Torgie’s Point of View

     The year 2012 is here bringing with it new and innovative ideas for home interior design. According to some home designers, window treatments are one of the easiest ways to update or create a new home environment. This is because window treatments can change the mood and restyle a room instantly depending on the type and color of window treatment chosen. What are some popular color and window treatment ideas for 2012?

     A team of designers from all over the world meet each year to research and predict what will be the most popular colors for the new year. The CMG (Color Marketing Group), chose the color Boyz n Berry a deep rich purple with hints of red as the color of the year. Vicki Payne from For Your Home states, “Creams and whites add to purple create a sense of fresh openness and grey paired with purple and cream completes understated elegance.” Installing Hunter Douglas’s Heritage Hardwood Shutters in the color Linen in a room painted in a shade of purple or grey provides a dynamic color combo.

     Window treatments that focus on organic and natural fabrics again dominate the home fashion industry and are a popular choice for 2012. Graber’s Tradewinds Natural Shades bring intriguing texture and natural warmth to any room. Cellular and bamboo shades in rich textured fabrics add an eco-friendly atmosphere to the home.

     Neutrals are always a great choice. The neutral color greige, beige and grey continues to be a popular color used in interior design for 2012. A shade of greige on the walls combined with Levelor’s Room Darkening Shades in Sterling, a light and airy shade of blue adds visual interest to the room. These shades are made of a sheer fabric that lets just the right amount of soft light into the room and when closed they block out light  protecting furnishings and adding to energy savings.

     A new year is here and now is the time to create or update your home using the latest in window treatments.  To help you select just the right color, design, and style combination for 2012 , call a professional window treatment company here in Wilmington, NC for a Free-IN-Home consultation.

Torgies   (KP)

     Window treatments are an important part of the design scheme in a room. They catch the eye immediately and are often a feature people comment on. Window treatments can be enhanced by adding details that highlight the design of the window treatment. Like a picture frame that enhances the beauty and color of a painting, cornices and valances can enhance the window treatment below.

     A cornice and a valance are similar in the effect they will achieve, but are somewhat different in structure. A cornice by one definition is “a decorative horizontal band of metal or wood used to conceal curtain fixtures.” A valance is defined as ” a short ornamental piece of drapery placed across the top of a window.” Both the cornice and valance were popular window treatments in the Victorian Age. Many grand homes of that era were decorated with plaster or wooden cornices which were ornately carved and gilded or a beautiful embroidered woven tapestry casually draped over an ornate rod creating a valance that brought warmth and beauty to the room.

     Today there are many situations in which draperies, curtains, and shades look better with a valance or cornice. There are endless color, design, and pattern, combinations to consider when deciding on a valance or cornice for your window treatment. The valance or the cornice can also be used on their own without draperies or used with a shade to give definition to the window. The book entitled, Curtains by Caroline Clifton-Mogg makes this statement. “a valance or cornice is a defining and anchoring device that can give added importance to a window. The cornice or valance should not only be beautiful in themselves but should enhance the beauty of the window treatment in the room.”

     For practical and fashionable suggestions on how to use a valance or cornice to add the finishing touch to your windows and window treatments, contact a professional window treatment company here in Wilmington, NC for a Free-In-Home consultation.

Torgie     (KP)

Wilmington, NC

     The answer to this question depends on several factors. First, it is important to know the difference between ready and custom made window treatments. It is also important to consider the type and size of the windows in your Wilmington, NC home. Other factors to consider are the style and design of window treatments you have in mind and how much you want to spend.

     Ready-made window treatments are those that are made in mass quanities and come in only specific and at times limited sizes, colors, and features. Generally, these type of window treatments can be cut down to fit the size window you need, or make them work with the window size you have. When choosing ready-made soft window treatments look for the quality of thread, material and lineing used. If choosing ready-made shutters look for the thickness of the panels, how the panels are joined together and the quality of the finish. There are many well-made and affordable ready-made window treatments available. One window treatment product that offers both of these elements is Kathy Ireland by Alta. Kathy Ireland by Alta offers a full line of window treatment options from drapes, shades, sheers, faux wood blinds, and much more.

     Custom window treatments are as the name suggests, professionally designed window treatments made specifically to fit your window and style. Custom-made window treatments provide a unique, often a one-of-a-kind design that expresses your individual fashion. Many companies provide custom-made window covering solutions. Spring Window Fashions features Graber wood blinds offering a wide assortment of stains, paints, and Custom Color for a one-of-a-kind creation. Custom-made window treatments can be more costly, but are well worth the investment, adding beauty, individuality, and value to the home.

     Whichever window treatment you choose, ready-made or custom-made, contact a professional window treatment company here in Wilmington, NC for a Free-in-Home consultaion. They will help you find the best window treatment solution for your home.

Torgies (KP)

Wilmington, NC

     Why is it important to know what window treatments are right for your home here in Wilmington, NC? This is because there are thousands of window treatment styles, colors, materials, and design options to choose from. These many choices can be confusing and at times overwhelming. So, how do you decide which window treatment  is right for your needs? The first item to consider is, your budget. How much do you want to spend. This can be determined by the amount and size of the windows you want to cover and whether you are thinking about standard or custom window coverings. With any decision it is important to consider the quality of material and quality of production which can add to the overall cost. For example, some experts say that to purchase quality standard treatments for a new home, you can expect to spend 2 1/2 to 4 1/2 % of your home value. Keep in mind, better quality window treatments initially cost more but usually last longer and look better which makes them a good investment.

     The second item to consider, what direction the windows face. This is important to consider in order to make the best use of the energy efficiency of the window treatment you chose. Windows with eastern exposure get morning sun, windows with western exposure get afternoon sun and windows that face the south get sun all day. For example: Hunter Douglas “Alustra Duette” honeycomb shades can be a good choice because they are designed with energy efficiency for any window, no matter what direction it faces.

     It is important to consider window treatments as an investment and not just an expense. They are essential to the overall design and look of the home. Be informed and do research before you buy. Contact a professional window treatment company here in Wilmington,NC for a Free-In-Home consultation.

Torgies (KP)

Wilmington,NC

     In these difficult economic times, many are interested in spending money wisely. One way this can be accomplished is by using comparison-shopping. It is important to think not only about the price of an item, the quality of an item, but also what works best for your budget and lifestyle. This is certainly true when purchasing window treatments for your Wilmington, NC home.

     For example, the first decision when shopping for blinds is to decide between real wood or faux wood. The obvious difference between these blinds is the materials they are made of. Real wood blinds are made of real hardwood, such as basswood, cherry, and maple. Faux wood (which means imitation), are made out of vinyl, vinyl compounds, and a combination of wood and vinyl. Here are a few comparisons for both types of blinds.

Real Wood Blinds

*Solid wood construction, adds value to your home

*Available in a variety of stains and colors (custom design)

*Durable, made in a variety of size and slat options

*Provide good insulation from heat and cold, saving money (Slats closed)

Faux Wood Blinds

*Cost effective, between 15% to 30% less

*Heat, Fade, and Moisture resistant

*Easy to clean and maintain

*Similar in style as wood, different in material

     Many window treatment companies offer both types of blinds in various style, color, and cost combinations. Hunter Douglas offers their “Everwood” faux blinds, a blend of North American hardwood and composite material in white and natural tones. “Country Woods,” real wood blinds by Hunter Douglas are described as “a classic architectural approach to window design.” Levelor’s line of faux wood blinds; “NuWood” are heat, scratch and  moisture resistant, perfect for high traffic areas. The “Premium Real Wood “blind by Levelor is available in three different slat sizes, made of hand selected wood, custom stains as well as a large variety of standard color options.

     Shoud I choose real wood or faux wood blinds? The variety and availability of these blinds give the consumer more comparison choices. To help you become informed and answer that question, contact a professional window treatment company here in Wilmington, NC for a Free-In-Home consultation.

Torgies   (KP)

Wilmington, NC

     Hurricane season is from June to November. Hurricanes, tropical storms, and extreme weather inflict much damage to private and public property each year. North Carolina and three other southern states lead the nation in number of billion dollar weather related disasters. As a result, people here in Wilmington, NC have concern for the welfare of their homes and families. Doug Hoell, Director of Emergency Management states,”We do not know when the next big storm will come, but we do know it will come. Are you Ready? Be Safe and Be Prepared.”

     Protecting our homes and families by installing hurricane or storm shutters is one very important way to be prepared. These type of shutters are available in several different styles and designs. Colonial hurricane shutters are a Southern standard for many homes. These are two pieced louvered shutters that attach to the wall beside each window folding together to protect the window. Colonial hurricane shutters are easy to use, decorative, adding curb appeal to your home. Roll-Up and Roll-down custom built hurricane shutters are some of the most expensive and of  high quality. They attach above the window and can be lowered manually by a hand crank or automatically by push button. Another added feature, they roll-up and store in an enclosed box when not in use.

     Atlantic Premium Shutter Company offers several storm shutter designs. Bahama Storm System is a design based on shutters from the Caribbean. A one-piece louvered shutter attaches directly above the window and is held open to provide shade. They are easy to use and storm ready when lowered and secured with a camel-back locking system. They are described by Atlantic Shutters as having, “elegant, light appeal to deliver exteriors with a dramatic flair.” The Classic Collection hurricane shutter by Atlantic is available in Raised Panel, Faux Louver, Board and Batten designs. Strong aluminum storm bars are used to secure the shutters closed during severe weather. Each shutter is available in some 40 different colors and also custom colors.

     Storm ready shutters are economical, decorative and provide year round protection. Hurricanes strike North Carolina on the average every three years. “It only takes one,” is the 2009 message from the NOAA. Hurricanes are a part of life, get prepared. Contact a professional window treatment company here in Wilmington,NC for a free in home consultation to get your family and home hurricane prepared.

Torgies    (KP)

Wilmington, NC

     When we think of items that go together well, what comes to your mind? If you are a ” foodie” it might be steak and potatoes or shrimp and grits. Entertainment buffs might choose superheroes like Batman and Robin or celebrities like Will and Kate. We feel that one with out the other is incomplete. Home fashion can have the same appeal; we want to choose items that compliment each other. When it comes to selecting window treatments for your Wilmington, NC  home some may wonder can you mix and match different window treatments for a fashionable look? What are some dynamic duo window treatment options?

     A fashionable move every time is using patterned curtains with a solid color shade. The more pronounced the drapery pattern the simpler the shade should be. For example, use a crisp white roman shade with white and green checked drapes. Another great duo is combining woven bamboo shades with sheer floral drapes, adding a layer of texture and character to any room. For a bolder and jazzy statement, pair that bamboo shade with raw silk or velvet curtains. A Levolor roman shade in Classic Mocha with cream-colored sheer drapery panels is a winning combination for a simple yet dramatic effect. Try a custom designed drape using Lafayette Hot Topic Fabrics in eco friendly material. These fabrics are available in 100% Cotton and 100% Repreve Recycled Polyester in colors and patterns such as eco brown, sage, blue and red. Custom drapes made from any of these fabrics combined with sheer drapes or shades provide privacy, softness, and make for a dynamic duo.

     A bonus for items that go well together is they make for a unique one of a kind combination. With the endless combinations of color, product, and style, it is important to select a professional window treatment company here in Wilmington, NC. They offer a free in home consultation to help design your own dynamic duo window covering combination.

Torgie     (KP)

Wilmington, NC

     An interesting quote by Ben Stein says, “The first step to getting the things you want out of life is this: Decide what you want.” This statement agrees with the thought of interior designer Melissa Gilbert in speaking about choosing a modern window treatment for the modern home. She points out that “homeowners need to deliberate the purpose of  window treatments before deciding on a style, privacy, light control, acoustical benefits, and installation, these are all the issues that should be accounted for.” She also mentions, “The key is simple, tailored, and functional.”

     Woven wood window treatments are considered a good choice for the modern home. They are made of environmentally responsible fabrics and available in a variety of styles. Woven wood blinds are made of natural materials such as bamboo, reeds, and exotic grasses. Hunter Douglas offers “Provenance” woven wood blinds with a standard cord lock system, available in 77 different material and color combinations. These blinds can be upgraded with an optional liner that protects your home and helps reduce energy expenses in your home.

     Many modern homes today are designed with larger windows and large “great rooms” for comfortable family living. One sleek modern alternative to vertical blinds for these larger windows and patio doors are sliding panel tracks. Panel tracks can also be used as a room divider that adds fun and function to your home. Levolor has the latest in fabrics and textures for sliding panel tracks, such as Soho textured fabrics in Vanilla, Java, and Mocha. These panel tracks  from Levolor can also be designed using a sheer material in Lemon Drop, Golden Rod, and Fatigue, for a subtle and dramatic effect.

     Draperies in fabrics such as linen and cotton duck with colorful geometric designs are a modern trend in window fashion for the enviromentally conscious. Tailored Pleat, Grommet, and Goblet drades are styles that are affordable and popular for the modern home making a sleek, simple , and bold statement.

To help you decide which modern window treatment is right for your home, contact a window treatment company here in Wilmington, NC for a free in home consultation.

Torgies    (KP)

Wilmington, NC

     Designers around the world have long admired textures for the way they add design, depth, and character, to a home. There are virtually endless combinations of fabric, texture, and color to choose from when thinking about home fashion. Window treatments are no exception. With the variety of shades, blinds, drapes, and shutters to choose from, any decor can be yours. A somewhat recent addition to window treatments is the availability and affordability of faux iron inserts for shutters and specialty windows such as arches, transoms, and sidelights. Any room of the house is dressed up with the added texture and design of Tableaux Faux Wrought Iron.

     Tableaux Faux Wrought Iron products are constructed out of 100% post industrial recycled wood fiber with formaldehyde free resin, making this product affordable and Eco-Friendly. Faux iron is lightweight, about 10% the weight of conventional wrought iron and therefore has unlimited design options. It can be formed into any shape, square, rectangle, circular, or custom designed, with ornate, geometric, or floral patterns. There are two finishes to choose from, faux and organic which is based on a natural chemical process. Some traditional color options are, Antique, Gold, and Bronze Brass. Other colors to choose from include Amazon Emerald, Shanghai Sunrise, and Pacific Pearl, to list just a few. For decorative purposes it comes double-sided when both sides of the design are visible such as in a front door entry way or single-sided when only one side is visible such as used for high transom or arch windows.

     Faux iron inserts add interest and dimension to the home. They complete the look for any style shutter, changing them from simple to elegant. The addition of a valance or cornice with the faux iron insert, creates beauty and variety. For a more personalised effect, it is possible to incorporate logos, monograms, or crests, into custom designed faux iron inserts.

     Faux iron inserts are not just limited to window treatments. They can be used in a variety of ways, on doors, ceilings, skylights, both inside and outside the home. To get a complete look at what can be done with faux iron inserts contact a window treatment company here in Wilmington, NC for a free in home consultation.

Torgies     (KP)

Wilmington, NC

     Nearly all of us are concerned about the rising cost of living. Gas prices are going to an all time high and getting higher. Looking for ways to save money is on the minds of many living here in Wilmington, NC. In big and small ways saving money is a priority.

     Some are saving money and energy by using window coverings. This is important because windows are responsible for up to 50% of heat loss during winter. Draperies have been used in homes to help prevent this loss. However, there are a few things to keep in mind when using this type of window covering.

     Conventional drapes reduce heat loss generally by only 10%, letting most of the energy escape because of gaps between the window and the drape. One way to be energy-smart is to convert your existing drapes by making sure they fit tightly against the outside perimiter of the window which will prevent air circulation through the cold glass and heat loss is less. Also, make sure the drapes hang all the way to the floor. Making these adjustments to your drapes can cut heat loss up to 25%, keeping the home warm and cozy.

     Another energy-smart choice is to use thermal or insulated drapes. Thermal drapes are especially effective in rooms with large windows or in rooms that need to stay warmer such as the bedroom or the nursery. Thermal lined drapes are regular curtains with a foam backing made of a cotton polyester blend. The thermal backing makes them heavier so be sure to hang them with durable hardware. These insulated drapes help keep inside temperature more consistent and comfortable so that the thermostat can be lowered which means lower energy bills. Kathy Ireland Home by Alta offers a wide choice of thermal lined and insulated drapes in many styles, color, and sizes.

     Yes, draperies do keep the cold out, especially when using thermal lined or insulated drapes. These drapes are affordable and are known to last 10 to 15 years longer than unlined drapes. Thermal drapes also offer privacy and help with sound reduction. These window treatments can certainly add beauty, balance, and life to any room. To get acquainted with all the varieties available contact a window treatment professional here in Wilmington, NC for a free consultation.

Torgie    (KP)

Wilmington, NC