When it comes to the perfect outfit, it’s all about the layers. The same can be said of your windows. Pairing shades with drapery is an ideal way to bring beautiful style and (much-needed) function to your space. While there may be countless looks and combinations you could choose, today our designers at Skyline Window Coverings are bringing you three rooms to spark inspiration for your own home design project…
Patterns + Textures
Two elements of design that are sure to bring personality to a space–patterns and textures–should always be a consideration when pairing shades with drapery. Choosing patterned fabrics is a great way to get a custom look, bringing in themes and colors that you love. Be mindful of just how much patterning and colors are in the space–too much, and it might end up feeling chaotic.
By choosing a simple stamped look on the draperies, this homeowner was able to choose a woven shade with subtle lines running vertically. The woven fibers allow soft, glowing light, illuminating the shade, while the drapes frame the window for a result that could be best described as sophisticated whimsy.
A Subtle Nod to Neutral
There are a number of ways to make your space look bigger, and window treatments have a role in that. By choosing lighter colors, it opens up the space. Ceilings are made to look higher by featuring columns of drapery that naturally hang in a vertical position. Sheer shades are another way to enlarge the look of a room–you can have the coverage you want to decrease glare and UV ray damage, but the open view of the landscape is an amazing backdrop. The sheer shades are in place for light control and privacy, while the drapery frames that backdrop, inviting layers of style and dimension.
Bringing two neutral window treatments to the same window offers style in a subtle manner that creates an elegant atmosphere. To increase the personality–ever so slightly–choose a neutral fabric with texture or patterning only visible when close up. This is true of jacquard fabric–dense, with slight texture–it invites luxury. Other fabrics include silk and velvet when you want a refined look, while cotton and linen issue a more casual vibe.
Contrasted Styling with Low Profile Shades
When pairing shades with drapery, you can go the opposite route and contrast the fabrics. It’s a popular look that makes your draperies stand out in color or pattern. If you’re wanting your drapes to make a statement like this, consider the thickness of the fabrics. You’ll want a wide width of fabric that can look intentionally full when stacked at the edge of the window. But, there’s something else to consider…
It’s about the finished look of pairing shades with drapery. The windows in this home office have been finished with a kerfed–or trimless–look. This is a contemporary style of finishing windows. They have enough depth for the window shade to be mounted inside the window area. If your windows are cased, with traditional trim surrounding the window, it’s possible to do an inside mount of the shade. However, with shallow windows, which occurs more when dealing with older windows, the shades may have to be outside mounted. That can make pairing shades with drapery a little more challenging, but not out of the question.
The key is to choose a low profile shade, with a roller function, or low profile stacking, so you don’t run into a problem with the final look or function of your window treatment layers. Your window covering designer will be able to help you decide what’s possible–they know all the tricks of the trade! Get in touch with our team at Skyline Window Coverings to set up your free in-home design consult, where we can guide you to the right layering combinations for the style and function of your windows.
