In the wonderful world of window coverings, there are virtually thousands of fabrics and design choices available to today's homeowners.
Many of my clients ask me about custom; specifically, what makes a custom window treatment custom? That is a great question; so I'll start at the beginning of a fabric's journey from being manufactured to hanging beautifully at your windows.
Fabrics come from many manufacturers throughout the world. Some of these manufacturers actually design the fabric, convert raw goods into fabric, print their design on the fabric, then inventory, sample, and ultimately market their fabric.
Like most interior decorators, I work with my clients to select those fabric samples that are appropriate to their lifestyle, taste, and budget. Once the fabric decision has been made, it is then turned into a beautifully crafted, uniquely designed window treatment. Believe it or not, there are no two custom window treatment designs completely alike. Why? Because each design should truly project your personality and style.
Quality custom window treatments are crafted by skilled workrooms. They are always luxuriously full; never skimpy. Well-made treatments include features like weighted corners in the hems of side panels to insure an even, continuous hemline, interesting pleats, and beautiful trimmings. Lining plays a major role in custom designed window treatments. Lining is often a must, not only for protecting your beautiful draperies from harsh sunlight, but protecting your furnishings as well. It adds body and shape to treatments and can be functional, such as blackout lining.
Another window treatment option is shades, blinds, or woven woods. Used for privacy, light control or energy efficiency, Hunter Douglas blinds and shades are often perfect in a window setting. For beauty and elegance consider Silhouette shading; for light control consider an energy efficient shade like Duette Architella; and to "bring the outside in" there are beautiful shades made of woven wood in hundreds of natural colors and textures.
Window treatment hardware choices are also endless. Wood or metal, traditional or contemporary, medallions or traversing? Function and placement often dictates the hardware choices.
While we're talking about window treatments, let's talk about a beautiful backdrop for your window treatments...wallcoverings. Wallpaper is hotter than ever! We still love our rich paint colors, but wallpaper is making a huge comeback. It's now easier to install and even easier to remove! Wallcovering adds not only beauty, texture, softening and richness, but also helps with sound absorption as well. Please consider it for your next project.
Again, it's best to do your homework; and consider utilizing the services of a professional designer. You'll have many more decorative options, and the added benefit of an experienced professional to guide you through every step of the design process.
As your Decorating Den Interiors decorator I am available to help you with any size project.
Please give me a call!
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