for your window treatment masterpieces later. Then, when time
and budget allow, layer luxurious panels and draperies or add
architectural details like cornices and sconces.
