Window Treatments: Why Go Custom?

Nothing changes the look and mood of a room more dramatically than window treatments. In addition to beautifying a home, the right window treatments can prevent heat loss, and draperies, blinds and shades make a room more comfortable. Custom window treatments offer the added benefit of being tailored to each room and each homeowner, embracing personal taste, style and architectural idiosyncrasies. When it comes to considering window treatments, and this includes shades as well as drapes, valences, and other hangings, custom made treatments are as different from ready made as night is from day. In the case of custom designed window treatments, you really get what you pay for.

Materials 

Fabrics are what set a custom window treatment apart from their mass-produced cousins. Quite a lot of fabric goes into custom window treatments, and fabrics can run from $40 into hundreds of dollars per yard for top-of-the line materials such as fine silks, tapestries, velvets and beautiful printed and European-influenced woven fabrics. Window shades can be made from a wide variety of materials including woven woods, bamboo, grasses, reeds, as well as fabric. Custom window treatments have their prints positioned professionally in order to center them and create repetitive patterns. While manufacturers of mass- produced products cut their costs and yardage by choosing solid polyester fabrics and inexpensive percale linings, custom window treatments are quality products designed to last many, many years.

Craftsmanship

Craftsmanship is the major driver of the cost of custom-made products, as they require a major investment of time and years of experience. Sewing is a painstaking process and a rare skill and fabricators are paid by the hour. Details Fabrics, trim and design are what make each project unique, and options are truly unlimited. Custom designed treatments can match wall coverings, bedding, pillows, and furnishings. Fine details such as smocking and trimmings are what make custom window treatments unique and different.

Architecture

Unusually shaped or placed windows are made for custom window treatments. The right treatments can mask architectural flaws and make small windows look larger, and beautify bay windows and French doors.

Call an expert

A full-service decorator is an expert on measuring and fitting, and will help you determine what styles and materials work best in each room. A professional interior designer has access to materials not available to the general public, as well as craftsmen, installers, and the newest products on the market.

Melanie Murphy is a full-service interior designer. Send her a message today!