Contemporary Kitchen Window Treatments

Contemporary kitchen window treatments offer a solution of balancing a kitchen's hard edges with a soft approach.

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From: Divine Kitchens With Candice Olson

By: Lauren West

Contemporary kitchen window treatments offer a solution of balancing a kitchen's hard edges with a soft approach. Whatever window coverings you choose, they should enhance your kitchen's style, color and design.

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Contemporary is a dynamic, changing term. The basic definition of contemporary is "of the moment." Contemporary styles allow for more freedom and trends. Considering there are endless possibilities for contemporary window treatments, the shape and style of window along with a budget will help you determine the scope of the project.

Anything near a stove or sink can absorb odors and soak up spatter. The material for kitchen window coverings can make the difference in how easy it is to maintain your new window treatments. For example, you can launder fabric draperies and other performance materials. You can also wipe down synthetic blinds, shutters, and solar shades with soapy water. But wood blinds and shutters have to be cleaned and conditioned with wood cleaner, which can be more tedious.

Contemporary kitchens are clean, effortless and minimalistic. Window treatments made from a variety of materials in a range of colors and styles create versatility among contemporary window treatment ideas. The contemporary style celebrates bold, bright and unexpected uses of color and materials. If your kitchen is particularly small, then light, cool colors can make it look larger and brighter; dark, warm colors can make an oversized kitchen feel more balanced and inviting. Geometric patterns or asymmetrical styles can create a stunning visual impact. Solid colors that complement or contrast the other colors in your kitchen will draw your eye to the window; beige or cream color palettes absolutely shine with a striking contrast of royal blue or purple accents.

If privacy is a concern, have you thought to perform a quick check before starting your project? Turn on the lights in the kitchen one evening and venture outside to see what others can view through your windows. For privacy, look for screening materials that let you see out but allow some daylight to pass while blocking views from the outside. Roman shades and roller shades made from translucent or woven materials have a contemporary feeling, or you might try sheer fabric curtain panels. Frosted vinyl is also a simple, affordable solution that's a good design fix for windows that require both privacy and light.

Consider adding a valance or cornice to update an existing window treatment. Sheer drapes are especially effective for larger windows or French doors. Select drapes with limited pleating to avoid creating an overwhelming treatment of folds, colors and patterns. Opt for drapery panels that can be secured to simple curtain rods, free of ornate embellishments, which allow large loops of fabrics that are not ruched or pleated like traditional curtains.

For the most personalized effect, choose resources that express your lifestyle: materials, texture, colors and design.

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