Have you ever wondered what classification curtains fall under as an interior design installation, and what other similar options you have? Knowing the language is important when working with interior designers so you can clearly communicate your vision.
Curtains are considered to be a "soft window treatment". Other soft window treatment options include drapes and shades.
Do you still have questions about what other treatment options you may have for your windows? Keep reading, and by the time you're done, you'll be an expert on window treatments!
What Is Considered A Window Treatment?
A window treatment helps accentuate the aesthetics and appearance of a room by adding a unique flair to the window. Curtains are actually a fantastic example of a window treatment.
Any addition to your home on or around your window qualifies as a window treatment. For example, if you hang curtains, you are probably also going to be installing a curtain rod. A curtain rod would be a part of that window treatment.
If curtains aren't really your thing, you could use drapes, blinds, shades, or even trim around the window to help frame it. This is a design decision that is completely up to you. Stained glass windows? Frosted windowpanes? The limits of your window treatment are your imagination.
Read more: 21 Stained Glass Front Door Ideas
Keep in mind that window treatments don't have to be limited to the interior of your home. They include the changes on your windows outside the house as well. Shutters are a great example of an exterior window treatment. Other exterior examples include window boxes for flowers or architectural additions that frame the window itself, like latticing or trim.
Examples
Sometimes it helps to see examples to better understand different design elements. We've included several different types of window treatments to show you some of your many options!
Read more: 30 Different Ways To Hang Curtains [Picture Inspiration]
1. Tri-Color
This window treatment includes the two sets of drapes in the front and the set of sheer curtains in the back.
Read more: What Are Sheer Curtains? (With 11 Examples)
2. Subtle Taste
The curtains attached to the board above the window, as well the two plants placed on the windowsill qualify as window treatments.
3. Trim
The white trim wood, grey trim, and additional red roof-like installation above the window are external window treatments because they enhance the windows themselves.
4. Uncomplicated
Window treatments don't have to be elaborate! This home has a simple window box with flowers and some grey shutters for contrast against the white house.
5. Colored Frames
Using a different color on the frames of the window is a great way to make them more appealing. The classic shades help control the light, while the lights directly above the window can be used when the shades are drawn.
6. Just For Looks
Don't feel like you can't include things that aren't completely functional. That's what window treatments are all about! These curtains may not be effective at blocking out light, but they certainly add aesthetic value to the room.
7. Carefully Draped
The two different shades of drapes, one patterned and the other plain, are quite unique and sure to draw attention.
8. Your Grandmother's Curtains
There's nothing wrong with going old-school when it comes to your decor! Window treatments are all about making an impression, so do it your way.
9. Indoor Shutters
Shutters don't have to be limited to the outside of your home. If it's a look you enjoy, try using them on your windows inside the house.
10. Awning
Awnings of many different kinds are great ways to bring attention to your windows. These slatted awnings and the fixtures used to secure them are a great example.
Do You Have To Leave Curtains When Selling A House?
When selling your house, you may be wondering what you are supposed to leave behind and what you are allowed to take with you. Since you don't want to get into any conflicts with the person purchasing your house, it's important to be clear on this. It's also good to know what you can expect to be included in the home when you are the one purchasing!
Generally speaking, if it's nailed in, screwed in, bolted down, or could be considered a fixture, you are supposed to leave it. For example, while it may be easy to slide your curtains off the curtain rod, the curtain rod itself is probably considered a fixture. Blinds, shades, shutters or anything that has been customized to fit the window are generally also considered fixtures.
But what if you want to take your curtain rods with you or aren't sure if you are supposed to leave them behind? If you aren't sure, it's always better to be safe now than sorry later. Have the real estate agent you are working with make sure it's communicated to the purchasing party that you want to take them with you. You may have to declare it on the sale to make sure it's written down so you don't get in trouble later.
There is also nothing wrong with communicating directly with the person buying the home. There's a chance that they have their own curtains and would get rid of yours anyway. So if you want them, make sure that it's made clear that the purchase of the home does not include the curtains. Or simply ask the buyer if you can take them.
A quick note: even if you have talked to the buyer and they've agreed you can take the curtains, you should still speak to your real estate agent to make sure that it's written into the purchase. You don't want to get in trouble later because there was no proof of your verbal agreement.
