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How to Use Different Window Treatments Together in Washington DC Homes

February 14, 2017

For some homeowners in Washington DC, one window treatment on certain windows may not be enough. Whether it’s to achieve a particular style, increase the amount of heat and sunlight you can block, or for any other reason, using multiple window treatments has become a common practice.

So which window treatment combos give your home the most stunning looks and top-notch window coverage? Let’s break down some of the best combinations for Washington DC homes.

Using Plantation Shutters with Drapes

Washington DC drapes and shutters.

Plantation shutters and drapes are one of the most trendy and popular window treatment pairings we regularly see in Washington DC homes. The reason these two go together so well is simple: they offer homeowners the most “wiggle room” in privacy, looks and light control. Plantation shutters are perfect for larger windows, since they’re able to keep your privacy while still allowing a decent amount of light in. Sometimes in large rooms, though, you may want to add a splash of color or give a tad more warmth to the room–that’s where a set of drapes can help. An additional drapery can offer your room some needed color, soften the look of your space, and give a beautiful framing to your shutters.

Those draperies don’t need to be heavy, highly functional window coverings when paired with shutters, either. Even an accent drapery on either side of the window can accomplish the same goal, as your shutters give your windows more than sufficient coverage.

To see how influencer Denise Cooper of Be My Guest with Denise combines her interior shutters with drapes, watch this video. 
 
 

Putting Shades and Draperies Together

Washington DC drapes and shades 

A combination of shades and draperies can imbue your space with a classic look, great for bedrooms and living rooms. The unique appeal of this combination comes from the contrasting textures you can end up with, specifically with roman or cellular shades. When you match colors but have different textures, you can make your room feel cozy and classy at the same time.

Using Valances and Cornices with Other Window Treatments

Washington DC kitchen shutter and cornice valance

Though not as frequently used as they once were, valances and cornices are still used in some houses, and can fulfill a great role when paired with the right partner. Like drapes with shutters, a valance or cornice will usually be your accent piece. We suggest utilizing an interesting hue on top with a neutral-toned window treatment, like Polywood® plantation shutters or faux-wood blinds. This type of combination does especially well in specific rooms like the kitchen, where you’d benefit from a water-resistant window treatment like Polywood.

Window Film Pairs with Any Window Treatment 

Years ago, window film was just used to blacken windows, which had a drawback as it could make a space feel a little lifeless and prevent you from seeing a clear view outside. The window film available today lacks these issues, as it can block nearly 80% of energy from the sun without impeding your view with a layer of tint.

That makes window film a great combo piece to any window treatment, as it can easily stick to your window glass and drastically improve your window’s r-value. Window film can do all this while giving you free reign in how you want to dress the window, whether you choose cellular shades, plantation shutters, or any other window treatment.

Could your house benefit from a new window treatment combo like one of these we’ve discussed? Call Sunburst Shutters DC at 240-339-2588 today to set up a free professional window design consult to start giving your windows the treatment they deserve.