Modern Windows Treatment Ideas 2011

New Neutrals

Designer Lori Gilder says "charcoal and slate are the new neutrals and blend beautifully with the metallic trends." This darker neutral frames a window elegantly and adds a more sophisticated look to your room. Design by Genevieve Gorder.

Jewel Tones

Window treatments in jewel tones, which range from deep reds to subtle blues, are sophisticated and create the atmosphere of luxury in any space. Designer Jennifer Duneier says, "Jewel tones, like amethyst and turquoise, are popular mixed with soft metallics such as platinum or brushed nickel." Image Courtesy of Casa Fiora.

Stainless Steel

Not just a favorite for appliances anymore, stainless steel is making its way throughout the home. To incorporate this trend into your window treatments, designer Lori Gilder suggests threading stainless steel and other metallic curtain rods through simple eyelets at the top of panels to create a simple unadorned look. Design by Erinn Valencich.

Cheery Yellow

Brighten up a room with cheerful draperies. According to designer Lori Gilder, "Yellow epitomizes warmth and a sunny outlook toward the future.

Layer Shades

"Another trend is to layer shades," says Jennifer Duneier. "A blackout shade might be installed right next to the window with a sheer shade in front of it.

Metallics

"Metallic surfaces are back in vogue," says Lori Gilder. "Silver, bronze and gold metallic fabrics layered with sheers are making a grand appearance in living rooms and bedrooms. The simple layering of these metallics draped from a classic metal rod blends beautifully with the latest color trends.

Trim It Up

Personalize window treatments with decorative embellishments. Designer Jennifer Duneier uses trim to create custom-designed treatments. Tapes with shells or buttons attached to them are becoming more popular as well.

Natural Elements

Organic materials are bringing nature indoors. "It’s all about nature-inspired and eco-friendly materials and designs," says designer Lori Gilder. "It’s no longer a trend, but more of a philosophy in the evolution of design. Bamboo, matchstick blinds and natural woven shades layered with simple sheer linen panels create an elegant yet earthy sophistication in any space.

Let the Light In

One trend that's always in style is using window treatments that allow a lot of natural light into the space. Designer Jennifer Duneier suggests to "use simple panels of sheer fabrics to add warmth to the room but still let light through. Many fabric houses are making fabulous sheers in all colors, not just white or cream. They're also using great linen blends with more contemporary patterns. Design by Andreea Avram Rusu.