Okay, where does one start  when choosing window treatments?  Start with function. 1.) Beautification and comfort. Who doesn't want to live in a beautiful, comfortable (albeit sometimes chaotic) environent?  2.) Light control.  No one wants a glare on the big screen TV during the game.  Within the past few months a number of clients have complained that their semi-opague shades don't keep out enough light when their children are napping,  3.) Privacy.  Nothing more to say about this.  4.) Sound absorption.  Got kids and pets?  Even if you don't, an echo in a room that doesn't have any fabric in it to absorb the sound can be uncomfortable. Protection of furniture and rugs.  Huge.  If you've made an investment in furnishings you want them to look new for some time.  Insullation: Some window treatments are excellent at keeping the cold out and the heat in. 

 

Hunter Douglas Duette Architella Honeycomb shades have a honeycomb within a honeycomb.  They are known for their superior energy efficiency, so much so that the Federal Government is offering up to a $500 tax credit on the purchase of these this year.  Screen shades are excellent at controlling light and heat while allowing one to look outside.

 

This is the place to start before we get to the fun part, choosing treatments and fabrics.

 

Adrienne Micci-Smith is the owner of Curtain Call, Inc., a custom window treatment company serving New Haven and Fairfield County, Connecticut. For appointments, call (203) 924-0909.