Wow Factor Windows

Often in Interior Design, beginning a new project can be difficult. If you are starting over or you have a very neutral palette to work with, a good place to begin is with the windows. Though, some do not care for drapery panels or valances, they can add a major "wow" factor to any space.

I like to first determine what type of window covering is needed or desired. For instance, if you have a room with shorter ceiling heights, but you would like to give the illusion of a higher ceiling, you can hang panels on either side of the window, from the ceiling to the floor. This gives your room the illusion of being taller while also adding a dramatic focal point. Another example is if you have a window that you do not wish to cover (because of the light it lets in or the nice view) you can create a valance to place above the window to add a little bit of interest.

Ceiling to floor length panels make the room feel much taller & give a wonderful dramatic effect.

A simple Valance placed above a window can add beautiful definition to any window.

More elaborate & decorative Valances can add a sophisticated look to a window.

Fabric &/or trim for a window are a major factor. The decision on what fabric &/or trim to use is based on the room & overall feel of the space. Some like a more dramatic drapery, while leaving other pieces in the space neutral. While others prefer a completely clean & neutral palette all around.

You can use trim (also called fringe) on a window covering or panel to accent or to create a more formal feel. The types of trim that are commonly used on windows consist of tassel trim & tape/banding trim. While tassel trims are considered more traditional they add an air of elegance to a formal space. Tape trims are more popular right now in interior design because they are more casual & create cleaner lines while developing a finished edge on a panel or valance.

Dramatic fabrics can create a focal point in the space & add interest to, an otherwise, boring room.

Clean lined panels with Tape trim (also called Bands or Braids) or bands of contrasting fabric, added to the leading edge (inside edge) of the panels can create a great finished look.

Greek Key trim is a very popular & classic trim to use on the leading edges of drapery panels.

Tape/Banding trims come in a variety of fibers (cotton, jute, polyester, rayon) styles & colors.