Choosing the right window treatments

Windows are an architectural feature so it's natural that how we dress them is an important consideration not only for the interior styling, but for how the home looks on the outside.

How to pick the right window treatments

Begin at the front of the home and try to achieve a cohesive look, no matter the styling. Work your way through, room by room, considering function and orientation.

In living areas, daylight is important, but so is privacy. For bedrooms, you want to block out light as well as have privacy. In bathrooms, privacy is always key.

Plantation shutters

Plantation shutters are an excellent privacy option throughout your entire home as they are easy to maintain while providing light control and privacy.

Shutters create that luxury feel and come in a range of finishes and materials. You can match the colour to the interior walls or go for a timber look, however usually a soft white is the safest choice – it's timeless and goes well with everything.

Roller blinds

Also known as Hollands, roller blinds are both space and cost effective.

They come in a range of textiles, including blockout (great for bedrooms), sheer (so you can look out, but at night others can't see in) and light filtering (to allow light through but no direct vision, giving you a bright room as well as privacy).

Curtains

Curtains create a soft, flowing effect, add texture and pattern, and block out daylight and cold. They are perfect for home theatre rooms as they absorb sound, and can add a sense of drama to your living areas and bedrooms.

Verishades are a new product that have the feel of curtains with the versatility of blinds.

The soft fabric hangs beautifully. There are no weights or chains so you can walk through them anywhere, whether they’re opened or closed – they just sway out of the way and settle back perfectly. This makes them perfect for creating a soft feature across a large opening. Verishades can span up to six metres.

TOP TIPS

Shutters are fantastic but not the most affordable option, so if your budget is tight, perhaps do the front facade only.
Opting for a high quality Australian made product will ensure long lasting benefits well into the future.
Blinds are modern and clean, quite cost effective and take up little space.
Don't forget to consider the backing colour of the blinds so they look good from outside, too.
For odd-shaped windows, hang curtains above or overrun the sides of the window, to make them look higher and wider.
You can always mix and match window treatments throughout the house, however it's best to use the same window treatment on all the windows in the same room.
Remember: choosing too many different colours and styles can make your home look busy and confusing from the outside.