All About Windows (Trappings and Treatments and Trim, Oh My!)
They say windows are the “eyes” of a home. In the same way that mascara, liner and eye shadow can convey different messages based on how they are applied, various types of window dressings can express different styles in a room. Here are some different ways you can cover your casement windows and give your home that distinctive and personal look. Let’s expound a bit more as we discuss some ideas for the myriad messages and numerous ways you can cover your casement windows.
Roman Shades
First on the list is the elegant roman shade. Whether mounted on the inside or outside of the window, roman shades prove crisp, clean lines that help define the parameters of both the window and the overall room.
Here are some general ways to achieve a custom look when you create your own treatments:
When you have a smaller room or have other busy patterns on the furniture or bedding, consider a clean and simple fabric or pattern for your shades for simple understatement.
Use fabric with edge banding or add trim to add color contrast and definition to your shades.
Drawback Curtains
This is where you can really show your style! With drawback curtains, you not only have the particular fabric through which to express your personality, you also have various hardware and trim options to add to the mix. Here are some suggestions on the different “feels” you can evoke through specific pairings of fabric and trappings.
The Eco Advocate
Using organic fabrics and all natural materials can indicate your dedication to bringing the outdoors in while keeping your carbon footprint outside to a minimum.
Why not drape organic cotton curtains from a unique bamboo rod? Tie it all together with jute strips or lengths of rope as tiebacks.
Alternatively, attach a strip of natural jute trim to the edge of your curtains. You can find these in varying widths and styles – some of the knit braids even have a shimmer to add a bit of sparkle! Select a fabric in a darker color for contrast or in a complementary pattern that will coordinate with the jute’s neutral color.
From Red Carpets to Royalty
Not much says “luxury” and “extravagance” quite like heavy drapes or richly colored tapestry-style curtains. From silk to velvet to heavy brocade, just-above-floor to just-below-ceiling hanging curtains help to elongate a room and add an “A-List” touch of class.
All bets are off when it comes to the styles of trim these regal beauties can pull off. Consider pairing these types of curtains with silk ties, braided cords, ribbons, or fringe and piping with beads or tassels – when done tastefully, you can make it the more the merrier!
For hanging heavy drapes, go with thick rods in brushed metal finishes – just make sure when you mount the rods, they can support the weight of whatever treatments you choose!
What are some of your favorite trims or trappings to add to your window treatments?
Jay Harris is a Home Depot “on the floor” sales associate and a regular contributor to Home Depot’s blog. His interests include providing tips to homeowners on energy efficient windows and casement window advice.
