1. MINIMAL IS IN
Strip away heavy window coverings and replace with simple shades. One path to less fabric is using an upholstered cornice or a flap valance with contrasting fabrics.
2. LIGHTEN UP
Natural light in the kitchen is essential. Pleated shades offer a privacy treatment and still allow plenty of light and top window treatments allow you to lighten up your life.
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3. PICK CURRENT COLORS
The terra cotta shades are very ‘in’ mixed with greens, blacks and golds. You can also mix cotton fabric prints, either within a treatment or coordinating a print in the valance or cornice with another print on the cushion seats or place mats.
If your kitchen is particularly tiny, then light, cool colors can make it look larger and brighter, while dark, warm colors can make an oversized kitchen more inviting.
4. TRY SOME TEXTURE
Another hot trend is Roman shades made of rattan, bamboo or other natural fibers. They add visual interest with their texture, but still roll up smoothly like the Roman shades of old. Burlap is in, color and texture. Rustic Country Charm with sleek lines are seen as the New Sanctuary look and style for your home.
5. SOFTEN DIRECT LIGHT
Too much direct sunlight is also an issue in kitchens, since it makes it hot and unpleasant to work in. Simple wood blinds or woven wood shades, like the Provenance sold by Hunter Douglas, will filter the light without looking too heavy.
6. CONSIDER SOME CURVES
“There are typically lots of straight lines in the kitchen the cabinets, the appliances, the counters ,everything is straight or square. It’s a good idea to add a window treatment with soft curves to open the space up, especially in a small kitchen.”
Arching a valance is a good option, particularly over the sink. Other options include a curved cornice, a box-pleated valance with a curved line along the bottom.
