Give the Room a Focal Point with a Good Window Treatment

Posted on 2009-11-03, 22:27, by jeff durham, under Consumer Information.

Sometimes the window is the focal point in a room and the window treatments are the most important part of the room décor.  The right window valance can complete the look of the window and bring the theme of the room together.  Sometimes the valance is mainly to cover the hardware of other window treatments that hang beneath it.

Probably the most common window valance is the swag valance.  Comprised of three pieces with a shorter center piece flanked by two longer pieces on each side, it is placed at the top of the window with a set of curtains hung underneath near the center of the window.  The valance allows light to enter the room and still allows privacy.  Swags are usually seen in kitchen windows and are most popular in the country-style kitchen decors.  They even come in fun patterns with fruits or animals.

For formal décor, the balloon valance works perfectly.  This valance is created by literally doubling over the material of the valance and gathering it at top so it creates balloons of fabric hanging from the rod.  You can purchase valances already sewn to achieve this effect or do it yourself.   Floor length curtains are commonly used with this valance and are placed behind the valance so their rod is not visible.

Going romantic?  Use a scarf valance for a very feminine and romantic style of window treatment.  You will need a decorative curtain rod since it will be visible through the valance.  The scarf valance is made of sheer fabric draped over the curtain rod creating a soft, flowing appearance.  Usually it touches the floor and allows light into the room.

We like to use this technique for our spare room, where we keep our antique bed. We have fitted it out with a new latex mattress, and gone all out, adding a talalay latex pillow for good measure. Adding an antique ruffle, matching the window treatment, made it perfect.

Just looking for the basic valance to cover curtain hardware and match the drapes?  Go for the tailored window valance.  It is made of one thickness of fabric that is stiffer and heavier than other valances.  It will block light at the top of the window and allow it to filter in through the draperies or curtains underneath.  Because of the stiffness and smooth lines of the valance, it works well with ultra modern schemes.

Jeff loves to workout, and he loves to decorate his home, including carefully choosing the furnishings. One of his most recent additions is a beautiful antique bed, which he outfitted with a new talalay latex mattress. "This is the ultimate in comfort and durability." Jeff says that he gets a full 8 hours now that he has a mattress which matches the quality of his bed.

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