In a previous article, we discussed various window treatments for your kitchen. In that article, you can learn about café curtains, window film, wood window screens, and combining different window treatments for a layered look. In this article, we would like to expand on that topic and offer some more choices for your kitchen design look. Ease of use, cleaning needs, functional needs, and budget will all be factors in which window treatments are best for your situation. What are some other choices?
Austrian Shades/Curtains
The Austrian window covering can be a light sheer fabric or a slightly heavier fabric. The window covering has a distinctive look when raised. Instead of a panel opening or sliding across, the fabric lifts up and creates beautiful fluffy poufs along a vertical shirring. These are raised by pulling on cords that connect across the fabric and create a scalloped look. These coverings can be used alone or combined with coverings over top to create a dramatic or romantic look for your room.
Shoji Panels
Shoji panels slide from side to side and are comprised of translucent paper and normally mounted on a wood frame. These panels can be seen in the window track as well as seen as a separate unit on the floor. They offer privacy while allowing light to enter the room. It is important to determine if the size and shape of the window can accommodate these window coverings or if custom made coverings are needed. When considering these coverings, you need to take into account traffic patterns of the room, if they will be near any cooking surface, or within a spatter field. Instead of having the slide be translucent paper, you could opt for acrylic plate instead. This will make the surface waterproof and washable.
Wood Woven Shades
Another option is a wood woven shade. These can be made of various material such as bamboo, reeds, grasses, or wood. These window treatments add to the texture of the room and give it a natural look. Since these are made of natural material, you want to take care when washing to use a damp cloth instead of more water. If it gets too wet, the water can cause the material to warp. Additionally, other cleaning items, such as a duster, might get snagged on any edges that are raised. Some materials can be vacuumed lightly as well. It is best to use the recommended cleaning method for the material you choose.
You have many options when it comes to window treatments. Reviewing your needs, budget, and décor style will help you choose the right ones for you.
