As a designer, I’m often asked by clients if drapery is in style. Many of them remember the dramatic panels, valances and hardware popular several decades ago and have trouble envisioning drapery for the contemporary home.
But if you pick up a home décor magazine or spend any time on Pinterest, you’ll discover that there is a drapery style to fit every design aesthetic, from traditional to modern. Which is why this type of window covering has experienced such a strong resurgence over the past several years.
Many clients begin their drapery search in the store, but realize very quickly there are very few fabrics to choose from. And if you’re windows are hard to fit, finding a ready-made product is nearly impossible. Choosing a custom solution means you have access to infinitely more fabric options, such as Ikat, chevron and other popular prints.
Although some clients are still drawn to very traditional styles – I recently had a client choose iridescent Austrian shades for her entire home – most have started to favor stationary panels that flank each side of the window, softening the edges and adding visual interest.
Drapery hardware has also come a long way, with rods, fasteners and accents now available in a range of finishes, including wood, silver, brass, gold, bronze (oil rub or venetian), and copper. Combining materials and finishes, such as crystal with wood or bronze with brass has also become very popular.
Top-treatment preferences have shifted to streamlined styles, with rings and grommets as the clear favorites. Clients that do choose pleating prefer simple styles, like the inverted pleat. Drapery rod diameters have also changed, with more homeowners embracing thinner rods over traditional chunky styles.
Custom window treatments can be an investment. Many clients are surprised that drapery costs can vary so drastically depending on the fabric selection. For example, custom drapery panels with hardware for a standard 48” x 60” window range in price from $550 and $1500. However, when properly cleaned and cared for, custom drapery can last for decades. And when you compare a ready-made panel to one fabricated by master tailors, there really is no comparison in quality.
Looking to up the wow factor of your décor? Decorview has a large network of drapery-certified designers ready to help you choose the perfect fabric and style for your windows. Sign-up for a free in-home design consultation today!
Cover photo credits (L to R): Q. Design – Drapery & Design Resource Centre, Rikki Snyder, 3north
