Window Treatments - A New Installation

I've shown many of my illustrations of window treatments to you all on this blog but I haven't posted many pictures of my designs. There are a couple of reasons for this. 1. I am a terrible photographer and all of my pictures come out dark, overexposed, or blurry. 2. I am a terrible stager and there is always something out of place in the photo. 3. I am so busy working that I forget to take good pictures until it's too late. Any of these sound familiar?

These photos are of a house that I am just finishing up. The draperies went in last week and they are still being tweaked. They are typical of many of my designs using layered construction and integrating unusual elements.


This treatment has an upholstered cornice base that has been embellished with a large ornate scroll made of resin and painted to match the interior of the room. This is part of a three piece wall decor arrangement by Uttermost. The matching piece is used on the other window and the center section is hung on the wall in the theater. I always try to impress on designers that they can look beyond the obvious for materials and hardware to make their designs stand out.


The raised side panels are hung over the top of the cornice at each side of the scroll work. I like to create interesting shapes in my designs that add architectural weight to the room as well as movement and variety. The key to elaborate designs like these is to create a harmonious balance that enhances the style of the room without becoming overbearing.




These treatments are in the great room and again are a typical example of my work. In this design scrolls and medallions are added to create an interesting shape to the bottom of the cornice. A large tassel hangs at the center to bring the eye into the middle of the window. Small medallions are mounted at the base of each pleat to balance the weight of the intricate scrolls below. A shirred border is placed at the top to emphasize the shape and to create a focal point at the top of the treatment.

On the other side of the great room this bay window is dressed with a more casual treatment that blends nicely with the formal cornices. This design repeats the same fabrics and elements; layered treatments, arched lines, and tassels at the center. By adding a decorative rod and rings the design is brought down a notch and it appears to be more relaxed.


Attention to detail when designing and specifying window treatments is the key to success. Small tassels wrapped around each pleat, a finished return, contrasting welting and trim - they all add up to a beautiful finished product.


Don't be afraid to try something new or unusual. Sticking to the basics can be a safe bet but sooooooo boring! Live a little!