Decorating & Design
4 Outdated Window Treatments (And What To Do Instead)
Photography by Patrick Biller
Decorating & Design
4 Outdated Window Treatments (And What To Do Instead)
We hate to be the bearers of bad news, but your once-beloved blinds might be dating your home.
Window treatments—from blinds and shades to curtains—are an oft-forgotten method of upgrading your abode. Airy fixtures invite a softness to your space, while rattan or wood styles add a boho flair.
That said, some trends are not doing the trick for designers anymore. Here are the ones to watch out for and what to switch them out for.
Instead of heavy curtains, choose lightweight drapery
Photography by Lauren Miller
Heavy drapery—especially if it’s puddled on the floor—was once a sign of luxury. Now, it can look stuffy and like it might be hiding dust and dirt. Designers are gravitating towards lightweight options that are airy and breezy. Consider a cotton or linen material, and hang it about halfway between the ceiling and window for a wall-lengthening look.
Instead of vinyl blinds, choose Roman shades
Photography by Patrick Biller
Whether your builder-grade home came with pre-installed white blinds or you welcomed the once-loved window treatment into your design years ago, blinds are on the outs. Vinyl blinds have a practical light-filtering edge, however they can look cluttered and busy.
For smaller windows, consider going for Roman shades. These semi-sheer privacy shades have can have either crisp or gentle folds, softening the light coming through while providing elegant privacy. Café-style curtains or roller shades do a similar trick.
Instead of ornate designs, choose a pared-back style
Photography by Patrick Biller
Fair warning, we’re not telling you to completely ditch all pattern and colour. Rather, steering away from overly ornate styles—such as tassels, thick swags, or old-fashioned patterns—will bring your drapery into the present.
A minimalist style is generally more timeless for window treatments. For a fresh take on fun style, try out scalloped edging, soft pastels, or chic stripes.
Instead of woven shades, choose wood or bamboo
Photography by Marc Olivier Becotte
Woven shades certainly had their moment. Now, designers are forgoing them for sturdier options. Wood blinds are great for those who really love the look and function of a traditional blind. Bamboo picks, which more closely resemble their woven counterpart, are softer and elevated (and can be cleaned much more easily).
These options can also be combined with traditional drapery for a fresh layered look.
9 ways to make your living room cozy
Comments