Kitchen Window Valances

Kitchen Window Treatments by · Leave a Comment 

There are a multitude of styles to decorate your kitchen windows in, but some options are better than others. Floor length curtains, for example, would be a bad kitchen window treatment choice. They would be at risk of being light aflame in a kitchen accident, or a little one’s sticky fingers being run through them on the way to the dishwasher. Kitchen window valances are the perfect option.

The idea of kitchen window valances is pretty straightforward. It is a short curtain that only hangs a handful of inches from the curtain rod. Most of the common types are between about fourteen inches and sixty-three inches in length, but this is largely dependent on the size of the window. If you have a very short window, then fourteen inches would be more than sufficient. But if the window is large, then a longer kitchen window valances would probably look better.

Another choice you have with kitchen window treatments is the style of the curtain itself. The most common curtain type for the very short valances is a straight across, ruffled effect. These are very basic and the color is the most interesting part about them. But they do have a very simple, but decorative effect on the overall look of a kitchen. The medium length valances are probably the most decorative of the kitchen window treatments. One of the nicest designs is what is called the ‘M’ valance design. This is pretty much exactly what it sounds like. The hem of the valance makes an M shape and gives the kitchen a very elegant look. Some others have a rippled hem, or a hem that frames the window. All are perfectly suited for use in a kitchen window treatment.

The color of the valances is something that will offer almost limitless choices. As a general rule, if you have a complex or very bold color scheme then it might be best to stick with a single color. For example, if you have a complicated pattern to your wallpaper, matching that pattern with the valances may make the kitchen look too busy. Taking just one color from the pattern and using that for the valances will give the room a much more classy and put together look. However, if the kitchen has a theme or needs some color then a pattern could be exactly what you need. Look around at a few different shops to find something that works for you. Just be sure the fabric is something durable, it’s still the kitchen after all and food accident will happen sometimes.

Dressing Up Your Kitchen Window Treatment

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When you are redecorating to change the look of your kitchen or to create a more dramatic décor, the kitchen window curtains are a great place to start.  There is a vast selection of kitchen window treatments, giving you literally thousands of choices.  However the problem with so many choices is that it can be difficult to determine which one is right.  There are a few things to keep in mind that will make your choice easier.

First, take the size of your kitchen into account.  Size definitely is important when you are changing your kitchen window coverings.  If the kitchen is very small, you don’t want to overwhelm the rest of the décor.  So in these cases, stay away from very bold or eye catching patterns.  Instead you should consider lighter colors or a small print.  You should also be very light handed with accents for a small kitchen.  For example, a very heavy drape may look great on the window but ultimately it will emphasize just how small the kitchen is.  Keep the size of your kitchen in mind when choosing new curtains and you will find the right choice.

Also, consider the size of the windows.  If you have a large window then the kitchen window treatments you want will take up more room than for a small window.  Larger windows usually look better with a valance to hang the curtains from and shade a little of the space at the top of the window.  Ruffled curtains that have a puffier look will also accent the window very nicely.

One of the defining decisions you will need to make is whether privacy or light is most important to you.  Yes, it is possible to have both, but some styles are much more suited to one over the other.  So, if your kitchen faces the street or a busy area then privacy will likely be where your kitchen window treatment renovations take you.  For more privacy you should consider sheer curtains or blinds.

Roman blinds will work well to give you a lot of privacy.  Half panel curtains are probably the most popular choice for this as they will cover part of the window but still let in some light.  This style will also keep your kitchen window curtains at a low cost.  Also keep in mind that even if you want to let in a lot of light, there will be certain times that you want to block out the light.  No one wants glaring light in their eyes while they are making dinner.  So try a layered look with sheer curtains for the light and heavier drapes that can be tied back until they’re needed.