2014 Perfect Window Treatments Styles Ideas

Pick the right treatments for your windows. Get to know the available options  valances, shades, panels and more  and how to best use each treatment with these easy tips

Valances 

 A valance is a little bit of fabric that does a big job. It hangs across the top of a window, adding softness, color, and pattern to a hard architectural element. Purely decorative, a valance helps establish a room's style. At its most basic, a slip of fabric can be attached to a rod with clip rings. For more detail, add pinch pleats.

Simple Valances 

The simple valance is a casual treatment that works well for family areas such as the kitchen, breakfast room, and bathroom. In rooms where privacy isn't an issue, the valance can hang alone. When privacy is a concern, the valance easily pairs with a hard treatment, such as a blind, shade, or shutters.

Box-Pleated Valances 

Those who appreciate a classic decorating style will fall in love with the box-pleated valance. This tailored treatment is a natural in rooms where you want a formal air, such as a living room, dining room, or master bedroom. The stationary treatment's crisp stitched pleats lie flat against a mounting board, which is typically attached to the wall with simple L-shape brackets.

The box-pleated design is easily duplicated on furnishings such as table coverings, slipcovers, or bed skirts to unify a room. Here, fabric-covered buttons accent the corner pleats on the table topper to mimic the valance.

Simple Swags 

Sometimes a simply knotted scarf worn around the neck is the perfect accent for an outfit. A simple swag on a window dresses up a room the same way. A loosely slung fabric strip, unlined or lined, draped over a decorative rod or wound over a tieback at each top corner of a window frame can add an abundance of style. The middle of the fabric strip acts as a valance; the ends, whether cut into opposing diagonals or simply hemmed, softly hang down the sides of the window.

Swags can be made of luxurious fabrics to fit formal decor or dressed down in cottons befitting a cottage or country home. The beauty of this style is its simplicity, so it's most appropriate used alone on windows where privacy is not an issue.

Balloon Shades 

For the ultimate romantic gesture, nothing beats a billowy balloon shade. This sumptuous fabric shade features cascading scallops that culminate in graceful, blousy folds along the bottom. Cords strung though rings on the back make the shade movable, and as the treatment is raised, the vertical gathers create dramatic poufs. Because this treatment usually remains raised, it acts as a valance more often than a shade. The amount of fabric used--at least twice the width of the window--creates the opulent look. Large designs can get lost in the multiple gathers, so opt for solid-color or small-pattern fabrics. Be aware, too, that the number of gathers, pleats, or scallops creates different looks within the balloon-shade and valance family. An Austrian shade, for example, has less shirring and is therefore more tailored than its cousin, the balloon shade. Because this window treatment is so showy, use it in small doses.

Tie-Up Shade 

Simplicity is the name of the game with tie-up shades. Sometimes called a stagecoach-style shade, this economical treatment uses fabric in its most unconstructured form: It hangs flat from a rod or mounting board, then the bottom edge is hand-rolled or folded to the desired position. Fabric ties, ribbons, or cords hold the rolls or folds in place. Adjusting the shade requires untying and rerolling it by hand, making this treatment more decorative than functional. Consider using it where you're likely to leave the shade down to hide an unsightly view or open in a room where privacy or sunlight aren't issues.

Roman Shades 

For the look of luxury without yards of flowing fabric, a Roman shade is a wise choice. When closed, the shade is a flat fabric panel. When raised, cascades of deep, horizontal folds are responsible for the tidy look. Cords strung through rings on the back of the fabric give the shade its mobility. Some Roman shades are made without dowels or lining, resulting in looser, puffier folds.

Roman Shade Tips 

A Roman shade can be mounted inside or outside a window frame. Though the shade is often used alone, it can be the practical layer combined with side panels or a valance. Appropriate almost anywhere, a Roman shade's level of formality is defined by fabric and trim choices. You could use plain muslin in a sunroom or toile in a master bedroom. Just be sure to choose fabric that can form handsome folds.

Cornices 

Think of a cornice as a wood valance, it is typically made from plywood, assembled with wood screws and corner brackets, then painted or covered with wallpaper or fabric and mounted to the wall above a window. Like a valance, a cornice can appear alone or team with another treatment. Because it is usually made of wood, a cornice benefits from being paired with a soft treatment, such as a curtain or fabric shade, to temper its hard lines. These structural lines are especially effective in rooms that lack interesting architecture. They can camouflage a window's wimpy trim or bring interest to a room that doesn't have crown moldings.

Rod-Pocket Panels 

Of the many ways to attach a drapery panel to a rod, few match the ease of the rod pocket. In this treatment, the curtain rod simply slips through a channel sewn into the panel's top edge. The tighter the fit, the more dramatic the shirring. For a ruffled header, sew a pocket a few inches down from the top edge; when the rod is pushed through, the fabric above it fans out to form a ruffle.

Rod Pocket Panels 

Rod-pocket panels are commonly made of lightweight fabrics and left unlined for a casual look. But don't overlook this style for more formal decor. For a sumptuous style statement, consider plush velvet panels shirred tightly on a substantial rod. Because panels don't slide easily on a rod, especially when tightly gathered, they're typically used in the closed position or held open with decorative tiebacks.

Panels with Rings 

Prickly metal hooks used to be standard fare for hanging draperies. Stuck into the back of a panel, the hardware was out of sight and out of mind. No more. Wood or metal rings that slide along a pole allow you to put hardware in a starring role, complementing virtually any style of drapery. Besides being fashionable, panels with rings are easy to open and close and offer an alternative to anyone who dislikes the cord-and-pulley system of traverse rods.

Tips for Using Panels with Rings 

Think of rings, rods, brackets, and finials as a drapery's jewelry. Hardware with unusual shapes, eye catching colors, or high contrast will draw the eye up, focusing attention on the top of the panels, window, and ceiling. Large rings can be hand-tacked along a panel's top edge; small clip on rings are fine for suspending lightweight fabrics. Some rings open and can slip through buttonholes or grommets at the top of the panel.

Pleated Panels 

In the world of window treatments, pleated drapery panels are the classics. They withstand the whims of window fashion, adding elegance and sophistication to any room. There are several styles of pleats, all of which are sewn into a panel's top edge to create a decorative header. Pleats are often formed with the help of header tape, which is available by the yard at fabrics stores. Sewn to the panel's back, the tape forms pleats when pulled. Hooks are then inserted into the tape and hung on rings, or more typically traverse rods, which have a cord-and-pulley system for opening and closing the panels.

Pleat Styles 

The most common pleat, the pinch pleat is a series of equally spaced single, double, or triple pleats that are pinched in the center, forming fans above and below the pinch.

A goblet pleat is similar to a triple-pinch pleat, except the pleating above the pinch is exaggerated with a stiffening card or paper to form a wineglass silhouette.

Pencil pleats are narrow single pleats formed in neat, tight folds.

Cartridge pleats are also single pleats, but they are spaced more widely and the tops rounded.

Tab-Top Panels 

The unpretentious look of tab-top panels makes them a natural for country and cottage decorating. There are many variations, but standard tabs are simply loops of fabric sewn into or onto the valance's top seam. The panel hangs relatively flat from these tabs, providing a good opportunity to showcase interesting fabric prints. 

Because the curtain rod is visible between the tabs, you can add decorative rods and finials for more impact. To maintain the fuss free feel this style evokes, use cotton or linen fabrics in simple checks, stripes, plaids, or florals. These are usually stationary panels, because drawing them across the rod can be cumbersome.

2014 Perfect Kitchen Pantry Design Ideas : Easy to Do

Say goodbye to kitchen confusion. Gather tools for cooking, cleaning , and more, in one streamlined spot. Put the closet door to good use by mounting shallow wire shelves .
Clip takeout menus on the closet sidewall. Dangle hand tools from a series of metal hooks. Store soda cans in wire racks. A plastic wall holder centralizes battery storage .
Slip a wire basket under a shelf to squeeze in extra space for a stack of cleaning towels . Stuff extra plastic bags into a handy dispenser.
A wall mount file sorter can house ribbons and bags for quick gift wrapping. Position a rechargeable hand vacuum near the door for quick cleanups. Add wheels to the bottom of a wood crate to create a rolling cleaning cart. Place frequently used cleaning supplies in a grab and go tote. With a little planning, all your kitchen essentials can co-exist in one small pantry. A kitchen pantry should work for you rather than as a dumping ground for your stock.

Here are the storage essentials you need to keep your kitchen pantry organized. These tools and organizers will bring order to your cooking gear, food, cookbooks, and more. You'll love these ideas to try in 2014!
I hope you find these ideas useful and inspiring to you ... Enjoy it !!!!

2014 Tips for Choosing Perfect Bedroom Color Schemes

Whether you crave a palette of bright colors or prefer a soothing scheme of neutrals for your bedroom, find inspiration from these bedrooms that showcase colors perfectly.

Peppy Color Scheme : Coral Orange + Aqua Blue + Latte White 

Neutral walls and furniture in shades of similar warm white create a cloudlike backdrop for vibrant coral-orange and aqua blue. Abstract floral print shams on the bed provide the inspiration for the color scheme and the rest of the room's elements follow suit. To start your bedroom color scheme, find a pillow or bedspread with colors you love and build from there. Often, bedding comes in coordinated sets, but don't be afraid to break them up. Mix and match, or leave parts of the set out. For example, nix the bed skirt that matches the pillows and opt for a version in a solid color that blends with the rest of the bedding.

Fashion-Forward Color Scheme : Slate + Lemon + Cloud 

The oh so fashionable color palette of gray and yellow makes a bold statement in this petite bedroom. A rich slate on the walls leans heavily towards the blue end of the gray spectrum and is the star of the scheme. Cloud-color bedding continues the gray parade, and yellow on the pillows, ottomans, and accessories brings a partly sunny vibe to the chic grays.

Snowy White Color Scheme : Pearl White + Cream + Black

Evoking the look of freshly fallen snow, this cottage style bedroom combines pearly whites with softer yellow-based whites for a look that is undeniably soothing and graceful. A mirrored nightstand and oval mirror above the bed break up the blanket of white, as do hints of black.

Modern Color Scheme : Bright Sky Blue + Cool White + Warm Oak

Blue is a quintessential classic, but its enduring legacy works in modern settings as well. To achieve the look, sky blue is used with crisp white as well as clean-lined furniture and accessories in this bedroom. The wall color, a shade lighter than the bedding and drapes, maintains the modern monochromatic color scheme, but pulls back the walls slightly to allow the other elements, such as the architectural bed in warm oak, to shine.

Classic Global Color Scheme : Poppy Red + Mink Gray

Gray gets pulled into the excitement of red, creating a traditional bedroom alive with global-inspired motifs. Red bedding and pillows turn a simple sleigh bed into a focal point and mink gray walls temper the rich red and crisp white palette. Block and ikat prints bring global flair to the space. The curtains dial back on red and rely on a palette of brown, black, and orange, a move that acknowledges the red's presence, but seeks to not overuse the crimson hue in the space.

Serene Green Color Scheme : Seafoam Green + Tidal Blue + Surf White

A beach inspired color scheme strays from being too "theme-y" when there is nary a beach motif in sight. In this bedroom, seafoam green and watery blues evoke a seaside look, while traditional elements, such as the upholstered window cornice, an antique chair, and graceful headboard maintain a level of sophistication.

Elegant Neutral Color Scheme : Antique Whites + Crisp White

Forget the notion that your whites have to match. A mixed bag of neutrals can create a visually interesting space with a few simple tricks. Keep your palette of whites within the same family, so that they all share similar undertones. In this bedroom, warm whites in varying intensities color the walls, trim, and bedding. Texture and repetition also bring the palette to life. Using each color more than once makes the mixing look more intentional. Here, light mocha appears on the trim, stool cushions, and shams, while linen white colors the artwork and drapes.

Fresh Cottage Color Scheme : Linen White + Sunny Yellow + Dove Gray

White is a go to choice for bedrooms because of its soothing, simple properties. Plus, it can be interpreted as modern, traditional, cottage, or vintage. In this cheery space, the neutral goes cottage, with splashes of yellow on the bedding and plenty of style-specific accents, such as the wrought iron bed and eclectic gathering of accessories. Hints of gray keep the color palette fashion-forward.

Dramatic Color Scheme : Navy Blue + Snow White + Lipstick Pink

Dark colors equate with drama in a bedroom setting. For a more steady approach to drama, use a dark color in one large dose and let the rest of the room's elements remain bright. In this sophisticated bedroom, rich navy blue colors the walls and is a backdrop for the burlap white headboard, bench, and nightstand. Snow white bedding with lipstick pink trim and white drapes are also eye catching against the deep blue.

Pink Panache Color Scheme : Blush Pink + Candlelight Yellow + Charcoal Black

Pale pink grass cloth sets this room aglow and softens the angles of the vaulted ceiling. Mixing white bedding with pink sheets and shams ensures the color remains sensuous, not saccharine. Candlelight yellow tones in the artwork and a large area rug offer contrasting color, but also contribute to the glow of the room. Black brings structure to the bedroom via a curvaceous bed frame, table lamps, and the frame on the painting.

Oceanside Color Scheme : Watercolor Blue + Sandy White

Simple, but hardly simplistic, a color palette of two is a welcoming break from a color-saturated world. In this light-filled room, the judicious use of white reflects the incoming natural light, making the blue walls appear almost iridescent. A more saturated palette on the painting above the bed serves as a contrast point and a reminder of just how light and delicate the rest of the room is.

Black & White Color Scheme : Ebony + Powder White + Pale Citron

Black and white are anything but basic when played out in a symphony of pretty patterns and textures. White drapes soften expansive walls and high ceilings. The fabric is thin, which makes the drapes floaty, rather than bulky. In a room that gets a lot of natural light or has high ceilings, an element with a bold visual presence will anchor the room. Here, a black upholstered bed grounds the space and a white geometric pattern unites the piece to the rest of the room. When incorporating color with black and white, go with a barely there color to keep the room's emphasis on graphic elements. The muted citron walls in this room are subtle, but still add interest.

Natural Color Scheme : Sage Green + Bark Brown + Swan White

Colors and motifs from nature introduce charm to this quaint bedroom. The flowering branch fabric used on the window shade and bed skirt inspire the room's palette. A coordinating stripe fabric on the sham continues the green and brown color play and an ikat pillow offers an unexpected twist in motif. The pure white duvet, trim, and lampshade offer a clean counterpoint to the bedroom's muted colors. To avoid color overload, match paint swatches to a pattern, but then use the color at the top of the swatch for your walls. Here, the wall color has similar undertones to the browns in the room's fabrics, but is several shades lighter.

Perfectly Aged Color Scheme : Country French Blue + Antique Whites

Capture the charm and grace of a bygone era with a palette of blue and tan in shades that appear antiqued. Keep the blues reigned in and employ a limited range of shades to maintain a sense of elegance. Here, the wall color matches the blue in the bedding and table skirt perfectly. Take a little more liberty with the whites. Using pure shades alongside shades in varying degrees of antiquing gives the room a collected old-time look. Bright white linens and freshly painted white trim indicate that the room has been maintained and freshened, while the patina on the chair and aged white plates nod to the past.

Cozy Cool Color Scheme : Granite Gray + Down White + Grass Green

Envelope an expansive room in a blanket of coziness with a rich, yet warm wall color. Here, a saturated gray with warm yellow undertones is the color of choice. An abundance of white contributes a modern vibe, while hints of zingy green on the headboard and chevron throw pillow inject life into the demure color scheme.

Monochromatic Color Scheme : Taupe + Cream + Squash

Monochromatic color schemes are poised for success when the hues stop just short of the extremes. In this bedroom, a range of taupes colors everything including the bedding, furniture, and wall color, but the palette excludes the deepest, darkest of taupes. Sticking to the light and medium range taupes focuses the color scheme for a more polished look. Squash yellow makes a cameo on throw pillows and the tan trim unites the blocks of yellow to the rest of the room's palette.

Contemporary Grace Color Scheme : Dove Gray + Tulip Pink 

Hints of pink bring a graceful air to a contemporary space. Gray and white patterns from the striped rug to the damask drapes and plaid wallpaper are subtle, yet add visual texture, while bright tulip pink punctuates the space. When introducing a bright accent color, use it at least three times in the room so it flows seamlessly.

Perfect Ways to Use Exclusive Plum, Sherwin-Williams ' Color of 2014

Described as spiritual, mystical, romantic, and dramatic, Exclusive Plum is Sherwin-Williams 2014 Color of the Year! Unlike the newly declared Pantone color of the year, Radiant Orchid, Exclusive Plum is a color that a majority of us will look at and seriously consider its applicable use in our homes. Jackie Jordan, Sherwin-Williams’ director of color marketing, describes the color beautifully: “This dusky, filtered violet is refined without being stuffy, elegant yet easy, and layered with romantic potential.”

While the previous example was decidedly modern, this space shows how a similar dusty purple can work in a room that is more traditional or transitional. The hue is superelegant paired with rich tobacco browns.

If you like purple-gray but are wary of using a large dose of it, consider employing it as a small accent color. Just keep in mind that if this is the only strong hue in the room, the eye will be drawn to whatever is clad in it. Make sure you are calling attention to something you want to stand out.

To keep the hue from feeling too heavy and somber, try pairing it with plenty of warm whites or creams. A wood floor also adds warmth and contrast.

This example shows how Exclusive Plum can work as a neutral base. It pairs well with shocking greens, bold oranges, bright reds and, yes, even Radiant Orchid. Just use the vibrant hues sparingly and mix in some light neutrals  shades of white, gray or tan  to keep the space feeling light and open.

I think this color works best in bedrooms. It’s a rather heavy hue, which is good for a room in which you want to relax and rest.

Here’s another nice example of how to work with Exclusive Plum or a similar purple-gray. It’s striking in this room against the warm gray and taupe as well as the bits of greenish gold.

Rugs are another way to bring fun new colors into a room. This beauty would look fantastic in a bedroom or living room.

If you like Exclusive Plum, but perhaps not on your bedroom walls, look for bedding in it. Cool purples are thought to reduce stress, so they are perfect for bedroom textiles.

Here’s another nice set of cool grayish-purple bed linens. This hue works well as a base color to which you can add accents of almost any other color. I can visualize splashes of blue, gold, chartreuse, pink or red added here.