When it comes to home decor, window treatments are often an overlooked element that can dramatically transform a room. That being said, choosing the right ones can be overwhelming! There are so many practical and aesthetic factors to consider and if done right, they have the power to take your space from ordinary to extraordinary. From enhancing natural light to adding a touch of elegance, understanding how to choose and style window treatments can elevate your home to new heights.
We recently collaborated with window treatment whiz and interior designer, Maddy Arnott from Middle Ground, and Warwick Fabrics to create a gorgeous design moment (check out our socials for more!). Of course, we jumped at the opportunity to pick Maddy’s brain for the best tips to navigate the wondrous world of window treatments.
Q: Can you share some tips on choosing window furnishings to enhance the mood or ambiance of a room?
"Absolutely! Incorporating treatments like curtains or roman blinds can instantly add drama and warmth to a space. Opt for textured fabrics or those with a tactile appeal to create visual interest. Pair them with mood lighting to highlight their texture and if you’re feeling bold, add some colour for a truly captivating effect."
Q: What are some common mistakes people make when selecting curtains or blinds?
"Many people underestimate the impact of curtain height on room proportions. Placing the curtain rod too low can make a room feel smaller. If raising the rod isn't feasible, choose a lighter curtain colour to avoid a stark contrast will help keep the space feeling larger. Another common mistake is neglecting the importance of curtain lengths. Too short diminishes a custom-made look, while too long can feel untidy and be hard to manage. Take your time, find inspiration, and choose curtains that suit your home and lifestyle”.
Q: How can window furnishings be used to alter the perception of room size or height?
"Window furnishings can be powerful tools for visual manipulation. Similar to hanging art on the wall, the height of your roman blind or curtain can distract the eye or play with the proportions of the room. Hanging curtains high and wide can make a window and room feel larger. Conversely, a dark roller blind on a small window can accentuate its small size. Consider the colour and size of your window furnishings carefully to achieve the desired effect."
Q: How can homeowners balance practicality with aesthetics when choosing window treatments?
"It's essential to consider both form and function. While stunning, natural fibres can drop and fade, be mindful of exposing these fabrics to UV light as well as understanding they may lengthen over time. On the other hand, synthetic fibres can be quite stiff and bouncy, so the result may not be what you are after either. Blended fabrics can be a great way to combat all these concerns and still look incredible in the long term”.
“Colour also plays a big role in balancing practically with aesthetics. If you have toddlers with grubby fingers or pets that love to roll in the dirt, white sheers are not going to be the best option for you. There are so many beautiful colours available to complement any home while still feeling light and airy".
"Don’t be afraid to mix and match throughout a home. Beautiful soft sheers may be practical in a master suite where they are going to be appreciated and cared for, but not necessarily in children’s bedrooms. Consider a roman or roller blind in this instance, keeping the colour consistent if you would like the rooms to still complement each other. Always remember, practicality doesn't have to compromise style".
Q: Could you suggest some creative ways to use window furnishings to add personality or make a statement in a room?
"Of course! The curtain heading and rod are often overlooked but can significantly impact a room's personality. Experiment with different pleat styles, drape fullness and rod colours to create a unique look. Don't be afraid to use bold fabrics, textures or patterns to add drama or make a statement. Pinterest and Instagram are always a great way to find inspiration. Think of your window furnishings as art, always choose timeless styles that compliment your home and personal style over what is ‘trending’ at the time."
Maddy has skilfully crafted four beautiful looks using Warwick Fabrics' newly released Inverloch collection in Terracotta, featuring pieces from Moss Furniture to showcase the fabric's versatility.
For expert advice on soft furnishing selections, reach out to @middlegroundcreative. For more information on fabrics and to explore the full range, visit @warwickfabrics.
To discover our full collection of furniture and homewares or for interior design advice, visit @mossfurniture_ and @mossmadeinteriors. Follow, like, and subscribe to stay updated on all thing’s furniture and design!
