In recent decades, Australian homeowners have embraced glass with gusto – windows are ever larger, bifolds have become commonplace and entire glass walls are used both internally and externally.  Accordingly, the market for window treatments has expanded greatly. And, alongside the ever-increasing range of options, technology is improving the way window treatments look and function. 

Before you buy
Choosing the right window treatment involves thinking about matters both practical and decorative. “You need to work out your budget and just how much sunlight and privacy you want,” says Tim O’Hanlon, National Sales Manager for Silent Gliss. “Then, determine whether you wish to frame or distract attention from a view. If it’s a beautiful window, sheers are probably the answer. If it’s a problem window, drapery can hide a lot of flaws.”
 
While most interior window treatments can be used in any room, the decor and role of the space tends to dictate the style. “Bedrooms can be tricky because you need to factor in both softness and light-blocking priorities,” says O’Hanlon. “Typically, we’d do multiple layers, like a decorative side panel, a sheer behind that and then a blackout roller blind.”

In a kitchen, keep things simple, taking into account airborne grease and food particles. For bathrooms, sheers can work to soften hard surfaces, but don’t forget to consider the effect of humidity.

Curtains
Transparent, gossamer-like sheer curtains are in vogue right now. Part of the reason for this is their ability to break up strong lines and soften architectural features. “Today’s sheers have a subtle iridescence, can be interwoven with unexpected materials and may even feature embossed or printed patterns,” says O’Hanlon. “We’re also seeing the increased use of sheers in dramatic colours – cocoa and smoke among them – and even two layers of coloured sheers used together for effect.”

If you favour a weightier look and feel, a semi-sheer cotton or linen can work well with a french door. Tall, classic window styles often call for a heavy drape but tread carefully with boldly printed fabrics. Instead, opt for unadorned fabrics, or subtle patterning, adding a dash of detailing with finials and tiebacks.

Blind faith
If you’re in the market for blinds, take note of these emerging trends:

Colour
“In difficult financial times we can expect to see more European-influenced blinds with bright, cheery colours and more defined textures,”  says Kevin Clarke, Managing Director of Designed Blinds.

Pattern
Witness, too, the introduction of an element of fun. “Patterned blinds that exhibit a sense of whimsy are becoming popular,” says Tim O’Hanlon.

Energy efficiency
Look for products such as Luxaflex’s Duette Architella fabric, which has three insulating air pockets built into the weave. For outstanding solar control, Verosol makes some of its blinds from a metallised fabric that deflects UV rays.

Detailing
Broader slats, gentle pleats, oversized panels and exposed battens will all add interest to your blinds.

Take it outside
The right exterior window treatments will protect your home on many fronts. They can significantly reduce the UV light penetrating your house and lower the temperature in summer. They also offer privacy and security and protect your furniture from fading and sun damage.

Technology has improved the operation of external window applications. The most exciting benefit is automation. Electronic sensors can trigger the lowering of blinds or extend awnings when the sun or the temperature reaches a certain point, and retract them if the wind gets too strong. Somfy automation systems, for example, allow homeowners to pre-program their blinds to sit at a favourite level and will control external window treatments from inside with the push of a button.