Embracing Current Trends in Window Treatments
As with many other elements of interior design, some of the hottest new trends
in window treatments involve going
“green” and using eco-friendly materials, such as natural wovens.
“Wovens in the form of natural grasses and reeds are often made of sustainable
and rapidly renewable products,
” says Koplovitz, “so some are interesting green choices.”
However, Koplovitz warns that while natural products can be great, they can also
sometimes be pricey
—and fragile—so they aren’t suitable for all applications.
“Never without a product for everyone,” Koplovitz adds, “many manufacturers are making natural-looking woven roller shades.”
These roller shades, which are made from man-made materials, look like grass but
are durable and available at a very friendly price point.
Another new trend in window treatments that excites Koplovitz is the new line of
solar shades from Hunter Douglas called Green Screen, which comes in many
colors and openness.
“It is a highly sustainable product,” Koplovitz says. “Green Screen is made from polyurethane stretched over a polyester core.”
That means they contain no PVCs, so there will be no risk of contamination from
Volatile Organic Compounds off-gassing in your home.
“Solar shades are great when privacy is not an issue,” Koplovitz adds. “I recommend them when a homeowner wants to keep the view but still get
protection from heat, glare, and UV exposure.
”
Also gaining in popularity is motorization, which gives homeowners remote
control access to adjust their blinds, shades and fabric treatments.
“Motorization continues to be strong especially in homes with soaring ceilings,
hard to reach windows, or for homeowners with mobility issues,
” says Koplovitz. “As baby boomers age, these will become increasingly popular.”
And finally, designers and consumers are trending more toward sumptuous and
luxurious fabrics in window treatments, with silk and velvet leading the pack.
“Silk drapes are very popular,” explains Koplovitz. “They add depth and sparkle to a room. Some are even embroidered and textured.”
According to Koplovitz, good quality faux silks are coming on strong, too. “They are a great option where sun is a major factor. The polyester-based fabrics
are more durable and they don
’t fade or burn like silk. Plus, they look opulent at often a fraction of the
price.
”
Saving money is always an incentive and, luckily, Koplovitz says there isn’t any resulting loss in quality by making the switch. “My workroom cannot always tell the faux silks from the real.”
Who could ask for more from a window treatment?
Ultimately, though, the choice in fabric, design and concept for your window
treatment depends upon your personal taste, your room
’s décor and your budget. The final piece of advice that Abbey Koplovitz offers is
that consumers know the fabric and materials they are planning to put into
their home.
“Choose products that are friendly to you and the environment, even if it means
paying a bit more and doing things in stages,
” says Koplovitz. “Your health will be better and so will the future of our planet. You don’t have to sacrifice beauty!”
We couldn’t agree more.
