100 Windows - #54

Did you know that some window treatments can be mounted directly to the window frame?

These valances are made in three pieces; two swags and a center banner valance, all stapled to the outside edge of the window frame. This was in another model home, so that is probably why they chose to mount it that way - less holes in the wall, less hardware - but it is hard to make the sides look finished if you are doing it yourself.
The three holdbacks at the top of each arch are purely decorative.
Love the contrast banding! Love the tassel!

100 Windows - #53

So much to love here!!

This is a little difficult to see but when I start to dissect it, you will get it.
From the outside of the house this room is part of a multisided turret.  Inside, the large tub is set into the turret with windows that are almost two stories high. I believe at the very top of the windows are flat cornice boards with the long double cascades coming out from underneath.  Note the beaded trim. So pretty for catching the light, just like the crystals on the chandelier.  The pleated shades cover the bottom windows to provide the necessary privacy.  The flat upholstered panels marry the top and bottom sets of windows and provide a lovely focal point. What a great idea to cover an otherwise unsightly and boring expanse of white wall, and to make the whole space cozier.
I also love the tile on the tub steps and the way the whole space was styled with plants and candles. If I got in that tub, I would never want to get out!

100 Windows - #52

I love what happens to a checked fabric when you shape it into a swag.

And when the asymmetric becomes symmetrical.

100 Windows - #51

I love this bathroom I saw in a model home.
The window treatment is just perfect in it's simplicity.
I also think having a TV in the bathroom is a great idea, though some may disagree.

100 Windows - #50

#50 ??!!  We are halfway through! This calls for a celebration so today I will share with you one of my all time favorite projects. It's hard to believe I did this 8 years ago.
Initially, I loved how the graphic black and white print played on the gold walls.  If memory serves me correctly, the wall color is Benjamin Moore's Dorset Gold.

I was also fascinated by the playful mix of floral, check and stripe. Not everyone can take that much pattern but using just black and white is a good way to ease into it.

The striped Roman shade can be lowered to block the evening sunlight when doing the dinner dishes.

On the same wall as the sink is a window seat which is so much fun to have in a kitchen! We duplicated the window treatment and used the black and white on the sides of the seat cushion but used a colorful print on top.

We played around with adding even MORE color and pattern with some throw pillows.  Do you like it better with or without?  You can catch a glimpse of the adjoining family room on the right side of the photo.

The family room had just one window, actually a door, so we treated it to a long drape in the same combination of floral and check.

Button detail on the drapery tieback.

More button details but this time I used the check, and placed the button at the bottom of each pinch pleat.  Details make the difference!!

100 Windows - #49

Before the walls were painted. Before the room was accessorized. Before the final choice for bedding was made, we decided on this valance.

Well actually, we decided on three!

Repetition is so much nicer than just one!

100 Windows - #48

Let's say you have some very expensive fabric you want to use for a window treatment, but your budget won't allow you to buy too much of it. Or you have some fabric on hand, but not a very large quantity.  Here is a solution for you:

This is a great design for creating an interesting curtain.  It is basically a sheer curtain with an attached valance at the top, made with a heavier fabric.  The top part could be (and in my opinion, should be) lined. There is a row of trim inserted between the top fabric and the sheer fabric.
Here's a closer look:

Note the roped curtain rod!

This treatment is sure to show up again in this 100 Windows series. I saw it when I was a judge for the Tidewater Builders Association Homearama in 2010, but I had seen it once or twice before in previous years of judging.  That is one smart designer for reusing such a nice treatment!