The topic you have been waiting for… Window treatments are the most detailed and complicated part of the design process. I will cover the most important points in this article so that your nieces and nephew will have spaces that are beautiful and functional at the same time.

Decorative vs. Functional
A functional window treatment will cover the window to block light from entering the room. Some examples are roman shades, mechanized drapery panels, honeycomb shades, and wood blinds. They come with an open/close mechanism. Aunties, I would highly recommend the cordless or loop control options. The cords can be choking hazards for young children. Spend a little extra money for the safer and more convenient option… It is sooo worth it! I promise!

Decorative window treatments are simply there to make the space prettier. Some examples are stationary curtain panels, cornices, and valances. They are placed on top of the functional treatment, and they are not mechanized. Tip: Make sure the decorative treatment projects out a few inches so that it does not interfere with the ease of opening and closing the window cover.

The Selection Process
With so many choices, how do you decide what is right for a child? Light, darkness, and privacy are the key questions here. I am pretty sure you want privacy…but does your niece need complete darkness when she sleeps at night, or is she happier with less darkness? Consider the following:

Lining: Virtually all window covers come with some sort of lining as an upgrade option (except wood, as lining is not necessary). The lining you choose will depend on the amount of light you want to enter the room.

- No lining will allow the most light (beware aunties, as shadows will be visible from the outside at night when the lights are on – not very private). I rarely recommend this in bedrooms.

- Blackout lining allows no light through the shade. The room will be completely dark. This option is great if your nephew has trouble sleeping without complete darkness or if he needs to feel it is nighttime during his daytime naps.

- Standard cotton lining is the one that I use most often as it blocks the light at night and provides complete privacy. This standard lining usually suits most people.

Sheers: Sheers are pretty, but they don’t block much light from entering the room. Consider a standard or blackout lining instead.

Other Important Things to Consider
Blinds, shades, and shutters can be mounted on the outside or inside of your window frame. An inside mount is always preferred, but check with the manufacturer before ordering, as most products require at least 2” depth (and some up to 4”) inside your window frame. Also, keep in mind obstructions inside the frame, such as alarm sensors and cranks. Do not worry about an outside mount sticking out too much… A decorative top treatment will instantly solve this problem!

Should I Hire a Professional?
Does she have huge windows? Are you planning a multi-layered treatment for her princess room? TRUST ME ON THIS… If the job is too big and complicated, bring in the experts. Window treatments are expensive. If you have little experience and a complicated problem, you want to save yourself the aggravation of making a very costly mistake.

The Savvy Decorator wishes you and your family a wonderful school year!

Photo: FrameAngel
Published: September 24, 2012