Few elements of interior design seem to confuse people as much as window treatments because windows vary so much from house to house. The question of décor, the amount of privacy required, how much light to allow in or block out, and whether or not there is a view are all questions that need to be addressed.
- Wooden venetian blinds, in wide (my preference) or narrow slats, are a terrific choice. They look chic in a study, library or bedroom. You can find wooden blinds in lots of finishes, from lightly pickled to dark mahogany. Their fabric tapes, which come in a wide range of colors, can be coordinated with the fabric on upholstered furniture. In a kitchen, for example, white blinds with red tape can immediately brighten and bring cheer. Make sure the cord is on the less conspicuous side (and in the kitchen, away from the stove.)
- Metal blinds, which are still ubiquitous in office settings, have a harder look to them. Lately, with so many homeowners leaving the high-tech look behind in favor of a warmer, cozier feel, they are not used as much for residential interiors.
- Shutters can darken a room well and offer a lot of privacy. Standard-size shutters are best for smaller rooms and are compatible with country -style interiors. Painted white or stained dark, these window treatments work well in libraries too. For larger eclectic or contemporary-style rooms, wide plantation shutters, from floor to ceiling, can make quite a dramatic statement. Shutters can be costly because they are generally custom-made but make truly elegant window coverings.
- Sheer curtains can be used in many situations. Not only do they allow light in, they offer privacy as well. Sheers can flow to a windowsill or the floor. When gathered together on rods inside the top and bottom of a window frame, they can offer additional privacy. Choose a plain sheer, without any pattern, that doesn't draw attention to itself and away form the room. It will give you a soft, dreamy impression of the view outside.
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