Effective Window Remodeling

Despite work and daily activities, we'll spend the majority of our lifetimes in one place: our home. As the backdrop for growth and development, the home serves as pedestals where we grow up, hone our personalities and eventually bring up the next generation, our children.

Structurally speaking, windows are one of the most important parts of our homes, yet one of the most taken for granted in terms of design. Aside from providing light and air throughout the entire house, our windows are also considered major structures in terms of size and serve as breaks and accents that give life to our otherwise plain walls. Hence, it shouldn't be surprising to know that our windows affect our homes' designs significantly, and if treated correctly, can dramatically change and improve our living space.

There are a number of ways to beautify existing windows. One of the most common methods is to use curtains, in combination with the right furniture and accents, to bring out the best from them. However, it is important to know that this is not always done correctly. Some of the usual mistakes by those attempting to improve their homes using this method include overdoing their windows with too much stuff such as knick knacks; not using the proper colors to match the rest of the house; and hanging heavy curtains and drapes that can stifle rather than freshen breathing space.

In order to properly accentuate your windows, there are three basics to be followed to achieve maximum effect. It all starts with knowing what you want. Do you wish for the windows to open up the room and make it seem bigger, or do you want it to make the room a warmer and more cozy? Having a definite goal and concrete design makes everything easier for you, as it becomes the basis for planning out the accompanying décor.

Next, choose your color. Obviously, if you're going for the more spacious effect, opt for light and semi-neutral colors such as light blue, cream and beige. However, you should take into consideration other colors inside the room to ensure they do not clash. Obviously it is a huge gaffe to use blue for your window panels, when the rest of the room is draped in warm tones. Using a color wheel is ideal for this part. The wheel provides a guide in which colors can be combined. One good tip when combining colors: go for what looks good and allows you to achieve your goal. For drapes, whether you're going for the cooler or warmer effect, it is ideal to use lighter shades and materials. This allows for the room to breathe and air to circulate, and does not block natural light coming into the room.

Rugs, curtains and drapes also play important parts in terms of appeal. For drapes and curtains, it is advisable that one chooses light fabrics and plain to minimal patterns (if there are any). This allows the focus to remain on the entirety of the design and not solely on the fabric. It also allows for more air and sun to get inside the room. When choosing rugs, choose colors and patterns that do not go against the floor but still compliments the colors on the window.

Structure makes up the final rule. If you're planning to put a table with items right in front of the window, remember to keep the items on the table's surface to a minimum. Overcrowding the space can make the area look chaotic. Putting a vase that has live a live plant on the table is also advisable. If done properly, the act will add life and a sense of coolness and class to the room.