- April 23, 2024
- Debbie Hall
Look out birthday cakes, lasagnas, and spring wardrobes everywhere — custom window treatments love being layered and have long been a wise design choice. Like so many other things, window coverings look and function even better when mixed and mingled.
By layering hard treatments (such as blinds or shades) with soft treatments (like draperies), homeowners can blend beauty and practicality to their advantage. This winning combination offers the ultimate light control, privacy, energy efficiency, and style, making layered window treatments an enduring approach to enhance any space.
Valance and Blinds
When layering treatments, the valance/blinds duo is a classic combo if you’re looking for style and substance. Utilitarian by design, blinds are great at providing light control and privacy, but often lack the visual appeal and personal touch you may desire. But with the addition of a pretty valance with a pop of color or eye-catching pattern, you can easily express your style and elevate the overall aesthetic of your space.
Kingston Valance and Roller Shades
Valances come in a variety of styles. The Kingston valance features sculpted curves and deep folds, adding a lavish look to any window. When paired with sleek roller shades, you get a stunning fashion fusion where ultra-traditional meets ultra-modern. We love this striking mix of styles, offering visual interest and depth as well as light filtration, UV protection, and easy operation.
Valance and Draperies
For a classic window treatment combination, a valance over draperies is a well-played match. This layered approach combines two traditional window covering elements to create a cohesive treatment that suits a variety of interior design styles. Visually, the valance can help conceal drapery hardware, rods, and brackets for a clean, polished look. But in addition to their decorative role, valances also contribute to functionality, providing an extra layer of light control and insulation.
Cornice and Blinds
Unlike a valance, which is softer and more fluid, a cornice is a rigid architectural element that adds definition to your windows (stay tuned for a blog on this soon). This structured appearance makes cornices an ideal partner for blinds, complementing the clean lines. We used this winning combination for a seaside home recently, designing a shaped cornice to span the space and fit perfectly over the door. This layered solution maintains all of the practical benefits of the blinds, including flexible light control and privacy, while keeping with the room’s nautical theme.
Draperies and Woven Wood Shades
When it comes to designing a warm and inviting space, combining different textures can be just as impactful as mixing colors, and layering draperies over woven wood shades is an excellent example. The contrast between the organic, earthy textures of the shades and the soft, supple hand of the draperies creates a dynamic interplay that draws the eye and adds interest to your windows. With so many materials and fabrics to choose from for each treatment, the possibilities for customization are endless, allowing you to create a look that perfectly reflects your personal style. Of course, there are practical benefits as well, including enhanced light control and insulation.
The Possibilities are Endless
We could go on and on! With layered window treatments, the possibilities are unlimited, and the vast variety of options can seem overwhelming. However, working with a window treatment professional can make the process much more enjoyable. At Designer Draperies, our experienced team is dedicated to guiding you through the selection process, asking the right questions to understand your unique needs, and taking precise measurements to ensure a perfect fit. We’re passionate about helping our clients transform their homes with beautiful, functional, and personalized window treatments that reflect their unique style and enhance their daily life.
Schedule an appointment today and let us help you navigate the possibilities to create stunning window treatment solutions tailored to your specific space and needs.
