The Art of Creating a Layered Window Look (Part 1)

Creating a layered window look can allow homeowners to flex a little bit of their creativity muscles. Incorporating an extra layer or draperies or installing top treatments will impart a new look and feel for any room.

If you are considering utilizing a layered window look, take the time to do some research beforehand. This will help homeowners to get a feel for what look best suits their rooms (and windows).

And if you need help deciding on the perfect window treatment for your home, give us a call today. We specialize in helping design custom window solutions for Napa homeowners.

Either way, to help homeowners get started, consider how the following window treatments can dictate the feel for the entire area.

1. Cozy Country Cottage

When creating a cozy cottage feel, consider utilizing a sheer cafe curtain. This design can help proudly illustrate its function when partnered with the lower half of windows. Combine with matching draperies and a valance to add a touch of color, and homeowners are able to completely create a functional and homey space.

You can also create a sense of privacy by covering the windows at eye level. But because of the sheer material, light is able to pass through even when the cafe curtains are closed.

2. Double Up the Options

When it comes to designing a bedroom space, one uncommon but effective tactic is to use two shades, one mounted on top of the other. When undertaking this approach, you will want to layer a light-filtering shade under a more opaque shade.

This option can be great for budget installs. The two shades give homeowners multiple options for both light and privacy. And if you are considering going down this route, mounting either one or both of the shades inside of the window frame, you will want to make sure that there is enough depth. When mounting, you do not want the shades to stick out past the wall.

Typically, while one inch is the absolute minimum, two inches is mandatory. Especially if you are also installing a continuous cord loop that lengthens as the shade is raised.

3. Consider Shutters

Leveraging more than one window treatment can allow for multiple configurations for both light and privacy. Incorporating shutters can help accomplish this. For example, using panels allows for complete privacy, while lowering the shutters can create a little privacy, along with exposed upper glass when you want to let light filter in.

4. Go Light

A layered window treatment does not have to also look heavy. To achieve a “lighter” look, consider the combination of swags, stationary panels and sheers to create a space that feels formal yet airy.

5. Go Green

And by “green” we mean “solar.” Implementing a solar screen can help protect everyone (i.e. the homeowners) and everything (i.e. your upholstery) from a glare.

Pair the solar screen with a woven wood shade to foster a “beachy” theme (without the sand or cheesiness). And to top it off, consider adding neutral panels that blend in to create that “home” feel.

6. Use a Cornice

When designing a room, it is important to light from two sides. This can help to avoid the imbalance of shadowy corners and strong glares. To combat a strong glare, consider softening that light by arranging draperies to come together in middle and be tied back onto the walls. When implementing this look, a cornice can be used to tie the entire room together.

A layered window look can change the dynamics of the room. We will continue to explore additional design options in Part 2 of this post.