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| In my previous article on window treatment basics, we covered some of the basic window treatment types, and when to use them. From sheers to shades, blinds to shutters, you gained an understanding of the basic types of window treatments out there. (Missed the article? Learn the basics of window treatments here)
But now what? Each of these window treatments has their own unique benefits (not to mention endless fabric, color, and function options), so how do you find what is right for you?
Try this: take one window (or set of windows) at a time, and ask yourself the following questions. This will give you an idea of where to start your quest for your home's perfect window treatments. | 
Serenade Roman Shades with Duofold option can create privacy when you need it
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Question 1: How much privacy do you need?
We all want privacy when in the comfort of our homes. But some rooms need more privacy than others (think ground-level bathrooms, rooms that look out onto busy sidewalks or streets, etc.). In these rooms, above all else, you want a window shade that can function as a barrier between you and the outside world.
So, look for opaque window treatments. Serenade Roman shades (pictured at left) and Serenade roller shades typically use fabrics with a more opaque, drapery-like feel, that can offer full, solid coverage. |
Pleated and cellular shades can also be useful in providing privacy, provided that they use non-sheer fabrics. If you go this route, I'd recommend finding shades with blackout (or room-darkening) fabrics, like the Virtuoso Blackout collection. You might also try a duofold (top-down, bottom-up) option, like in the Roman shades shown above. This allows you to open your shades from the top down, letting light in at the top, while maintaining your privacy at the street level.
Wood blinds, faux wood blinds, and shutters will also provide a highly private environment.
If you like the look of sheer window coverings, you should know that they are less likely to give you full privacy, but it doesn't mean you have to rule them out. Simply find curtains or draperies that can be layered over the sheers when privacy is needed.
Question 2: How much light do you want to flow in (and how much should be kept out)?
In a child's nursery or a media room, you may want the ability to block a lot of light for easy napping or just to reduce glare. In a small room, or even just a lively room, you may want to maximize light to keep the area open and airy. Window treatments can achieve both of these things. | 
Sunscreen window shades reduce glare and provide improved draft control. | For maximum light control, you'll want to find shades that use blackout fabrics, like in the Virtuoso Blackout Shades and the Matinee Room Darkening Shades. Many other window shades come in these types of fabrics. You might also try sunscreens, as pictured at left, which are specifically designed to reduce the glare that incoming sunlight causes. In addition, metal or wood blinds can be tilted to keep the direct sun out, while still affording some view and light. On the other hand, when you want to increase the light that flows into the room, sheer window shadings are a great choice. Try Shangri-La Sheer Horizontal Window Shadings, or Ballet Drapery Sheers. These window treatments will accent your window, and the sheer nature of the fabric will gently filter light into the room. |
Question 3: What does the room need?
Did you know you can look to your window treatments as problem-solvers? If you have any of the following concerns, the right shades or blinds may help:
Energy efficiency
Did you know that window treatments can actually insulate your home, trapping in warm air in the winter, and trapping in the cool air in the summer? Energy-efficient cellular shades add an extra layer of insulation to your home, saving you money on energy bills. If you like the benefits of cellular shades, but the look of drapery-style fabrics, try Fusion Insulating Roman Panel Shades. Covering a sliding door? Try the Ovation Cellular Slider. | 
Motorized window shades help with hard to reach windows and also allow you to set your window treatments on a timer. |
Hard-to-reach windows
Consider how you'll operate blinds installed on very high windows. One answer: motorized window shades. A variety of technology options exist today that can help you: remote controls, timers, you name it – raising and lowering your shades can be as simple as the click of a button.
Small room
You can actually place window treatments so that they create the illusion of height and depth in a room. An above-the-casement mount refers to window treatments that are placed higher than the window casing itself. It will create the look of height that you are looking for in a smaller space. | Question 4: Do you have small children?
Long draperies and dangling cords can be a tempting plaything for small children, and even pets. So choose a window treatment that doesn't put them at risk. Cordless cellular shades are a very stylish option for families with small children; without dangling cords, you can feel confident your children are safe.
Corded cellular and pleated shades from Comfortex are also safeguarded with the exclusive Breakthrough Cord Connector. This component snaps open when pressure is applied to the cord loop, should a child become entangled, keeping them safe. |  |
You might also try cellular verticals operated by a tilt wand, like Harmony Cellular Vertical blinds. Not only are these verticals child-safe, they are energy efficient and easy to operate. And without weights and chains, these new verticals are safe for children and pets alike.
Question 5: What's your design style?
Style is the fun part of window treatments. Here is where you can choose fabrics, colors, and styles that will add your unique, personal flavor to the room. It's when you pick out window treatment styles and options that make your house feel like a home. But where do you start? |
There are a number of design styles; from traditional to contemporary, you'll probably find, that while you like characteristics of many of the styles, most of your preferences will fall into one category. Discover your design style and read about recommendations for incorporating that style into your home. You can start this process by visiting BlindCrafter.com's MyStyle. Then do your own research on the web and in interior design magazines, for other ways to define your style. | 
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Question 6: Have you considered the environment?
If you're committed to living an environmentally-conscious lifestyle, your window treatments don't have to be an exception. Cellular shades are energy-efficient and will reduce energy use in your home.
And if you buy wood alloy blinds (faux wood blinds), you can often get a product that is made of recycled wood. When you choose Woodwinds Wood Alloy Blinds, not only do you get an environmentally-friendly shade, but you also get the opportunity to Save Now, Recycle, and Save Again.
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