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Building Components

6 Ways to Successfully Mix Window Treatments

Style a single room's multi-sized panes with a winning combination of window treatments

Stacey Gillies
Stacey GilliesJanuary 26, 2017
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Have you ever wondered what to do with the different-sized windows in your living room or bedroom? Should a room be strictly Roman blinds throughout, or is it acceptable to have luscious drapes on one set of panes and Romans on the remainder? What about timber shutters? Oh, and don’t forget the blockout blinds… There are no hard and fast rules when it comes to window treatments, because it’s all about what you want and can afford, but it will pay to take these considerations into account to ensure your room feels harmonious.

These inspirational spaces all sport windows of different sizes, with a mix of window treatments that works. Let’s get your imagination going.
Walter Barda Design
1. Combine shutters and sheers
The use of timber shutters over small windows creates a point of interest, and with a quick flick of the wand you have privacy. If you have a mix of small and larger windows, treat the largest panes to some beautiful sheer linen in a colour palette that complements your bedroom decor.
Coloured timber shutters are a unique way to bring different hues into your bedroom. This room has a very soft ambience with the pink tones and gauzy sheers.

Tip: Cotton gauze is an economical but organic option for sheers.

Browse more pink bedrooms
Kim Pearson Pty Ltd
2. Keep it neutral but mix up the treatment
If you are creating a statement with your bedding and cushions, it pays to keep your window treatments neutral and neat so the room isn’t too busy. Curtains on the smaller windows on either side of this bed would look cumbersome and be impractical, getting in the way of the bedside tables and lamps. Best to keep things simple with Roman blinds, and use the larger window to showcase your drapes and contrasting hardware.
Silver Nest Interiors
Venetian blinds are much like shutters but lighter in construction. Roller blinds can sit over the top of the venetian blind to give full blockout at night.
Michelle Skinner
3. Contrast colours
Create minimal impact with white roller blinds that blend in well with the ceiling colour. Thermal blockout blinds will keep unwanted light and heat at bay, and you can then add a touch of luxe by adding sheer curtains that contrast with the other elements in the room to make a visual statement.
Lisa Burdus Interior Design
4. Be bold with patterns and stripes
Don’t be scared to treat your windows to a bit of colour. If you have beautiful windows and views outside, then create a focal point towards these areas by using bright prints or patterned fabrics alongside solid blocks of colour. Tie these elements to your flooring, particularly if you have carpet or a rug and you will create a harmonious and snug space.
Stripes are always fun, so why not inject this into the most important room in the house – the kitchen. Using a patterned or coloured fabric you can wipe down means you don’t need to be too precious about stains and splashes from below.

Browse more kitchen ideas
Highgate House
Did you know that if you run your striped fabric vertically it can create the illusion of a higher ceiling?
Matarozzi Pelsinger Builders
5. Have fun with French doors
French doors are a gorgeous asset in any room, so make sure you give them the attention they deserve. Ensure curtains are thermal-backed; French doors tend to let more heat and cold inside due to the amount of glass. Here, both curtains and Romans are hung side by side in the same fabrics to create a cohesive look.
Chadwick Designs
Run a sheer over your French doors for some additional privacy, great for when the sun sneaks around and drenches the room. Eating your dinner without the sun in your eyes is always a plus.

A complete guide to curtain styles
TVS architects
6. Line up treatments
To keep the look symmetrical, it is worth considering the height placement of your different window treatments. This photo shows that the top heights of the Romans and the curtains are the same, resulting in a look that’s easier on the eye. This approach streamlines a room and makes it look more considered.
Enviable Designs Inc.
Also think about artwork. The placement of the art here is in line with the blinds and curtain rail, all working together to create a visually appealing space.


YOUR SAY
How have you tackled a room with different-sized windows? Share your window treatment tales in the Comments below.

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