Choice Window Treatments: Curtain Call for Comfort - Page 3

"You can also add cornices at the top of the window, at the ceiling, to give a room a graceful feeling and an illusion of more height," she adds.

While some homeowners choose elegant silk for a bedroom, most MCM homeowners opt for something more organic that ties in with the outdoors, such as a linen or cotton duck fabric in a neutral color. Window fabrics can start as low as $5 per yard, but the expanse of most MCM windows demands considerable yardage. Makers of window treatments usually recommend material that is two to three times the width of the window to allow for graceful gather when the drape is pushed to the side during the day.

"We hang them on tracks and sew the drapes with ripple folds for a clean look," Trusty says. Line the back of the drapes to create an unfussy appearance from the outside when drapes are drawn and to protect against heat loss.

Choosing window treatments can take considerable time and expense. Before jumping in, it's best to consider the size and scale of the room, the window shape, and personal preference.

As with anything that demands a custom touch, it's often best to call in the professionals. They can help choose window coverings that will complement a home's décor, and perhaps offer a functional touch that makes living in a modern home that much more enjoyable.

"Window treatments are a good investment because they not only beautify your home, but also serve a purpose for light filtering and energy efficiency," says San Diego. "This helps the homeowner save money on utility bills, helps conserve natural resources, and improves the look of the home."

Photos: Ernie Braun, David Toerge, Ravi Pankhania; and courtesy the window treatment manufacturers below

Story originally published in 2009

Resources

Domestications: domestications.com
Ferrufino Interiors: ferrufino.com
Hunter Douglas: hunterdouglas.com
Ikea: ikea.com
Levolor: levolor.com
Lutron Electronics: lutron.com
MechoShade: mechoshade.com
Melissa Galt Interiors: melissagalt.com
Portland Shoji Screen: portlandsjojiscreen.com
Ravi Design: ravidesignus.com
Rebarts Interiors: rebarts.com