Fall is upon us, and we are all coming inside and getting ready for the holidays. Now is the time to protect valuable items and become more energy efficient by purchasing window treatments.
There are so many options when it comes to finding the perfect window treatment that it can be quite daunting. Is your style chic, elegant or basic? Do you want drapes, shutters or blinds, or a combination?
“I always say your window treatment is like purchasing a piece of furniture, once you purchase it, it is part of your room,” says Mindy Siegel, owner of M Square Design Group, in Lido Beach. “There are many questions to ask when purchasing your window treatment. What is my main reason for putting up a window treatment? Is it to block the neighbors’ view or to put style in the room? What is my style? What is my budget? The answers to these questions will help you figure out what window covering will best fit your needs.”
People must also consider the size and shape of the windows as well what direction the windows face because this will affect how much light people want to have come in, explains Siegel. “Remember, sunlight on your floors, artwork and furniture is like sunlight on your skin, it will burn! The sunlight is an important determination of the right window coverings. There are many energy-efficient products on the market today as well as green products.”
Since every room gets different levels of sunlight throughout the day, Siegel says it is best to purchase a window treatment based on the amount of natural light a person actually wants and needs for the space. For example, if the space tends to be darker, a sheer curtain or blind will let through plenty of sunshine and make the room brighter. And if a room gets strong sunlight with too much brightness, she suggests going with a drape, shutter or blackout shades, which will block light, reduce noise and help regulate temperatures. “My favorite option for blinds and shades is the cordless top down bottom up. This is so you can have the top come down for light in the room and privacy on the bottom part or the normal bottom up.. Remember, don’t be afraid of layering your window treatment for more control and flexibility over natural lighting. Mixing textures and colors as well as adding a valance or cornice will create a custom, pulled-together look.”
For those that have hard-to-reach windows because of a bathtub or furniture, Siegel suggests using motorization. “If you want to be the most up to date with technology, you can use your phone or tablet to program your window treatment.” And for those that have windows that are not rectangle shape, like arched or bay styles, Siegel says their best bet is to go for custom window treatments. “Professionals can create curtains, blinds or any other window treatment you desire that properly fit your exact dimensions. Going this route might cost a little extra, but it will save you the headache of hunting around for something that is not designed properly for your window or room.”
M Square Design Group, in Lido Beach, specializes in window treatments, color consultations, upholstery, faux finishing and is now offering home organization. For more information, call 516-606-9826.
