Choosing the Right Window Treatments
Window treatments are one of those details that can quietly transform a room. They influence how a space feels, how much natural light comes in, how private it is, and even how large or tall the windows appear.
For an interior designer, window treatments are also an important part of bringing the overall design together. Whether you’re considering custom drapery, Roman shades, woven shades or roller shades, the right treatment should balance function, proportion and style.
Drapery
Drapery brings softness, texture and movement to a room and can make a major impact on the overall architecture.
Hanging drapery higher and wider than the window can visually elongate the walls and make windows feel larger. Fabric choice matters, too. Linen and cotton create a relaxed, natural look, while heavier fabrics can feel more tailored and formal.
Custom drapery is especially effective in living rooms, bedrooms and dining spaces where softness and warmth are important.
Roman Shades
Roman shades offer a tailored look while bringing in pattern, color and texture.
They work particularly well in spaces where full-length drapery isn’t practical, such as kitchens, bathrooms or rooms with furniture positioned close to the windows. Available in countless fabrics and styles, Roman shades can feel traditional, relaxed or modern depending on the material and construction.
Woven Shades
Woven shades add natural texture and warmth to a space. Materials such as grasscloth, bamboo and other natural fibers bring subtle variation and dimension while gently filtering natural light.
They’re a great choice when you want to introduce texture without adding a bold pattern or color.
What to Consider When Choosing Window Treatments
Before choosing a fabric or color, consider how the window treatment needs to function within the room.
Light: How much natural light does the room receive? Do you want to filter it or block it completely?
Privacy: Does the space need privacy during the day, at night, or both?
Scale: The size and proportions of the window should influence the size and style of the treatment.
Architecture: Ceiling height, window trim, molding and other architectural details can all affect the best treatment for the space.
Function: How often will the treatment be opened and closed? Would motorization or another operating system make sense?
The rest of the room: Window treatments should work with the colors, materials, furniture and textures already present in the space.
The Finishing Layer
There isn’t one window treatment that works for every room. The best solution is one that addresses the functional needs of the space while complementing its architecture and overall design.
At Kristin Burke Interiors, we approach window treatments as part of the larger design story, thoughtfully considering everything from fabric and proportion to light and functionality.
Because sometimes, the finishing layer is what makes everything else fall into place.
