By Sophie Donelson

	The Alustra Vignette by Hunter Douglas, above, is their take on a Roman shade. The billowy layers of fabric complement the decorative drape or can roll up into the headrail. Their Alustra Woven Textures, above left, is a more decorative version of a solar screen shade.

Windows are a house’s eyes to the world and a focal point for every room. In the 18th century, large windows were a badge of wealth: the larger the windows, the more wood needed to keep the house warm. Today, windows are still the perfect spot to show off a little, and an easy way to bring a new look to any space.

When choosing window treatments, consider three factors: function, privacy, and style. Function determines the degree of light and insulation. Privacy is another concern—the wrong choice could have your neighbors knowing too much about your personal style.

Traditional curtains and draperies are the most popular pick for homeowners because they’re versatile in style and relatively easy to hang and maintain. Drapery—large, loose folds of fabric—is the more formal option, harking back to grand ballrooms. Drapes still work best on large, dramatic windows that can hold up to their visual mass.

Curtains are the most versatile; they require less fabric than drapes and come in a wide range of densities and styles. Café curtains, which cover the lower half of a window while leaving the top exposed, are a stylish alternative for certain rooms—kitchens, for instance. Curtains can change dramatically with small details, so experiment with tab tops, tiebacks, and hardware-like holdbacks.

Drapes and curtains are the most popular fabric-based solutions, but many homeowners prefer such “hard” window treatments as blinds and shades for superior light control without much labor. Swiveling a rod or pulling a string can turn a room from blacked out to sun-filled. Hunter Douglas, Lutron, and other companies offer custom fabric shades with digitized controls, like remotes and wall switches, which are ideal for impossible-to-reach places like skylights. Shades come in a variety of colors and styles, but some designers feel they lend little character to a room. Try pairing them with drapes for a stylish, sophisticated look.

Blinds, which come in vinyl, aluminum, fabric, wood, bamboo, and other materials, are another easy way to control light flow, and most can be cleaned of dust or dirt by rinsing with water.

Fabric window treatments are a relatively affordable way to update a room. A combination of options can create a rich, layered effect, or use decorator details such valences, sashes, finials, and trims to add whimsy to any simple treatment or the finishing touch to more elaborate designs.