Point of View

June 13, 2023

Words by Lisa Waterman Gray

Today’s window treatments offer beauty, versatility, ease—and automation.

oday’s window treatments have become an important design element in homes. Treatments are client-specific and often multifunctional and layered, using different fabrics and textures that provide visual interest and sound absorption. Steve Roellchen, owner of One Stop Decorating, says that his clients appreciate different opacities and patterns—but especially automated options. As home automation becomes increasingly common in new construction, whole-house communication wiring now often accommodates motorized window coverings. In existing homes, rechargeable options include Wi-Fi bridges or apps with “smart” functionality. Motorized window treatments operate with a remote or wired-in switch, while automated treatments connect to smart home software. At One Stop Decorating, nearly 60 percent of projects feature smartphone and smart system automation. Other local companies are getting the same request for this most functional add-on. J Geiger window shades integrate with most automated or motorized systems and Weave Gotcha Covered can motorize any window treatment—including shutters. “Most of our clients have at least one motorized treatment, [especially] behind a freestanding tub, above the kitchen sink or on hard-to-reach windows,” says co-founder Kelly Wilson. Kelly suggests that home designers, clients, builders, automation teams and window-covering dealers communicate early in the build process. “Home builders are frequently surprised they need to plan window treatments at the beginning of their project,” she notes.

Clean, cordless designs—with no visible controls—have increased the popularity of motorized and automated window treatments. “It’s great for homes with small children and can help improve energy efficiency, too,” says Adam Skalman, vice president of sales at The Shade Store.

Another option to increase energy efficiency is solar shades, which can additionally combat damage to a home’s interior from summer sun and heat. They block UV rays, and lighter colors help reduce radiant heat.

“Solar shades are extremely practical for warmer climates and can help protect interior elements like flooring or artwork,” Adam says.

Whether motorized or energy-efficient—or neither—window coverings have many functions, including, simply, a beautiful way to frame a view.

Sales of Roman shades remain strong, especially in fabric or woven wood. Wood and composite plantation shutters remain popular with some clients, but Weave Gotcha Covered has removed more plantation shutters from homes in recent years versus installing new ones.

Roller shades are getting the most play.

“In new, modern houses, roller shades are the window treatment of choice,” Kelly says. “They are as popular as beautiful fabric treatments and can be layered with fabric or as standalone coverings.”

At The Shade Store, Adam has noticed a resurgence of traditional design aesthetics, and with it, an increased popularity of draperies.

Valerie Johnson, design and sales director with View Solutions Group, an authorized J Geiger Shading Showroom, says favorite picks are neutrals—black, white and gray—in natural linen and sometimes prints.

A transplant from Napa Valley herself, Valerie has observed softer, more relaxed vibes in window treatments after coming here, especially for new builds.

“Window coverings are meant to last 10 to 15 years,” she says. “My advice is to stay neutral, adding dimension and texture. Bring color and personality in with art, pillows and accessories.”

Valerie adds that she rarely does draperies that aren’t to the floor unless it’s a café curtain for a bathroom or a kitchen. “It gives a little softness and helps with sound,” she explains. “The dining room is the number one location, then the main bedroom and the living room.”

Kelly says homeowners should consider full draperies in open-concept, high-ceiling homes but cautions that custom draperies may require custom hardware for adequate support.

One Stop Decorating clients have gravitated to privacy treatments in white or neutral for eight to 10 years, but blues, greens and natural textures are trending, too, Steve says.

And then some homeowners just want to have fun with their design decisions.

“As pattern and color make a comeback, customers are leaning into colorful materials and fun patterns on the window,” Adam says.

His clients love classic stripes and lush velvets from Victoria Hagan, as well as color-rich options from Martyn Lawrence Bullard. Additionally, he says, “Our new Artisan Weaves collection features materials with all-natural fibers; they look beautiful alone or paired with drapery for a more elevated look.”

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