Raise your hand if you’ve ever Googled “how to choose window treatments” only to end up going down a virtual rabbit hole of ideas, pictures, random tips and a mishmash of inspiration that only leaves you feeling more overwhelmed than ever.

I promise you this post is NOT one of those.

In fact, I’m going to actually start by sharing what savvy design lovers – and professionals – know NOT to Google (or focus on) first, when planning and selecting their perfect window treatments:

1. What are some window treatment ideas?
2. What window treatments are in style?
3. How can I cover my windows cheaply?

Now, don’t get me wrong… these are all great questions to ask!

But they’re definitely NOT where you start perfect window treatment selection for your home. Ever.

So, what SHOULD you focus on then?

SO glad you asked!

How to Choose Window Treatments: The 3 Tips Pros Know and Now You Do Too!

1. It’s not the treatment, it’s the windows that count first.

To get gorgeous results, you’ve GOT to start with identifying the exact TYPE of window you’re treating, along with all of the window and door types in the room, even if you’re not treating them all at once.

THEN, very importantly, you HAVE to identify the kinds of windows and doors you have in adjoining spaces that CAN be seen from the room you’re working on.

Windows and doors are a collected thought in your home.

The eye grabs them all as it skims your architecture.

You may not be TREATING all your windows and doors at once due to cost.

But you do need to consider the window treatment shapes and types that do and do not work on the different types of windows and doors you have in your space.

The design truism: Not all treatment types can be used on all window and door types, and not all treatment types look good together in the same space. Period.

2. It’s not the treatment, it’s the room design that counts more.

Blinds. Shades. Shutters. Panels. Valances. Cornices. That’s pretty much the list.

So, if it’s such a short list, why is it so damn confusing?

To begin with, each of those categories contain a rabbit hole of options, exceptions and details. (The subject for 12 more blog posts!)

But the larger issue for now is that your room’s design style, ALONG with your window type, dictates the type of treatment and treatment combinations that can AND cannot work for you.

Who cares if X is in style if its not optimal for your window and door types AND the design style in your space?

The design truism: Not all treatment types work with all design styles.

3. It’s not the budget, it’s what you do with every dollar you DO spend.

Window treatment costs are universally intimidating, especially when you think about the fact that the average home has 16 windows to be treated!

It’s so normal to feel overwhelmed!

To help, take a breath and think strategically.

Devise a long-term plan and then break it down into pieced phases.

If you ultimately want a layered treatment, start with JUST the lower cost layer to get the window functional and covered.

OR

Start with just the more costly layer to get the style going, BUT be sure you leave room for the mounting or installation of that “other layer” when the time comes.

The design truism: Design strategy and long-range planning beats guesswork and design panic every time.

You’ve got this girlfriend…just remember to be wise!

Ready to dive deeper into window treatments? Check out my free online workshop to Conquer Window Treatment Confusion once and for all.