Bay Window Decorating

Bay windows can be quite luxurious and are quite popular amongst homeowners these days. This is because bay windows allow quite a bit of light into a home and offer those inside a fantastic view of the outside world. Many homeowners however look for ways to dress up their bay windows not so as to hide them but for reasons like privacy and aesthetics. Keeping prying eyes out as well as direct sunlight is often a priority amongst homeowners with these types of windows. Homeowners interested in in decorating their bay windows need to keep in mind that there are several options available to them and that the choice that's right for them will depend largely on their budget and their own personal tastes.

The first option homeowners have are silk panels. Silk panels are probably the most traditional way that bay windows are decorated due to their elegant look and the atmosphere they create. Homeowners who want a traditional look but we don't want to be too common can actually have a designer tape or braid the insides of silk panels to create something unique for their home. Additionally homeowners now have the option of having their silk panels created using two colors instead of just one as was the case in the past.

Drapery panels are the second option homeowners have to consider. Drapery panels are best placed on the return walls of any bay window though they can be placed virtually anywhere a homeowners desires. With their straight and narrow look drapery panels can create a very streamlined look within a room and will generally not obstruct any view of a bay window nor overshadow it. In contrast to most other types of bay window decor, drapery panels are often hung very high as their length is their elegance and appeal.

Contemporary valances or another great way to decorate they windows. Contemporary valances tend to give rooms they are installed in a very open and inviting feel. Not only are valances eye-catching but they tend to accentuate both the window that they reside above and any decor that hangs from them. Valances can also help shade a room and keep it cool allowing for individuals to sit near or under their bay windows with comfort. Valances can be used in conjunction with shades for privacy or any type of drapery for beauty.

Homeowners who want to decorate their bay windows with something a little bit different can utilize Roman shades. Roman shades with their unique designs and variety of colors can be used to really draw attention and accentuate a bay window. Moreover homeowners can install some type of heavy drapery on the sides of a bay window in conjunction with their Roman shades to create a very old world look. Roman shades are popular amongst homeowners with bay windows because they frame the window but still leave options for colorful accents.

When decorating bay windows homeowners tend to focus only on the actual window decor and not the hardware associated with it. This is a mistake however because utilizing the wrong hardware can detract from the beauty of a bay window and can put a bay window and its new decor in sharp contrast with the room it belongs to. With so many different hardware options for bay windows available it behooves homeowners to seek the advice of a professional interior designer prior to selecting any hardware. This will ensure that the end result will be one that they both desire and one that is pleasing to the eye.

Rounding out the bottom of our list of window decor is the window seat. Sadly this option often goes overlooked or is dismissed by homeowners simply because window seats around the bay window are sometimes thought of as old-fashioned. Being old-fashioned however is what really makes the window seat an option that should be considered for every bay window. As homeowners and their guests often sit near or under a bay window a window seat gives them a comfortable place to do so but also creates a heavy atmosphere within a room and around its window. Window seats can be short or long, low or high, though their length and dimensions are really a matter of personal taste rather than necessity.

Raymonde Draperies specializes in San Diego curtains and San Diego draperies.

Vinyl, Fabric and Wooden Blinds

Do you prefer dressing your windows in an uncluttered and simple way? Some people prefer simplicity not only because it gives a more modern look to the house, but also because it is easier to maintain. We are talking about window blinds. As opposed to curtains, blinds offer a better control of the light that comes from outside. By changing the angle only slightly, you can still keep your privacy, but get a view of the outside and let some sunlight in.

Blinds come in different types of materials like vinyl, metal, wood or fabric. They can be horizontal or vertical. You can angle the slats up or down as you choose, or you can open the blinds all the way. You can use them all by themselves or you can add matching drapes above them.

Vinyl blinds are the most common types of blinds, because they are easier to clean and they are not affected by moisture. They are also the most affordable type of blinds in the market. Before vinyl blinds were popular, metal blinds were commonly used. But they used to bend easily and especially in humid seasons they would get rusted. There was also the risk of cutting your hands while cleaning them. Vinyl blinds come in horizontal or vertical forms and even though they are not the most durable type of window treatments, they still offer a simplistic option for your windows.

If you prefer vertical blinds, besides vinyl, your second option is fabric blinds. Many home and office owners prefer fabric blinds because they are very ideal for larger windows or sliding doors. Like horizontal blinds they come with a rod that helps you tilt the slats or vanes and they can also be opened all the way if you choose. Vertical blinds are usually preferred when it comes to sliding doors.

Are you a fan of rustic décor? Than look no further than wooden blinds. They come in all shades and colors in today's market and they will add a country flare to your home or office. They are also better in blocking the light if that's what you prefer. The wooden blinds are the most expensive option but they are extremely durable and look quite luxurious. You can choose the hand operated ones or the automatic ones where with the touch of a button you can adjust the angle of the slats, lift them up completely or half way. One thing to make sure if you are planning to purchase wooden blinds is that you need to check and see if they are properly sealed; otherwise they can get damaged easily by moisture, especially if you are planning to use them in your bathroom or kitchen. Faux wood or vinyl are better options for these areas where moisture is almost always an issue.

Home Improvement Guide specializes in general contractors Orange County CA, Irvine home improvement and Orange County blinds.