How to Select Designer Valances

A window valance is a type of window treatment that serves to cover the upper part of the window. Valances may be hung by themselves or they may be combined with curtains, blinds or shades.

Designer valances were something of a craze some time back as these added a certain grace and decorum to the room. On the practical side, beautiful designer valances also serve to hide aging window rods or window tops that are damaged or crumbling with age. Designer valances are a common feature in large sun-facing rooms.

How to choose designer valances for your room:
To be attractive, window valances must match the style and color of the rest of the room. As valances are by nature rather heavy and ostentatious, they must be paired with a décor that is subdued and simple. Heavy window treatments in a room that already has too many stylistic elements is a fashion faux pas. If you already have a room that is stylish, then, it would be better to use simple designer valances that are subdued in color and muted in their design.

For designer valances to work their magic, it is necessary that the window occupies a place of pride in the décor of the room. For example, small decorative windows, bay windows and French windows are built so they can become the focus of attention. Dressing up such windows with the right designer valance and combining this with an equally good curtain or blind is a great way of giving visual appeal to the room.

Designer valances are great for a children’s room, particularly if the décor follows a certain theme. For instance, a room that looks like a sky can do with cloud valances. Kitchens and bathrooms too can get a facelift if you fit them with excellent designer valances. However, care must be taken to keep the design simple since any window treatments in kitchens and bathrooms are likely to attract dirt, grime and moisture.

One of the most important things to keep in mind when ordering curtain valances is the measurement. Before you order, you will have to take the right measurement since these valances are made for your individual use. Therefore, they cannot be returned to the manufacturer. In case of doubts, it is advisable to approach an expert for measuring the designer valance.

The good thing about valances is that they can be combined with any kind of window treatment to give some additional zing to a room. They are a wonderful way of dressing up a room that is used for formal entertainment as they impart stateliness to the room. When selected carefully, they can also add an element of fun and cheerfulness. The irregular shapes, intricate designs and the color combinations can turn any room into a stunner.

Tips and Tricks for Custom Drapes That Make You Proud

Sometimes, a room requires something special. You have visited the stores, seen everything they have and still felt unsatisfied by what you see. Your only option is to go for custom drapes.

Custom drapes are generally exclusive combinations made in-house. You can select the fabric, prints and color that suit the design and décor of your room. You can select from different lengths and widths. Therefore, custom drapes are excellent for windows that are slightly bigger or smaller than regular windows.

While choosing the fabric for the custom drapes, keep in mind that the fabric is responsible for the atmosphere or the aura you create in that room. The correct blending of atmosphere and practical use will dictate the final effect of the room. It will also have a huge impact on how people perceive and use the room. For instance, a room that uses heavy fabric will let in little light. Therefore, such fabric may not do so well as a sitting room but will be great for a bedroom.

Printed fabric looks great in a room where the rest of the décor is muted. Otherwise, it will result in a cluttered look. You must use busy prints in custom drapes very sparingly and carefully.

Next is the style. Often, custom drapes will offer you an opportunity to go for styles that are off the beaten track. You can choose from pleated, gathered or grommet tops, for example. So, which style will you choose? Before you even visit the store to select custom drapes, sit in the room and get a feel of the style elements. Does the room look conventional or is it modernistic? Browse through pictures in magazines and the internet. This will give you a clear idea of what will look good in the room.

You might want to consult a designer for the style and color of your custom drapes. But, do not leave it all on the designer. After all, you will be living in the room and no one is interested in the house as much as you are. If you make use of the services of an interior designer for your custom drapes, make sure that your own likes and dislikes play a pivotal role.

Hint: even though there are a variety of styles to choose from, surveys have repeatedly shown that most people generally opt for simple designs. Fancier designs not only cost more but people tire of them easily too.

Finally, make use of professional installers if you are even a little unsure of your own skills. If you have spent a lot of time and money selecting the right fabric and choosing the best style, it makes sense to choose someone who can do a good job of hanging the custom drapes.