Inspired windows.

The first step is determining what your needs are. Does the window get direct sunlight? Is it south facing? Is it a light sensitive space such as a bedroom or office? Does it face onto a street or public path and require privacy? Once you determine your needs then it’s easier to look at the different options for window coverings and what suits your function, and not just style.

Whenever you have a window that requires privacy, light filtering or dimming or even insulation then a window covering is a good idea. It’s important to consider the window throughout the day and night as your needs can vary at different times.

Window coverings are a great benefit to any home since they help control light, heat and privacy of your space. They can also add value and style. For high profile areas like master bedrooms and living areas you might consider a feature like custom drapery to add an extra interior design element to your home.

There are many styles to consider and to make the best choice for your home one should consider function, style and budget all together as these can be different for everyone.

It depends. Often people like to match their frame finish so the window covering blends seamlessly into the window however, sometimes people will choose a fabric which better matches their wall paint OR will chose a more contrasting finish to make a bolder design statement. In this situation best to consult with a designer to help you pick a style and finish which accentuates and improves your living spaces.

Custom window fashions are a great idea since they are made to order to fit each exact window and especially when controlling light, heat and privacy a proper fit is important. Buying window treatments “off the shelf” means the products are only made in specific sizes so finding a perfect fit is not usually possible which means they will be less effective in controlling light, heat and privacy which isn’t as ideal.

Custom window coverings come in a range of types.

Blinds include faux wood, wood and composite slats. They can be horizontal, vertical or panels.

Shades come in roller shades, solar shades, dual shades, layered shades also known as zebra shades or blinds, honeycomb shades, also known as cellular shades, roman shades, natural shades, woven shades and sheer shades.

Drapery known by can be sheer, semi-sheer, solid fabric, blackout, lined and unlined using a variety of hardware such as ceiling track, channel track and channel rod, rings, grommets and pockets. Seams can be ripple fold, euro pleat, pencil pleat, pinch pleat and reverse pleat. Custom drapery is a favourite tool for beautiful designer windows.

Automation or powered window coverings are a common trend thanks to the industry change of removing cords and exposed strings from all window coverings due to safety.

There are several ways shades can be controlled – a simple Powerwand attached to the blind with a simple button to control raising and lowering. Controls using a remote or even controlling using a device like a phone or tablet while in space or even from afar.

This is a great design since it allows to the install of larger, heavier blinds that normally would not be possible.

Custom window coverings that are properly fit to windows and enhance the function of the space by control of light, heat and privacy will add value to a home since they are typically fixed to architecture and therefore included as part of the assets that come with a home.

Choosing window coverings that also compliment the aesthetic and style of a home can make it more attractive and appealing…it is a great way to enhance the interior design of a space while highlighting feature areas and rooms.

Not necessarily although you don’t want to have so many different styles of coverings that there is no consistency and the home looks like a window fashions showroom!

Keep in mind that windows on the same elevation of a home should be consistent since people will be able to see all the windows at once from the outside.  Rule of thumb is use a standard type like a roller shade, honeycomb or sheer as a base covering on most windows then add a feature shade on top in special areas such as drapery in the dining or master bedroom.