Why stop at just one window treatment for your windows? A simple covering is fine and basically functional but as the days, nights and seasons change just a single solution may not do your windows justice!
Would you wear a single article of clothing all day, night and all year long? Of course, you wouldn’t! … so why should a window? Here’s what you need to know to get started.
Window layering – step by step
1) Start with a base layer
Start with a simple base layer that works with most windows throughout your home.
Consistency is good to tie it all together as you don’t want your house to look like a window covering showroom!
Also, it’s best for windows to generally look the same from the outside. Simple slats, shutters, roller shades or even a honeycomb shade works well.
2) Determine the needs in each specific area
Determine the specific needs for certain feature areas like main living space, ensuite, primary – these are great to feature with Window Layering.
For example, a big window in front of your soaker tub might need privacy while a sliding door opening onto a private patio in your primary bedroom will have minimal privacy but accessibility to the door is important.
3) Mix and match layers
Next, consider a treatment that is different from your base layer. One of the secrets of window layering is to mix and match the types of treatments to add depth, texture and a variety of materials and colour.
A hard surfaced shutter looks beautiful paired with a soft sheer drape while a soft layered sheer shade might be finished off nicely with a shade full of textured woven woods.
4) There are no rules!
The rule is there are no rules. Like in the world of fashion, use your own taste to create a look that suits your personality and style.
Maybe a splash of colour, a bold pattern, a rich texture – anything that garners one to look twice when entering a room.
Remember: WHATEVER you do – have some fun with it.
5) Four Season Window
Even consider changing out some treatments as the height, intensity – direction of sun and light can change with the seasons. In Winter you want to keep heat in – while in Summer it’s about keeping the heat out.
Maybe in colder months you have a denser, heavier drape that gets switched out with a linen-y sheer for warmer months with open windows that let the breeze flow through. It’s amazing how refreshed and new a room can look and feel with a few small tweaks.
