Window Covering Guide

Fabric draperies and curtains still rank among the top for window coverings. Their style affects a window’s look more than anything else. But many contemporary interior decorators also recommend blinds, shades, shutters and stained glass as alternatives or in combination with draperies and curtains. Here’s a quick guide to the different types of window coverings available.

• Draperies 

• Swags 

• Valances 

• Curtains 

• Blinds 

• Shades 

• Shutters 

• Stained Glass

Select the color of your window coverings from the walls, furniture or rug. It doesn’t have to be the dominant color. But as a general rule, if a room is neutral, bright colors or patterns on the windows liven up the space. If the walls and furniture are already busy, then plain treatments are suggested.

Draperies: Floor-length draperies add a formal touch and make ceilings appear higher while pleated or gathered draperies with tiebacks over lace panels or sheer curtains add elegance.

Swags: Easily created by draping fabric over decorative hooks or curtain rods, swags can be combined with shades, blinds, shutters and curtains of various textures.

Valances: Used as toppers, over sheers, lace panels or shirred and pleated draperies, valances make windows look taller, add balance to a room, and can create the appropriate mood you desire.

Curtains: Cape Cod curtains are especially nice in kitchens and where there are casement or short windows. Bow tiebacks, common in fabrics that easily gather and drape, add the perfect romantic touch to bedrooms. And the tailored simplicity of tab curtains provides a traditional look to any room.

Blinds: Horizontal and vertical blinds are available in vinyl and aluminum in many decorator colors. Vertical blinds, also available in various fabrics, are perfect for patio doors, corner windows and bay windows. Horizontal blinds, used for most standard windows, adapt well to skylights and sunroom windows. Wooden blinds are also popular again due to the return of traditional styling.

Shades: Fabric pleated or honeycomb shades coordinate with wall coverings or furniture and enhance odd-shaped, angled windows or skylights. They are available in many styles from light filtering to light blocking.

Shutters: Most interior shutters are made of wood and adjustable or fixed louvers or solid panels. They may be painted or stained, and can be customized to fit any window size. They are also available with led glass or fabric inserts.

Stained Glass/Art Glass: Framed stained glass panels or replacement window panes in traditional or modern designs turn an ordinary window or door into a work of art, flooding a room with light or color on a sunny day.