Living Room Window Treatments

Updating living room window treatments might seem overwhelming, whether you’re refreshing your entire room or simply want a new look at the window. After all, you want a style that’s not only fashionable but also meets your specific needs for the space. To help you get started, check out this high-level overview of popular window treatments—and then visit your local window treatment expert for details on the styles that pique your interest.

Cellular Shades

If energy efficiency is a top priority, cellular shades are your go-to style, as they’re the most insulating interior shades available. Their unique honeycomb construction traps air in distinct pockets, for an extra layer of insulation at the window. Cellular shades are available in a variety of pleat sizes, colors and opacities, as well as specialty shapes for covering doors, arches, skylights and more. 

Sheer Shades

Light enhancement is the claim to fame for sheer shades, which elevate the look of a room, making any space more captivating. Sheer shades also provide UV protection, keeping living room furniture, flooring and artwork from fading. You’ll find sheer shades in luxurious, high-quality fabrics and an array of colors, making it easy to select an aesthetic that complements your space.

Roman Shades

For a soft, elegant look, Roman shades are a modern and clean-lined alternative to traditional full-length draperies. Plus, they’re excellent for adding visual interest if your living room has neutral palette. Roman shades also insulate well—and room-darkening fabrics block heat gain. And if you want flexible light control, look for styles that pair two shades on a single roller—such as a light filtering front shade and back opaque shade. Simply lower the front shade and then move the rear opaque shade to any level, depending on the amount of privacy and light control you desire. 

Woven Wood Shades

Crafted from natural materials, such as woods, reeds, grasses and bamboo, woven wood shades add texture to your living room while bringing a touch of the outdoors in. Because woven woods tend to filter light into a room, you might want to consider styles available with a liner—either attached or one that move independently from the shade.

Shutters

Like premium furniture for your living room, shutters offer the timeless beauty of rich hardwood. A bonus? They look just as gorgeous from the outside of your home as they do from the inside. Shutters are also a durable option for a living room—and they provide great sound absorption. In addition to real wood shutters, you’ll find vinyl styles that stand up to intense sunlight and moisture, which are ideal for hot and humid climates—as well as hybrid shutters that combine the look of genuine hardwood with the durability of composite materials. 

Drapery

A classic living room window treatment, drapery exudes sophistication. And with so many fabrics to choose from, you’ll find something to suit your style—whether you’re looking for an understated solid or a bold pattern that makes a statement. Drapery works well on its own or layered with shades, for added dimension and greater flexibility when it comes to light control.