Need window treatments but don’t know where to start? Read on as I break down the basics of some of the most in-demand window covering options from off-the-shelf to custom.
1. Flowing draperies. These tend to look more formal and graze if not puddle on the floor. Leave parted to one side, both sides or tie back. May be hung on a rod with rings, a rod pocket top or grommets for more casual styles. Expect to pay $135 or more per panel. Available in many fabrics. May be lined or unlined. Usually not energy efficient unless lined.
2. Panels. Similar to draperies but typically more casual. Also hung on a drapery rod with rings, rod pocket top, grommet or clips. May be found on store shelves starting at $25 and 85″ long (standard). Available in many fabrics, most unlined. Not energy efficient unless specified. Available in limited room-darkening fabrics.
3). Valance. Valances can be very formal, playfully trendy or uber casual depending upon the design. Custom valances can be mounted on a board or drapery rod. You can find ready-made valances at stores like JC Penney starting at 12.00 each for sheers, more for solids. May be combined with panels, shutters or shades.
4. Shutters. A more clean-cut look in my opinion and more masculine when shown in wood stains. Also available in whites/creams. Expect to pay upwards of $400 per window for this custom window covering. Perfect for allowing natural sunlight to filter in. Cheaper versions may bow with temperature changes over time. Usually left alone (i.e. not paired with another window treatment).
5. Sheers. May be layered with other sheer or solid panels. Hung on drapery rod with rod pocket top. Available in stores starting at $10 and 85″ long. Available in custom colors/patterns/sizes as well. Not ideal for privacy unless paired with solid panels. Not energy efficient.
6. Honeycomb shades. Usually a custom design. Many colors available. Various levels of energy efficiency available. Ideal for protecting wood flooring and furniture from sun exposure. Ideal for privacy.
7. Sihlouette by Hunter Douglas. The best of both draperies and shades. Can be paired with another window treatment or left alone. Available in various colors and vein sizes. www.hunterdouglas.com/our-products-detail.jsp?id=33 A high-end treatment with unlimited possibilities. May be installed with remote control. Allows for privacy and natural sunlight filtering. Ideal for maintaining exterior view.
8. Roman Shades. Available in a flat fold or more full shape. Available in nearly any fabric/pattern. Ideal for privacy. May be raised for full sun exposure. Not typically energy efficient.
Ready to see some samples?
For custom orders contact Patti Wommer of Edmond, OK at 405.615.3086.
For shutters and Sihlouettes, contact David of Blind Alley, Oklahoma City, OK at 405.848.0099.
For all other window needs please contact Jennifer Hicks, C.I.D. of Designing Diva Interiors, LLC at 405.816.9716!
