Explore Inspiring Design Ideas and Expert Tips for a Truly Tailored Experience
Does the holiday season feel merry and bright yet? It’s time to get there. Step one is to dust off the family menorah or go out and buy that big green tree. Next, swap out the covers on your throw pillows, hang festive towels in all the bathrooms and light a few cinnamon-scented candles. Now, you’re getting closer, but there’s one last décor trick that will make a significant difference: get your window treatments holiday-ready.
This doesn’t necessarily mean changing your drapery completely (though the season might be a good excuse to do so). What I’m talking about is preparing your windows in a way that brings the holiday spirit alive in your home.
There are so many benefits of window treatments, but some are specifically eye-opening during the holidays. After all, your windows are the pass-through between your home and the outside world. Leverage them to highlight your home’s best features in a way that is infinitely tasteful and delightfully spirited.
Use your holiday window treatments to:
Window treatments are a major element in your home’s overall interior design. Because of their large presence, they help set the tone. If you haven’t yet outfitted your windows, the holidays are the best time. You can use drapery to make your home feel formal for sit-down family dinners or cozy for unwrapping presents by the fire.
Whatever mood you want to create, Everhem offers a wide selection of drapery and woven wood and Roman shades to help you accomplish the holiday home of your dreams.
Your home loses heat through windows and doors, which means the right drapery can, literally, help warm up the space. By providing a layer of insulation, window treatments are a smart addition to your home, especially during the cooler months.
Of course, they also lend a warm design aesthetic. Consider a set of tailored Roman shades covering the windows of your eat-in-kitchen. You instantly feel at ease knowing the shade provides privacy while your family gathers around. It’s like a thick blanket tucking you in nice and tight.
.jpg)
A bare window is like a white wall; it’s screaming for a little love. Without window treatments, you run the risk of your home looking bland and unfinished. By simply adding linen drapes, you instantly round out the design. And as any professional will tell you, a well-thought-out interior has the power to amaze.
This holiday season, make sure every room is dressed to impress. Everhem can help you choose the right window treatments based on your home’s design style and the effect you’re trying to create in each space. A living room window, for instance, will likely be bigger and more dramatic than a bedroom or kitchen window.
Are you ready to try your hand at holiday-izing your window treatments? Here are five ideas that will spark the spirit!
Okay, so this isn’t a holiday-specific décor tip. However, cleaning drapery before friends and family come over is just a smart move, in general. You’ll already be scrubbing the house until it’s spotless. You might as well take this opportunity to get your window treatments in order. Your curtains will not only appear crisper and more vibrant, but you’ll get rid of any embarrassing dust bunnies that have clung to the fabric.
Tying back your drapery serves two functions. For one, it lets natural light flood your home and gives you a peek outside at the fall leaves changing colors and white snow blanketing the ground. Showing off Mother Nature’s view is like adding a work of art to your walls.
Secondly, curtain tie-backs work as a decorative accessory in your space. That modest touch of metal, glass or ceramic hardware is an elegant décor choice. It shows that you pay attention to the finer details.
The best part is that you can find an array of options to fit your home’s personality – from butterfly motifs to more classic finials. I highly recommend choosing a tie back that fits your year-round design theme. From there, you can infuse the holiday spirit by using the knobs or rods to string pine cones, add a red bow or even hang your Christmas stockings.
Tying back your drapes or pulling up your shades also allows you to create your own picture-perfect wall art. With pleated fabric panels flanking either side of your windows, you get a soft, oversized frame that can be used to highlight your holiday decorations.
All you have to do is add a little greenery, a string of lights or a series of ornaments at varying heights. Take a page from home-styling expert Erin Francois of the Handmade Modern Home blog. She created her own Nordic-style Christmas window decorations with a very simple wreath she made herself with just a few craft-store buys. The DIY candle wreath doesn’t take up much of the window pane and leaves plenty of room for her to enjoy the winter views.
Candles are classic Christmas window decorations. In the U.S., the tradition dates back to the mid-seventeenth century when Catholic families left a candle burning in the window to let priests know they were welcomed in their home. While the gesture is not as symbolic as it once was, placing candles in your windowsill is still a worthwhile décor element. Flickering candles – even flameless ones – give off the kind of yellow glow that warms your soul.
There are a couple ways you can play up this effect. You can use those decorative tie-backs to keep your curtains open, so the candles are front and center. Or, you can hang linen sheers in your windows and let the drapery diffuse the light. This technique adds a little more storybook drama to your interior, amping up the holiday spirit. If you go that route, though, be sure to use battery operated candles for obvious safety reasons.
Do you change your throw pillows and focus on a certain color palette for the holidays? You can do the same with your window treatments. When you stay within the same type of window covering, you can easily swap out the panels for a new color. I’m not suggesting you run out and buy red velvet curtains or buy fabric with a buffalo check. It’s still important that you stay within your home’s overall design style.
Everhem’s selection of neutral-toned linen drapes are sure to keep your home looking clean, modern and stylish. For instance, our Agave color is soothing, but lends a little punch of unsuspecting greenery. Of course, if your drapery is already rich in color, you could use this time to lighten up the space. Our Cloud and Magnolia are lovely shades of white that mirror the jubilance of fresh snow.
As you can see, there are plenty of ways to create holiday-ready window treatments. Of course, we would say hanging high-quality window coverings is THE most important holiday decorating tip. But if you haven’t gotten there yet, we’re happy to guide you through the process. Reach out at hello@everhem.com, and we’ll help get your home primed for the holiday season.
Do you feast in your dining room year round, or is it more of a several-times-a-year situation? If your table sees more piles of unopened mail than it does casseroles and salad bowls, believe me: you’re not alone, and I’m not one to judge. The modern family seems to be much too busy – and too distracted – to sit down for a meal together. Besides, open-concept floor plans haven’t done any favors for the dining room. The space blends in so well to the rest of the living area that it’s easily overlooked and under-appreciated.
Of course, that doesn’t mean you need to build a wall to stimulate a change in behavior. By creating a dining room that feels warm and inviting, you’ll make the concept of regular family dinners much more appetizing. Not sure where to start? Follow these professional décor tricks. They’ll help guide you toward a fresher, more defined dining room that everyone wants to enjoy.
While your dining room may not have the largest footprint in your home, it does offer a lot of opportunity for creative design. I could go on and on about how to decorate a dining room from top-to-bottom, but it will be easier if we stick to some definitive dos and don’ts.
Once you’ve mastered these décor tricks, you can stretch your designer legs a little more – maybe even switch out items for holiday décor or seasonal themes.
But, first, get the basics down pat!
If your home has been blessed with a large dining room, you might be inclined to add a china cabinet or bar cart – or both – to fill in the square footage. These furnishings have a place and purpose. And, in many dining rooms, you can fit them in. But always keep focused on the overall scale and make sure you have the necessary pieces first -- like your dining table and chairs (obviously). If you feel there’s room and you genuinely need the storage in your dining room, go ahead and add those extras, accounting for size and visual effect. Thankfully, many furniture companies nowadays have designed these types of accents to be works of art themselves. So when you do need to fit in a bar cart or cabinet, it feels like it belongs in the room.
You’ve heard it before: “The devil’s in the details.” This doesn’t mean you stock your dining room with accessories (see my previous décor tip). The details include anything that influences the mood and makes the room feel special. An eye-catching light fixture works wonders, and we’ll cover that below. Other impactful ideas include:
Permanent table setting – A pre-dressed dining table signals guests to have a seat. Welcome them with irresistible place settings, like shimmering gold flatware, metallic plate chargers, fine cloth napkins and linen table runners.
Candles and candlesticks – Dimension is an important design concept, which you can easily accomplish with a few candles sprinkled around the dining room. You might spread a few across the table or strategically place them on a buffet table. In either case, candles are elegant and inviting.
Greenery – Plants not only improve air quality, but they bring a touch of life to your home. I would even argue every room should have a little greenery – and it doesn’t have to be real. Faux plants are equally as lively from a design perspective. Plus, they never go bad and require minimal maintenance.
Area rug – Another way to keep the focus on your dining table is with a stylish area rug. Rugs also lend texture to the space, especially if you go with a light pattern. Perhaps the best part, though, is that rugs soften the look and feel of your dining room. Literally, the floor will feel soft underneath your feet.
Lighting is one of the most important dining room design tips. A dramatic light fixture enhances the overall look and sets the tone for the room. This is where you can really show off your personality and be as eccentric or refined as you want to be. There are countless options for dining room lighting, including crystal chandeliers, farmhouse linear lights and abstract pendants. Be sure to choose a fixture that best suits your design style.
Of course, you can have more than one piece of lighting in your dining room. In fact, if your room lacks natural sunlight, you will certainly want to round out the space with different types of lighting. Wall sconces, for instance, are a smart addition to your dining room. These extra fixtures give you more range of light.
Admittedly, sconces are a little harder to install, because you may not have the wiring in your walls for it. To work around this, I’ve recently found a love for plug-in sconces. They mount to the wall with a cord running down. You just have to make the cord look intentional – like it’s part of the design. I promise the time and effort pays off.
Also, make the effort to find dimmable light fixtures. While adding sconces or floor lamps can help you control the level of light, dimmer switches take it to the next level. Being able to adjust the lighting levels in your dining room is the easiest way to manage the ambiance. Think of it this way: An adult-only dinner party, for example, requires much lower, more intimate lighting than a four-year-old’s birthday breakfast.
Your dining room window treatments also play an important role in lighting level. After all, they do cover the source of your natural light. Thankfully, you have lots of window treatment options to help you configure the right amount of light at any given time. Everhem offers drapery, shades and custom linings to help you find the perfect balance.
You can also dress your actual drapery. Adding a trim to your panels can create more visual interest and really liven up the dining room decor. At Everhem, we can help with this customization or talk to you about how to tackle trim as a DIY project. If a little fringe doesn’t tickle your fancy, you can always dress things up with tie backs. Tie backs are very easy to find and easy to install. Retailers like Anthropologie and CB2 have beautiful selections. These simple pieces of hardware can actually help pull together your entire design style (pun intended).
Keep in mind that window treatments are much more than a functional feature. These panels of fabric contribute to the overall design aesthetic and make a room look finished. That’s why the fabric you choose for your Roman shades or drapes is so important. A heavy velvet curtain would make your dining room feel dark and dramatic, while a linen looks refreshingly light.
At Everhem, we make our drapery and Roman shades with 100% linen or linen blends. The weight of this natural fiber allows the window treatments to hang just right – with those beautiful, tailored folds. They feel formal but not overdone. Plus, our color palettes lean toward neutral. We’re certain you’ll find a fabric that meets your design needs and still lets your dining room table remain the focal point.
If you’re not sure how to choose window treatments based on your home’s design style, don’t hesitate to reach out at welcome@everhem.com. By dressing your space with high-quality window treatments and employing these décor tricks, your dining room will become so much more inviting--not only to your holiday guests but to your everyday inhabitants.
Somewhere between the IKEA boom and the Marie Kondo effect, minimalism started taking a major hold on the design world. It’s not that people want less, per se. It’s that we want more from less. Just like the smartphones we carry in our pockets, we expect our 21st-century homes to be – and, more importantly, feel – efficient. This requires that every knick-knack, nook and cranny in your home get pared down with great deliberation.
Sound overwhelming? It’s not, especially when you focus on your home’s foundational features, first. I’ll walk you through the basics of minimalism, and then we’ll dive into how to choose simple window treatments that match this beloved design style.
“Minimalism” can be used to describe any number of things: architecture, fashion, art or even music. While simplicity is the common thread, there’s more to the definition than that. Specifically, when it comes to interior design, minimalism is all about function. Every chair, every picture frame and every coffee-table book serves a purpose. There’s no extra fluff – not one extraneous pillow.
What you will see in high volume is loads of natural light, which helps highlight unique architectural features. Minimalist design also has a soothing visual balance that’s created by thoughtful proportions throughout the space.
I mentioned before that window treatments are one of the foundational elements of a minimalistic decor scheme. Really, they’re a key piece in any design style. But here’s exactly what window treatments bring to a minimalist interior:
They can kickstart your design – Because simple window treatments are so bare-boned, you can treat them like a blank canvas. Let them be the base from which you build something spectacular in your home’s interior.
They are complementary – When you choose muted, monochromatic colors for your window treatments, you allow other elements in your home to take center stage. Instead of gazes going toward a lively pattern on your drapes, they’ll be directed to an artful light fixture or grainy hardwood floors.
They create calmness – With a 24-7 news cycle and a steady stream of Instagram Stories, our brains are constantly turned on. Coming home to a space that is clean and simple can actually soothe your nervous system and induce a sense of calm. Dress that big bay window in the right drapery, and you’ll have the most idyllic comfort zone you can dream up.
They are timeless – Talk about efficiency. If you redecorated every time the trends shifted, you’d have to take out a third mortgage. With minimalist window treatments, you can save yourself a lot of time, money and hassle. Their clean, classic designs have staying power. So, regardless of the current climate, your home will always look like it belongs.
Now that you’re excited to create a harmonious, hygge-filled home, it’s time to choose the right window treatments based on your style. It’s not a difficult process, but you’ll want to be sure you consider all the following factors:
Neutral colors are the obvious choice for a minimalist’s window treatments. White, gray and shades of blue are the most popular, because they’re closely associated with divine serenity. Imagine a clear sky with puffy white clouds and you get the picture.
At Everhem, we have a variety of neutral-toned fabrics for the picking. In fact, we have 26 fabric colors, ranging from dark to light and white to green. For simpler window treatments, however, you’ll want to stay on the lighter side. This will keep you aligned with the neutral color palettes of minimalist interiors.
You also could go with woven woods, which have a natural earthy tone. Everhem’s Chestnut, Khaki or Seashell woven wood shades would be the best option for minimalism. These lighter tones fade into the backdrop, so you can place the emphasis elsewhere.
See how the Goop’s East Coast office uses simple window treatments to offset their rose-petal wall color.
Fullness refers to how much fabric is used to create a panel of drapery. Let’s say your drapes have a fullness of 3x. This means the width of the drapery panel will be three times as wide as the window width. Fullness directly relates to how the drapes hang over your windows.
You might think less fullness is more appropriate in a minimalist design, but that’s actually not the case. A 1x fullness, for example, means the fabric is exactly the width of the window. As a result, you get a drape that hangs like a flat bed sheet. Doesn’t sound pretty, does it? It’s not.
That’s why, at Everhem, we use a 2x fullness for all our custom drapery. It’s the perfect option, because it’s not too flat or too full. In interior design, minimalism should look elegant. And that’s exactly what you get with the beautiful folds of a 2x drapery panel.
From a swagged fan pleat to a necktie heading, pleat styles can be very complex. In minimalism, those ornate folds would be a complete distraction, though. Instead, you want a pleat style that features straight lines – and not too many of them.
Everhem drapery comes in only three different pleat styles to keep it easy: boxed, tailored and pinched. Though they’re all viable options for a minimal design, the box pleat offers the absolute simplest look. Of course, if you have room for a little texture, don’t shy away from the extra folds in the tailored pleat.
With woven woods and Roman shades, there is no visible hardware to consider. But if you’re looking at drapes and curtains, you’ll have to pick a rod that makes sense for minimalism. French returns are a beautiful accent at the top of your windows, because the curtain rod returns back into the wall. It’s a direct route – no S-curves or kitschy finials to clutter the look. Everhem offers right angle return and curved return, which are both sleek designs and add a touch of character.
That said, you can get away with a modest, geometric finial in minimalistic interiors. This would include a basic square or ball on either end of the rod. Everhem’s drapery hardware is a great example of a minimalist-approved finial.
You’ll notice that in Swedish-inspired minimalism, the finishes are matte black or bronze. In a room that’s so light and bright, these contrasting colors bring a sense of grounding. On the other hand, a lot of new construction features brass hardware, which can also be a nice pop of shine against simple window treatments and a neutral color palette. Brass is exceptionally warming, which many minimalistic interiors need to avoid feeling too stark. The oil-rubbed bronze is also quite comforting, especially when paired with a light-colored linen drape.
At Everhem, we offer all three of the classic minimalistic hardware finishes: antique brass, matte black and oil-rubbed bronze.
A minimalist interior may feature all different types of window treatments, with variations from room-to-room. Some of the more common types of window coverings, however, include ceiling-to-floor drapes, flat Roman shades and woven woods. These are all sophisticated window coverings that have the kind of structure you want in a minimalist interior.
To guarantee that you get exactly what you’re looking for, choose custom-made window treatments. Everhem has a great selection of quality drapes and shades that will help jumpstart your move toward minimalism. Of course, if you need help choosing drapes, shades or hardware, don’t hesitate to reach out by emailing me at welcome@everhem.com. I know it’s not that simple to simplify – but it’s always worth it!
When decorating a home, most people put the focus on furnishings and wall color, as these are some of the easiest changes you can make. But if that means you’re letting window treatments become an after-thought, your design will fail. Think about it: The fabric you choose for your drapery is the one décor feature that influences both the inside and outside of your home.
And it’s not just an aesthetic upgrade. When you choose window treatments based on your home’s design style, you achieve a sense of comfort and enjoyment that even a sectional sofa simply can’t live up to.
Hard to believe? Let me prove it to you.
Saving money is important for everyone, especially to the new homeowner who’s still adjusting to mortgage payments, home owner’s association fees and insurance premiums. Sound familiar? Then you should probably prioritize quality window treatments that can conserve energy costs.
By covering the spaces with direct access to the outdoors, window treatments block heat and cold from seeping inside your home. Even a minor draft can alter the interior temperature and force your heating system to work harder than necessary. This is a significant problem in older homes, which are rich in character but poorly insulated.
That said, modern construction is not impermeable. In newer homes, the midday sun is the major culprit. As it pours into your home, the sun heats up your space and, therefore, drives up your air conditioning bill.
With window treatments, you can prevent all that. In fact, you can use window coverings to adjust your home’s temperature room-by-room. Perhaps, you want the living room to radiate with the sun’s rays, but you prefer the bedrooms stay shaded. You can make those adjustments with just the pull of a cord.
For even more control, consider layering your window treatments. A set of Roman shades tucked under linen drapery not only looks elegant, but proves to be functional. For instance, when you want a touch of natural light but not direct exposure, you can open the shades and close the drapes. Or, if you need more protection from the sun, pull down the shades and close the drapes – you’ll get double the coverage.
Think about when you travel. Do you stop your newspaper delivery and ask a neighbor to bring in your mail? If you’re gone for a couple weeks, you’d probably have a friend drive your car around – anything to show signs of activity. Indeed, these are all smart, protective maneuvers. Unfortunately, none of them matter if you don’t have window treatments.
Window treatments create a barrier between your personal space and the outside world. With the curtains drawn, unwanted onlookers won’t be able to peek inside your home and track your every move. If that doesn’t put your mind at ease, I don’t know what will.
Of course, privacy matters just as much – if not more -- when you’re actually at home. Imagine stepping out of the shower or getting dressed in your bedroom with a clear view outside. These are the kinds of intimate moments that beg for window coverings, so you may feel comfortable living in the place you call home.
To create privacy throughout your home, you’ll want to steer clear of sheers and choose a fabric with some slight density or a lining (privacy or blackout). Linen and linen blends are the perfect weight, because they let in a hint of light but still block sight lines from the outside.
Woven wood shades are another good choice for privacy, particularly in your bathrooms, where you don’t need total darkness. Your bedrooms and front-facing living rooms, on the other hand, might require more coverage. In those spaces, add layers or opt for a blackout lining on your drapery.
At Everhem, we can add a lining to almost any of our custom window treatments. Blackout linings are a popular add-on for all bedroom window treatments, but they’re especially beneficial in nursery designs, where privacy and sun-blocking are of utmost importance.
If Mona Lisa didn’t have eyes, the painting would look unfinished. There would be a very obvious missing piece, just as there would be if you didn’t have window treatments in your home. These panels of fabric do so much more than block sunlight and nosy passersby.
From a visual perspective, window treatments can be charming, elegant and even theatrical. For one, they frame your windows in a way that draws attention to them. This is most useful in home with arched windows or other architectural details that are worth exaggerating.
Window treatments also do a beautiful job of softening the tone of a space. Imagine a room with hardwood floors and zero furniture. By simply hanging curtains, you add warmth and invite people in. Should you want to infuse a little drama, you can always use floor-to-ceiling drapes. They mimic the excitement of a theatre curtain call and instantly elevate the ambience.
Of course, you don’t have to go to great (fabric) lengths to enhance your home’s décor. Even relaxed Roman shades can be an impactful design choice. It’s all about the style of your home and the tone you want to create in each space. In fact, style and tone will be your first considerations when shopping for window treatments.
If you’re not sure how to match your window treatments to your personal style, consult an interior design professional. At Everhem, we’ve worked with a variety of personalities and preferences, so we know how to adapt to your needs.
Not to mention, our custom-made Everhem window treatments are designed to be everlasting. Our high-quality linen fabrics and woven woods offer timeless sophistication that complements all décor styles – from traditional to modern.
Want to see your home come to life? Contact us today at hello@everhem.com for any and all design questions; we will be happy to guide you. We know that once you have window treatments, you’ll never not have them again.
Rarely will you walk into a well-lived home without finding at least one or two windows covered in panels of fabric. But just because curtains and drapes are the most tried-and-true window treatments doesn’t mean they need to be boring or basic. Nearly every day, I am amazed by how my fellow interior designers transform the simple concept of a window dressing into a dramatic statement.
It all starts with the type of fabric. Get to know the best fabric for drapery, and every decision after that will fall right into place – just like your window coverings.
Color and pattern are not the most important features of your drapery. The type of material you choose will have a much greater influence on your home’s overall design – and how satisfied you are with your window treatments – than details like the pleat style or embellishments. To help you clearly see the difference, we’ve broken down a few facts about drapery fabric.
Durability is always a consideration, especially in family homes. The more activity and exposure your window treatments experience, the stronger the fabric needs to be. Silk curtains, for example, are susceptible to sun damage and color fading. No matter how well you care for them, silk panels simply won’t hold their sheen for the life of your home.
Your best option is 100% linen or linen blended with rayon. These are much more durable fabrics that are resistant to wrinkling and won’t fade as easily. Better yet, invest in decorator fabrics like those from Everhem, and you can rest assured your window treatments have already been treated for optimal durability. Regardless of the fabric you choose, though, you’ll want to learn how to clean drapery. Caring for your drapery will help keep it looking new for years to come.
Certain fabrics do block out more light than others, simply because of their weight. Velvet is a quintessential heavy-weight fabric. And while you may be inclined to try velvet curtain panels for that reason, this material is meant to be used as upholstery fabric. The same goes for chenille; it’s simply too heavy for drapes.
So, what’s the alternative? Light- to medium-weight fabrics can effectively block natural light, while still maintaining their billowy flow. Pure linen, for one, shades the sun but does not thwart it entirely. To adjust the level of opaqueness, you would need to add a privacy or blackout lining. Everhem specializes in customizing window treatments and can add a lining to any of its drapery fabric, except sheer curtains (that would defeat the purpose of sheers, after all).
Like any investment piece in your home, you expect your drapery to last for as long as you live there. While we wish homeowners would purchase new drapes every year, the reality is that you pull the trigger once and never look back. We get it, which is why Everhem makes only the highest quality drapes that are sure to stand the test of time.
And we’re not just talking about their durability. (Refer to the first point on that.) Timelessness means it won’t fade with contemporary trends, but will, instead, flow seamlessly from one to the next. Luckily, Everhem offers a solid selection of linen drapery that is so classic, you’ll never worry about going out of style. Your drapes will be true to you and true to whatever is new in the moment.
The design effect of your curtains and drapes depends on how well they hang from where they are mounted. If the fabric is too light, your window treatments may not hold their shape. Or, consider a fabric heavy in texture. It could easily create uneven folding and leave your room looking messy and unfinished. Of course, measuring your windows for drapery and hardware will ultimately determine the way the drapes hang; too long, and they’ll pool on the ground unattractively. But after those initial measurements, the flow of your drapery is largely dependent on the fabric itself.
Again, cotton is a solid choice. It’s a very strong fabric that looks soft and flowy on your windows. Or, you could go with an entirely synthetic fabric, because it’s both affordable and durable. To achieve a more natural look, the best choice is a linen or linen blend. Linen offers the perfect balance of billowy and tailored, making it the best fabric for traditional and contemporary curtains, alike.
Your curtain options range from heavyweight brocade to light-and-airy lace. But, as you’ve seen already, not all fabric is created equally. Keeping functionality and fashion in mind, these are the three best fabrics for drapery:
The what: When a drapery fabric label reads “100% linen,” you are getting linen fibers and linen fibers only. These fibers are derived from the flax plant and, surprisingly, have a hollow construction. Despite their open interior, linen fibers have a naturally strong, crisp texture, which softens a little bit over time.
The why: Linen is a natural fabric that is neither too heavy nor too thick. Its hollow core allows air and moisture to flow through easily, which is why linen is an all-seasons fabric. It effectively
insulates your home during the colder months, while also keeping your home cool during the summer.
Linen is known to be one of the strongest natural fibers, so you can count on it to last a significant amount of time. These strong fibers are also the reason for linen’s exquisite structure. As drapery, linen hangs with just the right amount of weight to keep its shape from the top of the curtain rods to the top of your floor.
The what: Sometimes, linen is blended with synthetic fibers to enhance its properties and give it a slightly different texture. More specifically, linen and rayon are a popular combination for curtain fabric. Rayon is a unique fiber in that it is derived from wood and other plant-based products. Some would even argue it’s not a true synthetic, because it’s made from natural cellulose. In either case, rayon makes for a very versatile blend, because it has the ability to imitate other fabrics – like silk, wool and cotton.
Linen and rayon each offer different strengths and weaknesses, which make them a complementary pairing. This is usually the case with blended fabrics, but it’s especially helpful in designing window treatments.
The why: Blended fabrics combine all the best qualities of each fiber. When linen is blended with rayon, for instance, the end result has a slightly silkier texture and is easier to maintain. Both linen and cotton are prone to wrinkling, which is why these natural fibers are often blended with synthetics. With an ideal mix, the additional structure helps prevent wrinkling and moisture absorption.
The what: Linen sheers are still made of 100% linen fibers. The difference is in how the fibers are woven together. With sheers, the fibers have a looser weave, which allows the sun’s rays to almost completely shine through.
The why: Clearly, linen sheers do not provide much privacy. They do, however, offer an airiness that can be very impactful in your home’s overall interior. Take a nursery design, for instance. Linen sheers hanging in front of Roman shades helps soften the mood. (I don’t have to tell you that a serene environment is the best way to soothe baby to sleep.)
Sheer fabric is uniquely versatile. You can use linen sheers to balance a richly patterned room or to add layers in an otherwise simple design. You can also hang sheers to help create defining spaces in an oversized living room. The best part is that sheers are so...well, sheer...that they won’t cover or detract from any interesting architectural details.
Like it or not, store-bought drapes are incomparable to custom-made window treatments. For one, custom drapery tends to have a high thread count, which contributes to a more luxurious feel. Custom options can also be outfitted with a blackout curtain lining, providing as much privacy as you want.
More importantly, though, custom-made drapery is always cut to the exact specifications of your windows. Without these personal touches, you simply cannot guarantee a well-dressed window.
When you’re ready to make a statement with your window treatments, Everhem will be there for you. We specialize in customizing and will do everything in our power to help you find the best fabric for drapery in your home. Contact us today at hello@everhem.com and let us walk you through the next steps!
In the heart of the Flatiron district, past the tourists eyeing the Beaux Arts architecture and a stone’s throw from the creatives lunching at abcV, is a space that hoards all the natural light in Manhattan.
Welcome to goop’s New York office.
When Jaime Ray Newman brought her newborn daughter, Alma, home from the hospital, the nursery didn’t even have a crib. “It took us a very long time to have a baby after years of heartbreak,” explains the producer and actress, “so my husband and I decided to literally do nothing until Alma was born and safe and healthy. We finally had her via our wonderful surrogate.”
This made the room an extra-special project—and one that needed to be done right away. “I called Haley Weidenbaum frantically saying, ‘Help! I need a nursery ASAP,’” remembers the Ray Newman. “And because Haley is my soul designer and we’ve been working together for years, we already had a shorthand.” The designer promptly got to work designing a space that would suit the baby as much as the parents.
.avif)
Bringing a baby into the world is one of the most thrilling experiences of your life. It can also be one of the most overwhelming. You have a thousand choices to make right now. Compared to whether to name your little bundle of joy Alice or Aloysius and the always-feisty cosleeping debate, nursery window treatments may not seem like a high priority. But if you value being well-rested, heed our advice. Make this decision very, very carefully.
Having the right window coverings in the baby’s room can be the difference between a few hours of sleep and a few minutes. And as a once-sleep-deprived mother, I can assure you that every second of shuteye matters. (Hint: You won’t be getting much once baby is here.)
The good news is that, unlike babies, nursery window treatments actually do come with an instruction manual of sorts. Below, you’ll find tips on how to choose your nursery window coverings, what it means to have blackout curtains, plus window treatment inspiration to help you make the best selection.
Safety first! It goes without saying that your top concern is keeping your new baby happy and healthy. While preparing their room is super exciting, there are some serious safety considerations that need to be addressed in the nursery design. So, before diving into the details of each option, familiarize yourself with these dos and don’ts of nursery window treatments.
As soon as you start looking at paint chips and throw pillows, it’s time to think about your nursery window treatments. They play an important role in the overall nursery design. In fact, your window treatments can be the focal point of the room – next to your beaming bundle of joy, that is.
When planning the layout and décor, there are two important factors to consider with your nursery window treatments:
The main function of all window treatments is lighting control. They block natural light from flooding inside and heating up your space. This is especially critical in a nursery, where you need the room to feel comfortably cool but still sunny and cheerful.
A fully lit room, for instance, might feature drapery crafted from lightweight sheers. For a slight light reduction, you would hang something more dense, like 100% linen drapery or a linen blend. For even more light diffusion, consider adding privacy lining. If you want minimal sunlight (and maximum rest), blackout lining is ideal. Finally, if you want to achieve absolute darkness during daylight hours you might consider doubling up on blackout lined window treatments. By placing both blackout lined shades and drapery over the same window, you effectively eliminate all gaps and crevices that light can find its way around.
With window treatments consuming so much of the wall space, they can largely influence the mood of the room. Depending on the fabric and color you choose, you can either create a bright, bold design or something soft and tranquil.
While it might be tempting to look for prints, like a lively animal motif, on your window treatments, a rich solid color, like a carbon gray or indigo blue, can set a cheerful tone without the risk of being outgrown once your baby transforms into an older child who doesn’t like the animal motif. For a softer tone in the nursery, you’ll want to stick with a neutral color palette – shades of white or beige. As for fabric, the airiness of either 100% linen or linen blend drapery is instantly soothing. These are perfect for creating a Zen den. Meanwhile, woven wood shades or Roman shades offer added texture and heftiness.
Take your time sifting through fabrics and colors, as these decisions will set the tone for your nursery.
Once you’ve determined the mood and amount of natural light that you want, it’s time to go shopping. These are four of the safest and most stunning nursery window treatments you can buy:
Curtains and drapes are timeless window treatments, so you can never go wrong with these. But in a nursery, they are particularly helpful in blocking out light. Drapes cover the full width and length of your windows when the panels are drawn together. Plus, they come in several different fabric weights and linings, so you can decide how much light gets filtered through. From a style standpoint, drapes are exceptionally dramatic. So if you’re trying to make a statement, the delicate elegance of drapery will do.
Roman shades also come in a variety of fabrics and colors, making it easy to add these window coverings to any style nursery. But, perhaps, the best part about Roman shades is the fact that they provide the most light blocking of any window treatment. They leave little room for sunlight to slip through. Of course, how you mount your Roman shades does make a different. In a nursery, you’ll probably want to choose outside mount window shades to prevent light leakage from the sides of your windows. Even a sliver of light can keep baby awake or heat up their crib.
It may seem like a no-brainer to add woven shades to a neutral color palette, but these window treatments can do much more than blend in. Woven woods add much-needed texture, which can be a smart design choice against matte walls. Not to mention the natural materials they’re comprised of, such as bamboo, grasses and reeds, are the perfect complement to other wood elements in the room, including grainy floors or a wood heirloom crib.
When it comes to light blocking, woven woods are easily adjustable. When closed, they will cover the entire window pane; but they can also be pulled up to any level for more or less light. If you’re looking for total blockage, you can always add a custom-fit blackout lining to your woven woods.
Blackout fabric is a lining for your window treatments that creates total privacy and eliminates natural light almost entirely. One window treatment with blackout lining likely won’t create total darkness. Light can find its way around the sides of Roman shades and woven woods or above the top of drapery panels. To eliminate these coverage gaps and create a completely dark room in the middle of the day, you can always double up on the window treatments. Drapes and shades is a popular combination – especially in nurseries with large windows.
.jpg)
At Everhem, we can add a blackout lining to all nursery window treatments, except linen sheer drapery. We highly recommend using blackout lining for your nursery! Trust me; I’ve been through the nursery phase and blackout window coverings were a lifesaver. If you don’t invest in them, you just may find yourself investing in extra double shots of espresso instead! As an interior design professional, my top priority is always my clients’ comfort. In nursery design, that also means paying close attention to how a newborn will feel in the space. Luckily, Everhem has a wide selection of fabrics and window treatment options that can accommodate any mood you want. With the customization we offer, you can create a nursery that leads to sweet dreams and happy babies and, hopefully, quasi-well rested parents.
While floor-to-ceiling drapery is a beautiful way to frame the picture window in your great room or the French doors in your master suite, you know this isn’t your only option when choosing window treatments. In fact, you’ve come to the (very wise) conclusion that with their simplicity, function, and elegance, Roman shades will play a valuable role in your home’s design. As an interior designer, I applaud you on this smart choice! But within that decision resides another looming decision you will need to make: What is the best fabric for Roman shades?
Ironically enough, the answer lies beyond this next question.
Before you start sifting through fabric swatches, you need to understand the function and features of a Roman shade. Not surprisingly, the Roman shade was created by Romans…well, sort of.
The original iterations were used in public amphitheaters and arenas throughout ancient Rome, most notably the Colosseum. During an event, a large swath of cloth would be drawn over the crowd to help protect them from the scorching midday sun. In truth, only the wealthiest spectators were treated to this manmade shade. Nevertheless, it was an effective solution that sparked something even more significant.
You see, it wasn’t the piece of fabric itself that inspired an idea. Instead, it was the pulley system. The Romans used a brilliant combination of ropes and pulleys to extend and retract the Colosseum’s shade. This draw-string functionality is what, eventually, led to the creation of Roman shades as we know them today. (And irony of ironies—despite these roots in ancient history, Roman shades have got a distinctly modern vibe.)
Roman shades draw open and close to either block or expose your home to gushing rays of sun. Their other main function, of course, is to add style to your home. Roman shades are ideal for decorating small spaces or covering small windows, because they won’t take away from other elements in the room.
Take a window with crown molding, for instance. A Roman shade can be mounted inside the window frame, allowing you to shade the room with the molding still completely unobstructed.
In order for a fabric to harmonize with the functionality of a Roman shade, it must have two distinctive characteristics.
With those components in mind, it makes sense that the best fabrics for Roman shades are:
The main reason linen and linen blends are the best fabrics for Roman shades has to do with the weight and structure they provide.
The other great thing about linen is that it can be transformed into a variety of colors and textures to suit almost any design style.
Everhem’s linen fabrics are sourced from around the world with quality and durability top-of-mind. As a result, our selection of linen fabrics runs the gamut of light-to-medium-weight. Whether you’re looking for a classic Roman shade or relaxed style, our linens are up to the task.
Need help picking out the right fabric for your room? Reach out to us at hello@everhem.com for design advice and inspiration.
Drapes are delicate, decorative and defiantly stylish in almost any room of your home. They also can get deceptively dirty. Aside from a splatter stain or sun damage, it can be hard to tell when it’s time to drop the drapes and clean them. Naturally, you let this chore go by the wayside, waiting for a weekend to free up on your calendar. Before you know it, weeks have turned into months and maybe even months into years. All the while, those reams of filthy fabric are hanging over your head – literally.
Check out this quick guide on how to clean drapery. These steps will keep your home healthy and your window treatments looking as good as new.
You are right to assume that this isn’t the most simple project. Cleaning drapes the right way is really a three-phase process: 1) deep cleaning, 2) daily dusting and 3) maintenance.
The good news is that you don’t have to tackle it all at once. These phases are meant to be carried out at different times. Not only does this make the chore of cleaning a lot more manageable, but it actually helps your drapes maintain their shape, color, and form.
If it’s been a while since you’ve tended to your window treatments, you’ll want to start with a nice, deep cleaning. Typically, you should schedule a deep cleaning session every six months, if not once per quarter.
Remove the drapes from their respective rods or hardware.
Lay them out on a flat surface, such as your hardwood floor or a long kitchen island.
Vacuum the drapes before washing to remove any excess dust or debris. For the best results, use your vacuum’s detachable upholstery brush or dust brush and set to a reduced suction if your machine allows. You can also cover the attachment hose with a nylon sock to lessen the power of the suction.
Side note: Sheer, delicate fabrics may get caught in a vacuum cleaner. For these drapes, simply take them outside and shake.
Wash per the manufacturer’s directions. If your curtains have lost their tags, finding a trained professional is usually a safe option. Otherwise, follow the general guidelines below for proper care based on the type of fabric you have.
Side note: If machine-washing, be careful not to overload the drum. In most cases, washing one panel at a time is your best bet. Remember that fabric weighs more when it’s wet. If there’s too much weight in the drum, it can knock your washing machine out of balance.
Dry your drapes either on a clothesline outside or by lying flat on your floors over a layer of towels and plastic garbage bags. The towels will absorb the water, while the plastic protects your floors. Keep in mind that it can take a couple of days for your heavy drapes to dry completely.
If you want crisp, tailored drapes, iron them while they are still a little damp. You’ll want to iron them along the vertical length on the side of the fabric that does not face out.
Use your favorite multi-surface cleaning solution (nothing harsh) to wipe off the window treatment hardware. This includes curtain rods, finials, and brackets.
Yes, daily cleaning is necessary. The same way you wash dishes after dinner or water your plants before leaving for work, you’ll want to give some attention to your window treatments every single day. Just add these quick-and-easy steps to your regular routine, and it will soon become second nature.
Whenever you go to close the drapes, give them a little shake. You’ll knock off unwanted dust and debris, which will make deep cleaning that much easier.
If Step 1 didn’t do the trick you may try spot cleaning your curtains and drapes with a damp chamois cloth. Similar to how you’d clean velvet drapery, you’ll wet the cloth in warm water, wring it out and then gently wipe from top to bottom in the areas of concern.
Side note: Depending on the type of fabric and any special instructions, you may need to use a terrycloth or paper towel instead of a chamois.
In between those daily efforts and deep cleanings is your maintenance routine. These serve as intermittent check-ups, which you can perform on a weekly, monthly or even as-needed basis. Don’t take this phase lightly. Just like an annual physical exam or regular oil change, drapery maintenance matters.
Bust out the vacuum cleaner once a week. You’re going to do it anyway to clean your floors and carpets. Why not run the brush-tipped wand along your drapes while you’re at it? Vacuuming your drapes on a weekly basis not only keeps them clean and sheen but can also help ease allergy symptoms.
Unless the manufacturer specifies otherwise, you can toss your drapery in the dryer on the “no heat” setting. Run it for about five minute – just enough time to remove any dust particles. Immediately pull them out of the dryer and rehang on their rods, so as not to wrinkle.
For machine-washable curtains and drapes, you are welcome to use a steamer. Simply use the upholstery attachment for your steamer and follow the device’s instructions.
Adjust your cleaning methods based on the wear and tear of your drapes. If you notice they are sun damaged, make sure you switch to a hand-washing method or finding professional treatment. Or, if your cotton drapes are shrinking with each wash, this is another sign that they should be taken to the cleaners.
As interior design professionals, we at Everhem understand the investment you’ve made in window treatments. You want these beautiful fabrics and textures to last as long as live in your home, which is exactly why it pays to take care of them. If you have any questions about how to clean drapery you’ve custom made with us, we’re always happy to help.
And if you have any additional tips for how to clean drapery, leave them in the comments below or share with other homeowners on our Facebook page. We’d love to hear from you!
You look around the house and know you want an eggshell white on your walls and sleek, mid-century modern furniture. But have you given any thought to choosing window treatments? These often-overlooked accessories don’t just provide privacy from your neighbors. They direct natural light in and out of your home to brighten up the space, and they infuse personality with their subtle patterns, colors, and textures.
Unfortunately, far too many people – and their well-designed homes – shy away from finding the right window treatments, because they don’t know where to start. Well, now you can throw all caution to the wind(ow)! The professionals are here to guide you.
The smartest way to tackle any big project is to break it down into smaller, more manageable pieces. When choosing window treatments, this method makes the most sense. Go room-by-room and think about each area’s function, how often you’ll need to adjust the window treatments, how much light you want coming through, and then decide on the style you’re trying to create.
The functionality of any given room in your house will heavily influence the type and amount of window treatments you need in that space. For instance, a home theatre will need layers of drapery for enhanced sound and diminished sunlight. Here are a few more examples:
This may be the most challenging step of all, but that’s nothing a little inspiration can’t fix. If you’re ready to refine your windows, take a look below at a few examples of how different drapes and shades complement various design styles. These ideas should spark your creative brain and, hopefully, make choosing window treatments a much simpler process.
If you’re not sure exactly where your style falls on the spectrum, use the reference points to guide you. From there, you can choose the right window coverings based on what suits you – and your home – the best.
Inspired by the beautiful shorelines on the south of Greece, Italy, and Spain, you can expect Mediterranean Coastal design to be rich in history and culture. The color palettes include the aquatic blues of Greece, as well as the warm earth tones of Italy. There’s often texture on the walls and dark wood on the floors. And no matter what, there’s always a flood of natural light in every room.
Linen drapery: Light linen drapes on your floor-to-ceiling windows lend the kind of hand-sewn charm you want on your Mediterranean Coastal walls. They’ll add a subtle layer to the already texturized stucco or plaster without taking away from the free-flowing vibes of a sun-soaked room.
Woven wood shades: The hand-stitched Everhem woven wood shades do not only offer a rugged layer of texture, but they let in just the right amount of light. Hang them in your naturally bright bathroom, and you’ll still have plenty of privacy.
With influences from the mid-century, Scandinavian is distinctly decluttered. But don’t mistake clean for sterile. Scandinavian winters call for cozy accents, like heavy woods, warm rugs, plush pillows, and quilted blankets. The Spanish influence also adds a touch of warmth with its dashes of terra-cotta reds and rich blues.
Linen drapery: To stay true to Scandinavian style, it’s best if you leave the bold color pops to pillows and area rugs. Your windows need to stay light and bright, so all that natural sun can keep the room airy. White linen drapes are the perfect complement because they won’t overwhelm the room. Hang them by a dark iron rod, and you’ll strike a balance between rich tones and simple forms.
Woven wood shades: Adding that element of warm-and-cozy, woven wood shades are a smart choice for Spanish Scandinavian designs. They offer a subtle layer of texture that pairs well with a minimalistic design. When going for simplicity, every detail makes a statement, and woven wood shades might be just what you need.
With its origins in colonial New England, Cape Cod is a true American style. It pays tribute to the rocky shores of the Cape with its coastal color palette, nautical accessories and beautiful wood accents. In fact, wainscoting and crown molding are prominent features in a Cape Cod home, as are wood-framed windows and warm lighting schemes.
Relaxed Roman Shades: Because Vintage Cape Cod design is an effortless combination of coastal and classic, you can go with a relaxed Roman shade. It will play up the casual, cozy aura you want, especially when you choose a hue that layers overtop your cool color palette.
Choose the Right Pleat: You can play up the “vintage” in Vintage Cape Cod with tailored and pinch pleats or go for a more casual look with box pleats. Either way, you can’t go wrong -- just decide if you want to accent with a traditional, structured feel or something less formal.
No matter your home’s style, there are a number of ways to cover your windows and doors. If you’re still stuck choosing window treatments, simply send us an email at hello@everhem.com. We’ve been designing interiors and decorating windows for years. So we know all too well how difficult this decision can be on your own. Let us help bring that designer eye to your stylish abode.
Want to emphasize a uniquely-shaped space? Cover it in a standout wallpaper, like this floral one that Haley used in the nursery to make it the star of the overall neutral bedroom. "As I chose other pieces for the nursery, I always made sure it didn't compete or overpower the wallpaper," says Weidenbaum. However, sprinkling in a few pops of colorful accessories is definitely welcomed."
Every traveler knows that unmistakable relief you feel stepping into a well-designed hotel. The sense of being an outsider in a foreign place fades, and the comfort of a welcoming lobby, cozy suite, or relaxing spa situates itself in your travel itinerary...
“This adorably perfect condo in West Hollywood is best described as everyone’s dream pied-a-terre,” designer Haley Weidenbaum shares, “but in actuality it is the home of the very talented and lucky actress Erin Moriarty.” When Erin first purchased the home, she was wooed by its innate charm and character, though she wanted to bring in some more contemporary touches and modern finishes...
Wondering which fabric color you should choose for your Everhem drapery and, or shades?
We're sharing how to pair Everhem with some of the most popular paint colors! Our first tip, use color theory, a set of guidelines for mixing, combining, and manipulating colors, to guide us when pairing window treatments and paints.
COLOR HARMONY, visually pleasing pairings
COLOR TEMPERATURE, cool and warm tones
COLOR CONTEXT, surroundings can alter the appearance of a color
Tip number two, match the tone. Your paint color is either a warm or cool tone, select a similar color tone for your Everhem window treatments!
Things to think about when getting started:
COOL TONES
We paired these Everhem Essentials with cool toned paint colors that we love. Playing off the undertones of both the fabrics and the paints, these pairings enhance each other and the overall space.
WARM TONES
We paired these Everhem Essentials with warm toned paint colors that we love. Playing off the undertones of both the fabrics and the paints, these pairings enhance each other and the overall space.
While the under tones should match, contrast is your friend when it comes to color! Choose a drapery or shade fabric that is darker or lighter than your paint color. These subtle differences will create layers and add dimension to the design of your space.
In smaller spaces, we suggest matching your fabric to the window trim to keep the room feeling bright and light!
In rooms with lots of pattern and personality, keep it simple with your window treatment fabric choice. This will allow other design elements to really shine through.
Now it's time for you to pick your paint and Everhem your home!
%20(1).avif)