Window Treatment Functions for Residential and Commercial Spaces

Window treatments are an important part of our everyday life at home and they also play a prominent role in the commercial world as well.

Take a moment to stop and notice just how many windows there are around you. Almost every building has at least one window.

Windows are such an important part of architecture, allowing visibility between the interior and exterior. Window treatments add light control, privacy, energy efficiency, and style to enhance the functionality of any window.

In this article, let’s take a closer look at the different types of functions that window treatments provide and how they enhance residential and commercial spaces.

Window Treatments Provide Light Control

When considering window treatments, the first thing that comes to mind might not be light control, but in reality, that is one of their primary functions.

Windows allow natural light to enter any enclosed space. Without something else to help moderate the amount of sunlight shining through, you would find yourself at the mercy of the seasons and weather.

Window treatments are one of the best ways to control the amount of natural light coming from the windows in any structure.

Opacity

When it comes to window treatments and the material used to make up the window covering, we talk a lot about opacity.

Opacity is the amount of light that is blocked by a certain material.

The lower the opacity, the more light will be able to pass through. For example, sheers have very low opacity, while blackout shades have very high opacity.

Light Filtering vs. Room Darkening

Window treatments come in a range of opacities from light filtering to room darkening or blackout.

Light filtering window treatments are made from a material that has an openness to it which allows a certain amount of light to still pass through.

These are beautiful additions to any room because they will still block harsh glare but allow sunlight to naturally illuminate the room. Light filtering window treatments, such as sheer shades or draperies, are great options for kitchens, living rooms, and home offices.

For windows that need to have the light blocked completely will need treatments made from material with a higher opacity rating.

These are called room darkening treatments and are specifically designed to prevent as much outside light as possible. These are wonderful options for children’s bedrooms or anyone who may need to sleep during normal daylight hours such as nurses, first responders, or other night shift operators.

Love the look of a window treatment that doesn’t block as much light as you would like? Room darkening liners can usually be added to almost any window treatment in order to give an extra layer of light control.

Light Control for Residential Windows

Windows in residential buildings will require light control to maintain a comfortable atmosphere in certain areas of the house.

The amount of control will depend on factors such as location, climate, and the direction the house faces. Some other considerations will be the primary purpose of the room and what time of day you find yourself using that area of the house.

Take into consideration which windows are exposed to the most direct sunlight during specific hours of the day. This will come in handy when determining the best types of window treatments for each area of the house.

Window Treatments for Bedrooms

Window treatments in the bedroom should be versatile. During the day you may want to enjoy the soft ambient light streaming through large picture windows. At bedtime, you will want to be sure those big beautiful windows are not letting in external light to keep you awake.

The key is to have window treatments that can effortlessly transition from one purpose to the other.

The Best Window Treatment Ideas for the Bedroom

• Traversing Draperies
• Roman Shades
• Cellular Shades
• Shades and Draperies with Room Darkening Liners

Window Treatments for Living Rooms

Living rooms typically house some of the largest windows of the home so your window treatments will need to accommodate these dimensions.

Depending on the direction these windows face will determine what functions you need your window treatments to perform.

It is also important to consider what purposes you use your living room for before deciding what window treatments will best meet your needs.

Is your living room a place of solitude for curling up in a sunny corner with a good book? Or do you love to entertain and use your living room for game nights or other social gatherings?

These factors will all determine what types of window treatments will work best for your living room.

The Best Window Treatment Ideas for Living Rooms

• Vertical Blinds
• Shutters
• Traversing Draperies
• Layered Window Treatments

Window Treatments for Kitchens

No one wants a dark kitchen so windows in this area are all about letting in lots of natural light.

The primary function of kitchen window treatments should be to frame your windows without blocking the light.

Depending on where your windows are located within the kitchen space, durability and moisture resistance will also be important to consider.

The Best Window Treatment Ideas for Kitchens

• Faux Wood Shutters
• Horizontal Blinds
• Roman Shades
• Café Curtains
• Top Treatments

Window Treatments for Patios and Outdoor Living Spaces

Window treatments can also be incredibly useful outside your home. The direction your patio, deck, or other outdoor space faces will determine when it is in direct sunlight and when it is in the shade.

Adding outdoor window treatments will allow you to create a comfortable outdoor space regardless of the sun and inclement weather.

There are numerous other benefits of outdoor window treatments that can be found in this article - 8 Tips To Make The Most Of Your Backyard.

Another important consideration is window treatments for any doorways that allow access to the outside. Sliding glass doors and French doors are wonderful, but they can also need coverage from letting in too much light during certain times of the day.

Certain window treatments are better equipped to provide light control to these types of doors. Learn more about some of the important factors to consider right here - The Best Patio Door Window Treatments.

The Best Window Treatment Ideas for Patios

• Roller Shades
• Sun Screens
• Outdoor Draperies
• Exterior Shutters

Light Control for Commercial Windows

Light control is just as important to consider for many commercial spaces. Whether for customers or employees, the key to creating a pleasant experience is providing adequate lighting that enhances the experience.

There are many types of commercial locations where it is critical to have full control over how much natural light is coming in or being kept out. So let’s talk about a few of these types of spaces.

Light Control for Medical Offices

Medical offices will have different rooms that require various levels of light control. The waiting room must be pleasant and inviting, while certain procedure rooms will need the ability to keep out all outside light.

The Best Window Treatments for Light Control in Medical Offices

• Horizontal Blinds
• Roller Shades
• Solar Shades

Light Control for Retail Locations

Retail spaces want to encourage shoppers to browse. Harsh glare is not conducive to encouraging customers to take their time.

Using window treatments that can block the sun but can still place products on display are ideal for these spaces.

The Best Window Treatments for Retail Locations

• Solar Shades
• Roller Shades
• Window Film

Light Control for Office Buildings

Office spaces are designed to house numerous employees and creating a comfortable work environment should be a priority.

Happy employees will be more efficient and productive. Having just the right amount of natural light over artificial light will encourage stimulation and a positive attitude. At the same time, harsh light should not interfere with cubicles or work stations.

The Best Window Treatment Options for Office Buildings

• Roller Shades
• Vertical Blinds
• Motorized Window Shades

Light Control for Restaurants

Restaurant window treatments need to create a comfortable dining experience for patrons while facilitating an efficient work environment.

Accessibility is always a factor for restaurant windows as well, so having an operational system that allows quick transitions is key.

The Best Window Treatments for Restaurants

• Sun Screens
• Solar Shades
• Roller Shades
• Motorized Shades

Window Treatments Provide Privacy

Privacy is another important function that window treatments provide. Everyone enjoys a view until they feel like they are on display.

Windows work two ways which means if you have a clear view out, most likely there is an unobstructed view in as well.

Operational window treatments are a great way to ensure windows can provide a view as well as be covered as needed to add a level of privacy.

The surroundings of your home will determine most of your needs for privacy. Nearby neighbors or open space around your home can create a vantage point to see into your home.

Sometimes just having a large number of big windows is enough for you to want window treatments to protect against any unwanted attention.

Privacy for Residential Windows

Window treatments are a perfect solution for privacy concerns in residential spaces. Certain areas of your home will require more privacy than others. Consider the location of your house, the direction your windows face and what is visible from the outside looking in.

Sometimes, the interior space is not visible through windows during the day, but as soon as it gets dark and the lights turn on, everything inside becomes illuminated. Be sure to consider what is visible both inside and outside during daylight hours and at night.

Knowing what areas of your home will require more privacy than others will help determine the best window treatment solutions.

Privacy for Bathroom Windows

While having a light and airy bathroom space is wonderful, bathroom windows are one of the first areas that typically require a high level of privacy.

Window treatments for bathroom windows should be able to go back and forth between allowing ample light and providing privacy without much fuss. Easily functioning window treatments will be a huge plus.

Another consideration for bathroom window treatments is the material of those treatments. If the windows will come in contact with a lot of moisture or humidity, you will want to use the right materials so that your window treatments do not prematurely warp or crack.

The best window treatments for bathrooms will provide a combination of durability, privacy, and light control.

The Best Window Treatment Ideas for Bathrooms

• Vinyl Shutters
• Horizontal Blinds
• Roller Shades

Privacy for Bedroom Windows

Bedrooms will be another area where privacy will be a main focus. Large bedroom windows are wonderful when you want a lot of natural light and picturesque views.

Operational window treatments should be easy to move from opened to closed as needed.

When in an opened position, the amount of space that the window treatment takes up should also be considered.

The Best Window Treatment Options for Bedroom Windows

• Vertical Blinds
• Roman Shades
• Cellular Shades
• Traversing Draperies

Privacy for Home Offices

Home offices are areas that require finesse and balance in order to achieve optimal functionality.

Having the ability to add a level of privacy to your home work space is a great way to create a place of productivity and efficiency.

Light filtering window treatments can be a great way to add privacy without losing all of the natural light.

The Best Window Treatment Ideas for Home Offices

• Sunscreens
• Vertical Blinds
• Cellular Shades
• Motorized Shades

Privacy for Commercial Windows

Window treatments are the best way to add privacy to any windows and that is true for commercial spaces too.

When it comes to privacy, versatility is key. Being able to add coverage as needed is the best way to ensure the windows can be used quickly and efficiently.

Some of the commercial spaces that will benefit most from added privacy are listed below.

Privacy for Medical Offices

Treatment rooms, exam rooms, or personal offices that have windows will all need window treatments that offer privacy.

Medical facilities are more concerned with function and efficiency rather than décor. These window treatments should also be made from a material that is easy to keep clean and disinfect as needed.

The Best Window Treatment Options for Privacy for Medical Rooms

• Roller Shades
• Cubicle Curtains
• Cellular Shades

Privacy for Multi-Unit Dwellings

Many multi-unit dwellings will have private living spaces as well as public common areas that are shared by residents.

Privacy may be a bigger factor for areas within the individual units more so than the common spaces.

Ease of use and accessibility will also be important to consider based on the needs of the residents.

The Best Window Treatments for Privacy for Multi-Unit Dwellings

• Vertical Blinds
• Cellular Shades
• Motorized Shades

Privacy for Hotels

Similar to multi-unit dwellings, hotels are spaces that need to offer privacy for each individual unit.

There are also some larger conference rooms or common areas within hotels that might also benefit from window treatments to make them feel more private.

Hotel restrooms, fitness rooms, or indoor pool areas might also have large windows that could require an added level of privacy.

The Best Window Treatments for Privacy for Hotels

• Cellular Shades
• Vertical Blinds
• Traversing Draperies
• Layered Window Treatments (horizontal blinds with side panels, for example)

Window Treatments for Energy Efficiency

Along with allowing sunlight in, windows are one of the primary sources for transferring heat.

It is important to keep interior spaces at a comfortable temperature all year long.

Location, the direction of windows, and how many windows are in each room will determine the amount of energy lost through windows.

Window treatments are one of the most effective ways to protect against energy loss.

Energy Efficiency for Residential Windows

Without energy efficient window treatments, your home could lose as much as 50% of its heating and cooling energy through its windows.

Even if your window treatments are not designed to be energy efficient, just the fact that you have them on your windows can help to insulate your home.

To learn more about energy efficient window treatment options and how they can help you save money, check out Window Treatments Could Save You Hundreds Each Month.

Energy Efficiency for Bedroom Windows

Bedrooms are areas where temperature control can be a major factor since you want your bedroom to be a comfortable temperature all year long.

Since windows account for a large amount of energy loss, window treatments are a wonderful way to make sure your room is warm through the winter and cool in the summer.

The Best Window Treatment Ideas for Bedrooms

• Cellular Shades
• Traversing Draperies
• Shutters

Energy Efficiency for Bathroom Windows

Bathrooms are another location within the home that can benefit from additional insulation.

As we discussed with privacy and light control, another consideration for bathroom window treatments will be the amount of moisture and humidity that will be present.

Always opt for materials that are more durable and water resistant so that your window treatments will last.

The Best Energy Efficient Window Treatments for Bathrooms

• Faux Wood or Composite Shutters
• Cellular Shades
• Roller Shades

Energy Efficiency for Basement Windows

Not every house will have basement windows to consider, but for locations that do, basement windows can often be an area that is overlooked.

Left uncovered, basement windows can be a huge source of energy loss. Adding window treatments to these basement windows might help keep your home insulated and over time possibly lower your energy costs.

The Best Window Treatment Options for Basements

• Cellular Shades
• Roller Shades
• Window Film

Energy Efficiency for Commercial Windows

Energy efficient windows for commercial spaces can be a great area for a business to lower their costs.

For commercial spaces that have employees, keeping a comfortable working environment is critical for productivity as well as health and safety.

Commercial spaces that are primarily designed for storage may still need to maintain temperature control to avoid any damage due to extreme heat or cold.

Here are just some of the types of commercial spaces that should consider adding energy efficient window treatments to their windows.

Energy Efficiency for Retail Locations

Retail locations will need to have temperature control for both customers as well as maintaining products in an optimal condition.

Product damage can be an easily avoidable cost to a business simply by preventing excessive exposure to heat and light.

Retail locations also have regular employees that will be onsite for long periods of time. Maintaining a comfortable working environment is critical in keeping these employees safe and happy.

The Best Window Treatments for Retail Locations

• Solar Screens
• Roller Shades
• Window Film

Energy Efficiency for Hotel Windows

Keeping hotels comfortable and energy efficient can be accomplished simply by adding the right window treatment options.

Hotels are buildings with a high number of windows which increases the amount of energy lost.

Adding proper window coverings that are functional and easy to operate will help to keep the heating and cooling costs down.

Energy Efficient Window Treatment Options for Hotels

• Cellular Shades
• Traversing Draperies
• Motorized Shades

Energy Efficiency for Schools

Schools are another commercial space that must be kept at a comfortable temperature in order to ensure the health and safety of students and staff.

Schools often have to follow a tight budget, so anything that can help keep utility costs down is a huge bonus. Energy efficient window treatments are a great way of accomplishing both.

Window treatments can only provide insulation when used properly. Regardless of the type or style, if the treatments are not easily operable, they will not be beneficial. By choosing a window treatment that has an easily accessible operating system, they will be much more effective.

The Best Window Treatment Ideas for Schools

• Horizontal Blinds
• Solar Shades
• Window Film
• Motorized Shades

Window Treatments for Beauty

While functionality is important, one of the greatest benefits of window treatments is the beauty and style they add to a space.

Window treatments are a relatively easy way to add a touch of personality, a splash of color, and enhance the entire atmosphere.

Don’t get caught up with just what your window treatments can do, but really enjoy playing with the fun of what they can add to a room.

Style and Décor for Residential Windows

Window treatments are a great way to make a statement within a home. Everyone wants their home to exude a sense of personality, comfort, and style.

Take the time to really get a feel for what certain colors and textures add to the different rooms of your house.

The great thing is that stylish window treatments are a wonderful addition to any room! And by really honing in on what each room provides, you will be able to find a window treatment that is both functional and beautiful at the same time.

Our Gotcha Covered Designers are experts at finding the perfect solution for both your needs and your design tastes, so really talk to them about what it is you want to create. They love taking your ideas and making them a reality!

Style and Décor for Commercial Windows

While beauty and style can go into any commercial space as well, it may not always be necessary.

Certain commercial buildings will definitely benefit from having window treatments that are both functional and stylish.

Consider adding beautiful window treatments to some of these types of commercial locations.

Add Beautiful Window Treatments to Front Offices

Many businesses will have a front office where customers will be coming in and spending some time.

Making this area visually appealing is a great way to create a space that your customers will feel comfortable in and can reflect the personality of your business.

The Best Window Treatment Ideas for Front Offices

• Custom Print Designer Shades
• Roller Shades
• Top Treatments

Add Beautiful Window Treatments to Hospitality Locations

Hotels, conference centers and other hospitality locations are another fantastic place to add a touch of style to really create a beautiful space.

Features of elegance will immediately create the look and feel of a space, so be mindful of what elements you incorporate.

Remember that window treatments can also enhance windows to make them seem bigger and make rooms feel larger. Hanging long side panels or draperies can be a great way to make ceilings feel higher than they actually are.

Use decorative elements such as window treatments to really embellish the spaces you have to work with.

The Best Window Treatments for Hospitality Locations

• Draperies
• Roman Shades
• Shutters
• Top Treatments

Add Beautiful Window Treatments to Restaurants

Restaurants are commercial spaces that require functional window treatments that will also add a little style and flair.

Depending on the décor of the establishment, certain window treatments will naturally be a good fit based on the look and the function they provide.

The Best Window Treatments for Restaurants

• Custom Designer Print Sunscreens
• Graphic Printed Roller Shades
• Café Curtains
• Shutters

Conclusion

Window treatments are important additions to both residential and commercial spaces. They add much needed light control, privacy, energy efficiency and aesthetics to all windows.

With so many wonderful window treatment options available, it can be a little overwhelming to know exactly where to get started.

Whether you are looking for commercial or residential window treatments, working with a Gotcha Covered Design Team Expert is the best way to take the first step.

Their expertise will help get you started on the right path to finding the perfect window treatments to fit your needs, style, and budget. They can also show you some of the exciting new options for motorization and connected home systems.

Call us at (888) 650-6187 orschedule a free design consultation today!