Windows are one of the most important parts of the home. Windows provide a source of light as well as view to the outdoor space of the home. Not only are windows functional but they are also an element that can be included in the overall design and décor of the home. Window dressings are a great way for home owners to give each room a unique and individual look as well as window function. Try manipulating the light or putting a new pair of curtains up and just see how many different affects you can create. There are many options for window dressings and the downside of having so many dressing options for windows is actually settling on a single option.

These are just some of the many dressing options for windows available today.

Silk Draperies

Consider draping silk in a bedroom or living room. Silk has always been a luxurious material prized by the wealthiest in society. Today, anyone can buy a roll of silk and arrange it in their home. It also adds a romantic ambience to an area.

Silk comes in a variety of forms. Consider single colors like red and white, or have a custom pattern with pleats and tassels hanging around your window.

On a side note, silk is a great option for trapping heat during the winter months, which can help you lower your winter utility bills!

Hanging Pleats

Small and skinny windows can make a room smaller than it really is. Larger windows do the opposite. To make your room seem bigger, consider blocking out the windows with a pair of stylish pleats. These drapes come in a variety of patterns to suit any room and can make a smaller room feel larger.

Window dressings with pleats can be custom designed and hung from above the window to elongate the space and make the room appear to be larger than it is. This is a great option that can be used in many ways.

Layered Drapes

Having a pair of drapes pulled over a window can make your room seem quite one dimensional. Everything is flat, and if you’ve used a single block color it’s quite boring. Soften the hard edges of your room with some layered drapes. Add some dimension and create a focal point.

For extra dimension, choose drapes with patterns which contrast with the rest of the room. Buy a size bigger than you need so you can create the extra folds in the fabric. Allowing the fabric to pool on the floor can give a very dramatic look to the space.

Metallic Touch

Darker colors can add drama to a room. Nothing adds more drama than a metallic touch. Rather than just having a pair of drapes, dress your windows using a metallic curtain rod. These rods are dark, imposing, and they stand out from the rest of the room.

It also adds more razor sharp edges, so it automatically draws people towards them.

Roman Shades

Roman shades add both pattern and texture to a room. They’re one of the most versatile window dressing options available. A popular option is bamboo. It keeps light out and absorbs heat, which keeps the room cool during those long, hot summer days. Or why not combine wood with fabric to maximize usage of color and style. It’s a twist on the classic and can make for a great talking point.

Another option for roman shades design is fabric options. Custom roman shades can be created to meet the design aesthetic of the space and block out the light from the sun. These can be made in a variety of fabrics but cotton seems to be the best fabric choice.

Wooden Blinds

Sometimes, the simplest touches can have the greatest effect. At first glance, wooden blinds seem sparse and add very little to the room. This is the whole point. If you have a window as a focal point, the curtains can take away from the structure of your home.

Wooden blinds provide all the usability of a pair of blinds with the subtle decoration expected of window dressing, without taking away from the primary focal point.

Marie is a home décor specialist. She enjoys spending her spare time on her own home as well as informing others of décor options. A variety of window treatment options can be found with http://www.blindsgalore.com/.