Designer Window Treatment Ideas

Some of the least expensive and most popular window treatments are sheer curtains. Sheers come in many colors and are easy to find. They give a room an airy feel. For bedroom or bathroom privacy, pair sheers with blinds or shades. Try hanging sheers that are a bit too long on rods placed a few inches above your window — let them pool on the floor for a luxe look.

Let your budget determine your approach to window design. As a general rule, premade drapes and curtains cost less than custom drapes, which can run hundreds of dollars per window. Another cost factor is the fabric and the design you choose.

Sometimes both shades and curtains are used on windows for a textural look or to boost functionality. Don’t be afraid to get creative and try window curtain ideas such as layering. This technique allows you to add on to the design in stages as your budget allows.

If your bedroom gets too much sunlight and you want to tone it down for sleeping, hang heavier drapes or even blackout shades.

Choose fade-resistant fabrics, such as cotton and cotton blends, if the room gets a lot of light. Silk and other high-end materials will often need special care, and sunlight can weaken these fabrics. Wood and bamboo shades are popular because they’re easy to clean and are often less expensive than fancier draperies.

Ready-made curtains and even simple roller shades can be embellished and personalized using stamps or stencils or by painting designs on them. You can also add ribbon or trim to existing panels.

Start with a sketch of your windows. If you need help, snap a picture with your phone to show a Lowe’s associate. Measure each window and write the dimensions on the sketch. For more accurate measurements, measure windows from top to bottom and side to side in three places.

Determine your hardware width based on the look you desire. You can hang the hardware 10 to 15 inches beyond the window frame on both sides to show more of the window when the drapes are open. For more coverage and privacy, hang the hardware 2 to 3 inches beyond the window frame to cover more of the window when the drapes are open.

Mount the hardware in the position you desire, considering these three common options:

• Flush: Hang hardware just above the window moulding
• Standard: Hang hardware 6 inches above the window moulding
• Dramatic: Hang hardware higher, even up to the ceiling

Measure the width of the window, including the trim. To look full when closed, curtains should have a combined width that is twice the window width.

Determine the right curtain length for your windows, including these options:

• Flush: 63 inches
• Floor length: 84 inches
• Pools on the floor: 95 inches

Determine the type of shade your windows need. Inside-mount shades work for windows that are recessed. If your window is not square or has no recess, choose an outside-mount shade.

Shades are more precise than curtains. Measure windows to the closest 1/8 inch. Be sure to measure the depth of the window for inside mounts. Outside-mount blinds may extend past the edges of the window, but don’t extend them beyond 2 inches on each side. Note any vents or other obstacles that might get covered.

Head to Lowe’s and ask an associate for help. In-stock shades and blinds can be cut to fit while you shop.

A variety of window treatment trends can add a modern touch to your home in 2023. If you're looking for a look outside of traditional curtains, you're in luck. Roman or roller shades are a trending choice that's incredibly versatile. They come in a variety of neutral shades for easy coordination with your space. Plus, you can adjust them with ease to change the light filtering and privacy level you need at any time of day.

Wood shutters are another popular option, thanks to their classic look and versatility. Both real and faux wood options are available in practical shades like white and brown. You can even find motorized options that make adjusting the blinds easy.

Classic fabric window treatments never go out of style, and many types are trending today. Classic neutrals such as white, graphite and black add a timeless touch to a room. Heavier fabrics featuring rich jewel-toned hues lend warmth and luxury to a living room or dining room. You can even find patterned window treatments that showcase floral or geometric designs.

Consider repurposing different fabrics as shades, too. Look up different ideas for window scarves for inspiration.

Window treatments can be both decorative and functional elements of your room. Consider which of these factors are most important to you as you shop for window curtain ideas for your space.

• Light coverage: Decide how much light you want your curtains to block. If you want to let in plenty of natural light, opt for sheer curtains. Blackout curtains are ideal for bedrooms, where you might want to keep sunlight out.
• Privacy: Determine how much privacy you need from your window treatments. Consider the function of your room — you'll want more privacy in a bathroom than in a sunroom, for instance. Layering sheers with shades or blinds will offer more privacy than sheers alone.
• Décor: Window treatments can impact the overall design of your space, so choose colors and patterns that coordinate with your preferred look.

For more tips, check out our Window Treatments Buying Guide to help you find curtains for your home.