How to Pair Window Treatments for a Cozy, Warm Winter

Every season has its own sights, sounds, and scents. For me, there’s nothing quite like late autumn and those first weeks of winter to make my senses come alive. Looking for the stars in the clear, crisp early evening. Hearing the muffled silence after a snowfall. The smell of smoke from the fireplace and the scent of pine. My hands wrapped around a mug of hot cocoa as I curl up in a chair by the window.

Window treatments frame the seasonal beauty to be found just beyond our windows –  adding a dash of texture, pattern, and color, as well as crucial insulation during the colder winter months. They can provide a warm and cozy contrast to the chill outside.

Want to know how to create window treatment combos that combine beauty as well as warmth during the brisk days of autumn and winter? Read on!

1. Layer Linen Curtains with Sheers

Two big misconceptions about sheer curtains are, 1.) that they’re only used for a breezy summer look, and 2.) that they don’t allow for privacy.

But by layering sheer curtains with heavier panels, you can double down on privacy and provide extra insulation that can increase energy efficiency while adding texture and depth to your room.

With sunlight at a premium during the shorter winter days, sheer curtains are a great way to maximize natural light while adding an extra layer of warm linen texture for an elegant and timeless look.

Designer Tip: I love the mix of linen with sheers because it keeps everything neutral and neat so the view can be the star of the show. If you’re blessed with a spectacular view, this is the perfect way to let it shine.

2. Combine Curtains Panels with Roller Shades

While some may look at roller shades and think they’re basic, I think they’re anything but.

Roller shades offer clean, simple lines that can read sleek and modern or timelessly classic. Either way, they’re perfectly versatile when it comes to design.

Today’s roller blinds are easy to operate with a variety of colors, patterns, and textures available.

Thanks to their simple design, roller shades tend to cost less than other types of shades. And that frees up your budget for some fabulous curtain panels to add texture, color, and pattern to your window.

Designer Tip: I’m a huge fan of the tailored, clean look of roller shades. But on their own they can give a sterile, unfinished vibe. Adding curtain panels offers a wonderful opportunity to add height, color, texture, and pattern to your view.

3. Select Sheer Roman Shades with Blackout Curtains

One timeless window treatment combo is layering drapes over Roman shades. Because they’re both “soft” window treatments, they play well together and give your room a cozy feel.

For versatility, choose light filtering Roman shades for daytime privacy and blackout curtains to block the view at night. Because Roman shades can leave small gaps on the sides of the window, adding drapes on top will provide more complete darkening and an enhanced upscale look.

Designer Tip: Want your window look to fade into the background? Use matching fabrics for the Roman shades and draperies to achieve a soft, minimalist look. If your look leans more towards maximalism, try printed Roman shades and draperies in a coordinating solid. Or better yet, a coordinating print!

4. Blend Blinds with Designer Draperies

You can’t get more classic than crisp 2” blinds with draperies layered on top. This look is perfect for traditional homes or formal spaces, like dining rooms and polished living rooms.

This combination also works wonders in framing the outside view while giving you the inside benefit of a variety of light-filtering options.

Designer Tip: White blinds look great with just about any drapery fabric. If you go with stained wood blinds, try choosing a fabric that has tones of the stain color in the print. No matter what you choose, we always recommend getting samples to see how your choices work together!

5. Choose Curtains with Shutters

For an upscale version of a look that combines soft and hard window treatments, try draperies layered over shutters. Although shutters can be pricier, they give your windows a built-in look that can add to your home’s resale value.

Designer Tip: When layering draperies over shutters, be sure that your curtain rods extend far enough beyond the shutter vanes when they’re open.

The truth is, there are no hard and fast rules on how to mix and match your window treatments. Go with your instinct. If it speaks to you, especially when you’ve thought about it for a few days, do it.

One thing professional interior designers know is that the key to successful design is confidence. Trust your gut and give it a go. But if you think a bit of hand holding will boost your self-confidence, give me a shout! I’m happy to come on over and help.

Cheers,
Peg

P.S. If you need a professional eye on your windows before the holidays arrive, be sure to reach out to us now — we fill up fast!