Needing more space? Planning an extension?
Initially when you meet with an architect, window treatments are not high on your agenda. However to achieve the most from your project those finishing touches need careful consideration from the very onset.Often I am invited to discuss curtains and blinds as one of the last trades on site, but be sensible and involve a soft furnishing expert at the planning stage – particularly if large expanses of glass are being installed.
Modern architecture often features significant frameless glass and sleek design. For curtains or blinds to be incorporated into a structure like this it can be fraught with difficulties.
For example, windows offering full length floor-to-ceiling glass will require curtain tracks recessed into the ceiling. Alternatively the window frame will need to be dropped slightly to allow for a track fitting. Both will offer the ultimate solution in achieving those sought after sleek lines.
Motorization of curtains and blinds are now widely and if included as part of the first fix electrics mean they can be incorporated without unsightly wires, cords or chains – offering a design led solution with high attention to detail. In addition, advances in technology mean that some window treatments can be operated remotely via smart devices. Not only state of the art, these solutions provide practical advantages when home owners are away or delayed unexpectedly.
At the very least it is recommended that your window dresser is onsite at some point during the build process. We can provide helpful advice as well as review materials being used above thewindow opening. Key to successful blind and curtain installation is a run of timber above all recesses. These can easily be included in the build specification and before plastering is undertaken.
The trend for many years has been to place radiators under windows, which regrettably impacts curtain options. With more projects now incorporating under floor heating this offers a wider range of window dressing options. Alternatively if you are installing radiators there are now fabulous ones to choose from. Not only do these look stunning, they are energy efficient and don’t have to be fitted under windows.
When considering the window dressing itself a realistic budget needs to be set for all your furnishings. Remember to consider poles, tracks, finials as well as fabric costs. Important in achieving the desired finished look, there is a huge variety of options on the market to meet all budgets.
When seeking to furnish a number of rooms you will probably have to prioritize. Generally, the majority of investment is focused on the primary rooms such as the lounge, kitchen/diner or master bedroom with the home office or guest bedrooms having more minimal or cost effective treatments.
Bi-fold doors are an asset to many projects. Increasingly they are being used as property statement features, with doors being as large as 8 -10 metres wide. Whilst looking amazing, they are a challenge to dress. Few curtain poles extend to that width and unfortunately those that are available are priced at a premium. An alternative is to fit blinds within the doors. However this decision needs to be made early and be integral to the build process.
Last and certainly not least, allow for the smaller details and touches to a space. Give thought to dressing each room with cushions, bed runners and lamp shades to provide tone, texture or accent to your project and finish your room in true style!