Top window dressing trends for 2016

If you’re looking for a new style or simply want to update the look of your home’s interiors, the window dressing is one of the easiest and most cost effective ways to refresh a space.

Popular at the moment, the modern look is all about minimalism. A chic, stylish design is at your fingertips with the help of a few key techniques and just a little know-how.

Keep it simple

Less is more when it comes to interior design and window dressing for 2016 with clean, simple lines being used to enhance the potential of any space. Contemporary window dressing trends are based on this goal – and shutters are the perfect choice to create a chic, timeless effect. Shutters offer an uncomplicated linear pattern while blocking light, and they can easily be layered with sheer curtains for a softer look.

Use patterns wisely

The general trend regarding patterns in terms of furniture and fittings is to prioritise comfort and practicality. This means opting for texture and tone in a room to increase the warmth of a space, rather than cluttering things up with too many complex patterns or additions. When it comes to window dressings however geometric patterns are definitely still the go-to design.

Trellis designs, bold and bright colours, and large scale florals are also worth considering depending on the particular window you are dressing. Bright shapes such as triangles will draw attention to the view outside a window but be sure to choose colours that will match visible foliage all year around.

Blend your colours

For a contemporary feel to any room ensure your window treatments match the walls of your room. The current trend in tones has moved in the direction of jewel colours such as burgundy, bottle green and teal, which have the effect of creating a cool, natural feel to a space. Maintaining a crisp, neat look by blending colour tones rather than contrasting them is important. Layering is also a good strategy here – it’s possible to use a wide range of blinds under drapes to achieve a layered look, but do remember it’s usually best to keep the palette consistent for both treatments. This will allow the view beyond the window to actually become an integrated feature of the room.

Thinking about the purpose of the space is also key when choosing colour tones – if it’s a room for children to play in the brighter and bolder the colours the better, whereas if the window you are dressing will be used as a study it would be better to go with more neutral, calm tones.

Make use of long, soft pleats

The current trend for pleats is to keep them long and soft to offer a more contemporary, less structured feeling to a room. Pinch pleated drapes are best if you’re looking to design an elegant, sophisticated space as they easily retain their shape and hang very well making them suitable in terms of practicality. For an exceptionally modern, sharp look consider using inverted box pleats.

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Creating simple lines and flat look

One of the most popular and versatile window treatments on the market today are shades that use honeycomb-shaped cells in the design. Cellular shades create a simple motif and muted light perfect when layered with other treatments and make a statement in any living space, as well as providing high levels of insulation. They are also available in cordless models, which are much safer for children.

If you’re wondering how to make the most of your living space, try these window dressing and treatment ideas to transform the look of your room. Finding the style that best suits the space you are dressing is key, so do your research before making any big decisions and remember if in doubt, just keep it simple and neutral.

For more window dressing inspo take a look at the six hottest window convering trends this spring and five reasons to install external blinds.