Window Treatments and Decorating Tips

FESTOONS

The number of festoons depends on the width of the window. In Williamsburg, where most windows are only 3 1/2 feet wide, there are two festoons, each of two feet or less (festoons may overlap).

The number of folds in the festoon determines the degree of formality; many folds convey depth and richness while few folds give a sense of lightness.

CURTAINS

Floor-length curtains are always elegant and formal, while hangings to the window sill are informal and at the same time functional, for they keep the curtains away from the floor in an area much used, or difficult to clean.

The most pleasing curtain effects are given by 100% fullness, which means that curtain width should be double that of the window. Most fabrics measure approximately 54 inches; a pair of curtains for a window four feet wide, therefore, requires two widths, one for each curtain.

VALANCES

Valances are subject to many variations. An elaborately shaped and deep valance like the one illustrated, which is in the dining room of the Governor's Palace, represents one extreme and conveys a sense of grandeur with ornateness. Valances used in less formal settings in Williamsburg are illustrated here in a series of designs. The shape of the valance is also subtly related to the pattern and type of fabric used. A simple valance calls for cottons and small patterns, an intricate design for damasks, a bold design for large fabric patterns. 

The proper length of a valance is determined partly by the fabric—longer if it is to accom-modate a large and bold pattern, for example. Color plays an essential role because a dark color makes a valance seem smaller, a light color larger, in size. A designer rule of thumb is to allow overall 1 1/2” to 1 3/4” for each foot of window height, modified by the above considerations.

TRIMMINGS

Effects, either formal or informal, can be obtained by trimming in the form of fringe, binding, braid or fabric borders. When used, the trimming should relate to an important color in the fabric. The more ornate hangings are usually trimmed both in valance and festoon as well as the curtains themselves. Ruffles, of course, usually suggest lightness and a touch of informality.

OTHER FEATURES

When maximum light is needed from the window, valances should be kept high up and shallow, and curtains, when drawn back, should not encroach too much on the window panes. Valances should cover everything at the top, including Venetian blind boxes, and should also extend close to the ceiling or molding. Window molding should be left exposed as much as possible.

WILLIAMSBURG WINDOW TREATMENTS

In the illustrations to follow, we see examples of window treatment at Colonial Williamsburg. These offer to the homemaker and decorator multiple suggestions of desirable effects to be used in one's own residence.