Let’s face it. Naked windows are not very attractive. Now that you’ve moved into your new Sierra Vista home, it’s time to dress them up. Now, you’re probably asking yourself, “How do I choose the right window treatments?” You aren’t alone. With all the options available—drapes, blinds, shades and curtains—choosing window treatments can be as confusing as trying to assemble a piece of IKEA furniture without instructions. Never fear, we’re here to help you make your windows the talk of the neighborhood.

Function First, Fabulousness Later

Window treatments aren’t just for show. Before diving headfirst into the world of cotton, silk and velvet, consider what your window treatments need to do. Do they need to keep a nosy neighbor from peeking in? Maybe you want them to help regulate room temperature, so your family room doesn’t double as a sauna. And we’re not just whistling Dixie here. Data from the U. S. Department of Energy says medium-colored drapes backed with white plastic can decrease solar heat gain by as much as 33 percent. So, yeah, function does matter.

It’s a Material World

Ah, the materials—velvet, cotton, polyester, oh my! Each fabric has its pros and cons. Velvet screams luxury but can make a room feel claustrophobic. Cotton is versatile and easy to clean, which is perfect for those of us who see dust bunnies as the enemy. Polyester is a no-muss, no-fuss option. Whatever fabric you choose, just make sure it can handle daily life. Pets, kids and even spouses can be hard on window treatments.

What’s Your Window Treatment Personality?

​Your window treatments are an extension of your personality (although like we said, function matters). If you’re a minimalist, sleek roller shades could be your best friend. More of a maximalist? Layered drapes might be your calling. Roman shades offer timeless elegance while wooden shutters are charmingly rustic. Pick something that not only looks good but also makes you happy every time you walk into the room.

The Science of Color

Here’s where it gets tricky. You want your window treatments to complement your furniture, not steal the spotlight. Neutral tones are like the little black dress of window treatments—classic and versatile. But if you’re feeling adventurous, a bold color can be the highlight of the room. If your furniture says comfortable and cozy, floor-to-ceiling velvet drapes are going to look out of place. Your best bet is to grab a color wheel, take photos of your furniture and head out to the store.

Measuring Up

Channel your inner perfectionist, and make sure you measure correctly. No one wants their windows to look like the before picture. First, measure the width of your window. Then, measure the height from the top of the frame to where you want your drapes to end. Don’t just eyeball it unless you enjoy the look of mismatched window treatments. Don’t forget to account for any rods or hardware. If you have crown molding, measure around it, not through it.

Think Hard (Ware)

There’s more to window treatments than material. You’ve got to think hard about curtain rods, finials and rings. Your choice depends on what you intend to hang. Some drapery styles, such as grommet panels, rod pocket, tab top or back tab draperies can only be used on rods without rings. Pleated drapes can be displayed using traverse rods or decorative rods with rings. Finials are the decorative ornaments or knobs on the ends of drapery rods. They punctuate your window treatment style and should enhance both drapes and the room.

Let’s Talk Affordability

You may have noticed that window treatments aren’t exactly cheap. Never fear, there are plenty of inexpensive ways to get that decorator look at bargain basement prices. Thrift stores and online marketplaces are gold mines for budget-friendly finds. Or how about flexing those DIY muscles? A little creativity can go a long way. Re-purpose old sheets or tablecloths into chic drapes. Keeping it simple with blinds is also a great option until you can afford the window treatments of your dreams.

Check Out Our Window Treatments

Need more inspiration? Tour our model homes! Our builders use professional decorators to create 3-D design magazines. Check out their window treatments, then checkout their floor plans. Your new home (and new windows) are waiting for you.