If you’re in the market for window treatments, you’re in luck. The top trends this year are really exciting. Here’s what people are covering their windows with today and what you should think about before picking up any fabrics.
High Tech Treatments
Advances in window technology have resulted in motorized shades. It might seem like something out of a futuristic movie, but it’s not. Shades and drapes that are on motorized rails are replacing the usual tension rods that most people use.
Motorized window treatments are generally one of three types: wireless, hardwired, and solar-powered.
Wireless window treatments utilize a wireless controller to operate the blinds or drapes. The window blinds open when you press a button on the controller. Hardwired drapes or blinds are operated by pressing a button located in a fixed location in the home.
Solar-powered blinds are operated by the sun – literally. As the sun rises, a solar sensor catches the sunlight and triggers a small motor that opens the blinds for you automatically. Many of these devices have an override that can close the blinds mid-day if you want to.
When the sun sets, the blinds close automatically.
Roman Shades
Roman shades are also popular. They come in many different styles and colors. They provide an elegant window treatment for almost any home. Most companies sell them in bold colors as well as neutral ones. Bold colors obviously accent muted wall colors while the softer colors, like taupe help to soften the look of vibrant wall colors or decor.
Roman shades can handle a variety of fabrics and they’re sold by major outlets. You can shop these items in stores like bed, Bath & Beyond, for example.
Most window blinds and window shades of this type will cost more than drapes, owing to their higher quality. Expect to pay between £50 and £100 or more depending on the cut and quality of the shade.
Plantation Shutters
Plantation shutters mimic the old times with a large 4 ½” slat. It gives you a large viewing area. Plantation shutters that are made for modern windows also carry a more modern look and come in a variety of finished like genuine hardwood, faux wood grain, hybrid materials, plastics, and bamboo.
They also come in a variety of colors, like Roman shutters.
Many people find them ideal for home offices or dens, but they also work well in some living rooms and bedrooms.
Energy-Efficient Shades
Modern shades focus on energy efficiency. Manufacturers are realizing that the potential of window shades today is huge. They can reduce energy costs and provide protection from the damaging effects of UV light.
Shades utilizing a honeycomb design can trap air, for example, and insulate the home. UV resistant shades help protect your carpet and drapes, not to mention your furniture, from damage.
Regardless of your tastes, there is probably a shade or drape combination that will compliment your current decor and paint scheme. Don’t get discouraged if you can’t immediately find something. Keep searching. It may take you a couple of weeks to finally find what you’re looking for but, when you do find it, you’ll be glad you took the time to do it right.
Lucy Gill works within the family home maintenance and decorating business. When not answering the phone and planning appointments she loves to create inspiration boards for clients with decor needs.
Good one. Love this article. I would like to say thank you for providing such information related to what trends & traditions in window treatments.
Judith Luna recently posted…The Correct Shades for Your Entertainment Room
My sister asked me for help to redecorate her nursery to welcome her new daughter into the world. When I read that she can get roman shades so that it can help soften the look of a room’s walls or decor, my next step is to find a window treatment service. With their help, they can keep a room well-ventilated and well-lighted to keep the baby healthy while inside the room.