Overcoming your window treatment woes

Hello Home Lover,

Maybe it's just because when the days are shorter the curtains are closed for longer, but I’ve been thinking lately about the importance of the way we dress our windows.

Whether we choose bold printed curtains or colour block blinds can instantly change the look and feel of a room. That’s why, in this month’s newsletter, we’re delving into the world of window treatments.



What are the options? What are the pros and cons? And how can you make the right choice for your home?

Confused about how to style your windows?

It's not overstating it to say that getting your window treatments right can completely transform your space. 

Curtains, blinds, or shades can add warmth, create the perfect mood, and even impact the proportions of a room - both positively and negatively. 

Which is why it's perhaps both a blessing and a curse that the options are endless.

Floor-to-ceiling curtains, for example, can make your room feel more spacious, while blinds can make a smaller space feel more open and airy. 

They also control how natural light flows into a room, giving you the ability to create a soft, inviting ambiance, or block out light for privacy and comfort.

But how can you be sure to make the right choice for your window?

Ask: What do I need from my window dressings?

When you're working out window treatment designs, you'll almost certainly get the best result if you think about the practical aspects first:  

• How do you use the room? 
• When do you use the room?
• Which direction do the windows face?
• Does the room feel too cold? Or too warm?
• How much space do you have to play with?
• How accessible is the window?

You might decide your priority is to keep the draft out, to shade your workspace from the midday sun or to keep the room nice and dark so the baby can nap.

Once you know what you need, you can work out how best to achieve it. 

Scroll on for plenty of expert tips and tricks to help you.

My room is small.

For smaller rooms, space-saving options like shutters or Roman blinds work well without compromising on style.

I can't reach my windows.

Skylights or dormers? Electric blinds offer the perfect balance of practicality and ease.

It's always drafty in the evenings.

Choose full length curtains that will stop that cold air in its tracks, and select a thicker fabric or a design that contains extra wadding.

What's best in a bathroom?

In damp spaces like kitchens or bathrooms, don't forget to look at waterproof options to reduce the risk of mould.

I'm worried a print will be overwhelming.

If you're nervous about using block colours, or too much ‘pattern’, consider adding just a little interest with a trim or decorative header on your curtains or blinds.

How can I get some privacy?

If you need privacy in street-level rooms or terraced houses, sheer fabrics, frosted glass or pull up blinds, provide a stylish yet functional solutions for different tastes and budgets.

I need total darkness to sleep well

Choose curtains that contain a blackout lining, or install a blackout blind that will make sure you sleep like a baby.

I don't want my blind to fade like the last one

Sunny south-facing window? Look for a blind that's made from UV-protected fabric to make sure it'll retain it's bright colours.

I need different things at different times of day

If versatility is important to you, try installing double tracks for curtains and sheers. That'll give you the flexibility to control light, warmth and ambience as and when you want to.

Top tip: Don’t forget to think about how your curtains will look both open and closed - it's all about getting the full impact!

My favourite 5...

...window treatments & when to choose them

Add floor length curtains for a dash of drama

I always recommend choosing full length when you’re including drapes in an interior design. I just feel they bring a tailored, high-end look to any space.

They draw the eye upwards to create the illusion of higher ceilings, as well enhancing smaller windows and making them feel more in proportion. Plus they'll keep the light out and offer better insulation.

Win win!

Make a statement with Roman blinds



Roman blinds look beautiful, don’t they? 

They’re sleek, tailored and can be designed to blend into their surroundings or create impact depending on the fabric you choose. 

But they’re not just aesthetically pleasing, they’re also incredibly practical – for light control, privacy and insulation. Plus, they can work equally well in both large and small spaces without over-cluttering the look.

Make a statement with Roman blinds



Roman blinds look beautiful, don’t they? 

They’re sleek, tailored and can be designed to blend into their surroundings or create impact depending on the fabric you choose. 

But they’re not just aesthetically pleasing, they’re also incredibly practical – for light control, privacy and insulation. Plus, they can work equally well in both large and small spaces without over-cluttering the look.

Embrace timeless elegance with a wave pleat

Wave pleats can look absolutely stunning when you’re designing drapes into a minimalist space. They're clean, streamlined and so elegant. Yet more relaxed than the traditional pleat curtain. 

Definitely something to consider if you’re after a modern, contemporary look. I also love how they stack back so beautifully when not drawn.

Select frosted film for a simple uncluttered look

If you need privacy – perhaps in a street level room, or a bathroom, frosted film can be a great solution. It provides an etched glass effect, that can be applied and removed easily. 

These days, you’ll find various patterns, some of which are really beautiful. And rather than sacrificing natural light, frosted film will softly diffuse it through your space.

What if I'm looking for perfection?

Of course, perfection is possible.

But off-the-shelf options will almost certainly end in compromise.

When tailored for you, curtain and blind designs can be adjusted specifically for your window's size, aspect, and use.

"The beauty of bespoke means that no matter the practical elements you need, you'll still be able to choose a fabric or print you love."

In fact, investing in bespoke is the only way to ensure your chosen window treatments will do everything you ask of them AND enhance the design of your room. 

"And as I always say, if you love it, there's no reason your investment won't last for many years to come."

If you would like to discuss bespoke design that will allow you to choose the perfect texture, colour or fabric without compromising on practicality, simply head to my website and book a no obligation call.

Wishing you a wonderful start to the spring season. I'm off to London Design Week, so I'll be back in your inbox next month for a look behind the scenes.

See you then,