WHY ARE CUSTOM WINDOW TREATMENTS SO EXPENSIVE?

Couch and curtains drawing

Custom window treatments are a large part of what we do.  When you dress your windows, you are Completing the room and adding the perfect finishing touch. The Added benefits of light control and privacy are a bonus.

Here is what I love about them

  • They elevate a space, taking it to the next level of design.
  • They give your room it’s wow factor.
  • They tie the look of a room together offering the ultimate finishing touch.
  • It’s the one dramatic element where suddenly people seem to see parts of the room, they didn’t notice before, like architectural details, art or how lovely the pillows are on your sofa. Yup, they can be that effective.
  • They can also add privacy, soften hard lines, and block the sun
  • Custom window treatments can also be the starting point of a design plan. Imagine falling in love with a fabric and using it for the inspiration of the room. Yes it can do that too.

But why are they so expensive????

Floral window treatment

Well there are several reasons

There is a vast departure between custom and ready-made window treatments, not only in the price tag, but also the quality and workmanship.

Unlike lean ready made curtains, custom draperies just hang more beautifully as they are usually 2 1/2 – 3 times fuller than your standard ones from local retailers.   They are also usually lined. 

It’s also important to note that there is no such thing as a standard window.  Windows are vastly different in sizes and shapes, from small windows, to ceiling-to-floor styles and everything in between.

The larger the window, the more fabric is required to enhance them.

Fabric prices are variable from affordable solids to mid range patterns and high end exclusives. The fabric selection is often the main reason for the higher price tag.

Standard 8ft walls are a thing of the past.  Walls are now 9ft, 10ft, and many are 2 stories, so the longer the drapery panels, the more fabric and workmanship is required.

After fabrication, it’s important to remember to add the costs of the hardware and installation.  Oftentimes, rods brackets and finials are selected in the desired length, style and finish that harmonize with the room. 

Custom is specific to your color choices, patterns, dimensions and needs. It can also mean obtaining remote controlled options for hard to reach places. 

Fabrics are amazing these days, they are fade and soil resistant, they are intricately woven, and the selections are paramount. Thus the reason for a higher price tag.  You can actually get what you want and not have to settle for mediocrity.

While the information above might seem daunting, there is hope and a few money saving tips below.

 MONEY SAVING TIPS

Consider faux silk or faux linen blends. They make stunning applications and the bonus is, they are much easier to maintain than natural silks and linens. I don’t typically recommend silks or linens for window treatments because they will fade over time.

Oftentimes Semi-custom options are available thru designers. Do Ask about these options.

Dressing up a solid can give your home a designer sensibility.  Try embellishing your solids with decorative trim to give it a more custom look. 

Every now and again, your designer may come across closeouts.  This is a great time to invest in fabrics that are typically $$$$, $$$ and become $$ or $. Don’t be afraid to ask about this opportunity,

If you consider more intricate patterns and prints, try them for valances or top treatments as they often require less fabric than draperies.  This way you can mix and match solids for draperies and patterns and prints for your top treatments adding interest to your home decor.

Don’t hesitate to self-install.  There are many Youtube videos on the subject. 

Lastly consider Choosing timeless fabrics.  They will give you more bang for your buck and enhance your home for the long haul.

Why are window treatments so expensive?  When you consider what you’re getting, window treatments are a worthwhile investment that add aesthetic and functional value to your home.  They are the ultimate finishing touch. And in my humble opinion, worth the WOW!

Thanks for stopping by friends 

How do you feel about custom window treatments? Are they worth the wow? We want to hear your thoughts. Please share in the comments.

We help busy homeowners in Liberty Township and the surrounding areas save time, avoid design missteps and reduce overwhelm.

Our focus is to design living spaces that evoke emotion and enhance each project with custom window treatments for the ultimate finishing touch.

We are currently scheduling virtual consultations along with our e design plans.  Click here

To learn more  about our process   and to see if we are a good fit, we invite you to give us a ring at (513)-409-3759

All the best,

Ricci Signature
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