Window treatments today have a simple and sleeker feel than those of the opulent past. People are seeking straightforward design and the less bulky styles are the way to go. If you use a trim, keep it light and don't over-do it. People are looking for a style that is more minimal, easy to care for, and won't overwhelm the room. Function is most important, which means using either a functional drape, shutter or shade for light control while preserving your views. Simple side panels or a tailored valance can be used with those hard window coverings to add personality and character to an otherwise bland window and accentuate a certain color or design element in your space.
If you have a house full of shutters, you may find that they are indeed easy to care for, but lack the overall finishing touch of a well-dressed home. While I never recommend combining a soft window covering that prevents you from opening a shutter, like a valance with side returns or a stiff cornice box, you can enhance shutters with clean lined drapes on the sides. I prefer to use a style that incorporates an interesting peg bracket for the supports at the top, thus introducing fabric and stylish hardware in one easy swoop. This works well for a variety of hard window coverings, and you do not have to put the drape panels on every window. Use valances on windows that have shades that lift horizontally. Think about focusing on your central window(s) and let the small windows stand alone, especially if you just want a hint of fabric in your room.
Of course, the choice of fabric is extremely critical to the design. Solid or stripes? Floral prints or textural neutrals? What type of lining is best for my material? Natural textiles are very popular, and many are made from eco-friendly fibers. Silks, faux-silks and velvets are typically thought of as very formal materials, but when they are made up as straight side drape panels with an iron rod and rings, they can be just as casual and informal as cotton blends, suitable for any room while adding a lot of dimension. Likewise, you may see loose woven scrims and woven wood shades used in a more formal living room setting, and see that they fit right in. It is often the surroundings which set the tone of construction of the window treatment itself, so don't hesitate if you find a great material and think it won't work because of it's traditional uses.
No drape is complete without great hardware. There are many great selections available in wood and iron, and the finish choices are vast. I liken the hardware to “the jewelry” of a window treatment. It is usually the last design element to select, and the finial or peg brackets can complement a pattern in the fabric or the room itself.
While it doesn't need to be complicated, even a simple window treatment can complete a room and bring out the “Wow” factor. A good designer will guide you to find the right combination.
