People often ask me about what’s popular in window coverings, so I put together a list of the top 12 trends in window treatments that I and other designers have noticed.
Trend #1 – Simplicity
Simplicity. Draperies with crisp, clean lines enhance the contemporary-style rooms that are so popular today. Simple does not mean plain and boring. Simple window covering designs can incorporate unique fabric and fabulous hardware to make a statement of simple elegance in any style of home.
Trend #2 – Sheers by Themselves
This look suggests “cool” and “breezy” and includes printed sheers,sheers with shimmer, cut-out fabrics, and embroidered sheers with modern geometrical designs. Read more about Sheers Only.
Trend #3 – Sheers on Top of (or in front of) Fabric Panels
Sheers on top of (or in front of) fabric panels. Instead of sheers under the panels, sheers can be creatively installed on top of the panels to create an unusual but lovely element of surprise.
Trend # 4 – Blended Colors
Blended colors. The colors usually blend together without a big contrast when using several layers of window treatments, like a valance with side panels or Roman shades with side panels. This blended effect is most appropriate in rooms where works of art or elaborate lighting fixtures are intended to be the focal point in the room.
Trend #5 – Stripes and Large Prints
Stripes and large prints. Hourglass patterns, bold stripes, trellis patterns, large-scale prints, flowers, large geometrics, cut-out fabrics, and unexpected blends of strong colors are gorgeous in many settings.
Trend #6 – Textured Fabrics, Braiding and Contrast Banding
Textured fabrics, braiding, and contrast banding in window coverings. Using heavy textures or layers of textured fabrics and trims – including ribbons, fluffy cut-outs, textured braid trims, leather or metal accents, or metallic embroidery – all add depth and visual interest. Braiding and banding can be used vertically and on the leading edge or horizontally in various widths, often at the lower edge of the panel.
Trend #7 – “Modern Eastern” Influence
“Modern Eastern” influence. I have noticed the more frequent use of metallic, embroidered, sequined, and glittery fabrics that are popular in Asia and the Middle East – although today’s fabrics provide a modern twist on the theme. And while swags and jabots are not considered a current trend, I am sometimes asked to create unique swag-and-cascade treatments to compliment rooms with Middle Eastern or Asian furnishings, art, and accessories.
Trend #8 – Wide Panels
Wide panels. They often break on the floor and are constructed with simple pleating of one or two fingers pleats – or they are classic pleats, French pleats, or loosely gathered pleats that are longer than average.
Trend #9 – Valances
Valances. An increasing number of clients are using valances to cover the unsightly “headrails” or “stacks” that occur with blinds. Ordinary valances are “out” – and flat, pleated, trimmed and banded valances are “in.”
Trend #10 – Cornices
Cornices. But these are not your typical cornices. We are seeing a lot of nails, braid trims, and other unique decorative embellishments on cornices, all of which add depth, texture and visual interest.
Trend #11 – Roman Shades
Roman shades. Whether they are installed by themselves or complemented by side panels, Roman shades, roller shades and woven wood shades are available today in a variety of designs and colors.
Trend #12 – Motorized Window Treatments
Motorized window treatments. Today’s homes are increasingly automated, and window coverings are part of that trend. There are a variety of options for motorization, depending on the weight of the shade. (Some motorized blinds and shades are even so quiet they can be used in a baby’s room!) Motorized shades used to be so expensive that only the affluent could afford them, but now many brands are reasonably priced. And the best part about motorized window treatments is that they can be integrated with home automation systems so that homeowners can control thermostats, lighting, and window treatments from anywhere in the world! Even if you are simply at work, you can program your blinds to close during the day’s heat to keep rooms cooler and open before you come home. Check out this video to learn more:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3li-VMsEVv8
IIf you have questions or want to discuss your home for more ideas, please don’t hesitate to schedule a consultation.
For even more ideas, see our award-winning designs here.
