Window Dressing
‘Window dressing’ refers to the way you choose to style your windows – blinds, curtains, shutters etc. Have you thought about window dressings yet? They’re often one of the last things that people take into consideration when thinking about fixtures and fittings but carefully chosen window dressings can really transform your room.
Let’s take a look at some of the different types of window dressings that are available and what style of window they’re most suitable for.
Blinds
Blinds will work in most standard, rectangular windows and can either sit within or outside the window recess. If you have bay windows, blinds can look very nice fitted to individual windows within the bay or vertical blinds can be fitted to a single curved track, following the shape of your window.
If fitting blinds within the window recess, you may need your blinds to be cut to size for a customised fit. Also, make sure that there is enough room in the recess so that once fitted, the blinds won’t get caught on the opening mechanism of the window.
Another option is Perfect Fit blinds – these sit on a frame which fits between the glazing and the beading of uPVC windows and therefore doesn’t interfere with the window opening mechanism.
Have you thought about window dressings yet? They’re often one of the last things that people take into consideration when thinking about fixtures and fittings but carefully chosen window dressings can really transform your room.
Types of Blinds
Honeycomb Blinds
Honeycomb blinds (also called cellular blinds) are created from a row of ‘cells’. These cells hold trapped air and provide an added layer of insulation.
Pleated Blinds
Pleated blinds look similar to honeycomb blinds but they are made with a single layer of pleated fabric so do not provide the extra insulation.
Roller Blinds
Roller blinds are a piece of fabric, which wraps tightly around a tube at the top of the window. They’re very versatile and come in a wide range of colours, patterns and textures, which makes it very easy to customise the look of a room. They are generally an inexpensive option compared to other window dressings.
Roman Blinds
Roman blinds are made from fabric that is designed to pleat when raised. The back of the fabric panel contains slats which are connected to cords – when the blind is lifted, the cords pull the slats together and force the blind to fold into pleats.
Venetian Blinds
Venetian blinds are metal horizontal slats which tilt to control light and privacy. They give you much more control over the amount of light that enters the room.
Vertical Blinds
Vertical blinds are vertical lengths of fabric, which can be tilted for light and privacy control. They’re a great choice for patio doors or french windows if you’re looking for something that offers both privacy and ease of access if the doors are going to be used frequently.
Skylights
For Skylights, your best options are pleated, roller or venetian blinds. If you have a Velux skylight/roof window, Velux stock a wide range of blinds in any style (roller, pleated, venetian, roman) which can be controlled manually (if the roof windows are within reach) or electrically (ideal for blinds that are out of reach).
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Curtains
The variety of styles, thicknesses, fabrics, colours and patterns available often make curtains a stronger focal point of rooms than blinds and well-fitted curtains are more effective at keeping heat in (although curtains can reduce energy savings if they cover radiators). Curtains can make the room feel smaller as they take up more space compared to blinds, but they’re better for creating a luxurious or cozy atmosphere. Curtains generally aren’t suitable for kitchens and bathrooms as they are at huge risk of mould and stains due to the added moisture in the air.
Types of Curtains
Blackout Curtains
Eyelet Curtains
Floor Length Curtains
Patterned Curtains
Plain Curtains
Voile & Net Curtains
Pelmets
A pelmet (also called a “cornice board”) is a framework placed above a window, used to conceal curtain fixtures. These can be used decoratively (to hide the curtain rod) and help insulate the window.
Tiebacks & Holdbacks
Tiebacks and holdbacks are decorative window treatments which accompany a fabric curtain. Tiebacks are made of soft material or cord (“soft furnishing”) whilst holdbacks are rigid and made from various materials such as wood, plastic, metal or glass (“window hardware”).
Tiebacks
Holdbacks
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Shutters
Shutters can add a huge amount of style and character to a room – they’re a very flexible option as they can be made-to-measure any window shape and are available in any colour or a variety of stains. They can also be a more eco-friendly option than blinds or curtains if you choose FSC Certified Shutters or there’s a large market of reclaimed shutters that you could renovate for your home.
Types of Shutter
Plantation Style
Plantation shutters are wooden slats (or louvres) that sit inside their own frame which can be tilted from fully closed to fully open, and angled anywhere in between, allowing you to control light and airflow through the room.
Cafe-Style
Cafe-Style shutters are fitted only to the lower part of the window. They add privacy without completely obstructing light or views and are ideal for kitchen/dining areas that are at street level.
Solid Panel
Solid panel shutters block out light and offer complete privacy when closed. They also act as an extra barrier against noise and can help to keep homes cool during summer by keeping the sunlight out. Most suited for bedrooms or rooms that don’t require privacy during the day.
Tier-on-Tier
Tier-on-tier shutters are the most versatile style of shutter – they are installed with an upper panel, and a lower panel that can be opened and closed separately to one another. They are the ideal solution for creating the right balance of privacy and light.
Of course, you can also combine different types of window dressings to achieve the desired look and functionality that you’re after.
If you have any questions about planning an extension, renovating or just about creating your dream home in general, go ahead and book a free call below with Yoop.
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