May 29, 2011. Paul Hixon
When it comes to home decorating, you may have noticed, either at other’s homes or in magazines that window valances seem to have made a place for themselves and are more and more common. But the question remains, why have them?
1. They’re beautiful.
Take a look at a window that has valances and see that little extra ‘something’ that they tend to bring. Usually used in conjunction with sheer curtains, blinds, or side curtains, they make a room just look better. Often using valances for windows also serves to cover up the curtain rods. In higher windows, they contribute to making the décor look more ‘full’ and less bare the higher the eyes go up.
2. They help keep warmth in.
In general, curtains can be used to keep warmth in the room, and even having that little extra something at the top of the window has been shown to decrease the amount of heat lost in a room.
3. They keep the sun out.
In a very sunny room, it won’t take long for it to get quite warm during hot months, so valances can help offer more shade to a room.
There’s so much variety when it comes to choosing a valance for windows, so there’s no lack of ideas when it comes to colors, textures, and designs. The most common designs are Balloon Valances which have a rich, full look to them, Swag Valances which often have tails hanging down the sides giving them a whole different feel, Ascot Valances which have the triangular shape and look elegant in velvet with tassels, and Italian Valances which have that old-Roman sheer look which makes them uniquely beautiful. There are plenty of forms that these can take, depending on the decor of the room you’re decorating, the fabrics you use, and the size and look of your windows.
There are websites that will teach you how to make your own, add pleats or other designs, and give good options for different windows.
Regardless of which window valances you chose, it’s worth giving it some thought, they’re not only beautiful, but practical as well, and a relatively easy and cost effective way to add to your room decor.
Updated May 29, 2011. Published January 19, 2011. Paul Hixon
