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Windows: To Dress or Not to Dress?
BY DONNA ELLE
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JEFF ALLEN
Window treatments are often the backbone of a well-designed room, serving not only a functional purpose but also acting as a focal point to a space. There are multiple considerations to review before selecting the appropriate treatment. In fact, some windows are left better undressed than dressed. So, if you were a window what would you wear?
Finding the appropriate solution for your windows does involve practical considerations based on factors such as privacy, light control, view and overall beauty of a particular window itself. In my design business, I had an experience with 7-foot-tall, double-hung windows with two lites over two lites. The windows were stunning—placed adjacent to each other along a 150-foot long wall. They commanded views of the moors and ocean in the distance. This aesthetic factor figured highly in our final decision. The rooms involved were dining and living room with no television or computer. The windows were treated with a discreet privacy shade that rolled up during the day and fit into a customized soffit at the window casing so it architecturally disappeared. This was an appropriate treatment for the homeowner’s situation.
When thinking about your own windows, consider the scope of work and number of windows that need attention. Factors for dressing a window range from light sensitivity and TV or computer glare to warming up a space and enhancing or hiding the exterior views.
Perhaps you need seasonal requirements for sun, glare and temperature. As you draw conclusions for your window needs, you’ll find the style choices can be overwhelming. At this point, you may need to consult a professional, but doing your homework at the beginning will affirm the project is well under way in a timely fashion.
There are several types of professionals you may rely upon for design and installation services. Searching out a seasoned window treatment specialist will provide you with thoughtful design direction and timesaving solutions. Window treatment specialists can take you through the process from start to finish and should provide working solutions for you during their first appointment.
Next, an estimate should ensue for all components of the treatment, so you have an idea of the price range. This estimate will guide you on cost factors such as fabric and hardware. Decorative fabrics and trims today range from $20 a yard all the way to $300 a yard. Decorative hardware can range from simple to ornate, offering selections from wood and resin to metal and glass. Your final decision will affect not only a decorative selection but price range as well. There are multiple price levels available to consumers for most window treatments, and a seasoned window treatment professional can find the range most suitable for your budget.
Also available to the consumer are retail-oriented sales people who offer design services through a local furniture or home store. They can be a good source for inspiration, from design consulting to installation. Consultants working as independent designers may be found through a referral or through advertising. Seek out a professional-looking ad and set up a home consultation, or visit their design studio to review their quality of work and portfolio. Above all, referrals are always a solid way to make an informed decision when selecting a window treatment professional.
What would you wear if you were a window? Dress accordingly. Have fun working at the solution so you can enjoy the beauty and function from a well-designed window treatment. In the end, your window will be a well-dressed one!
Donna Elle, Allied ASID, president and CEO of Nantucket Windows, Inc., is considered a leader in window fashions. A seven-time award winner at the International Window Fashions Expo, she is also a motivational speaker on business and design.
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Perhaps you need seasonal requirements for sun, glare and temperature. As you draw conclusions for your window needs, you’ll find the style choices can be overwhelming. At this point, you may need to consult a professional, but doing your homework at the beginning will affirm the project is well under way in a timely fashion.
Also available to the consumer are retail-oriented sales people who offer design services through a local furniture or home store. They can be a good source for inspiration, from design consulting to installation. Consultants working as independent designers may be found through a referral or through advertising. Seek out a professional-looking ad and set up a home consultation, or visit their design studio to review their quality of work and portfolio. Above all, referrals are always a solid way to make an informed decision when selecting a window treatment professional. 
