There are so many options for window treatments that it can be hard to decide which type is right for your home. There are curtains and drapes, sheer panels, shades, blinds, and combinations of options. So how do you choose? I have pro tips that I use to help my clients decide - let’s take a look.

Sheers

Sheers add a light and airy feeling to a room. They’re perfect for filtering sunlight and offering a bit of privacy. They don’t have to be boring white panels, though. In the room above, I selected sheer drapery panels that also have color and pattern. That offers a lot of visual interest, but without the weight and heaviness you can sometimes get with fabric panels. Since sheers don’t offer full privacy, consider using them in living rooms and dining rooms, rather than bedrooms or more private spaces.

Shades

Shades offer a more tailored look in a room, and I love to use them on single windows. In the study above, I chose a brightly colored shade to highlight the decor. I wouldn’t have been able to use a rod and drapery here because the window is tight against the cabinetry. So the shade works well to cover the window in a smaller space. I love using shades in almost any room. You can also determine the amount of privacy they provide by the thickness of the fabric. I’ve often used sheer shades, too (which you can see below).

Drapery

You can call them curtains or drapes, but they serve the same purpose. This selection is best to completely cover your windows and to offer the maximum in privacy and light control. They can be used alone, or in combination with one of the other window treatment selections (see below). I also like to back drapery panels with light blocking material in bedrooms. That creates the ultra-dark room that most people prefer for a good night’s sleep. The panels should be hung right to the ceiling and should just brush the floor. I also will often double up the amount of fabric for a luxe look that will completely cover the windows when closed.

Winning Combinations

Any of the window treatments can be combined to create a great look. In the room above, I used sheer shade panels to block the bright sunlight that floods this room at certain times of the day. And I added lovely floral drapery panels that can be closed for more privacy in the evenings. Consider the best use of each window treatment type to find a combination that works for your rooms.

When to Go Bare

Of course you could choose to keep your windows completely free of any type of drapery. This is a great choice in rooms that have an incredible view, or those rooms where privacy isn’t a concern. In the coastal home I designed above, we left these kitchen windows bare so my clients could enjoy the views of the beach and water.

Use these pro tips to select the best style for your home’s windows. And if you need any help with your interiors, reach out to me and my team!

All the best,

Kara

Sheers, Shades & Drapes: Pro Tips for Selecting Window Treatments

Sheers

Shades

Drapery

Winning Combinations

When to Go Bare