My clients are regularly asking what have I been seeing and doing a lot of lately. While there are several specific types of treatments that continue to be popular, I see a few noteworthy trends I’d like to share.
Now let me start by saying I’m not a huge fan of trends. I prefer to design something that will stand the test of time that will transition well and my clients won’t tire of. While no doubt there are specific trends in the window treatment world, I like to carefully blend them into classic designs. The good news is the window coverings industry offers a plethera of options and continues to evolve both from a design as well as a technology standpoint.
In the world of fabric treatments, I can say that layered, opulent, heavy treatments are not as popular right now. While I do my fair share of swags and jabots, they are primarily used for a historic or architectural requirement. We are after all in New England! But as a whole, fabric treatments have become a little more tailored with less drapey. But while the designs themselves have neatened up, the use of patterned fabric is more popular than ever. Fabrics featuring geometrics, lattice, scrollwork and even large scale florals are all the rage. But, then on the flip side, I’m also seeing requests for simple treatments with solid fabric and banding; a more contemporary sophisticated look. Along that line, flat Roman shades more than the old style of shirred or balloon shades are definitely trending. And of course, cordless Roman shades are a standard of mine!
Rooms like kitchens and dining areas that are traditionally laden with hard surfaces like granite, stainless, and wood, are still calling for fabric. Hardwood floors are often used throughout the home and floor-length drapes can add much needed softness that other treatment just can’t match. Incorporating this type of classic drapery with a more current pattern can really update a room beautifully without coming off too trendy.
In the world of hard goods which covers the more functional aspect of window covering, plantation shutters continue to be popular, especially cafe height. Honeycomb shades have a slim sleek appeal for those who want coverage when they want it, but want them to disappear when not in use. There are so many fabric and color choices available now and they continue to lead the way in UV and temperature control. Natural woven shades and wood blinds are are still favorites though and I’m doing most as cordless. With the improvement and competion of cordless mechanisms, the consumer is benefiting with lower pricing . It’s really a no brainer for a household with kids or pets or if planning to put the home on the market. And of course, motorization seems to be the wave of the future. Who doesn’t like to operate a good remote?
