Drapes, curtains, shades, blinds or valances.  With so many choices, how do you ensure you are selecting the perfect custom window treatments for your home?  One of the main things you should consider is privacy.  Does your space require privacy or not?  This can easily depend on the room you are decorating.

Blackout Velvet Curtains

Bedrooms and bathrooms usually require more privacy than other rooms.  Blackout curtains are great for bedrooms.  To ensure the maximum amount of privacy,  select window treatments at least 12 inches wider than your window to block as much light as possible.  Blackout solar shades and cellular shades are also another great layering window treatment when decorating bedrooms or bathrooms.

Family rooms, studies, office space, and kitchens usually require less privacy.  Here is the perfect place to use single window treatment styles.  Decorative valances work great in kitchen areas.  They are installed above the window which allows plenty of light to come into the room.  The high placement is helpful in keeping the window treatments clean.  Also this allows easy access to open the window as needed.  Roman shades are great for office spaces and studies as these treatments are easily operable for more or less privacy as needed.  Most people prefer natural light in there family rooms.  If you have plenty of windows in this space, this is a great opportunity to let loads of natural light in with simple linen drapes or minimal lined curtains.

When you keep the focus on privacy needs, it is easy to find the perfect window treatments for your space.

When it comes to dressing windows, layering window treatments can be a great option.  When you select multiple window treatments, you add interest to the room, while adding multiple ways to block light.  The best way to layer window treatments, is to add a functional treatment, with a decorative window treatment.

A functional window treatment, is one that actual provides a specific function such as blocking light, reducing sound, or adding privacy.  You can achieve this with blackout curtains which would completely block all of the sunlight from entering the room.  This will also serve an additional function by reducing heating and cooling bills.  Another example of a functional window treatment is a custom balloon shade.  By having the balloon shade custom made to the exact measurements of your window, you add a great deal of UV protection as well as privacy in the window.  Solar shades, plantation shutters, and other window coverings that will completely cover the window will all offer a degree of privacy.

A non functional window treatment is used for decorative style.  The window treatments serve as eye candy and add beauty to the room, without having any real functional use.  This can be achieved with decorative cornice boards, top treatments, and valances.  All of the mentioned window treatments will set above the window and cover just a few inches of the actual window.  No views, privacy, or sun will be blocked.  You can also add decorative drapery panels which stay open and do not completely cover the width of the window.

When you decorate your window, experiment with a functional and non functional window treatment.  You will experience the best of both worlds, receiving UV protection and privacy, and still having a nice decorative look as well.