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November 5, 2018 by louise

How Napa Homeowners Can Use Design to Make Your Space Feel Bigger

Napa homes come in designs of all styles, from small and cosy to estate spreads. So if your Napa home fits into the “cozy” category, you might be wondering how to make the space feel larger.

Because a cramped space is not that comfortable, Napa homeowners must find a way to maximize the space that the have. Which is where the following tips to help make your space feel bigger come into play.

Let Light Be the Way

A little bit of light can go a long way. In fact, finding a ways to let light into your room can instantly transform a small Napa space.

One strategy for doing this is to either utilize Roman blinds or leave the window “naked.” Heavy curtains or drapes can darken the room, which is why making this swap can make a huge difference.

If creating natural light is not an option, Napa homeowners will want to figure out how best to incorporate more artificial lighting. Try spreading the light around the space, creating visual cues for visitors to follow along with.

Keep it Light and Cozy

By sticking with a lighter color palette, Napa homeowners essentially enhance the light that is there. This can create a feeling of a more open, larger space.

When considering what colors to use, good options include yellows, blues and pale pinks. Off-white is also a solid choice, allowing Napa homeowners to add pops of color via furniture and other accessories.

Mirror, Mirror on the Wall…

One tried and tool for Napa homeowners to consider when wanting to create a feeling of a bigger space is to incorporate well-placed mirrors. When used strategically, mirrors will reflect light around and across the room. This adds depth and sense of welcoming, creating an illusion of never ending space.

Multi-Purpose Furniture

Napa homeowners with a small space need to be smart with their furniture choices. This means using pieces that can be used in multiple ways. For example, a coffee table that can also be used as a storage chest or a table that can be extended when necessary can help save on space.

It can also serve Napa homeowners to avoid purchasing large, bulky pieces of furniture. And when arranging the furniture, be sure that the walkways are clear, using diagonal lines when possible. By placing your furniture in a diagonal line, Napa homeowners can add depth while also freeing up the corners for additional storage.

Simplify

Nothing will make a space feel smaller than the presence of clutter. This is why Napa homeowners need to simplify, simplify, simplify! Try to keep your decor to the minimum so as to ensure no spillover into walkways or accumulated piles.

By being intentional with every piece of your space – from decor to furniture – you can both ensure that the room appears larger than it is while also creating a focal point that you then design around. With a focal point in place, Napa homeowners can then work to minimize the rest of the decor.

Small spaces do not have to be uncomfortable. By using light, mirrors, and smart furniture while simplifying in the process, Napa homeowners can transform a small area into a welcoming space.

October 22, 2018 by louise

Drapery Ideas for Those Hard to Handle Areas (Part 2 of 2)

Continuing on last week’s list of drapery ideas for hard to handle window treatments, below is part 2.

Windows with Shutters

What Makes it Difficult: While shutters can provide a useful and classic window treatment, there is no much space available to mount a drapery rod. Also, because shutter open out, this means that they can potentially damage any panels that are placed over them.

How to Tackle: One potential solution to working with shutters is to install a set of swing-arm rods. This way you will be open to swing out to the wall a set of drapes. From here, you will then be able to open the shutters and allow the light to shine through.

If you are designing with children in mind, you can select a stain-repellent finish to your fabric. This will provide an additional layer of protection from dirty hands who will most likely be unable to resist grabbing and hiding behind.

Windows that are Tall

What Makes it Difficult: Tall windows can make it hard to decide if and how to dress.

How to Tackle: Windows that are tall tend to also have a bulkhead wall. This is bulkhead is designed to separate the upper set of windows from the lower. Depending on how and where you mount drapes you can create a different overall experience in the room.

Bow Windows

What Makes it Difficult: A bow window ( which can also be called a curved window) can present a seemingly difficult hurdle to overcome.

How to Tackle: Thankfully, homeowners can work with specific rods capable of being bent to fit most any window. As recommended when working with bay window, you will want to to consider working with a professional to install. Creating custom rods that fit a specific area means that the rods are fabricated to the exact specification needed. That means that the return policy for such designs tend to not be available.

Arched Windows

What Makes it Difficult: How can you utilize a window treatment that does not cover the arch?

How to Tackle: Believe it or not, there are times when a homeowner’s best choice when dealing with an arched window is to simply ignore it. Yes, there are designs that can get the job done – we are talking specifically about using a fanned honeycomb shade or even a custom sunburst shutter – but choosing to leave the arched window bare while tending to the lower panes can work. Not to mention, this can be a much easier solve than crafting a custom, precision-made piece for the arch.

Deep Framed Windows

What Makes it Difficult: Homeowners with deep framed windows find themselves in a difficult situation: how to add a window treatment without taking away from – or drilling into – the craftsmanship of the millwork.

How to Tackle: If the frame is deep enough, you can consider using either mounting hardware with a shower-curtain-like tension rod or a side-mounted rod that allows for brackets to be installed inside of the frame.

Each window – and thus, each window treatment – will present its own set of challenges. And there are some windows that are more challenging than others. If you find yourself facing a difficult window that falls within one of the above categories, these suggestions can be a great place to start.

If you are considering installing custom window treatments, give us a call today to see how we can help.

October 8, 2018 by louise

Drapery Ideas for Those Hard to Handle Areas (Part 1 of 2)

Coming up with drapery ideas can be a great exercise for Napa homeowners wanting to update their look. And thanks to all of the options – from colors, to fabric choices, to functionality – it can hard to know where to start with your drapery ideas. And these choices become even more difficult when you are dealing with windows that are hard to handle.

With this in mind, here are some drapery ideas for those windows that are difficult to dress.

Angled Windows

What Makes it Difficult: What drapery ideas work with an angle on an angle?

How to Tackle: The angled windows in your family room perfectly complement your views. But how do you prevent the sun glare from impairing your view?

Windows on an angle can make drapery ideas difficult to implement. But using medallions to hang your drapes can help Napa homeowners do just that.

Even though medallions are stationary window treatments, they can be the perfect solutions when needing custom window shades where rod-hung drapes are not possible. This is especially true when dealing with angled windows, as trying to incorporate rod-hung drapes would be fighting against gravity, resulting in a messy pile and difficult to open or close windows.

Wall of Windows

What Makes it Difficult: How do Napa homeowners install a window treatment without impairing the view that wall of windows was installed for?

How to Tackle: One way to approach drapery ideas for a wall of windows is to consider utilizing a ceiling track. This feature can help block blinding light with fitting in with the overall designs aesthetic.

These ceiling tracks can be either a manual or a motorized system. Depending on large of an area the wall of windows take up, opting for the motorized install can make drawing the curtains as easy as pressing a button.

Window Nooks

What Makes it Difficult: What are drapery ideas and window treatment options for a hard to handle window nook.

How to Tackle: Napa homeowners lucky enough to have a window nook might be looking for a way to dress it up beyond a comfortable seat cushion. If you are wanting to customize the nook, consider mounting draperies just inside the nook to create your own private space.

Bay Windows

What Makes it Difficult: Bay windows have three sides. Which means that they cannot be covered with just one rod. And installing three rods can look less than professional.

How to Tackle: When it comes to drapery ideas for a bay window, Napa homeowners should keep in mind that the hardware used can make or break the design.

When dressing bay windows, your best bet can be using a curved or angled rod. Angled rods are simply regular linear rods that come together at the corners with inexpensive hinges.

If considering this technique, Napa homeowners will want to work with a professional to help measure and cut the custom design (especially since custom orders are often unable to be returned).

Curved French Doors

What Makes it Difficult: Using a curtain rod underneath the curve of French doors would result in being unable to open the doors.

How to Tackle: Just as with the bay windows above, curved rods can be a good solution. By adding a curved rod to a French door, Napa homeowners will be able to showcase the design without taking away from the functionality.

Check back next week for the second half of our list of drapery ideas for hard to handle windows.

September 24, 2018 by louise

The Art of Creating a Layered Window Look (Part 2)

Continuing on our previous post of The Art of Creating a Layered Window Look (Part 1), Part 2 will continue looking at design options that homeowners’ can implement.

If you are considering installing custom window treatments, be sure to reach out so we can help put our expertise to work. We have been working with local homeowners’ for over a decade, uncovering the perfect solution for the space.

That being said, here is Part 2 of the Art of Creating a Layered Window Look.

Think Small (and Big)

When thinking about installing a layered window look, there is no job that is too small. This means that homeowners can (and should) consider designing treatments for even the tiniest of windows.

While this design approach will not work for all homeowners, it is an option to keep in mind.

Be Open to Drama

By and large, a layered window look is the design of choice for “maximalists.” And nothing creates a sense of drama like utilizing luxurious fabrics.

By utilizing luscious materials, you can create a dramatic window presentation that evokes a strong mood and personality which can reflect homeowners’ personalities.

Consider Being Opaque

A timeless window treatment combination pairs opaque draperies on sheers. While this technique will call for two separate treatments, it can be worth the expense.

But not all budgets can accommodate the doubled-up expense. If this is your situation, you can replicate a similar look by sewing some sheer fabric to the leading edge of your curtains. This technique will allow homeowners to create a mock sheer that appears to be poking out when the panels are open.

Layer and Weave

When it comes to a layered window look, homeowners have the option to coordinate within a single space or extend the coordination across the entire house. For example, when a layered window treatment included multiple layers, you can design them with a specific purpose. Doing this will create a coherent custom look that can help pull out and express the personality of the space.

Consider the Kitchen

When it comes to dressing kitchen windows, it is common to see a single valance or shade used. However, these are not your only options.

By placing a valance on top of a shade, you create a layer of softness. As a result, you also create an opportunity to make a statement.

Details Matter

Little things can make a big difference even without our noticing. Take for example the role of window fabric in setting the tone. By selecting a fabric that conveys a sense of security, you create an intimate setting to enjoy the fruits of your hard work.

While the layout and architecture of the room will no doubt contribute to the feel of the space, combining with shades and draperies will either enhance (when correctly selected) or detract (when the wrong choices are made).

When planning an update to your windows, using a layered window look can help you create just what the space needs. As you think about what looks you want to implement into the space, factor in the choices that are available to you.

September 10, 2018 by louise

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.