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The window treatment is an important and often overlooked component of a well-designed space. Many people approach dressing their windows as an afterthought. They may spend a great deal of money on furnishings and scrimp on this area by purchasing prefabricated drapery panels and not measuring the area properly. Some homeowners can’t decide which treatment will work best, opting instead to leave the area bare.

A drapery panel is designed to dress the window and give a complete look to a space.  I am not a fan of bare windows. In my opinion, a room without a window treatment looks unfinished.

Drapery panels deliver privacy and control drafts. In some homes where drafty windows are a problem, drapery panels help to insulate the windows.

When selecting a drapery panel, there are a number of points to consider. A quality piece should have an appropriate liner. The lining is important for preserving the fabric, adding body and structure to a window treatment, and providing light filtration.

There are a number of lining options available: standard, interlining, bump lining and blackout lining. Standard lining is made of a thin cotton fabric and is appropriate when lining thicker fabrics containing more body. Interlining is heavier lining and is applied as an inner layer of insulation between the standard lining and the fabric. It feels like felt and is very soft.

When using silk or other finer fabrics, interlining is essential to provide body. Bump lining is an extra thick, felted interlining and provides a more luxurious look to a thinner fabric when an extra layer of insulation is needed. Finally, blackout lining is a thicker lining that, when drawn closed, provides a block to all natural light. The blackout effect is used when major light control is desired.

Size really does make a difference with window treatments. Drapery panels are fabricated by the width of the fabric. The larger the window, the more fabric width is needed to keep the proportions in check and create a nice balance. There is nothing worse than a skimpy drapery panel on a large window. You can use the most expensive fabric and trim, but if your treatment looks skimpy, the intended effect is lost and your treatment will look cheap.

Stationary panels are one of my favorite choices to dress the window and provide that finishing touch to the window and overall décor with a crisp, clean look.

Fully functioning drapery treatments are a good option for those concerned about privacy. When closed, they also filter out any unwanted light.

Proper mounting is necessary when dealing with window treatments. It really is true that you can purchase the most expensive draperies and end up with a cheap look if your selections aren’t properly mounted. A standard rule is to position your draperies 4 to 8 inches above the window molding. This figure is a general rule; keep in mind that every space demands a unique perspective. When investing in custom treatments, consultation with a professional is recommended.

To prevent miscommunication when speaking to a design professional, it helps to know a few of the terms you might hear. Being familiar with the lingo will help to ensure that you can visualize what you are ordering and are satisfied with the final product.

Here are a few terms to know when discussing draperies:
• Stack: This refers to the amount of wall space or window space draperies take up when opened all the way. The pleated fabric that bunches at each side or on one side is called “stack back.”
• Header: The top hem of the drapery panel. The drapery panel is hung from the header. Typically, there are pleats, grommets or a rod pocket fabricated into this part of the treatment.
• Finial: The decorative end of a rod. A finial is needed when a rod is used in an open area and the ends are displayed in plain sight.

Keep in mind that though window treatments can be costly, they are an integral part of your design. When properly cleaned and maintained, they will last for years. 

Jessica Dauray is owner of EOS Interiors, a full-service interior design firm with locations in Greensboro and Wilmington. Have questions for a Design Wise column? Contact Dauray at jess@elementsofstyleinc.com.