Wonderful Winter Windows

When the weather gets colder, what do you do? If you’re like most people, you break out the winter wardrobe, complete with sweater, coats, blankets and fuzzy slipper socks.

Did it ever occur to you, however, that perhaps your home — or more specifically, yourwindows — would appreciate the same wardrobe change? for the winter season could perk up the appearance of your home and make it much cozier inside. Here are some ideas:

• Thermal drapes. Insulated shades and drapes can save you quite a bit of cash throughout the winter in the way of heating bills. Thermal shades that hang right against the glass are best because they allow for the least amount of energy loss, but any type of thermal drape can be helpful. They also allow you to use your regular curtains on top, so you aren’t stuck with limited décor options.

• Window quilts. If you’re the crafty type, consider making your own window treatment for the winter. Window quilts allow you to choose literally any type of décor scheme for your home. You can choose the fabrics that match your interior colors, and then choose anything from simple blocks to intricate quilting patterns to suit your taste. Just be sure to find a good insulator that can achieve the practical effect you’re going for.

• Custom drapes. If you like the idea of window quilts, but you aren’t particularly crafty, you can still get the insulating effect while maintaining your normal look. Just purchase several yards of insulating fabric depending on the measurements of your windows, cut it to size and attach it to the back of your existing window treatment. You can tack the fabric on with just a few stitches, so you can easily remove it when warmer weather arrives.

Do you have a special winter window treatment that you fall back on every year? Do you plan to try one of our suggestions this year? Share your comments and thoughts below, and let us know how you combat the chill of the season without sacrificing your interior décor.

Image: Ben Seidelman