The one design feature you’re overlooking

(NC) When it comes to decorating your home, it’s a smart idea to put your time, energy and money into the elements that make a difference to beauty and comfort. And don’t forget the window treatments.

An essential element in any space, window coverings manage illumination, privacy and even energy efficiency. They set the tone and ambience; create a finished, polished look; and, can be a gorgeous design element that draws the eye.

When choosing the right window treatments for your home, consider these elements:

Light control and privacy. Harsh light at the window? Look for products with innovative fabric designs that transform sunlight into a soft glow and help protect your furnishings from damaging UV rays, such as the Silhouette line from Hunter Douglas. Want more light? Look for shades that can help channel light deeper into your room, filling dark corners and reducing your need for electrical lighting.

Privacy. You don’t need to sacrifice streaming sunlight for privacy from neighbours. Just look for products and operating systems that provide clever ways for giving you the privacy you want while maintaining your view through to the outside.

Energy efficiency. As much as 50 per cent of a home’s heating and cooling energy can be lost through its windows. But window treatments that provide insulation and solar heat control can reduce your energy bills by keeping your home warmer in winter and cooler in summer.

Safety. Kids and pets can get hurt with hanging cords and chains. From cordless and motorized operating systems, retractable lift cords, cord tensioners and wand controls, there are several operating system options for enhanced child and pet safety.

Smart-home convenience. Imagine your shades moving automatically to the exact position you prefer to achieve the specific lighting effect you love, or adjusting themselves for optimal energy efficiency throughout the day. With Hunter Douglas’ PowerView Motorization system, your shades will automatically move to schedules you set, so they’ll always be in their perfect positions 24/7.