Although the main purposes of window treatments are lighting control, privacy and aesthetic appeal; according to the interior design experts, including Martha Stewart, there are circumstances that specifically call for blinds and shutters and different conditions that beg for curtains or drapes.
Blinds are hard slats which can be opened and closed manually with a string pulley or a modern motorized system; and while they will not completely block out light and drafts, you can enhance your home and keep light at bay by pairing your blinds and shutters with drapes or curtains. The simplistic design of blinds will also serve you well in a more cramped, cluttered space.
Curtains are a softer alternative to sleeker, more minimalistic blinds. Curtains are also exceptionally versatile, offering a wide array of colors and styles – from a kitchen breakfast nook adornment that is bright and frilly to a child’s room window that is whimsical and silly. With curtains, you can cover your entire window, opt for just a top covering or cover the lower portion of your window with a cropped curtain for a trendy, café window dressing. However, while they can block light and drafts, they are not the “be all – end all” in those instances due to their lightweight material. The silver lining with that lightweight curtain material is that it can soften and even add a bit of romance to a room.
Drapery also offers a variety of patterns and colors from which to choose, but its texture and style tends to be more sophisticated. Custom draperies are also typically crafted from heavier fabrics, resulting in more effective sunlight and draft blockage. Additionally, drapery can add a level of sophistication to create a more formal space.
