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Choosing the Right Window Treatments

September 21, 2019
Published by Grayhawk Homes

Whether you’re moving into one of the new Auburn homes from Grayhawk or are simply looking to redecorate, window treatments play a big role in creating the right atmosphere in a room. While interior shutters are a great statement piece, they can also be pricey when you need to have them custom made. The more typical choices are drapes, curtains, and blinds, and yes, there is a difference between drapes and curtains.

Drapes are typically lined and often made with stiffer fabrics. They’re more likely to be pleated at the top, whether simple box pleats or more intricate tuxedo pleats, and they often pool onto the floor for a more formal, luxurious, and high-finish look.

Curtains, on the other hand, are typically made of lighter-weight material and come in more patterns and colors, as well as lengths. While drapes are more likely to reach from at least the top of the window to the floor or lower, curtains can be similar lengths or even half-length sheer curtains. Curtains are often more affordable and sometimes more casual, but they can still create a striking effect and are just as valid a choice for any home.

Whether you choose drapes or curtains really depends on what purpose you want them to serve. You’re more likely to want drapes in a bedroom, because they frequently come with thicker linings that are good for blocking out light. Alternatively, though, you could combine curtains and blinds for a similar effect, letting you vary the light according to your tastes.

Drapes are also ideal if you are looking to block out noise or add some insulation. The thicker linings, even with lighter-colored fabric for the main curtain, help block some ambient noise and also add another layer of insulation to help keep a room cooler or warmer, depending on the season.

On the other hand, when you’re looking to let light in, but don’t want bare windows, curtains are your ideal choice. They’re particularly useful in kitchens, bathrooms, and sun rooms. Sheer half curtains allow some privacy while still letting in plenty of light. Even full-length curtains in a light fabric are a great option, especially framing sliding glass doors or similar large windows.

When choosing curtains, think about the colors in your room and whether you want a cool or warm light in the room. A pale blue curtain will give the room a cooler tone that can be pleasant in a warm, bright room. On the other hand, warmer tones, such as a soft yellow add a warmer glow to the room. Of course, you could meet in the middle and choose soft purple curtains that add a touch of warmth, but still have cool tones.

Whether you go with drapes for an elegant finish for the living room, or half curtains in the bathroom, or a mix of drapes and sheer curtains to have the best of both worlds, the choice is up to you. Think carefully about how you want to manage the light in each of the rooms in your Auburn homes and you’ll soon know what you need. Then it just comes down to finding the perfect color and/or pattern. From custom drapes and curtains to bargain options, you’ve got a world of choice to let you show off your personal style.

Categorised in: Design Tips, window treatments

This post was written by Grayhawk Homes