KTI's Top Custom Window Treatments for Challenging Spaces

Window treatments can do so much more than just provide privacy. In bustling spaces like kitchens or rooms filled with hard surfaces—think cabinetry, tile, and stone—softening the space is key to enhancing comfort. The absence of upholstered items and rugs can make these areas feel stark and noisy. In one of our recent projects in Villamay, we transformed a cozy kitchen nook with a custom flat Roman shade crafted from a stunning artisan textile. This simple addition created a special moment, offering both privacy and noise reduction. Paired with upholstered bench cushions, pillows, and a rug, the space became a warm and inviting retreat—perfect for savoring coffee as the autumn leaves change outside.

Photo: Stylish Productions

Let the Room Guide You

When it comes to window treatments, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach. Every space has its own personality, and the best designs often arise from listening to what the room is telling you. In our Rosemont project, the living room featured striking floor-to-ceiling black custom windows with exquisite five-piece trim. To highlight these architectural details, we opted for an off-set French return rod installed over the trim. This choice allowed the eye to focus on the stunning windows while framing them elegantly. By keeping the drapery and hardware simple, we let the room’s inherent beauty shine. Sometimes, a touch of asymmetry is what’s needed to create balance.

Photo: Stacy Zarin Goldberg

Turn Your Window Treatments Into Works of Art

At Kristin Try Interiors, we’re passionate about independent textiles, and window treatments are the perfect canvas for showcasing these unique creations. We love collaborating with our clients to select fabrics that speak to them, transforming windows into functional works of art. Many of the artisans we work with have become personal friends, and we deeply value the stories behind their craft. Take the sunroom study in Rosemont, for example. With sunlight streaming in from all sides, the room required shades that were both practical and beautiful. We chose flat Roman shades in a heavy linen from LuRu Home, lined and SPF-treated to protect the fabric and extend its life. The result? A timeless design that brings joy while supporting artists and their craft.

Photo: Stacy Zarin Goldberg

Simplicity Is Key

Simplicity is often the secret to creating sophisticated window treatments that enhance a space without overpowering it. Here are a few of our favorite approaches:

  • Flat or relaxed Roman shades: Minimal embellishments let the fabric and the room shine. 

  • Full drapery panels with finger pleats: A classic yet modern look, with drapes hanging just above the floor for a clean, tailored finish. Adding a touch of fabric tape along the edge can also add interest without overwhelming the design. 

Photo: KTI

  • French return rods: A sleek, functional choice that allows drapery to close smoothly and sit flush against the wall for a refined look.

Photo: Stylish Productions

  • Café curtains: Understated but powerful, these small-scale treatments can be both practical and stylish when paired with the right textiles and hardware. 

Endless Possibilities

Custom window treatments are one of the best investments you can make for your home. Not only do they elevate the design of a room, but they’re also made to last. At Kristin Try Interiors, we love getting creative with window solutions that address your design challenges while turning each window into a piece of art. If you’ve been considering custom window treatments, we hope this article inspires you to take the leap and embrace the beauty they can bring this fall!

SEE ALSO: Enlightened Living: Harnessing the Power of Thoughtful Lighting Design

Kristin Try

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Kristin has called Alexandria home for the past 23 years and fell in love with the small-town feel, diverse and interesting people, and walking the Mount Vernon Trail and streets of Alexandria. She is constantly inspired by the historic and old homes all around our city, the thriving small businesses and boutiques, and endless opportunities the area has to offer.

After spending several years in government affairs, Kristin took an opportunity to explore her love of art and design. She launched her business in 2015 and now dreams of creating an Alexandria-focused boutique design build firm with all women leadership.

Kristin loves spending time at home with her three active and loving girls, do-it-all husband, and sweet dog, Duke. Her home is her art and design lab where she is always tinkering with a design project, cooking up a healthy recipe while sipping a good wine or coffee, reading the latest and greatest leadership book, and dreaming of the next travel adventure.

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