6 Ways to Add Impact With Windows

Windows are a crucial element of any home, allowing natural light to stream in brightening interior spaces, as well as providing architectural interest both inside and out. Equally as important are window treatments, as they have the power to change the look and feel of a room. From dark draping curtains to sheer blinds, there’s a window treatment to suit every style and shape. So, if you’re looking to redecorate or simply freshen up an outdated room, draw inspiration from these stunning designs.

1. Use luxurious fabrics.

Square and rectangular shaped windows are the most commonly used design and are often incorporated in bedrooms. While blinds and shutters are suitable treatments, curtains are a more popular choice due to their ability to totally transform a space.

Not only do curtains complement furnishings within the room, they also work to soften a space, making it feel cozy and private. On the practical side, curtains also act as great insulators, helping to keep a space cooler in summer and warmer in winter.

When choosing curtains for a sleeping zone, opt for thick, block-out fabrics as this will help create a “sanctuary” feel by blocking out sunlight in the early mornings and nosy neighbors at night.

2. Go sheer with floor to ceiling windows.

Open-plan living areas often feature floor-to-ceiling windows as they help an indoor space feel more connected to an outdoor area. But while these striking windows are increasingly popular nowadays, they can prove tricky to dress as too much fabric can make a space feel smaller.

“For creating shade, you’ll want blinds or curtains in sheer fabrics, which let light through in a gentle and diffuse way,” recommends architect George Clarke.

3. Use pivot windows to bring the outdoors in.

Pivot windows are as suitable for city apartments as they are for country homes. Their rotating panels ensure ample natural light and continuous air flow. They can also help meld the line between outdoors and in, so are perfect in rooms where there’s a view you want to enjoy. However, pivot windows can be tricky to dress which is why they’re often left bare and used in spaces where privacy is not a high concern, such as the kitchen or laundry.

4. Incorporate steel-framed windows in large spaces.

While large windows that stretch the length of a wall can be breathtaking, if not dressed correctly they can make a space look austere. Enter steel-framed windows, most often seen in industrial and art deco style homes, this style of window is a feature all on its own thanks to the striking black framing. What makes these windows extra special is they’re often filled with frosted glass, which helps diffuse the stream of natural light into a room while still maintaining privacy.

If you opt for this window design in your home, just ensure the rest of your space is kept quite minimal, without artworks or brightly painted walls that can compete for attention.

5. Up the airflow with plantation shutters.

Creating a breezy, beachy look, plantation shutters are the perfect addition to homes that celebrate Hamptons style, and are able to be used to dress numerous window shapes and sizes. Their durable design not only provides perfect light control, but also ensures optimum ventilation.

6. Add space with a bay window.

A common feature in traditional-style homes, bay windows help to open spaces while also working overtime as a cozy reading nook. With more glass on show, made-to-measure shutters can be designed to fit each individual window. Alternatively, thick draping curtains can be used to cover the space entirely.