Absolute Journal
Choosing the Best Window Treatments for an Open Floor Plan
The Best Window Treatments for an Open Living Floor Plan
As open floor plans continue to grow in popularity, many homeowners are confused about what to do with their windows. How do you dress windows in a way that is stylish, helps define the space, and is well coordinated? All open floor plans are not the same, but there are some universal truths about decorating that can help you decide on the best window treatments for your home. Remember, choosing the best window treatments is not just a matter of aesthetics. Window treatments serve a wide range of purposes, including climate control, privacy, UV protection, and, of course, light control. Finding the right options to meet the needs of each part of your open floor plan involves some careful planning and thoughtful consideration.
Cohesion and Separation in Open Plan Décor
However your open floor plan is designed, the basic idea is to have a wide open space that has many different functions. Because of this, you may not want to perfectly match your window treatments. It is really up to you whether you want to play with different colours, styles, and textures, as long as they serve the purpose you need them to serve. Consider, though, that in an open floor plan you can usually see all the windows at once, so while they do not have to be exactly the same, they should probably be similar in style or colour, especially if they are very near each other. There are exceptions to the rule, of course.
If you want to pull focus in a dramatic way, drawing attention to one specific area, you might mismatch your window dressing on purpose. Similarly, if adjoining rooms are very different architecturally, matching might not make sense. Whatever you choose to do, your window treatments should provide a combination of style and function, so you will want to decide on the ones that will be most practical, as well as aesthetically pleasing. While you can shop for window treatments off the shelf, custom options are often better when you are trying to elevate a complicated space. It is good to work with design experts, who can provide guidance, and to have your window treatments professionally installed, so that they will be perfectly placed.
Space-Defining Solutions and Interior Zoning
When your home has an open floor plan, you will want to decorate it in a way that creates zones for different activities and uses. For the most part, this will be done with your furniture. You might use open shelving as a functional divider between two different spaces, or strategically arrange your larger pieces of furniture to define the separate areas. Some people use flooring to separate zones, whether that means changing flooring completely or using rugs to create the idea of separate spaces while maintaining visual continuity. You can also use paint or wallpaper in a way that visually divides the space. When you are deciding on window treatments, be aware that these can also be a subtle way to create different zones and define the space in your open floor plan. The trick is choosing window treatments that not only provide visual definition of each individual space, but also coordinate with each other, for a cohesive look. How is this accomplished?
- Consider layering drapes with other window treatments. Drapes elevate a space, and one solution for windows in an open floor plan is to use the same drapes throughout, while changing the accompanying window treatment to fit the different zones. You might decide on Roman shades for an elegant stylistic choice, or roller shades in a low-lit part of the room. If you have large windows that let in direct sunlight, solar shades may be the way to go, under your drapes, but if your large windows have a spectacular view, you might not want anything except the drapes. By hanging the drapes a little to the side of each window, you can open them fully and allow the view to take centre stage. At the same time, you might decide on matching shades on each window, choosing different coloured drapes to define the different areas.
- If you prefer, you can also mix and match elements of your window treatments. Create a unified look by keeping some elements the same, while switching others. The goal is to have window treatments that complement the space they are defining, while also complementing each other. There are a number of different options if you go this route.
- Keep the same texture throughout the space, while changing the colour.
- Choose different colours from your colour scheme, while using the same type of window treatment across the entire space.
- Maintain a consistent colour, but use different styles, to vary the look of your space.
Light Control and Stylish Design
When you are designing your space, function should always be a priority. Think about how to employ your window treatments for the strategic use of incoming light, so that your home feels bright, airy, and spacious. This can be done by using window treatments that can be opened all the way, or by choosing light filtering options, like sheers or curtains made of translucent fabric. Bear in mind that when there is a large room, as in an open floor layout, with several windows, the sun exposure can make the room uncomfortable and damage the flooring and upholstery. So, while you do want light to fill the space, you also want the option of protecting your family and belongings from too much sunlight.
Additionally, if your windows are under insulated, window treatments can go a long way in insulating a room in cold weather. Think about your lifestyle when you are choosing your décor. You will want your window treatments to afford you some privacy, and to be practical to maintain. For a window in a small kitchen, for example, you probably will not want a large pattern that will overwhelm the space, and you might want to consider a hard surface window treatment, for ease in cleaning. For a window that faces a busy street, sheers may not be your optimal option. Think about the way the space will be used, at all times of day and in all seasons. If you have a gorgeous view during the day, but want to close your windows off at night, consider choosing a striking window treatment that serves as a design element all on its own.
Window Treatments and Longevity
Ideally, you will not have to replace your window treatments very often. As your tastes change or elements of your décor go out of style, you will want to be able to change things without replacing your window dressing. This is an argument for choosing a colour scheme for your windows that is classic and timeless. Even if you are in love with a certain colour at the moment, you will want to be able to change your furnishings and accessories without finding that they clash with your window treatments. Particularly in open concept floor plans, where everything must in some way tie together, a neutral colour scheme for your windows is a good idea.
This allows you to keep your window treatments for as long as they are in good condition, without worrying that they look out of place or unfashionable. Of course, if you use the same drapes, in a neutral colour, with varied window treatments under them, you may be able to get away with something bold without regretting it. For example, if there is one window in which you would like to create a focal point, you could choose a boldly patterned Roman shade under neutral drapery. If you tire of the shade, or your overall colour scheme shifts, changing out one shade in the house is not a significant difficulty.
For Window Treatments that Elevate Your Open Floor Plan, Visit Absolute Blinds
Still having trouble deciding on the right window treatments for your open floor plan? You will find expert help at Absolute Blinds. Founded in 1998, we are a family owned company with a team that takes pride in offering guidance and expertise to our customers. Since 2008, we have been manufacturing our own roller blinds and vertical blinds, which means better quality control for us and reduced lead time for our customers. Today, our product lines have expanded to include a wide range of options, from traditional Roman blinds to contemporary conservatory blinds to private blackout blinds. We welcome both domestic and commercial clients, providing excellent service, regardless of the size of your project. To learn more about what we have to offer, view our blinds online, or book an appointment to visit our showroom in Welwyn Garden City. We welcome customers from St Albans, Hertford, and the surrounding areas, providing both ready-made and made-to-measure options. Visit our showroom or contact us through our website, and our friendly, knowledgeable staff will help you find the perfect window treatments to suit your space, style, and budget.
