Choosing window treatments for the living room in your home can be a daunting task. Whether you’ve just moved in or you’re looking to update your décor, the options available for windows are overwhelming. A key issue to solve before purchasing any coverings is whether you want your living room windows to be the focal point of the room. In many homes, the windows may be the most outstanding feature in the room, but other homeowners may want to showcase an artistically renovated fireplace or a special piece of furniture. Whatever you decide, rest assured the right window treatment will enhance your living room and add a personal touch that is uniquely yours.

Types of Window Treatments

The type of window treatment you choose will depend on your overall decorating style. If you like a formal ambience in your living room, you may select floor-length drapes in a luxurious fabric. For a more casual look, bamboo blinds or Roman shades may be just right. For doors leading out to a deck or patio, sliding panel track blinds that move at the touch of a button cover the large space nicely and give complete privacy as well.

Current Trends

Window treatments are as subject to the vagaries of trends and fashion as anything else. Here’s a rundown of some the most popular current trends.

• Layers: Rather than just one window covering, layers add depth and help create a focal point. You can hang sheers closest to the window and add a second layer of drapes made from a heavier fabric for privacy. Today’s sheers come in a variety of styles with patterns in white-on-white or colors. Another look involving layers calls for bamboo blinds with drapes in the same color palette framing the window opening.
• Bold color and patterns: All types of window treatments today incorporate bold color and patterns. A big geometric or floral print really makes your windows a focal point. You can jazz up Roman shades with a boldly colored pattern centered in the window. Try using a fabric with an ikat motif to call attention to the treatment. For a more subtle use of patterns or stripes you can add those fabrics as a border to solid-color floor-length drapes. This type of treatment can dramatically offset elegant hardwood flooring options.
• Simplicity: Decorating trends are embracing the look of simplicity. Rather than topping your drapes with an ornate or frilly valance, add one that celebrates the clean look of straight lines. Floral fabrics are still popular, but tend to showcase large-scale prints instead of small and intricate patterns. Stripes are always in style and fit right in with this current trend.

Going Green

The talk about “green” window treatments doesn’t refer to the color. It means using environmentally sustainable materials, such as bamboo shades and natural fibers like cotton. It also means looking to the health of yourself and your family by using fabrics treated to resist molds and mildew. One of the advantages of the trend toward simplicity is that such window treatments are easier to clean and keep free of dust that may trigger allergic reactions.