5 Types of Window Furnishings for an Aesthetic Look

Some parts of your home are so integral to the design that they are considered more for their functionality than aesthetics. Balcony walls, kitchen counters, divider walls, and windows are some units we take for granted. If we take a closer look at the basics of home décor, though, we will find that finding the right style, materials, and furnishings for these can greatly impact the home's overall appeal. Let us take a look at the different types of window furnishings and the factors you must consider when choosing the right style.

Factors to consider when choosing window furnishings

• Window style - As a homebuyer, you may have very little say in the style of window that the apartment project developer or builder picks. The more popular types include casement windows, picture windows, sliding windows, shutter windows, bay windows, and bow windows. Each of these requires a different type of window furnishing for optimal functionality and aesthetics.
• Lighting – The amount of natural light the window lets in, and the light control required in the room are important factors to consider when picking out window furnishings. For example, your bedroom requires maximum privacy and light control. Heavy curtains that can be pulled back and tied when required are a good option for this room. On the other hand, your living room or study may require little light control and sheer curtains or Roman shades may be a better option.
• Space – The one factor that dictates almost all decor and design decisions, particularly in modern-day flats and apartments, is the availability of space. Heavy window treatments like valences can cause the available space to look smaller. So, if your living room has a low ceiling, you may want to adopt lighter furnishings like roller shades but pinch pleat drapes will better suit a smaller bedroom.
• Function – Apart from light control and privacy, the functional aspect of the room and the window furnishings must also be considered. For example, using curtains and elaborate fabric furnishings for your kitchen windows is not a good idea as this could be a fire hazard. Similarly, fabric furnishings are not optimal for bathrooms with high moisture levels.
• Style – Your window furnishing should tie into the rest of the room's décor or interior. A modern décor will not go well with shuttered window furnishings. Similarly, if the rest of your upholstery is paisley, you may want to match the curtains with the design colours. In all, your window furnishings should enhance the aesthetic appeal of your room and not create a jarring contrast.

Types of Window Furnishings for an Aesthetic Look

1. The Classic Curtains – These are by far the most popular window furnishings in India. The variety of colours, fabrics, and patterns is mind-boggling. While you will want to choose between keeping with your room décor, it is typically a good idea to use solid colours. If you are opting for minimalistic décor in pastels, you may opt for a patterned or floral curtain to add a touch of colour. Sheer curtains are a great choice for rooms requiring light, and heavy velvet drapes are good for more formal rooms.
2. Stylish Blinds – Blinds are another popular choice in Indian homes. Made from slated materials, they provide privacy while letting in the natural light. Horizontal blinds are perfect for studies and bedrooms, while larger spaces with floor-length windows may call for vertical blinds. Venetian blinds, particularly those made from aluminium, are definitely the most popular choice in this category. They are almost always used with lift cords.
3. Chic Shades – Shades are a popular choice, particularly in modern homes. They are easy to maintain, unlike drapes and curtains. Roller shades open and close to form a flat window cover and come with varying levels of light control. Roman shades that fold themselves as you pull the tie are fancier and allow for light play. Pleated fabric shades and honeycomb shades are popular choices, each creating a specific aesthetic effect. Your choice must be dictated by the level of light you want and the effect you wish to create. Typically, there is very little choice of colour or pattern when it comes to shades.
4. Valances, Cornicles, and Swags – Very often, a curtain leaves the top of the pelmet looking rather bare, particularly when you pull back the drapes. Using valances, swags, and cornicles is a good way to enhance the beauty of the top of your window treatment. The material used for these can also offer an interesting contrast or complement the window furnishings.
5. All about Accessories - Window accessories are a modern addition and can look very appealing. Decorative films, string drapes, curtains made of shell or wooden beads, bejewelled accessories, fancy curtain ties - these are all furnishings you may want to experiment with from time to time to see which works best for your home decor.

In all, your choice of window furnishings can greatly enhance the appeal of your home and deserve a lot of consideration. While this is certainly true, you should try new looks and experiment before settling on your favourite window treatment.