Some consumers are daunted by the array of window treatments available to choose the finishing touches for their home décor. It’s easy to be confused by some of the terms used in the industry. This article, the first in a series of three articles, is the Ultimate Guide to Window Treatments. Below are some simple definitions to help you understand and identify the different window treatment terms and options. All window treatments fall into two basic categories: hard or soft. Hard window treatments are those made from non-fabric materials, while soft window treatments are those made or assembled from fabric. …

No window treatment project is finished until the hardware and accent pieces have been aesthetically integrated into the design. In the past, hardware took a back seat to the window treatment materials, but this is no longer the case. Today’s drapery hardware is made up of an interesting array of materials – iron, brass, copper, glass, acrylic, wood, etc. Choosing the best selections to highlight the finished product requires a professional eye to make sure that the combination works on both functional and stylistic levels. Below are some important factors to consider when choosing your hardware. Form Follows Function Whatever …

In the past few years, home designs have moved away from traditional rectangular windows. The trend now is more dramatic, sweeping views from tall, floor-to-ceiling and even two-storied windows and irregularly shaped portals. While these window styles have a definite unique and modern appeal, they also present some challenges when it comes to designing window treatments for them. It is important to define what the purpose of the window treatment will be in order to select the best fit. A decorative treatment will be approached differently from one intended for privacy. Once these issues have been settled, you can review …

One of the fastest growing trends in today’s labor force is working from home. A recent study indicated that at least 30 million Americans work from home at least one day out of the week. A major benefit to working out of a home office is the convenience of not having an energy sapping commute to face every day. Partly in response to this trend, people are devoting more time and effort into decorating their home offices than they have in years past. But even if you work away from home, having an efficient and well-decorated home office is still …

Sliding glass doors, also known as patio doors, are a popular feature found in many homes today. They open up your living space, bringing in the sunlight and natural beauty of the outdoors while providing easy access to decks and backyards. But finding the best window treatments for sliding glass doors that meet your needs for privacy and efficiency – and that will fit your decorating style – can be a challenge. Here are some important points to consider when choosing window treatment options for glass sliding doors. • These doors are usually in high-traffic areas, and extra consideration is …