As we have been covering in our three-part window treatment series, high-quality, well-designed window treatments can make all the difference when it comes to selling a home. Everyone knows that windows help to brighten a space, and let in fresh air. However, many miss out on the potential to utilize window treatments when enhancing interior design aesthetics and draw the eye towards a beautiful view—or distract from a view that is less than perfect.

Lucky for us, Freemodel’s Head of Design Lauren Sharp is an expert in all things window treatments. She sat down with us to explain the different types of windows and window treatments, and offer tips to agents and sellers. Our chat was so productive that we broke out the content into three posts, and last time we shared her advice to agents when it comes to sprucing up or discarding a window treatment before unveiling to buyers. Let’s dive back in and discuss Lauren’s advice for agents and sellers when it comes to selecting well-designed, timeless window treatments.

Lauren’s window treatment portfolio

What makes buyers feel like windows are already well-designed?

When it comes to the windows themselves, quality, consistency, and condition make all the difference. Buyers might notice if different windows were replaced at different times using varying materials. For example, Craftsman homes often have wood casings and wood accents, so if just one side of a Craftsman home has aluminum window replacements, it would throw off the design of the home and create a mismatched look. Also—something to add while we’re on the topic—fiberglass is a great imitator of wood and it is virtually maintenance-free.

Another example would be steel or wood windows complimenting a Spanish-style home. So if there was a vinyl window that was added along the way, it may throw off the overall design of the home and cause some mismatch. And lastly, many contemporary homes were built with single pane aluminum or steel windows, lacking energy efficiency. Contemporary homes can be great candidates for energy-efficient and maintenance-free vinyl window replacements. Historic homes in particular should have sensitive preservation of period detail, windows especially.

How about window treatments? What determines if they are already well-designed?

It really comes down to the quality and condition of the window treatment. For example, interior shutters are like fine furniture for your windows; they add character, privacy, and light control while lasting for generations.

Custom draperies are another example of sought-after window dressings. Drapery installed at the proper height and length really highlights and enlarges a window; it can make a small window look grand, and a grand window look anchored and dramatic. It's all about proportion when it comes to draperies. Materials also make a big difference. I recommend using materials that are neutral, and when going bold, try for bold and broadly appealing. Shades woven of natural materials or textural fabric can really add to the decor as well, softening a space. Quality wood blinds, roller shades, and cellular shades are great choices in terms of functionality.

Lauren’s window treatment portfolio

To make a good impression, what should sellers avoid?

I mentioned shutters a while ago. Sellers should be mindful that broken slats, chipped paint, or warping can really take away from the window treatment being considered well-designed. Elsewhere, damaged, dusty mini-blinds, cheap out-of-the-box shades, and ill-fitting off-the-shelf curtain panels can detract from the overall look of a window and are best to discard. Finally, be sure to remove any remaining hardware left behind from window treatments that are uninstalled. Impressing buyers is all about the details!

We have covered a wide array of tips and advice in this three-part window treatment series. From the functionality of window treatments to advice for agents when making recommendations to sellers to timeless design features, Lauren has walked us through many of the big questions when it comes to maximizing the beauty of windows in order to impress buyers. Lauren’s insight and expertise are much appreciated, and we hope this series will be a helpful tool for agents and home sellers who are looking for some professional advice when it comes to their windows!