What The Best Windows Are Wearing This Coming Year

Photo courtesy of Hunter Douglas

Surprising News About The Trend in Choosing Window Treatments for 2014

"Back in the day" we had limited choices for dressing windows. Blinds, draperies, shades and curtains didn't offer what today's homeowners can choose for their windows.
 
Today, it's not only about the look or the design of the windows. Today we look at the function of the window before we even consider how it will look. With so much attention to the environment, to healthy lifestyles and to safety in the home, it's important to consider how the window treatments will affect our furnishings but most important - our families health and well-being.
 
Consider the following first before you select your window treatment style -
  • Do your present windows need better energy efficiency? Do your windows help to control the heat or should you add energy enhancing window treatments to keep more of the heat in during the winter and keep your rooms cooler in the summer?
  • Are there issues you need to solve in your home with allergies? You may want to look into the best selections, such as natural fibers, to reduce allergens or dust problems.
  • Have you had damage to floors or upholstery from the sun? Perhaps it's time to add UV film to your windows and to choose window treatments that Hunter Douglas says "enhance UV protection".
  • Has your family changed with the addition of a new baby or animals? Cordless window shades are the answer to your safety concerns at home.
So, to answer the question "What are the best window treatments for the coming year" ?   I would say the best window treatments are ones that are energy and safety efficient. Of course, safety and efficiency does not rule out beauty. There are many ways to get the best of both worlds to ensure your home is the safe haven of your dreams.
 
Stay tuned in this blog about window treatments will feature ideas to go with different styles (Casual, Modern and Traditional) and why they will look great for years to come.

Mary Alice Smith of M. A. Smith, Ltd. Interior Design serving New Jersey, Ocean and Monmouth County, the Jersey Shore and metropolitan New York areas.
To schedule an appointment call: 732 690-2030 or email me:
masmith@masmithinteriordesign.com

M. A. Smith, Ltd.
Interior Design
732 690-2030
masmith@masmithinteriordesign.com
Allied Member ASID
http://masmithinteriordesign.com
Blog: HouseZenGarden and Best Design Coach
Serving New Jersey and Metropolitan New York

 
 
 


Window Treatments - Is It Time For New Window Treatments In Your Home?

Photo courtesy of Hunter Douglas

If Your Window Treatments Are 7 Years Old - It's Time For A New Look

How do you know if it's time for a new look in your home? One of the first things I look at when I visit a home for a design consultation are the window treatments. After about seven years, window treatments may need refreshing. Perhaps the color of the fabric has faded, it's time for a color change in the home or there is a need for more or less privacy in a room.

When done right, window treatments are the finishing touch to a room, like jewelry is to your outfit. So, just like our wardrobes, window treatments need to be updated now and then. For instance, you may want room darkening shades in a new baby's room or maybe you've changed your furniture and want a cleaner, less cluttered decorating style.

Seven years ago window treatments had a different look than today's current style. While some people may still like the look of swags and trims, I find that the' less is more' approach is more up to date with the times. People want simplicity, ease of use and fabrics that are fade resistant, energy efficient, child safe and environmentally friendly.

Do you like your window treatments? Are they working for you or is it time to look into bringing your rooms up to date?

Check back for my next blog post on the questions to consider when looking for a new window treatment for your home.

Mary Alice Smith of M. A. Smith, Ltd. Interior Design serving New Jersey, Ocean and Monmouth County, the Jersey Shore and metropolitan New York areas.
To schedule an appointment call: 732 690-2030 or email me:
masmith@masmithinteriordesign.com

M. A. Smith, Ltd.
Interior Design
732 690-2030
masmith@masmithinteriordesign.com
Allied Member ASID
http://masmithinteriordesign.com
Blog: HouseZenGarden and Best Design Coach
Serving New Jersey and Metropolitan New York

 


How To Finish Decorating Your Home In Time For The Holidays

Photo courtesy of Williams Sonoma

You've discovered there are only days till your favorite holidays. But your days are already crammed with family activities, work and countless other items. What's a go-getter like you to do?

So many of my past, present and future clients are in the same predicament. We want so much to enjoy the holidays (for once!) and yet the clock is ticking, and the list keeps expanding.
 
While I can't whip out a magic wand and solve every problem on your list, there are some ways I help my clients manage their decorating to-do lists to keep them on track with home decorating challenges:
 
  • Make a list!
Take one room at a time and list every item that needs to be replaced, repaired or discarded. For instance, do you need a new sofa or will a new rug give you that new look you want so badly?
  • Prioritize your list
If you love Excel like I do, you can quickly move your decorating list around and even add price points, add a column for dimensions or add a list of people to call (like me) and their phone numbers.
  • Commit to a date to find and purchase the most important item on your list
Remember where there is commitment, there'll be progress!
 
Schedule a date with a friend, your significant other or an interior designer
so you can tackle your list before it's too late.
 
What's at the top of your list this week?

 
Mary Alice Smith of M. A. Smith, Ltd. - an interior designer serving New Jersey, Ocean and Monmouth County, the Jersey Shore and metropolitan New York areas.
To schedule an appointment call: 732 690-2030 or email me:
masmith@masmithinteriordesign.com

M. A. Smith, Ltd.
Interior Design
732 690-2030
masmith@masmithinteriordesign.com
Allied Member ASID
http://masmithinteriordesign.com
Blog: HouseZenGarden and Best Design Coach
Serving New Jersey and Metropolitan New York