Décor – Window Trends

We know trends are cyclical and all that was popular is back again, but toned down to today’s aesthetic.  This is especially true with window coverings.  All that was popular in the 80’s is back again.  Remember the balloon drapes, Roman blinds, swags, and formal pinch-pleat drapes.  Well, thank goodness, not all of these are back, but versions of them have resurfaced.

Top trends include:

1. Sheers are now a treatment on their own and we’re seeing all kinds of coloured ones.  A little translucence and pairing 2 tones to give more depth and interest is very effective.  Also, sheer fabric has more pattern now and has become a great texture element in décor.
2. Pinch-pleats are looser now and instead of the tight 3-pleats of the past you will see double-pleats, giving a more free flowing effect.
3. Puddling of drapes is no longer popular, but make sure the length is not too short.  Drapes should be long enough to break at the floor, just like a man’s pant leg at the shoe.
4. More pattern in drapes is very popular. Rather than just the monotone colour we’re seeing more stripes and subtle, uniform patterning in the fabric, similar to a man’s shirt.
5. Velvet is very big this season.  The way the light reflects and gives off softness and texture from the velvet makes it very luxurious.
6. Grommets continue to be popular this season.
7. Hardware is given attention as well.  We are seeing very nice finials, rods and tiebacks in carved wood, metal, glass and ceramic.  These are like the jewelry or finishing touches on an outfit.

Things to remember:

1. Make sure your window treatments match the style of your room;

• Contemporary décor dictates a simple clean blind or shade in a colour that matches the trim and essentially disappears.
• Traditional décor will see high-end luxury fabrics such as silk, linen, tapestry and in a more formal pinch-pleat drape or with valence or Roman blind.
• Casual décor dictates comfort and informality, so drapes with grommets, sheers with pattern or loose shades work here.

1. Bedroom window coverings should block out light and make privacy a priority.  For drapes, make sure they are lined with a light- blocking fabric.  If you prefer a shade, make sure the slats are wide to provide a bigger area of privacy.  In children’s rooms, make sure there are no cords where little hands can get them and also make sure the fabric you choose is washable.
2. Bathroom and Kitchen window coverings should have privacy, but also are moisture resistant.  Choose shades or blinds that are a synthetic and can be wiped down easily or café shutters (which cover the lower half of the window).  For very modern décor simply use a film (offered in many patterns as well).
3. Living/dining/den/home office – In the these rooms you will want some ability for privacy, but also to let a maximum amount of light come through, so drapes with sheers and blinds that are easy to open are the best here.  Also, take into consideration that light will reflect off TV and computer monitors so light-diffusing blinds, shutters that open fully in one area and not another such as café shutters are best.
4. Colour and pattern tips:  In smaller rooms, use low contrast colours and fabric, i.e. e. pick a colour that matches your walls and keep pattern to a minimum unless there is a pattern on the wall.  In larger rooms, if your window is a feature you can draw attention to it by contrasting the fabric to the walls and using bold patterned fabric.

Where to get stuff:

For all kinds of blinds made to order quickly: Blinds To Go or Hunter Douglas

For blinds and off the rack drapes and hardware: Rona or Home Depot

For custom fabric: Designer Fabric Outlet

For custom drapes or blinds etc.: Designer Sewing Inc.

For window film: Ikea or most paint stores

Have fun!

Cheers!

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