Rethinking the Look of Things No. 3 - Window Treatments

The Metropolitan Museum of Art's newest exhibit: Rooms With a View: The Open Window Into The 19th Century started me rethinking the look of things at the window.

I think it is time to rethink how we frame our windows. The simple stationary panel on a decorative rod has become overdone. Trust me, I still believe this treatment can be a stunning way of finishing a window with a beautiful fabric. This treatment just shouldn't be the "resort to" window treatment, especially in almost every room of the house. The "design" of a window treatment needs to be reintroduced into the planning of our home.

The need for privacy is a necessary element of our window design, however, the budget shouldn't be blown on the privacy factor. Do we chose an outfit because of its buttons or zippers? I think not, the feel good of that outfit is how it drapes and frames our silhouette. So should the window treatments we chose for our home.

So don't be talked into the "Bentley" of privacy shades, there are wonderful quality products that provide function and privacy without breaking the window treatment budget. The window treatment budget should include the complete window treatment. We all know putting off finishing the window means it probably will never be finished. Like a suit hanging in our closet with the tag still on because we can't afford the tailoring.

I look at these famous paintings and can't help but think they wouldn't be the same with a three-inch sheer shade and no fabric treatment.

The exhibit at the Met runs from April 5 - July 4, 2011.

Image Sources: Salvador Dali, Adolph Menzel, Georg Friedrich Kersting, Martinus Rorbye, Wilhelm Bendz, Thomas Worthington Whittredge