If eyes are the windows to the soul, then windows bring the soul into a room, and how you dress them, can make or break the mood. Elegantly dressed windows can bring warmth and coziness to the space and can shift, shape and soften the light that enters it.
Whether you’re after billowing, flowing fabric, slick, modern designs, sheer materials, ruffles, patterns or simple roller blinds, dressing your windows is essential for turning a house into a home and making your room look 'finished'.
Window dressing is also a wonderful way to tie the rest of the room together; whether using the same colours or fabrics for your other soft furnishings, cushions, rug - or even the vase of flowers on the table.
Best of all, window dressing does not have to cost a fortune, but there are a few tips and tricks to help you achieve that stylish, luxury look without spending a fortune.
1. PROFESSIONAL
Whilst making your own blinds and curtains might seem like the cheaper option, it’s always a good idea to go directly to a blind and curtains specialist; i.e. Arte de Lusso in San Pedro, as they will have a large variety of materials in different price ranges. They will also be able to guide and steer you in the right direction and offer you alternatives and complementary fabrics for your desired look.
Some fabrics can differ greatly in price depending on the manufacturer. Linen, for example, can vary from anywhere between 35 and 115 Euros.
2. DURABLE
Invest in materials that will last!
No matter how pretty or attractive the fabric, if it’s not durable then it's not going to be cost-effective in the long run. It makes more sense to opt for a pricier fabric that is of a better quality so that it will last longer.
By using flame retardant fabrics, for example, you will not need to change your curtains every 3-4 years.
3. SLIMLINE
Reduce the fullness ratio of your sheer curtains. For this, it's a great idea to speak to a professional. The team at Arte de Lusso are highly skilled in offering the most attractive solutions at affordable prices. They can help you tweak the design by using a 180% fullness ratio rather than one of 250%.
4. MODERN
Use modern solutions like blinds that cost less than curtains and are created using more durable materials. They protect better from sunlight - and you don’t have to wash them every 6 months!
Roller blinds are a great option, as they can help save energy by keeping heat inside during the winter and keep it cold inside for summer.
5. MINIMALISM
If you’ve always had curtains in the past, don’t be scared of the change. Not only are blinds cheaper that curtains, but they offer a sleek, chic modern alternative that can completely transform the feel of your room. They can help you to modernise and afford a less cluttered, minimalist vibe that is bang on trend.
6. PROMOTIONS
One of the reasons to deal with specialists such as Arte de Lusso is that they can inform you of any special discounts or promotions. There might be offers available if you purchase bigger quantities - so why not do two rooms at a time, rather than just the one? Or perhaps the whole house?!
7. TRENDS
Follow the new trends - dress your windows up depending of the form and size; they do not have to be matching!
If you have two different windows to dress up, you can always use different systems and combine materials. For example, with a two window-room, use voiles on the larger window and a roller blind for the smaller one.
Hope this tips give you some inspiration and ideas to get creative and breathe some new life into your home.