Window Furnishings – Exploring the interior solutions

One of the most common types of treatments applied to new homes. They are a versatile, hardy and often economical way to furnish a window. As popularity increased, so too did the variety and range of finishes and fabrics that roller blinds are available in. Roller blinds are attached to the window frame and provide the interior with a seamless and slick aesthetic. They are easily manoeuvred and functional. They also protect the flooring and furnishings from strong sunlight which can damage these pieces.

One thing that is to be considered when choosing roller blinds is the lack of flexibility when adjusting levels of light into a space. Roller blinds are not designed to allow for filtered or partial light. They are generally all the way up, or all the way down. The exception here is when there is a two-layered system comprising of a sheer fabric and then a block out, allowing for more control and dual functionality.

These are similar to a roller blind (described above) but move on fixed panels in a horizontal system, rather than a vertical line. They provide more flexibility in a sense of controlling light into a room, but they are more limited in the way they cannot be fully retracted like a roller blind which hides almost completely in a roll. Panel blinds stack to the left or right of a window or glass door. Because of this, they are visually more suited to a larger, full-length window, or several windows/glass doors in a row as they can block some light in the process of stacking.

Vertical blinds are a slatted design which also moves on a horizontal system. As many slatted systems do, vertical blinds offer a good amount of control when it comes to privacy and light manipulation. This is because they can be adjusted to allow different levels of light in through the angling of the slats, which is also helpful for privacy in a home or office situation. While they are not seen as contemporary in design as other blind styles they do have their positive attributes and are well suited to some interior settings.

This classic style of blind is more structured than a roller or panel blind. With a focus on fabric, they add a casual and classic ambience to a space, therefore would be suitable for homes which celebrate character by the way of period features or classic architectural details. They are generally structured with a thin timber baton which can be pulled up towards the ceiling with a cord. They are practical for deeper windows and can add interest and style to an interior. They can be helpful in providing privacy and thermal qualities when down, however, unless they have a sheer behind them they are not as flexible as slatted designs in this regard.

Drapery can add instant mood to an interior, from glamour, elegance and sophistication through to whimsical depending on the style of drapes and fabrics selected. The options for drapes are endless and the benefits are also plentiful. Drapes, or curtains, which run on a horizontal tracking system, also provide a space with fantastic thermal properties, allowing the sun to be blocked in summer successfully. It also helps control interior heat in winter from escaping out of the windows. Both of these factors mean you can effectively lessen both your heating and air-conditioning bills because of the benefits of drapes.

Drapes are not for every interior though. They provide a more “fussy’ aesthetic which some people are not fond of and they can use a lot of fabric, meaning they are not always the most economical solution.

Pelmets are a structure which is built at the top of a blind or curtain which is designed to hide the top of the window treatment. Some systems, such as drapery have less than appealing mechanisms so this can be a visually interesting way to conceal this. They are generally made from timber and can either be left this way, treated, or can be upholstered to complement a fabric drapery or blind design.

For a home requiring a classic look, shutters blinds are often an option. The stylish window treatment, often made from timber or a timber-look material, provide the home with good control of light and privacy as all slatted designs do. They look particularly fantastic in period, coastal and country homes, or homes trying to achieve that look in a more contemporary setting. It should be noted that they require a certain amount of space around a window to be attached in the return and they can also be slightly restricting of light- so if you are concerned about your space already being too dark, this may not be the answer for you.

So, there we have just a little overview of each of the main type of window treatment systems that are available. Like timber floors or carpet, this is another big decision to make for your home. Pop into a Flooring Xtra showroom to chat more about what would work best for your home with one of our expert staff members.