The principal objective of installing windows is the optimisation of light and ventilation in a room. Instead of merely diverting vision into a bare view, embellishing a window can add a lot more to it. But window dressing can be a major challenge that requires a lot of investment. So whether your window needs a major or minor overhaul, we’ll tell you about some top trends that can help you get started.
Colour choices
In earlier times, white paired with black or navy was extremely popular. However, these days, blue is the new hot favourite in the window dressing industry. Shades of ocean blue stemming from teal to aquamarine and soft green are slowly dominating the market. On the soothing pallete end, you have hues of soft lavender and grey. Jewel tone colours like orange and gold are here to stay, while brown continues to be the new basic.
Environmental concerns
Going green is one of the latest trends to have caught on with people looking to combat allergies as well as for those looking at heat-repellent or cold-repellent window panels. For example, performance fabrics are seen sporting anti-microbial and anti-fungal characteristics and are spun into the yarn, or are offered as tropical spray.
Stain-, mildew- and mould-resistant fabrics are other top choices for those suffering from allergies. And if you are even a tiny bit conscious about the environment, you should go in for fabrics that are made from non-toxic dyes.
Tech & thread
Technology is at the core of our everyday life, so why not make this transition into window dressing as well? Go for window blinds that can be controlled by the touch of a remote, a light switch or the Internet. But this doesn’t mean your window should seem any less inviting. Layering with high thread counts of material is the key to adding that cosiness element.
Silky smooth
Although silk is a more costly option, it lends itself to the luxury and opulence factor and can turn any room around, even if from the dredges. Choose your silk from a motley of designs, colours or treatments like jacquards and plaids.
If grand is your thing
The overall trend is leaning towards simplicity. However, for those looking for luxury and opulence, silks, velvets, damasks, fur, leather and suede are easy favourites. This includes beaded tassels and heavy embellishments on window hardware, trims and fabric. Sparkling crystal is another bestseller in this category.
Going bold
The other big trend that is being displayed on windows is bold prints and patterns. From bold stripes to graphic prints and bright florals, this trend is also being viewed as a defining factor in an interior designer’s signature.
Geometric division
Straight lines have always been a major trend in window dressing. Creating
geometrically straight lines against your window panels will instantly transform its look into one with modern and clean silhouettes. A simple method to getting streamlined window treatments is to add panel track blinds. These are influenced by Asian Shoji screens and can be made to look contemporary or European. They are made from fabric or woven wood panels and can also be used as room dividers.
Soft & strong
Soft textiles such as velvet and grosgrain are hot-selling on the market. “There is a huge overlap between fashion and interior trends. It is for this reason that you will now see a lot of couture detailing like ruffles, cords, beads and lace in window treatments,” says Kabir Bhasin of East Distributor, a custom-made interior decor store in the City.
Grosgrain is a strong, ribbed fabric typically made from silk. It is being widely used in ribbon detailing on blinds and curtains. Velvet bands is another trend that is seen gaining huge momentum.
Organically yours
Natural materials like bamboo and wood are slowly making a deep dive into the minds of the environment-conscious customers. They not only let in diffused light to understand the outside world, but also add some privacy to an otherwise bare window.
Although the process of choosing window treatments must start from the homeowner’s tastes and preferences, likes and dislikes, there are some window treatments that work best in a certain room while some may not be the best choice for another room. So, here is a simple checklist for spaces, while making your decision.
Master bedroom
For homeowners, privacy should be the main focus while selecting appropriate window treatments in the master bedroom. While you may want ample lighting in the day, you would want privacy at night. Also, windows should be easy to access when you want ventilation and should also ideally serve as an emergency escape route.
Kids bedroom
While in an adult’s bedroom, privacy is the main consideration, in a child’s room, it is safety. Cords can be hidden hazards, while long drapes and blinds can pose danger when the child is tugging at it for stability or while playing.
Ensure window treatments are chosen accordingly, so as not to pose major risk to your child. Also, build window treatments to enable a safe and easy exit for your child in an emergency situation.
The other concern is the lighting. While it is important to ensure adequate lighting during the day, it is also necessary to create a dimming effect during daytime naps.
Living room
In your living room area, you probably want to add that touch of luxury and primness. In that case, drapes are your saving grace. But you also have to take care to ensure proportionality in your drapery. Select a window treatment that will have the ability to knock out sunlight from the TV space or reading area when desired.
Kitchen
For most people, a kitchen is the centre of the home. While looking for window treatments, make sure to install those that block out grease, food odours and moisture that are prevalent in the kitchen. Privacy is not a major concern in this room, but having easy access to ventilation with open and closed windows must be considered.
Bathroom
Window treatments in the bath area should be chosen such that it is resistant to moisture and mould formation. Look for a fast-drying and easy-to-disinfect window treatment. Also, have access to open windows for ventilation every now and again.
Den or home office
In the office area, lighting plays a crucial role. Choose a window treatment that supports this. Also, one should have the flexibility to adjust the lighting so as to prevent glare from the sun falling on computer screens or papers, while reading.