Windows to the soul
There is little that defines a space so readily as window treatments. On a recent visit to a client’s new home to take some measurements and get started on their full home design plan, I saw this phenomenon in action. They’ve just purchased a beautiful new home, perfect for their family and their lifestyle, and the previous owner had left behind their old window treatments. The problem was, these window treatments weren’t well done – some were too short, some too long, and the fabrics were dissonant with the tone of the space. In such a lovely house, the wrong window treatments stuck out like a very sore thumb.
It may be tempting to get shades or drapes right from the store – after all, a shade is a shade, right? So why go custom? Today, I want to tell you a little bit about how custom window treatments work, and just what makes them so important.
Custom window treatments doesn’t just mean well-sized blinds – it means your choice in styles and shapes of custom drapery panels (functional, or simply dressing), valances, cornices, lambrequins, Roman shades, shutters, wood and faux blinds, you name it. Sound like a lot? That’s okay – one of our jobs, here at Woodside, is to help you sort through those options and figure out not just what works for your space, but what it is you really want. This bounty of options means that whatever your space is like, there’s the right fit for you and your windows.
When you get custom window treatments, the first step is the measurements – we want to make sure we get the exact specs of your window, so your treatments fit perfectly. The second step is a conversation with you about what you’re looking for! Based on what your space’s main use is going to be, and the style you’re most fond of, I’ll then put together a window treatment design plan that combines your needs, your style, and our best vendor offerings, so we can get your windows looking spic and span.
So, why go with custom window treatments? Well, there are a myriad of reasons. First off, every window in your home is different. If you settle for mass-produced shades, you’re going to end up with a bevy of poor fits and inconsistencies that won’t do your home any favors. Precise window measurements, afforded by custom treatments, ensure your dressings and shades are the perfect fit.
Custom treatments also come with higher quality materials and a more professional level of craftsmanship. Custom pieces are produced in smaller, more detail-oriented workrooms – you’ll be getting draperies built to last. Plus, we can offer you a wider range of fabrics in colors and patterns uniquely suited to your home and your design aesthetic. Top-quality window treatments, curated to the style of your home and built to last, can draw your whole space together in a beautiful, effortless way.
On top of elevating your style and enhancing your home’s beauty, custom window treatments are energy efficient! About 30% of your home’s heating energy is lost through your windows – and when you run your AC in the summer months, 76% of the sunlight that comes through your window turns into heat, which means your appliances have to work harder and your home heats up faster.
Perfectly fit custom treatments can both help reduce your energy losses and keep your home at a more comfortable temperature. Being able to adjust the amount of light that enters your space allows you to better regulate temperature and energy usage. Different types of window treatments offer different benefits – horizontal or vertical shades allow you to let mixed amounts of light into the room, while curtain drapes are good for blocking out the hot sun when the weather gets toasty (like it tends to, here in Baltimore).
When you get custom window treatments through Woodside Home, we set up professional installers to get your treatments installed just right. Your custom treatments will last longer – and be more you – than the options available off-the-shelf.
If you’re looking to get custom treatments for your home, shoot us an email! We have extensive experience working with our custom window treatment vendors, and we can get your windows dressed to the nines in no time.
Whether it’s your living room or your whole house, choosing custom treatments is never the wrong move. Your windows say a lot about your space and your home – make sure they’re the perfect fit for you!