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Window Treatments & Hardware -
How to decorate your windows with style!
Here are some tips on choosing window treatment hardware.
- Determine if you want the window hardware to
stand out or be "invisible". Rods and finials might be more
prominent in a formal room while a contemporary room calls for
clean lines and an uncluttered look.
- Consider the function of a window
treatment as you choose the hardware. Draperies that close will
require easy sliding rings or a draw cord system. Stationery
decorative panels can be gathered onto a rod or hung from tab tops
or ties.
- Layer your window treatments for the
most flexibility. For example, place blinds next to the glass for
privacy and light control, then add decorative curtain panels for
color and style.
- Use two rods or a double rod to
accommodate a layer of sheers and over drapes, or drapes and a
valance.
- Look for rods, finials, and hardware in
styles and colors that will enhance the look of your decor and the
window treatments.
- Contemporary homes will find that
chrome rods, glass finials, metals, iron, and cable systems will fit
well with that look.
- Newer wire systems are perfect for
very wide windows and for contemporary rooms where furnishings and
accessories may be minimal and straight lined.
- Match the hardware to the style of your
draperies and your room. Choose sturdy larger diameter rods for
heavy draperies. Sheer panels and lighter silks will look more
appropriate on thinner lighter rods.
- Carved dark wood, gilt touches, and
traditional shapes work well in formal, traditional, or period
rooms.
- Scale is another important
consideration. Reserve heavy cornices and finials for larger rooms
with high ceilings. Keep the scale lighter for smaller spaces with
low ceilings.
- Iron, black wrought iron, and rustic metals
might be used in country interiors, rustic rooms, and some themed
rooms in Tuscan, Spanish, and other rustic styles.
- Country styles can be accented with
pine, iron, and simple wood rods.
- Add height to a room by installing
drapery hardware well above the window frame, or even up
along the ceiling line. The longer fabric panels will add a tall
line to the rooms.
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