Consider Your Windows

Window Deliberations

Spend time considering window appearance in relation to the room. Do the windows occupy a large proportion of your wall space? They may simply be small rectangles punched into the wall? Conversely, they may form part of your room’s architecture as is the case with a bay window or a dormer window? It’s important to understand the different types of window and the limitations that each brings to your curtain choices.

Sash windows will open vertically by means of sash cords and are generally surrounded by frames or moldings. Casement windows are generally double or single and usually open outwards; sash and casement windows lend themselves to a variety of curtain treatments.

French doors usually open inwards which can be problematic for curtains, shades and blinds. Subsequently, curtain poles and tracks need to be set wide and high enough above a French door to allow the fabric to stack away when the window is opened. Blinds or shades are alternative solutions but need to pull high and clear of the window.

Bay windows extend outwards from a wall either in a curve or a rectangle. If the windows are sash or outward-opening casements a bay window pole can fitted so that the curtains follow or map the bay.

The key to walls of glass, sliding doors and large loft windows is to obscure as little of the architecture and view as possible. Concealed tracks, shades or blinds work well in these situations due to that fact that their practical designs allow the architecture to take center stage. Circular and arched windows are beautiful architectural features that are best left unadorned. Dormer windows can be dressed with curtains on portière rods that pivot and lie flat against the side walls when open. They can also be dressed with individual roll up shades. Slanted dormer windows are best dressed with a curtain fixed on top and bottom tracks.

Whatever window challenges you face the simplest solution is always the recommended approach.