Glass windows, doors and mirrors are a design win for us, but for birds, they can be disorienting. From small patio doors to entire glass façades, reflective or transparent surfaces confuse birds into thinking they’re flying into open sky.

The good news is, you can drastically reduce these often deadly collisions with a few clever, expert-backed changes at home, from making your windows more visible to adjusting the lighting in your home.

All you need are some simple, essential DIY skills to help create a safer home environment for your local birds.

How to stop birds flying into windows, doors and mirrors

1. Apply decals or film to break up reflections

'Birds collide with glass for two primary reasons: Reflection and transparency,' explains Maren Gimpel, associate director of Foreman’s Branch Bird Observatory at Washington College, adding, 'They perceive the reflection of trees or sky as real habitat, or they try to fly through what looks like open space.'

The best fix is to make the glass visible using the right window treatment ideas. Decals, white tape, and marker patterns applied to the outside of the window help break up the illusion. 'These patterns should be no more than two inches apart,' says Maren, adding, 'Spacing is critical – birds will attempt to fly through even small gaps.'

Make sure to avoid common window treatment mistakes that amplify reflections, and instead aim to soften interior views to reduce the chance of strikes.

Feather Friendly window markers [available at Amazon] are a top choice, approved by the American Bird Conservancy and used at Washington College’s environmental center, where they’ve reduced collisions by over 95%. 'They cover only 6–8% of the glass and don’t block views,' Maren explains.

Thomas Patterson from Glass Doctor also recommends exterior films, 'They’re easy to apply, reduce glare and reflections, and can improve energy efficiency.'

Knowing where interior designers buy window treatments will help to bring style, privacy, and sun protection that can double as visual barriers for birds. You can also obstruct your window to maximize a space's style while providing visibility for birds.

Before applying decals, clean your windows – it’ll help your materials stick better and avoid streaks. And for homes in noisy areas, you could use it as a chance to combine upgrades and soundproof your windows.

2. Dim or turn off lights at night

Artificial light can also be dangerous. 'Birds, particularly in spring and fall, are drawn to lit areas,' says Maren. 'Dawn is a common time for strikes, as birds descend and mistake reflections for habitat.'

Using smart lights that dim as the evening gets darker can help solve the problem. 'Warm-light LEDs are less confusing for birds,' says Thomas, adding, 'closing blinds or curtains at night helps reduce interior reflections.'

The benefits of smart lighting include being able to set warmer lighting automatically – I use Philips Hue smart bulbs at home, and they're great for any lamp or light fixture.

3. Rethink your landscaping

'The closer glass is to dense vegetation, the greater the risk of bird strikes,' says Maren, adding, 'If a window reflects trees or shrubs, birds think it’s part of the landscape.'

Avoid placing plants or feeders directly in front of large panes. Instead, offset greenery or use outdoor features like trellises or shrubs to break up reflections. You can also deter certain species using colors that repel pigeons, for example.

If you feed birds, 'Place bird feeders and baths either more than 30 feet away or within 3 feet of windows,' Thomas says. Closer bird feeders reduce flight speed, and feeders placed further away help to prevent disorientation.

'Move indoor plants away from windows too. Birds might try to reach them, especially if they see the greenery from outside,' he continues.

You can get creative with bird feeder alternatives to provide safety outside your home. And if you’re already updating your home, it’s worth adding bird protection to bigger jobs like weatherproofing your windows.

As Maren puts it, 'This isn’t a bird problem – it’s a design problem. The more we treat it that way, the more we can protect our ecosystems.'

Next, delve into our wildlife-friendly garden ideas and learn about natural pest control methods that are humane and non-toxic.

As temperatures soar across the US this summer, staying cool has never felt more urgent. And while air conditioning is effective, it isn't the most cost-effective solution, especially during a long heatwave.

That's where an air purifying tower fan comes in. Combining one of the best fans with one of the best air purifiers results in an appliance that can rapidly cool you down while cleansing the air of pollution and allergens, while using up much less energy than your AC.

I've been using the Dreo Air Purifying Tower Fan MC710S for almost a year, and it's saved the day countless times during heat waves. It has also banished harmful gases and pollutants, reducing my allergies to virtually none.

Why I love this Dreo air purifying tower fan

The only downside to using a fan is the fact that it blows dust and other common household allergens into the air, worsening your allergy and asthma symptoms.

However, Dreo's combination of a fan and air purifier gives you the best of both: you can cool down in a heatwave and cleanse the air of harmful pollutants. And as the fan creates a breeze, it can pull pollen, dander, smoke, and other particles from further parts of the room.

A major benefit is improving air quality when living in a city or anywhere with outdoor pollution, as opening the windows to improve your home's ventilation can bring in air that's dangerous to breathe.

It's also a savior when cooking, as you can keep the kitchen cool while removing harmful cooking gases from the air. Ignoring VOCs from cooking is one of the more surprising mistakes compromising your air quality.

But perhaps most important: sleep. Sleeping with a fan on at night can be comforting, especially in the sweltering heat, but it can affect your breathing and dry your throat if you're inhaling dust. The Dreo purifying fan can blow clean air all night, thanks to its True HEPA filter that captures 99.9% of pollutants.

Another great feature is its dual motor, meaning you don't have to run the fan and purifier at the same time. If your air quality is good and you just need a breeze, or if it's a cold day but the air quality is poor, the MC710S can adjust to that, and do it automatically if you set it to.

I've been using the Dreo MC710S for just under a year, and it's been a lifesaver during the hot days of summer when allergy season is in full swing. I also love its app connectivity and the complete customization I get over every setting.

Buy the Dreo Air Purifying Tower Fan MC710S for $299.99 with code AOD15.

What to shop

Not what you're looking for? We've tested 22 fans and air purifiers at Homes & Gardens and can recommend plenty more.

All prices were correct at time of publication.

Next, learn what not to do in a heatwave, and the home remedies to stay cool without spending.

While it's highly likely you've heard of double glazing – window made with two panes of glass separated by an air gap for insulation – you may be less familiar with triple pane windows.

These instead feature three panes of glass with two air gaps, boosting the insulating properties, and helping to keep a home warm and cozy without contributing to energy bills.

But, as this option is more expensive at the outset than its more popular double glazed counterpart, are triple pane windows worth the investment? Here, HVAC experts share their thoughts on this small upgrade that can boost home value.

Are triple pane windows worth the investment?

In short, yes. Triple pane windows are a solid spend. Chad Kleis, vice president of business development for Window World says, 'Windows with triple pane glass are worth the investment. Even though they may typically be associated with use in colder climates due to the increased energy efficiency triple pane glass provides, there are additional benefits that make them suitable in any market.'

For example, key benefits include increased energy efficiency, helping you to save money at home by cutting energy bills for both heating and cooling. Kleis points out that triple pane windows also reduce the potential for condensation inside windows during winter, keeping your house warm without turning up the heat, and are one of the best ways to add value to your home.

'Fortunately, replacement windows offer one of the higher ROI's among all types of remodeling project that will at value to your home at around 65% of cost versus value,' he says.

That means, whatever the cost of the triple pane windows, you can count on it bumping up your property's value by around 65% of that.

Triple pane windows also reduce sound transmission, although it is possible to soundproof windows without replacing them, by sealing gaps and cracks with caulk, such as the Gorilla Waterproof Caulk & Seal 100% Silicone Sealant available at Amazon, and using soundproof window dressings, or soundproof window insulation kits.

All prices correct at time of publication.

What are the drawbacks of triple pane windows?

Perhaps the most obvious drawback with triple pane windows is the cost, but, as Hans Ingram, New York-based project manager at JSM Project Management, assures, 'Savings on energy costs over time will outweigh the initial up-front investment and actually save you money in the long run.'

The most considerable cost consideration is installation, as highlighted by Kyle Scott from EcoTech Windows & Doors. 'Additional glass and materials make triple-pane windows heavier, which may require additional support and could increase installation costs,' he says. 'You can increase the effectiveness of triple-pane windows by getting them professionally installed,' although calling in the pros will obviously be reflected in the cost. 'This guarantees proper sealing, which improves performance and prevents air infiltration, and can enhance the overall energy-efficiency.'

It is also worth considering where you live when pondering the upgrade, or you may risk diminished returns, adds Scott. 'In regions where temperatures do not drop below freezing, the benefits may not be as noticeable compared to other options,' he explains.

If you're not sold on spending, or want to hold off on taking the plunge, Robert Hamerly, principal and CEO at GreenSavers, recommends using window sealing film, such as the Duck Brand Rolled Insulation Film available at Walmart. 'These kits lessen the clarity of windows, but do a decent job to make a difference in leakiness,' and work well for DIY draft-proofing to insulate windows and weatherproof your windows, too.

FAQs

How often should windows be replaced?

While a costly upgrade, windows should be replaced every ten to twenty years, as even the best quality windows won't last forever. In particular, taking the time (and money) to do so is a smart home improvement for winter, keeping your house cozy and energy bills low.

Is it better to replace all windows at once?

Putting aside the issue of cost, if you're unsure whether to repair or replace your windows, it is recommended to replace your windows all at once, even if you're not renovating.

While only one or two windows may show signs of damage and degradation, it's likely that the others will soon follow, and it's therefore far easier and cost-effective to get them all done in one fell swoop.

'For homeowners thinking about replacing their windows, triple pane glass windows should be considered,' says Kleis. 'Think of it like this: home improvement project should be viewed as an investment, and each comes with a return on investment.'

Did you know that energy efficient windows can slash your energy bills?

With January in full swing, the colder weather has well and truly set in, with frost, sleet and snow a regular sight.

More often than not, this drop in temperature will also be reflected inside your home, regardless of the heating and draft-proofing measures you may have taken.

So, should you close your window's trickle vents in winter to keep things more cozy? Here, HVAC experts explain how to keep your house warm without turning up the heat, and share why it's actually best to keep your trickle vents open.

Should you close your window's trickle vents in winter?

In short, no.

Whilst in winter, one of the most important things when keeping a home warm all day is using DIY draft-proofing tips to keep the heat in, it may surprise you to know that, in general, HVAC experts don't recommend closing your window's trickle vents.

These are the small air flow vents integrated into window frames and doors, which are often used as a way to ventilate your home in winter without increasing energy bills.

Kevin Goude, experienced HVAC expert and owner at First Choice, says, 'It depends on your home's insulation, HVAC system, and local climate, but generally no, you don't need to close them. These vents help maintain airflow, reduce your home's humidity, and prevent mold growth, even in winter. Closing them may lead to stale air and condensation inside windows, which can affect both your home and health.'

Josh Mitchell, HVAC technician at AirConditionerLab, also points that that without fresh air, pollutants and allergens are unable to escape, 'which might make air quality issues worse for everyone, particularly those with respiratory conditions.' This means closing your window's trickle vents is a mistake compromising your home's air quality that is best avoided.

While Mitchell and Goude both appreciate that a minimal loss of warm air and a slight increase in outdoor noise are potential drawbacks, they can easily be overcome. 'The warm loss can be mitigated with energy-efficient solutions like space heaters (such as the Dreo Space Heater for Inside available at Walmart) and there are modern vents that have a high degree of soundproofing, such as the SF Xtra Sound Attenuator (Acoustic) Vent available at Titon,' recommends Goude.

To get the maximum benefit from your window's trickle vents, Goude recommends using them differently in different rooms.

'In high-moisture areas, like the basement, kitchen and bathrooms, keep them fully open. For all other rooms, such as living rooms, dining rooms and bedrooms, use the partially open mode.

'And, upgrade vents by using activated, cut-to-fit carbon filters in them, such as the Breathe Naturally Universal Cut To Fit Activated Carbon Air Filter available at Amazon – they can be trimmed to fit various vent sizes, including trickle vents.'

If you have a considerable amount of condensation in your home, opening windows in winter will reduce condensation, and balance airflow in your home, even throughout the colder months.

If you're unsure how often you should open windows in winter, this will vary depending on the weather, but, in general, no longer than a few minutes is more than enough to improve ventilation in your home and avoid any habits that increase the risk of mold.

'Though it might feel like you're letting in cold air, the airflow from open trickle vents is minimal but essential,' says HVAC technician Mitchell. 'It helps keep your home's air clean and healthy, which is always a plus during the colder months. If you're worried about losing heat, focus on other ways to keep your home warm, like using draft stoppers (such as the HomeProtect Door Draft Stopper available at Amazon) or improving insulation, without sacrificing good air circulation.'

Should I sleep with my window open in winter? While it might not seem like an attractive option, there are a whole host of health benefits, experts explain.

As the cold winter weather sets in, keeping your home warm and energy-efficient becomes a top priority. One of the biggest causes of heat loss in homes, particularly older ones, is poorly insulated windows.

Whether you’re dealing with drafty single panes or crafting solutions for quirky window shapes, finding the right window insulation method can make a noticeable difference in comfort and heating bills. Fortunately, there are plenty of practical, affordable, and even stylish options available to help you prepare a house for cold weather.

In this guide, we explore some of the most effective methods to insulate windows for the colder months. With five tips from our experts, suited to different types of windows, you're sure to find a method that fits your style, budget, and home design.

1. Install weatherstripping

'Weatherstripping is one of the simplest and most cost-effective ways to block drafts around windows,' recommends Bob Berriz, owner of Berriz Design Build. 'This flexible material can be applied along the edges of sashes or frames to create a tight seal. It’s ideal for older homes where windows may not close tightly anymore, and it’s easy to install and remove without causing damage.'

According to Bob, Frost King’s Self-Adhesive Weatherstrip Tape available at Walmart is a reliable choice. 'It comes in different widths and materials, such as foam and rubber, to suit your window type. For homes with wooden window frames, consider a felt weatherstripping, which is gentler on the finish.'

To apply, clean the window surface thoroughly, measure the perimeter, cut the weatherstripping to size, and press it firmly into place. With its easy installation, you’ll notice a significant reduction heat loss immediately, and feel the benefits of DIY draft proofing. This works particularly well when paired with putting your windows in winter mode, to guarantee maximum heat retention.

2. Use a window Insulation film

Window insulation film is a popular solution to insulating windows because it’s almost invisible once applied. The film shrinks when heat is applied to it, and is stretched across the inside of your windowpane and secured using double-sided tape. This forms an airtight layer that reduces heat transfer and eliminates drafts.

'The 3M Indoor Window Insulation Kit is a best-seller for a reason,' continues Bob. 'It includes everything you need for installation and the product is known for its clarity and durability.'

'To install, attach the film to the frame, leaving some extra. Next, use a hairdryer to shrink the film until it’s taut and smooth. This method is especially effective for single-pane or older windows.'

Therefore, while triple pane windows are worth it, this is an affordable, budget-friendly option that's suitable for rental properties, too.

3. Hang thermal curtains or insulated drapes

Adding thermal curtains or insulated drapes is a great curtain hack for a warmer home in winter. They’re made with dense fabrics and often feature a thermal lining designed to trap heat inside the room. These are particularly useful for homes with large windows or patio doors, where other solutions might be less effective.

'INOVADAYs Thermal Insulated Blackout Curtains from Amazon are stylish, affordable, and come in a wide range of colors to match your decor,' continues Bob. 'For extra efficiency, look for curtains with triple-weave technology.'

To maximize their effectiveness, hang the curtains as close to the window as possible and ensure they extend a few inches beyond the frame on all sides. When drawn, they’ll create a snug barrier that keeps warm air inside and cold air out.

4. Install insulating cellular shades

'Cellular shades, also known as honeycomb shades, are an elegant and highly effective way to insulate your windows,' recommends Sabi Kampeas, CEO and founder of Kasa201 LLC. 'Their unique design features pockets of air trapped within the cells, which act as a barrier to heat transfer. Cellular shades are available in various levels of opacity, from sheer to blackout, making them a versatile choice for your windows in any room.'

Sabi recommends the Bali Cellular Shades from Home Depot, which are also rated 4.5 out of 5 by customers, as they offer excellent insulation properties and come in customizable sizes to fit your windows perfectly.

These shades are easy to install and operate, providing an attractive, low-maintenance solution for year-round insulation.

5. Draft snakes

Draft snakes are a charming and inexpensive way to block drafts at the base of your windows, and doors for that matter. These fabric tubes are filled with materials like sand, wheat, foam or rice and can be placed along window sills or between sashes to prevent cold air from seeping in.

'While you can buy ready-made draft snakes, such as the Fowong Twin Draft Guard from Amazon, making your own can be a fun and personalized project,' says Sabi. 'Simply sew a fabric tube and fill it with rice, beans, or even old socks for an eco-friendly solution.'

Place the draft snake snugly against the window to see an immediate difference. This solution is practical for quirky or hard-to-fit windows, as they can be customized to any size.

Similar to winterizing your home, winter-proofing your windows doesn’t have to be an arduous task as there’s a solution for every home and budget.

Insulating your windows not only keeps your home cozy but also helps reduce heating loss. So, why wait? Take the time to insulate your windows now and enjoy a warm, draft-free home all winter. Next, learn how to draft proof your living room or draft proof your bedroom for maximum comfort when relaxing.

Window vacs are really starting to pick up traction as one of the best ways to get glass gleaming, be it for their traditional use, or for cleaning shower glass, mirrors, and car windscreens.

But the vacuum alone won’t do much to shift dirt. For truly spotless results, you need to pair it with a good window cleaning solution that breaks down dust and grime and doesn't leave streaks. But what happens when you run out of the commercial cleaner it comes with?

Rather than splash out on more, you can make your own sustainable cleaner for cleaning windows without streaks. I tried three homemade cleaning solutions for use with my window vacuum and loved them.

The best homemade window cleaning solutions for a window vacuum

Window vacs work by sucking up moisture to minimize streaking and watermarks, leaving behind a truly gleaming window pane. The best homemade window cleaner, therefore, needs to be able to break down grease and grime without clinging to the window and being too sudsy for the vacuum to remove.

I tested a few out (made some window cleaning mistakes so you don’t have to) and settled on three recipes that work perfectly.

Before cleaning windows, you will need a few tools:

• A window vacuum, available at Amazon
• Microfiber cloths from Walmart, or sponges, also from Walmart
• A clean spray bottle, available at Walmart, for easy application

1. Castile soap and water

One of my all-time favorite solutions for freshening up my windows is cleaning with Castille soap mixed with warm water. I started using this method when I picked up a copy of Lisa Bronner’s Soap & Soul from Amazon – it is essentially a Castile soap bible, packed full of nostalgic cleaning tips for just about everything.

This solution is perfect because you can use it both inside and out for clean windows. I followed Lisa’s recipe for this, mixing one tablespoon of Castile soap with one quart of warm water.

For use outside, I soaked a sponge in a bowl of the mixture before slathering the window, buffing to dissolve grime and dust. I then rinsed away the suds with plain water (usually using a watering can from Walmart for ease) before using the window vac to suck up the water for a streak-free shine.

For window cleaning inside, I mixed up the solution in a spray bottle, shaking it up before lightly misting the window and letting it sit for a minute or two before using the vacuum to remove it.

Another big pro to this solution is you can use it to clean window tracks, too, removing built-up grime for a smoother-moving window pane.

2. Vinegar

Cleaning with vinegar is another homemade staple that is great for cleaning windows (or even cleaning glass shower doors) that are obscured by hard or dusty watermarks. The acidity of distilled white vinegar helps to remove limescale from shower glass and windows, eating away at the minerals to make them easier to remove. For that reason, it's far more effective than the Victorian window cleaning hack we recently tried here at Homes & Gardens.

Punteha van Terheyden, head of Solved, explains, ‘Mixing equal parts distilled white vinegar, from Walmart, with warm water and a drop or two of high-quality dish soap (like Dawn from Walmart) creates an easy to use solution for both sides of your window. The dish soap acts as a surfactant, allowing the solution to spread more evenly on the glass and cling to it, making it easier to buff with a microfiber cloth or sponge before removing it with the window vac.

When working outside, you might also want to allow the mixture to sit on the window for a minute or two to break down any limescale deposits before buffing.

She adds, ‘Remember to work from side to side slowly for the vacuum to work properly.'

3. Baking soda and water

It might sound strange to use a powder, but cleaning with baking soda is another great way to remove tough deposits on the outside of windows. I usually use it after a dusty summer rain, but it proved particularly useful after some recent construction left my window coated in grime.

To use baking soda to clean windows, you need to form a paste. You are essentially making a homemade version of The Pink Stuff paste, available at Walmart to mimic our Pink-and-Blink window cleaning hack.

How much you make will depend on the size of your window, but the general idea is to mix a small amount of warm water at a time with baking soda until it forms a spreadable paste that you can scoop up with a cloth or sponge (like a Scrub Daddy, from Walmart).

Then, buff it onto the glass. It sometimes helps to dampen the glass with plain water first to let the paste glide a little more easily. You want the whole pane to be concealed behind the mixture before rinsing it away with water again.

This doesn't have to be perfect, just enough to remove most of the small soda granules before using the window vac to suck up the rest, leaving a gleaming window behind.

Baking soda works perfectly because it acts as a a gentle abrasive, without scratching the window, making it easy to remove difficult, stuck-on grime.

FAQs

Why are my windows streaky after using a window vacuum?

If your windows still look streaky after using a window vacuum, it may be that you have pressed too hard or moved too quickly when using it to remove water. It is a delicate art that needs some practice to get right.

If you are well-practiced, however, and the streaks are a recent occurrence, the rubber edge on the window vac may have worn down with heavy use, creating an uneven surface that leaves streaks. It may be time for a replacement. Amazon window vacuums are plentiful and available for quick delivery.

What should you not use to clean windows?

When cleaning windows, it is best to avoid any harsh chemicals such as bleach, or strong abrasives like hard bristled brushes, as these can damage the glass, leaving permanent scratches and cloudy marks.

With your windows sparkling, read more about what I wish I knew before buying a window vacuum to discover more smart ways to use these surprisingly versatile devices all around your home.

When it comes to desirable kitchen features, big windows come in at the top of the list for us. Natural light streaming through a kitchen can hugely boost its ambiance, and even better if there is a beautiful view to look at. However, oftentimes the areas immediately around windows include some dead or underused space; hence why we love a breakfast nook.

It turns out model and Argylle star Claudia Schiffer agrees, having recently shared a photo of her sunny nook to her Instagram page. The large, white windows are accented by black panes, providing contrast against her wood table and floral-print bench cushion.

Above all, we love how Schiffer has turned what would otherwise be a large window space into a functional seating area to enjoy coffee and tea or read – it's giving us some major breakfast nook ideas. Window seats, similar to Schiffer's, date back to the Georgian era, when architectural features were characterized by delicacy and elegance. By the late 18th century, they were found in many grand homes – and today, they're more accessible than ever.

According to experts, kitchen seating ideas (and layout in general) should be considered based on the homeowner's lifestyle and needs. Window seats are no longer reserved for stately properties – but also small kitchens where you need to be more strategic with space.

'The kitchen has become such a dynamic area within the home, so it’s essential to consider seating areas to allow for more flexibility and multiple guests,' says bespoke kitchen designer Tom Howley. 'Do you need a formal family dining zone? A casual sofa area for entertaining? An integrated desk space for catching up on emails or homework? Or island seating where the family can gather?’

Nooks situated near large windows provide a cozy space for small groups to congregate, as well as individuals to quietly enjoy their breakfast. Bench seating gives a kitchen a communal feel, much like a kitchen island serves as a gathering space.

Additionally, a dining nook like Schiffer's creates some boundaries between the areas of the kitchen where we cook, and where we eat, making them a particularly beneficial small kitchen idea.

“Separating the dining area from the kitchen can be an effective way to create a peaceful, comfortable seating nook that provides the perfect versatile backdrop for family dinners and busy breakfast time,' says Stacey Cobley, senior designer at Harvey Jones.

She continues, 'This can help reduce noise and clutter from kitchen food prep while often being a more efficient use of space than a full dining room. Make use of bay windows or unused corners and add personality with paneling, colored cushion fabrics and banquette seating.'

Shop the Kitchen Nook Edit

Accessorize your breakfast nook with a simple table, like Schiffer's, along with your favorite coffee and tea accessories, like mugs, saucers, or even a sugar jar.

By now you will already have your Christmas tree up, and if so, it will be beautifully decorated in the latest festive trend (velvet ribbons tied into dainty bows), or the most exquisite color scheme (beautiful burgundy or gold-flecked taupe). But if you don't care much about casual Christmas decor trends, you might have opted for something less picture-perfect.

American actor Stanley Tucci's Christmas tree is a firm reminder that anything goes when decorating for the holiday season. Even if that means your tree resembles the 'Leaning Tower of Pisa' rather than a holiday postcard.

Not every Christmas tree must look traditional or classic in design and theme, and now Tucci has a guaranteed talking point when friends and family venture over on Christmas Day. Another non-trend I spotted in Tucci's home is the defiance of a coherent theme.

The ornamentation is an abundance of beautifully mismatched baubles, colors, and shapes – it is such a breath of fresh air to see a more maximalist approach to signal the end of 2024.

Christmas tree ideas are infinite, but the key to a well-decorated tree is to adorn it with ornaments you love and that bring you joy. My favorite way to decorate at Christmas is to embrace all the colorful, quaint, nostalgic elements I adored as a child.

'I don’t ever really adopt a ‘theme’ at Christmas, I let myself be drawn to certain color combinations and patterns and then I just go for it and don't hold back,' says interior designer, Molly Mahon. 'Christmas is the perfect time to have fun, so I like to throw the rulebook out of the window.'

Fueled by a desire to rekindle happy childhood memories, many of us are reaching for those maximalist Christmas decor ideas that are a far cry from the perfectionist masterpieces we've seen lately. It is a look that I have fully embraced in my own home. As a result, my tree is adorned with delicate glass ornaments, nutcrackers, candy canes, faux candles, and controversially, 'outdated' lametta tinsel.

The pandemic has changed our relationship with our homes too, and interior design trends are slowly leaning towards home decor ideas that make us feel happier in our surroundings. As our homes become a source of comfort, it is about looking for perfection in the imperfect, and in Tucci's case, embracing the beauty of a wonky Christmas tree in the best way possible.

Shop the look

When I first picked up a window vacuum for cheap as an impulse purchase, I had no idea that I had just completely changed how I clean and maintain my home.

It might sound over the top to say it and 12 months ago, I would have agreed. But this household gadget doesn’t get the attention and praise it deserves and I realize now a lot of misinformation exists around these nifty gadgets.

It's a simple tool but there are a few other things I wish I had known before buying a window vacuum that will definitely influence me if I ever buy another. Here’s what I have learned using mine to clean my windows that will help you make the right decision when you invest (which I highly suggest you do).

Things I wish I knew before buying a window vac

It's important to say I quickly learned that even the name 'window vacuum' is a bit misleading, to some degree. It is not restricted to just cleaning windows and has turned out to be one of the most versatile tools in my cleaning cabinet, helping to suck up moisture and dirt from several surfaces in and out of my home, not just on windows.

1. They clean more than windows

As the name suggests, the first and main use for a window vac is cleaning windows (I have used it both inside and outside alongside the best DIY window cleaning solutions for window vacuums) to make my windows shine) but its practicality doesn't stop there.

Any cleaning task when you need to remove moisture from a surface can benefit from a window vac, I have learned. Be it cleaning glass shower doors or cleaning a mirror, the window vac sucks up water droplets that otherwise leave streaks behind.

I start cleaning as normal, wiping the surface over with soapy water or a cleaning spray, before using the window vac to suck it all up, finishing by buffing the dry surface to really make them shine.

2. They are condensation saviours

Getting rid of condensation inside windows is no one's idea of the perfect way to start the morning, not to mention a regular squeegee just sends the water flying everywhere, and cloths are often sodden and need washing after.

Using a window vac every morning to beat condensation is a trick I learned from my mom, who swears by it for cleaning off the massive, wall-to-wall bay windows in my parent’s bedroom. Instead of having to deal with wet windowsills, the window vac quickly sucks up the moisture and leaves a clear, dry window behind. This daily habit for a mold-free home protects their walls and window seals from damage and staining, too. She then uses the water she collects to water her houseplants.

Their usefulness doesn't stop in the home, either. My dad bought a smaller window vac model, like the Karcher V1 from Amazon, to keep in his car, which he uses to quickly clear the windscreen of misting on cold days, rather than having to run the heaters for ages before he can drive off, or struggle with a cloth that simply smears the water around and makes it harder to see.

3. They aren’t all made the same

While also window vacs have the same basic functions and will help curb condensation in winter, they are not all made the same.

My mom, for instance, splurged on the official Karcher Window Vac 6, available at QVC with all the attachments, while I picked up a much cheaper own-brand version at the grocery store. While mine still works fine, my mom’s is far more powerful, lasts longer, and has a larger capacity tank. Not to mention it comes with different sized heads to suit a range of different tasks.

The differences in functionality are something you might want to consider before investing in one for yourself. If you only need it for a few quick tasks every so often, a cheaper, more basic model may be all you need. But if you are looking to use it regularly all around the house, you might want to spend more up-front.

4. They’re perfect for spills

I am incredibly clumsy. Luckily, I rarely drink anything other than water, so when I spill my drink it isn’t too dire a problem, however, I still don't want a damp puddle sitting on my table all day. The window vac has quickly become a go-to tool for cleaning up spills to prevent permanent damage to surfaces around my home.

It is far more efficient than paper towels (as I don’t have to go through reams of them to get it all up), and prevents smearing.

5. They take some practise

So far as cleaning tips go, window vacs are some of the easiest to dive in and use. I would go so far as to say that you don’t really need the instructions for many of them – simply charge it, turn it on, and use it as you would a squeegee.

However, unlike a squeegee, you have to move a lot slower with a window vacuum in order to give it time to suck the water up. Getting the speed and pressure right takes a bit of getting used to for shining results. The first few times I used mine I struggled with some streaking and skipping of spots as I either pressed too hard against the glass, too softly, or moved too quickly.

The learning curve can be a bit frustrating, especially if you are used to blitzing over shower glass with a regular squeegee, but with some patience comes truly satisfying results.

In my opinion, as someone who has tested countless cleaning hacks, a window vac is up there with other essential cleaning tools everyone needs, especially if you value sparking surfaces around your home.

When decorating a mantel for the holidays, there's a classic tried and tested method many of us follow. Naturally, it involves adorning the mantelpiece with greenery, ornaments, garlands, candles and more. It's prime real estate for Christmas decor, so going all out and making it a focal point is often the aim.

But there's more than one way to make your fireplace a statement over the holidays, and designer Drew Michael Scott (A.K.A Lone Fox ) has given us all a reminder that trying something new and unexpected often pays off.

The designer has been posting plenty of inspiring videos as we build up to Christmas which are filled with clever, creative ideas. We've been enviably eyeing every video up but absolutely had to shout about his alternative take on a Christmas mantel.

Drew's beautiful a-symmetrical arrangement dramatically frames his fireplace. The display evokes joy, festivity and a truly wintery feel. Luckily for us, Drew has posted his step-by-step guide that outlines his creative process. Let's take a peek at his five main tips for the ultimate 'holiday mantel of my dreams that was way easier than I thought'.

1. Use strong birch branches as a base

Drew begins by placing a woven basket at the base of his fireplace. Interestingly, he chooses the left spot rather than the center as it will allow for a pronounced arch that overlaps from one side to the other. Baskets are a practical choice as they're sturdy and will happily hold your branch display for the entire holiday season.

Once the basket is set up, you can begin to place your longer branches inside as these will act as the base for your later layers of garlands and decor. Drew explains, 'I got these magnolia branches which I wired together to create one large branch and just hammered it to the wall with a few small nails. I then went in with my faux garlands which I'm just going to drape and layer across the branch that we added.'

You'll need to purchase (or find) pretty long, strong branches if you want the display to drape all the way up around the perimeter of the fireplace, from hearth to mantel. Drew uses large poles of willow birch like these ones from Etsy.

2. Build with the faux foliage first

Foliage is crucial for this look as the mantel would feel sparse without the lush greenery of fir or pine stems. This second step is most vital to achieve a lush, natural feel that sings against the metallic and red of the accessories.

Drew uses fluffy garlands of foliage that easily weave around the frame of the thick birch branches. Using floral wire means the foliage stays securely fastened to the base branches. These leafy vines make the ideal neutral backdrop for the mass of garlands, lights, and ornaments you'll go in with later.

Drew highlights that by choosing a real branch base, you can now mix faux decor on top. He explains, '[I'm now] going in with my faux garlands which I'm just going to drape and layer across the branch that we added. I’m also adding in some blueberry stems here and the key to this mantel is mixing faux and real so everything overall looks real in the end.'

3. String up the lights

Arguably the most important step – the lights. No Christmas display is complete without the all-important twinkle of warm, glowing bulbs.

For this mantel look, it's best to go for a long set of string lights so they can drape all the way around your foliage without needing to worry about running out. A top tip is to incorporate lights that have a dark green wire so they seamlessly blend into the shrubbery and prevent any artificial inconsistency. You could also try branches that are pre-woven with lights, making it so simple to slot in as you go without worrying about over-bulking your delicate creation.

The layering process is what's great about this look, it means you can swap out one of Drew's step for your own alternative. In the case of the lights, why not try a colorful red for a real festive statement?

4. Go in with the real foliage

'This is where the magic happens', Drew says. Using an asparagus fern like this Perigold stem, he combines the faux with the real to create a natural feel.

He says 'This is called an asparagus fern and it looks like a tiny little pine needle, like Christmas tree needles. They are so cute and add so much fullness to this garland.' This step is key in achieving that light, fluffy width around the mantel, varying foliage textures and color. Drew then goes on to explain, 'I just plucked off a couple of branches and tucked them into the garland base itself until it felt really full and exactly what I was going for.'

Another natural foliage piece Drew uses is dried Amaranthus which he hangs sparingly around the central garlands and birch. The flower has a drooping quality that adds to the overall width and fullness of the display. Drew's choice of white Amaranthus is effective as this both varies the color palette whilst mimicking white snow or icicles. Amazon's Preserved Amaranthus Hanging Flower is dried meaning you needn't worry about it drying out as it will happily hang all holiday.

5. Embellish with garlands and ribbon

The last step is all about using finer decorations that will catch the light. Layer small metallic garlands and additional decorative pieces like baubles for a varied textural display with sparkle and depth.

Drew selects a couple of vintage-style gold garlands and weaves them up and around the main bulk of foliage. It's key to avoid creating a harsh empty space, so bring some of your garlands across your mantel so the opposite side isn't entirely bare. He says, 'I then added in a star garland and a couple of ribbons along with some stockings which completed this mantel transformation.' While the stars bring an element of sparkle, the bows create a festive palette of red and green. Like Drew, you could also try hammering some hooks or nails along your mantel to hang ornaments or stockings.

Drew's simple steps are easy to follow at home, but remember to combine both real and faux foliage for an overall natural look that has fullness and vibrancy. Drew says 'It's my favorite Christmas mantel to date' and we can see why.

Living in an old house comes with lots of benefits – bags of charm and character included – but there are also some less welcome aspects.

Our home was built in the early 1900s and still has some of the original windows meaning, when winter hits, not only is it a pretty chilly place, but also that the glass tends to be streaming with condensation when we wake up and open the curtains.

This is not only a pretty bad look, but it also leaves the wooden window frames and sills covered water which, it turn, causes mold and the need for repainting them more often than we'd like.

Last year we did a bit of research into the best dehumidifiers around and ended up with the Meaco 20L Low Energy dehumidifier and, honestly, I couldn't be more pleased with the results.

Why I love using a dehumidifier overnight

The condensation levels we were dealing with

Once colder weather set in, ,our windows resemble the inside of a shower screen in the mornings. I had put our dehumidifier away during the summer months but the condensation returning was my signal that winter was firmly here and its magic condensation removal properties were being called for.

Glenn Wiseman, manager at Top Hat Home Comfort Services says, 'Condensation happens when warm, humid air hits a cold surface, like your window, causing moisture to collect as droplets. Since we naturally release moisture while we sleep, bedrooms tend to get more humid, making them prone to this issue. A dehumidifier pulls in that moist air, removes the extra humidity, and releases drier air, which lowers the chance of moisture building up on cool surfaces like windows.'

If you are wondering how to stop condensation on windows overnight then read on to see the amazing difference our dehumidifier makes.

Without the dehumidifier, one of the first jobs of the morning used to be pulling out the most absorbent cloths we had and manually dry our windows off.

What I love about our dehumidifier

I live in the UK and our dehumidifier is the Meaco 20L Low Energy Platinum Dehumidifier And Air Purifier, which comes complete with a free HEPA filter. That's designed to remove things like dust mites and mold spores from the air which really offered us peace of mind given the age of our house. Before, we were constantly looking into how to remove mildew, but now there is no need.

Alongside whisking away the majority of the excess moisture that seems to get produced overnight, we love the fact that this model also has a laundry mode, meaning that it runs continuously for six hours before automatically switching off, regardless of the humidity in the room.

With no tumble dryer and limited space to hang out wet laundry, this is unbelievably useful when putting laundry to dry outside is no longer an option – plus it is cheaper to run.

Emptying the water tank is strangely satisfying

There is something oddly pleasing about sliding out the water tank on the dehumidifier in the mornings to see how much water it's managed to remove from our sleeping quarters during the night. In fact, it is hard to believe quite how much water is hanging around in the air. The 20 litre tank tends to be around half full after a day of running.

We were really keen to ensure that we were getting the most out of our dehumidifier so made sure we researched the best place to put a dehumidifier.

Simon Allen, co-founder at Fountain Filters says, 'To maximize the effectiveness, place the dehumidifier in areas prone to higher humidity, such as near the window or close to the bed, where exhaled moisture accumulates throughout the night.

'Starting the dehumidifier an hour before sleep allows it to bring humidity down to an optimal level before moisture levels peak,' continues Simon. 'This prevents the environment from reaching the critical point where condensation forms.'

Keeping the bedroom door closed also seems to help – we definitely notice the difference when we leave the door open a crack compared to when it is firmly shut. Oh, and be sure to look into how to clean a dehumidifier to keep it in tip top condition.

Other things we do to reduce condensation

While the dehumidifier is such a help in our battle against bedroom condensation, there are other things we have done over the years which we find really helps with the issue.

One of these is to ensure you look into ways to improve ventilation in your home – simply opening the windows helps, although it does mean upstairs is pretty arctic. This is something Ottilie Blackhall, news writer on Solved here at Homes & Gardens also found helped her basement bedroom humidity and mold, along with an affordable dehumidifier from Amazon.

We also opted for thick, lined curtains and try to keep the temperature as steady as we can to avoid extreme fluctuations.

'Yes, using a dehumidifier can help reduce condensation on windows, but it’s effective mainly when paired with other methods,' confirms Jon Gilbertson, president and CEO at Chris Heating & Cooling. 'Consider combining a dehumidifier with a humidity-absorbing window film or moisture-wicking window treatments,' continues Jon. 'These specialized products are designed to work with the dehumidifier, capturing excess moisture directly on the window surfaces while the dehumidifier maintains lower room humidity levels. This dual setup can create a more balanced moisture control system, focusing both on the air and window surfaces.

'Since condensation forms due to temperature differences, insulating windows with thermal curtains or adding an insulating film can also help prevent those chilly surfaces that attract moisture, complementing the dehumidifier's effect.'

Take time now to look into how to weatherproof your windows and you will reap the benefits in the depths of winter.

How much better is our window condensation using the dehumidifier?

I have to admit, I was a little skeptical that anything was going to help with our window condensation – but how wrong I was.

I am not saying there are never any traces of moisture on our windows when we use the dehumidifier, but the condensation problem is far more under control. In the instances where a little condensation still shows up, it tends to have been a very cold night and we do sometimes use the radiators in our bedroom to dry laundry which definitely makes things worse as the clothing's moisture rises into the air and eventually cools down on our windows.

Overall though, I wouldn't be without our trusty dehumidifier and highly recommend you give one a go if condensation is troubling your home.

FAQs

Is a dehumidifier noisy to run at night?

No dehumidifier is going to be totally silent when running and we all know how sounds seems to be magnified during the dead of night.

Ours does emit a little humming sound which is audible at night. This absolutely doesn't bother me – in fact I find it kind of soothing and, according to the manufacturer's specifications, it only has a noise level at one meter of a maximum of 46 dB.

My husband, on the other hand, likes things totally silent when sleeping so we do sometimes switch it off just as we go to bed and on again when we wake and it still works really well.

Bear in mind that a slight nighttime hum is better than spotting signs of mold in your home that could lead to health issues.

Meet the experts

Still unsure whether you should invest in a dehumidifier? Research what does a dehumidifier do before making your decision.

I live near the coast, so every time it rains my windows get coated in a 'lovely' layer of hard water and sandy spots.

While my downstairs windows have always been easy enough to clean using a window vac, my upstairs windows have always been out of my reach. Especially as I have a chronic illness that means climbing a ladder is not a smart idea.

After months of debating with myself, I finally decided to try a magnetic window cleaning tool as a last hope before employing someone to clean them for me. I was so impressed that it has now saved me hundreds on window cleaning bills.

Why I swear by this magnetic window cleaning tool

I usually clean my windows with The Pink Stuff, however, there was no way for me to reach my three upstairs windows to do this safely, so the grime has been left to build up for at least the last two years I have lived here.

I have always cleaned the inside of the windows using a window vacuum such as a Karcher electric window vacuum, available at Amazon, and the best homemade window cleaner which is a mix of warm water and Castile soap, but it was finally time to give the outsides a good chance too, with the hopes it might increase natural light in my dark home.

Setting up

Setting up the magnetic window cleaner was simple. It was ready right out of the box, which I liked. The only thing I had to do was soak the triangular pads in some warm water before applying a detergent.

There was no cleaning solution provided, so I stuck with my tried and true DIY cleaning solution of Castile soap. I use Dr. Bronner's Almond scented soap, from Amazon, as I love the marzipan (almond) scent it gives off as I clean. I didn't measure this, instead opting to keep things simple and popping a good squeeze on.

I also only soaked the external pad, as the inside of the windows was already clean.

Cleaning the window

Time for the moment of truth. Sticking the device to the window was a little bit fiddly, especially as my windows are quite thickly double-glazed. Luckily, there is a wrist strap that connects to the outer pad so you can grab it if it falls.

The magnets are very strong, but through the window, it felt a little bit loose. Nevertheless, I gave it a go.

My first mistake was trying to move the device up the window vertically. It instantly fell off, and I was thankful for the strap so the outer part wasn't lost on my extension roof forever. Going back to the instructions, I put it back on and moved it horizontally along the window instead, and very slowly.

As far as cleaning tips go, it is not a quick hack. You do have to take your time and move the device precisely to get results. However, when I pitch this against the process of using ladders and balancing tools outside in cold weather (as you should never clean windows in hot weather), it seems an easy trade-off. At least here I am standing next to my toasty radiator, watching body-doubling videos as I work.

Once I got the hang of it, the results were pretty instant. The tool has two parts a cleaning pad at the top of the triangle (where I applied the soap) and a squeegee-type line in the middle to clear water away as you move. All in all, I only needed two passes over my window to get it really clean.

I didn't clean the inside of the window at this point, but seeing the runoff outside, I would advise against using soap and water for the internal pane. If I were to use this method to clean inside windows, I would spray on a glass and window cleaner, such as Method Mint Glass & Surface Cleaner from Walmart first, rather than soaking the second pad to avoid soaking my window ledge and carpets with soapy water.

My verdict

This simple tool is certainly practical for cleaning a window without going outside, and it is a lot cheaper than paying for a window cleaner to come around bi-weekly.

For a relatively cheap and cheerful tool, it certainly cleans the window well, removing the watermarks and dust to leave shining glass behind. However, I have not yet mastered the art of cleaning a window without streaks with it yet. A part of me wonders if this will come down to practicing the technique and learning to trust that it won't fall. There are still some slight marks around the edges of the panes where I rotated the tool to change directions or small areas I missed.

All in all, however, to say I don't have to climb ladders or go outside in cold weather, this cheap magnetic cleaning tool from Amazon has been a game changer. My upstairs rooms even feel a bit brighter for it.

Next, learn why I love using my steam cleaner for deep cleaning of my kitchen.

If you live in a cold climate, then you have likely experienced opening your curtains in the morning to find your windows fogged up and dripping wet at least once. But is condensation inside windows bad?

While it is a normal sign your windows are working as intended to keep warm air inside, it is not the best for your home, and could lead to dampness and mold. That's why our top insulation pros recommending wiping it away or using a window vacuum.

If your condensation is showing up in between window panes, that's another potentially more costly story. Here, our pros delve into condensation inside windows and share advice to easily stop condensation in your windows for good.

Is condensation inside windows bad?

John Parks, Co-Owner and COO of Advanced Insulation System says condensation on the inside of a window can be a concern, especially if it happens often. He explains, 'It’s usually a sign that there’s too much humidity in your home. Left unchecked, it can increase the risk of mold, mildew, or even damage to the window frames or walls nearby. This is especially common in colder months when warm indoor air meets the cold surface of a window.’

In very cold climates or poorly insulated homes, unchecked condensation can also cause frost on the inside of windows, and this may leave it at risk of cracking.

Luckily, getting rid of condensation inside windows is easy. More often than not all you need to do is wipe it away and dry the window as soon as you get up for the day. You could also consider using window vacuums to curb condensation, or a cheap salt trick to get rid of condensation.

All prices correct at time of publication.

However, if you want to stop condensation on windows overnight and prevent mold and damaged window seals completely, you’ll want to consider the best dehumidifier, John says.

He explains, ‘A good dehumidifier, like the hOmeLabs 50-Pint Dehumidifier [available on Amazon] can bring down indoor humidity levels and help control condensation without having to leave windows open for long periods in freezing winter months, helping to make heating more efficient.

You can also improve ventilation in high-humidity areas like bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry rooms. Installing exhaust fans or using trickle vents on windows can help move moist air outside.’

Remember that dehumidifiers will not work with windows open, so shut them off if you are sleeping with windows open in winter.

Condensation in between window panes

Condensation inside double-glazed windows (i.e. sitting between the panes so you cannot wipe it away) is a far more serious problem.

Elizabeth Reilly, of Greensavers, explains, ‘This usually indicates a failure in the seal of the insulated glass unit. This is actually a more serious issue and is generally caused by extreme fluctuations in temperature, or simply just wear and tear over time.

‘Now, because a broken seal means the window is no longer working to insulate the home, this means any heating or cooling system in the home will be working less efficiently and you’ll be wasting energy and money.’

Our experts do warn there is no way of fixing condensation inside windows with a dehumidifier. Your options are to repair or replace a window, says Matthew Coates, architect at Coates Design Seattle Architects.

He explains, ‘The only real fix is to replace the insulated glass unit or replace the entire window. In older homes or for folks with a budget in mind, it is more common to simply have a glass company replace the glazing, however, it should be mentioned that old-school window frames lack the insulating technology and non-thermal bridging materials of today's windows, so it’s usually best to replace the entire window if that's within your budget.’

While this can incur a big upfront cost if being completed home-wide, it is a small home upgrade that can boost your home value by 20%, not to mention it will help you to cut energy bills so you are saving money and reaping the benefits over time.

While it might seem little more than a winter nuisance, condensation on the inside of windows can have a costly impact on both your wallet and your health. Reducing your home’s humidity and looking out for signs of mold in your home should be on your daily to-do list throughout the cold season.

For condensation between window panes, a consultation with a local trusted window fitting company is your best option as replacing windows is a household project you shouldn’t DIY.

While in winter you probably won't be tempted to throw your windows open at all times – sometimes it feel necessary. Whether to help you sleep better, air out condensation or simply for some crisp, fresh air, it's unlikely that you keep your windows sealed all season long.

But, if you have and use a dehumidifier, will it still work with windows open?

To avoid any dehumidifier mistakes, we spoke to HVAC experts who all agree you shouldn't leave your windows open when running this appliance. Instead, here's what to do, and how to get the most out of yours.

Does a dehumidifier work with windows open?

Having quizzed multiple HVAC experts, it turns out that even the best dehumidifier won't work effectively with windows open during operation.

John Gabrielli, HVAC expert and owner of Air Temp Solutions, explains, 'You can use a dehumidifier with a window open, but it's not the most effective way to operate the device. Dehumidifiers are built to pull moisture out of the air in a space that's closed.

'When you open a window, you let in air from outside, which usually has different humidity levels. This forces your dehumidifier to work overtime, trying to manage moisture from both inside and outside.' That's not only less efficient, but, like any heating system mistakes, could also increase your energy bills.

All prices correct at time of publication.

How to effectively use a dehumidifier in winter

Given that opening windows in winter reduces condensation, you should aim to open your windows in winter when necessary – to release cooking odors or to help you to sleep better for example, but, importantly, turn off your dehumidifier when doing so.

As Max Veggeberg, CEO and founder of Tetra says, 'A dehumidifier is designed to work in an enclosed space. Keeping a window open would continue to bring in humid air from outside into the enclosed space. If you are looking to use a dehumidifier most effectively, close all windows and doors into the space you are looking to dehumidify.'

But, that being said, Simon Bernath, HVAC expert and founder of FurnacePrices.ca points out that, if opening your windows only briefly for a bit of fresh air, this shouldn't cause too much of a problem. 'What homeowners can do is get a humidity sensor, and monitor the relative humidity differences, so you have a better idea,' he says.

We recommend the bestselling AcuRite Indoor Digital Thermometer & Hygrometer available at Walmart for this, which provides reliable and accurate readings at an affordable price point.

You may also want to consider using your best fan instead of opening a window, suggests Steve Pacholski, brand president of Varsity Zone HVAC. 'This will keep the air moving without affecting the humidity inside,' he says.

FAQs

Will a dehumidifier clear condensation from windows?

Yes, a dehumidifier will clear condensation from windows – in fact, it's one of the best ways to stop condensation on windows overnight, particularly if you know the best place to put a dehumidifier. Put them directly next to your windows in any rooms where humidity is a problem for the best results.

When should you not use a dehumidifier?

As well as when windows are open, you shouldn't use a dehumidifier if temperatures are under 60° Fahrenheit, as this may cause removed moisture to build-up and freeze on the coils. Therefore, while a dehumidifier doesn't make a room cooler, they may be damaged irreparably by cooler conditions.

If you've got one at home, learn about the ways to reuse dehumidifier water around the home next for an eco-friendly alternative to pouring the water away.

In winter, beautiful frosty mornings, cozy fireplaces and twinkling Christmas lights are a given. Unfortunately, though, so too is condensation. But, as an inevitable part of the season, how can you help it?

Condensation not only looks unsightly, it also causes cold, damp patches where mold and mildew thrive. Enter: window vacuums, a genius way to whip away water and leave your windows spotless, streak-free and shining.

As Black Friday sales ramp up, learn how to use a window vac to beat condensation for good, and you will thank yourself later.

If there's one staunch supporter of using a window vacuum, it's one of our editors, Andrea Childs. Living in an old seaside home, she relies on hers each morning to get rid of condensation inside windows – and it's clear to see why.

Designed to spray, wipe, and vacuum windows in a single swipe, window vacuums clean windows without streaks, and prevent mold growth, even when leaving it unheated, by removing excess moisture.

They also offer a convenient solution for cleaning hard-to-reach spots, and are an efficient way to be sustainable at home, too, as they're rechargeable and reusable.

What's more, their cleaning power doesn't stop at windows. They can also be used to clean walls, mirrors, shower doors, tiles, and even car doors.

When paired with one of the best dehumidifiers, such as the 4500 Sq.Ft Most Efficient Energy Star 2024 Dehumidifier available at Amazon (also included in the Black Friday sales) the combination is enough to eliminate condensation for good. As Chiana Dickson, content editor of Solved here at Homes & Gardens says, 'My dehumidifier changed my home and life,' this duo will also make your home smell nice, dry clothes quickly, and reduce allergens – which is why I'll be shopping both this Black Friday.

All prices correct at the time of publication.

This is the one product you need to curb condensation

Top tips for making the most out of your window vacuum

If you're planning on investing in a window vacuum, these are Andrea's tricks for using a window vacuum successfully:

• Start at the top of the window and work downwards
• Empty the water tank frequently
• Change the angle at which you use the vacuum as you work your way down, to maintain contact with the glass at all times
• Use your window vacuum regularly, even when condensation doesn't seem bad. This will ensure moisture doesn't build-up, even when it's not visible.

be sure to read up on the things we wish we knew about window vacs before buying one to pick the right model for your needs.

Need to know how to stop condensation on windows overnight?

Create a healthier living environment and reduce the risk of respiratory issues by increasing ventilation (yes, opening windows in winter reduces condensation), maintaining a stable indoor temperature by learning the best temperature for a thermostat in winter, and improving window insulation.

When you're renovating, the bathroom is at the top of your priorities. Of course, you want to start putting in lovely things immediately but if you can't shower or take a bathroom break, there is simply no hope for moving in.

During my renovation, the bathroom was the first 'finished' room. I say finished lightly because it is still missing baseboards, but other than that it is fully functional and pretty aesthetically pleasing in there.

But there was one bathroom renovation mistake I made that I'm now realizing just wasn't the right choice for my bathroom. So let's dive into why I'm regretting the practical, well-loved bathroom window treatment idea and why I'm looking to switch out in the New Year.

At the beginning of our slow renovating journey, we split an upstairs bedroom into two rooms with a partition wall to create an upstairs bathroom.

Of course, there are a few first things to consider when planning a new bathroom like plumbing and tiles before we could get into details, but after we'd finally pieced the room together it was pretty clear we needed to get something up at the window ASAP for some extra privacy. So I took the most obvious, tried-and-tested route and installed a bathroom blind.

Now I'm not one to follow the rulebook entirely, so I chose a relaxed roll-up blind because I like the blend of tailoring with a whimsical edge that offers privacy while fitting the room's aesthetic. However, after living with them for a while, I began to notice a significant downside.

Even when pulled all the way up, the blind blocks a good portion of the top of the window, leaving my bathroom darker than I’d like. And as someone who relies on natural light to brighten up my mornings, it became clear this popular window treatment just wasn’t working for me.

While window blind ideas are great for their purpose and can come in a myriad of colors and prints to suit your style, they often limit how much light enters the room, especially at the top of the window. This means it creates an unintentionally gloomy atmosphere, making my bathroom feel colder and less welcoming.

And of course, when you're planning a small bathroom like mine, window treatments become even more important because you want to maximize light in the space to make it feel bigger and brighter.

My bathroom window is on the side of the house and is actually south-facing but it unfortunately doesn't benefit from a large window or a lot of direct sunlight. So I have had to come up with a plan to rectify this bathroom regret.

Enter cafe curtains. Mostly seen in chic French cafes (hence the name) and designed to cover only the lower portion of the window, these charming vintage-inspired half-window curtains are quite popular with interior designers right now.

Not only are they delicately sweet but cafe curtains provide the privacy I need without sacrificing the natural light streaming in from the top of the window.

Cafe curtains are a wonderful alternative for bathrooms that demand both light and privacy. By allowing daylight to flow freely through the upper portion of the window, cafe curtains create an airy, inviting feel while still concealing a big portion of the window that might need shielding from outside view. They're functional, yet on-trend and an especially charming way to add softness to such an otherwise austere space.

Additionally, the benefit is that they can be installed relatively easily. Unlike blinds or full-length bathroom curtains that often require complex hardware, cafe curtains are lightweight and straightforward to install.

All you need is a tension rod or a small curtain rod, like this Inside-Mount Cafe Set from Rejuvenation which can easily be mounted at the desired height. This minimal hardware not only makes the process quick but also reduces the risk of damaging your walls – a major plus if you're renting, or a little indecisive like me.

If you’re finding that your current window treatments are leaving your space darker than you’d like, consider making the switch to cafe curtains too.

Sometimes, it’s the simplest changes that have the biggest impact on how a space looks and feels. Whether you’re tackling a bathroom renovation or just looking for ways to refresh your space, a new window treatment might just be the upgrade you didn’t know you needed.

While flowers might be few in wintertime, there is still color to be found in the garden. With the right selection of plants, you can fill your yard with attractive foliage and winter blooms.

Filling pots and window boxes with hardy evergreens and winter flowering plants is certainly a good idea to maintain impact and color. As a former professional gardener, I have planted hundreds of pots to prolong interest during December, January and February. The trick is knowing what to grow and what plants never to use in winter pots, with many species struggling as the temperature drops or at the first sign of frost.

So, to help you avoid making this common winter garden mistake, I have put together a list of five plants never to use in winter pots, while also including suggestions for tough species that make for dramatic, vibrant and resilient container displays during winter.

5 plants never to use in winter pots or window boxes

By choosing the right winter plants for pots, you can prolong interest in your garden at an otherwise dark and gloomy time of year. Whether you are growing in large pots or a small winter window box, your first consideration should always be the climate and US hardiness zone where you live.

In southern regions, such as zone 9, you can get away with growing tender varieties, while in northerly states, including zone 5, heavy snowfall is commonplace, so choosing resilient plants is crucial.

1. Pelargoniums

If you are seeking snow-resilient flowers or wondering how to plant a winter container, it is best to avoid pelargoniums at all costs. Pelargoniums, including citronella, are tender plants that are far less hardy than their geranium plant cousins.

As a gardener, I have grown many different species of pelargonium across the UK and Italy, using beautiful species in pot displays outdoors during the summer months. One of my favorites is Pelargonium sidoides, as seen in the image above with striking magenta blooms and silver-green foliage. In my opinion, this pelargonium is hard to beat.

However, this species is native to South Africa, and so only hardy in zone 10 plus. For this reason, leaving this plant outdoors is not recommended during winter. Pelargoniums are always to be thought of as plants never to use in winter pots, so be sure to winterize any tender specimens that you do not want to lose during frost and snow.

Instead, consider other winter garden ideas for your pots and window boxes, such as learning how to grow hellebores in containers. Hellebores are typically hardy down to zone 3, and most will bloom during winter and early spring. Try growing Hellebore orientalis, or the Lenten Rose, available from Walmart, found in shades of red, yellow and white.

2. Succulents

Succulents are impressive plants. Whether you are landscaping with succulents and cacti or perhaps you have a collection of small sedum plants in your home, there is no denying that these are impactful plants.

In summer, these plants will enjoy bathing in the sunshine and do not mind dry weather, yet in winter it is a different story. Overly wet soil, snow and frost can damage house leeks, aloes and agaves, and a common succulent mistake is leaving these plants to struggle and rot in wet and cold conditions.

So, if you are looking for new winter garden trends or architectural plants for your pots, I would caution against using cacti and succulents unless you are prepared to protect and cover them frequently.

Instead, opt for tough ornamental grasses to add structure to your containers, such as blue fescue, Festuca glauca. This evergreen can be grown down to US hardiness zone 4, and will add a cool, calm aesthetic to your winter pots. In the spring, you can transplant this low-growing grass out into the yard to be grown as an evergreen ground cover.

Blue fescue live plants are available from Walmart.

3. Coleus

Coleus plants should always be thought of as summer annual plants, unless you are growing them indoors or you reside in an equatorial zone, such as US hardiness zone 10 or 11.

For this reason, while you might see coleus plants on display in plant nurseries or grocery stores, sadly they are plants never to use in winter pots outside.

Instead, if you enjoy dramatic foliage, consider planting Fatsia japonica plants, available from Amazon, which have large, glossy evergreen leaves. This hardy species can be grown from US hardiness zone 7 and will tolerate cold weather down to -10°C / 14°F. I have previously grown the Fatsia polycarpa 'Green Fingers' variety in large pots, which has distinctive matte leaves that add a tropical feel to any space.

Alternatively, for color, grow traditional winter heather, usually found in shades of white or pink. Heathers will provide greenery and color for much of the winter and spring, and any early-to-rise pollinators will be grateful for the nectar on offer.

4. Tradescantia

Commonly known as spiderwort plants, Tradescantia are popular native plants found growing across much of North America. While there are some hardy species, such as Tradescantia virginiana, which can be grown as a deciduous perennial down to zone 4, many species are tender and require protecting in the winter months.

One of the most popular species, seen in the image above, is Tradescantia zebrina, so named for its striped foliage. While this is a popular trailing species often seen in plant stores, it will not survive the winter months unless you reside in zone 9 plus. If you live in cooler, northerly regions, like I do, Tradescantia species, should be thought of as indoor plants during winter.

Instead, grow lesser periwinkle, Vinca minor, in your winter pot displays. This creeping plant will cascade down the side of pots, with attractive evergreen foliage and purple flowers in spring. Hardy down to zone 4, this tough species can be planted out in the yard in spring, often considered one of the best ground cover plants to stop weeds. Be warned, however, that periwinkle plants are vigorous and can become invasive if left alone and unmaintained.

Periwinkle can be purchased online at Nature Hills.

5. Lantana

Lantanas are vibrant plants that are a common sight in many summer container displays. Not only are they popular with gardeners, but these are some of the best container plants for pollinators, with bees, butterflies and hummingbirds adoring the colorful blooms.

In terms of growing lantana, however, these tropical-looking plants need sunshine and warmth to thrive, typically only surviving the winter weather in zones 9 and 10.

So, if you are looking for winter flowers for your backyard ideas in the coming weeks and months, it is best to avoid planting lantana. Instead, I suggest planting something more resilient that will survive cold days and nights ahead, such as violas or pansies.

Learning how to grow pansies is simple, and these resilient annuals can be grown down to zone 3. What's more, they come in a range of shades, including white, yellow, red and purple. Winter flowering pansies, available from Amazon, and will surely add some color and impact to your container displays.

FAQs

Should I protect pots if a heavy snowfall is expected?

If you are expecting heavy snowfall, it is a good idea to cover your pots with a winter plant fleece, available from Walmart, or bring your pots closer to the home where they can benefit from heat loss through walls and windows. While all of the alternative species listed here are hardy, and a light dusting of snow or ice shouldn't be a problem, heavy or long-lasting snow that settles on plants growing in pots can cause damage.

While fall and winter are generally wet months, be sure to check on the moisture levels of pots and window boxes every week. If your pots are near the house, they can struggle to receive much water and might need a small drink every now and then. Be careful not to water if you are expecting a cold snap where the temperature is expected to drop below zero, however, as frozen soil and roots can also damage the plant.

For more inspiration for your yard during the cold and dark months of the year, see our guide on how to create a winter sensory garden, to fill your outside space with texture, sound and color when it is most needed.

As the colder weather approaches, keeping your home cozy and warm becomes more and more difficult.

Between drafts, moisture, and frost, it seems that the outside temperatures get inside through every nook and cranny, so it's no surprise that heating bills increase. Window insulation kits feel like an affordable way to keep it at bay, but do they actually work?

Here, we spoke to HVAC pros to find out their thoughts about whether they're effective to keep your house warm without turning up the heat.

Do window insulation kits work?

The good news is that HVAC pros agree that, all in all, window insulation kits do work to weatherproof your windows and can make some difference to your energy bills and comfort.

Sabi Kampeas, CEO and founder of Kasa201 LLC, explains, 'Indeed, window insulation kits are effective. By adding an additional layer of insulation to your windows, window insulation kits lower drafts and increase your home's energy efficiency.

'Typically, these kits include a clear plastic film that is placed on the window frame and heated (either with a heat gun or a hair dryer) to tighten it. This increases home comfort by forming an air barrier that lowers heat loss,' therefore helping you to save money at home.

All prices correct at time of publication.

How to install window insulation kits

If you do want to try your hand at DIY draft proofing, this is what the experts recommend:

• Clean and dry your windows first: using a commercial product such as the Windex® Glass Window Cleaner available at Walmart, or a homemade window cleaner, with a microfiber cloth. Jame Marino, general manager at Pinnacle Home Improvements, says, 'For the best results with these kits, it’s all in the prep and installation. Make sure the window frames are clean and dry before you start sticking anything on.'
• Select an appropriate kit size: It may seem obvious, but there's no point in trying to use a kit that is far too big, or far too small, for your windows, as this won't work effectively. Home improvement expert Kampeas says, 'Before you buy a window insulation kit, take precise measurements of your windows. In order to accommodate various window types, kits usually come in a variety of sizes (such as 3' x 5' and 4' x 6'). To avoid any spaces where heat could escape, pick one that completely encloses the window area.
• Use a heat gun or hairdryer: This will usually be the recommended method on the product instructions and therefore will yield the best results.

What are the drawbacks of window insulation kits?

As with any hack to insulate a home, window insulation kits have their downsides. Firstly, they can be tedious to install for the first time as you get to grips with the kit, especially if you are working on your own. They can take a bit of practice to ensure a snug fit.

The next drawback is the efficiency. While they can make a small difference, they aren't that effective. I.E. you couldn't rely on them alone to keep a poorly insulated house warm. They are more an addition to your existing window treatment ideas than a standalone solution.

Glenn Wiseman from Top-Hat Comfort Services says, 'They're more of a quick fix than a game-changer for your energy bills. While they can make your home feel less drafty and a bit more comfortable, don’t expect them to dramatically cut your energy bills. The plastic doesn’t provide a lot of insulation, so the energy savings are usually modest.'

For example, window insulation kits are far less effective than investing in energy-efficient windows, or double-glazing. They will also deteriorate over time, especially when exposed to the sun which can make the plastic film wrinkle, tear, or yellow. As a result, it needs replacing regularly, approximately once a year.

Nevertheless, they will make a home feel warmer in a pinch, especially because they are much cheaper than investing in double-glazing, which is a small home upgrade that can boost home value.

FAQs

Do window kits help reduce energy consumption?

So, in terms of maintenance tasks to lower your energy bills, how well do window insulation kits work?

According to Josh Mitchell, HVAC technician and founder of AirConditionerLab, they can actually reduce heat loss through windows by up to 35%. He advises, 'Since windows are responsible for up to 30% of heat loss in many homes, this added insulation can help reduce heating needs. Depending on how drafty your house is, you may save around 10-20% on your heating bill over the winter if you insulate all your windows.'

Andrii Gurskyi, HVAC expert and founder of Mr. Glazier, agrees with Mitchell, stating that, with proper insulation, they can easily help mitigate heating costs by around 10 to 15 percent. 'This is accomplished through improving the air circulation within the house and reducing air leakage,' he says. 'They work exceptionally well in older houses with single pane windows, where there is a high level of heat loss.

'Although these are not a substitute for a new window, these can be a good economical stop gap until new windows are fitted,' particularly if you seal gaps in windows to stop cold air leaks.

To do so, we recommend using caulk, such as the DAP® Alex Plus White Acrylic Latex All Purpose Caulk available at Walmart, which is flexible, durable, and 100% waterproof.

'If you’re dealing with major energy loss, though, these kits are more of a band-aid solution,' says HVAC expert Wiseman. 'For bigger savings and long-term comfort, you might want to think about upgrading insulation or sealing air leaks around the house.

Those changes tackle the problem at its source and can make a noticeable difference in your heating bills. But for a cheap and easy way to feel cozier this winter, window insulation kits aren’t a bad place to start.'

Next, learn about which areas of your home you should always insulate, for a warmer winter.

In winter, finding ways to keep a house cozy can often feel like an almost impossible task.

From radiators to log-burners, solutions are often expensive and, failing that, ineffective – particularly if you live in an older, or high-ceiling home. But, what if you could increase the insulation of your space, without breaking the bank?

Here, HVAC experts explain how to use your curtain ideas to keep your home toasty, without increasing your energy bills.

Curtain hacks for a warmer winter

1. Choose heavier fabrics

Just like clothing, opting for heavier fabrics for your living room curtain ideas or bedroom curtain ideas will help keep your home warmer.

Al Fouz, owner of Abaco Air Experts in Jacksonville, explains, 'To keep your home warmer in winter, opt for heavier fabrics like velvet or wool for your curtains.

'I've seen how even clients in less frigid climates benefit from these materials. They serve as insulating barriers, much like how properly maintained HVAC united preserve indoor temperature.'

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

2. Use magnetic strips or wooden pelmets

While you may consider pelmets a dated window treatment to avoid, they are an effective way to keep your home cozy. And, if you are really opposed to them, Malak Bellajdel, interior designer and current consultant for Metal Plex, who was recognized as one of Interior Design Magazine's '30 Under 30 Top Designers' in 2023, suggests magnetic strips.

She says, 'On those windy days where your curtains blow slightly, and where the heat floats away, you can use magnetic strips (such as the Blackout Blind Accessory 12 Pair Magnetic Closure with Adhesive for Blackout Curtains available at Amazon) along the top edge of your curtains to stick them to metal window frames.

'For wooden frames, using a simple wooden pelmet works wonders.'

3. Add curtain reflectors

Curtain reflectors work by reflecting your indoor heat back into the room, helping to keep warm air inside, rather than letting it be lost through the window.

Francis Kaspar, HVAC technician at The Chill Brothers, explains, 'They can be a game-changer, especially for older windows that might not be doing their fair share for insulation. Just attach them to your existing curtains, and you're all set.'

For this, Kaspar recommends the Warm Window Insulated Fabric available at The Warm Company, as 'it can keep up to 95% of heat from slipping out the window.'

4. Consider window insulation

HVAC expert Fouz recommends considering window insulation to help your curtains do their job better this winter.

He says, 'For those conscious about air quality, consider window treatments that integrate eco-friendly materials.' This not only helps to cut energy bills, but is also a great way to be sustainable at home.

HVAC expert Kaspar recommends the 3M Indoor Window Insulation available at Amazon, 'A bit of a bonus tip – it goes on your windows and works wonders when paired with thick curtains. This combo will block drafts and save energy!'

5. Layer your curtains

We love layering in interior design, and layering your large window curtain ideas not only looks great, it's practical and affordable, too.

Colin Matei, owner and president of Clean Air Heating & Cooling, says, 'Layering curtains is a practical method that adds not just to the aesthetic but also improves the thermal barrier.

'I recommend a doubled-up approach where a sheer curtain is combined with a heavier thermal layer. This traps air between the layers and acts as an insulating pocket.'

6. Choose longer curtains

Wondering how long curtains should be? Well, if it's warmth you're after, opt for longer, says interior designer Bellajdel.

She says, 'Let your curtains lightly touch the floor or even puddle slightly. Go for two to three inches longer than needed and just make sure they're not so long they become a tripping hazard.'

Conquer how to measure for curtains, and purchase ones with some extra length. This can reduce heat loss by up to 40%, and trap any drafts which may come through the window.

Caulk, such as the GE Momentive Performance Materials GE286 Advanced Silicone 2 Kitchen & Bath Sealant available at Amazon, can also be used to seal gaps in windows and stop cold air leaks. Just make sure you know the places you shouldn't caulk around windows before getting started – basically any moving parts.

7. Add thermal insulated lining

If you don't want to splurge on any new modern curtain ideas, HVAC expert Kaspar suggests insulated liners, instead. He says, 'Insulated liners clip right onto the back of your current curtains. They're like a secret later that works to trap heat inside.'

Kaspar recommends the Thermalogic Ultimate Thermal Energy Saving Blackout Window Curtain Liner available at Amazon, which fits with all curtain styles, as they are, 'simple to install, add weight, and are great at keeping rooms toasty.'

FAQs

Does keeping curtains closed keep heat in during winter?

Simply keeping your curtains closed in winter is a great way to keep your house warm without turning up the heat, helping you to save money at home.

High-quality curtains can reduce heat loss by up to 40%, particularly if they are floor length. Keeping thermal curtains closed will also increase their efficacy.

Still looking for ways to keep a poorly insulated house warm? Why not try using window film or heaters to keep your home feeling comfortable and cozy.

For many, windows in the home act as vehicles to display artwork, greenery, or even cherished tchotchkes. Some even prefer to make a bold statement with a sculpture. Liv Tyler is among the latter group, having recently shared a photo of her teal-painted window, with a stone statue of a woman perched sitting in perfect view.

While this art choice is certainly eye-catching, it has us thinking about the many different ways we can choose to accessorize our windowsills and how we can implement other window treatment trends.

According to experts, placing decor in a window is a fantastic way to both store items securely as well as create a focal point in a desired area of the home (i.e. the living room or dining room).

'When thoughtfully chosen, objects displayed on a windowsill can serve as both decorative and functional elements, creating visual intrigue and enhancing the overall ambiance of a room,' says designer Nina Lichtenstein. 'Statues, plants, and other carefully curated items bring life to an often-overlooked space, making the most of the natural light while drawing attention to the window as an architectural feature.'

Since windows naturally draw light into a home, placing an object within the sun's reach can further heighten the visual impact and dimensions of a windowsill, Lichtenstein says.

'Displaying statues or small sculptural objects in a windowsill adds depth and texture to a room, offering a layer of artistic expression that changes with the shifting light throughout the day,' she explains. 'These pieces can subtly frame a view or act as a focal point when the curtains are drawn, creating a moment of beauty that’s experienced both from inside and out. Items like plants or small decorative bowls of stones, for example, thrive in the natural light, adding greenery or organic elements that help blur the line between indoors and outdoors.'

Adding items with reflective or shiny surfaces can capitalize on this impact more, even if it's simply a metallic pot for your plant.

According to Lichtenstein, an alternative method for displaying items in a window can be beneficial for those who want to actually obstruct the view of the rest of a space.

'Moreover, placing objects in a window can soften the starkness of glass panes while offering a more personalized and intimate feel to the space,' she states. 'Whether it’s a collection of vintage glass bottles, small vases with fresh or dried flowers, or even candles that catch the daylight, the items you choose can add warmth, texture, and a sense of connection to the natural world. In homes where privacy is a concern, these objects can help obscure views from outside without sacrificing the light or resorting to heavy window treatments.'

Below, find some window-ready accessories that are perfect for accenting any sill.

In freezing weather, windows and doors are key offenders for letting the cold air seep inside leading to higher energy bills and even potential damage to your home.

Contractors have warned that taking the time to properly prepare your doors and windows ahead of a freeze can save you from costly repairs and ensure your home stays comfortable.

Here, they break down the five steps they always take to prepare a home for a freeze – focusing on their windows and doors and explaining why a little preparation now can make all the difference when the next freeze warning rolls in.

How to prepare your doors and windows ahead of a freeze warning

Preparing a house for cold weather achieves a few things: you are more comfortable in winter, you cut energy bills, and perhaps most importantly, it prevents damage to your home from leaks, expanding ice, and heavy snow.

Here's how to prepare your doors and windows ahead of a freeze.

1. Install door sweeps

One of the easiest winter maintenance tasks is to fix drafty doors. Draft-proofing an entryway will prevent cold air and even moisture from seeping in and cooling down your home.

Kriss Swint, design lead at Westlake Royal Building Products says, ‘Door sweeps create a tight seal underneath entryways, another common leak location. They usually come in two forms: u-shaped pieces that slide under aluminum or steel doors and metal strips that screw, nail, or staple to door bottoms and have an attached strip made of vinyl, plastic, sponge brush, or other air-blocking material that forms a tight seal to your floor.

‘Use it to fill the gap between the bottom of your door and the threshold. To install, measure your door, fit the strip (cut to the correct length if necessary), drill pilot holes and tighten with screws.’

All prices correct at time of publication.

This simple DIY addition is a great way to keep a poorly insulated house warm. You can also pair it with stick-on weather stripping that can run around the entirety of your door so it fits more snuggly into the door frame.

Adding a thermal floor-to-ceiling curtain on top will then seal cold air off entirely to keep an entryway warm without heating. Consider using this to insulate a garage door, too.

2. Clean windows and assess for damage

When the weather drops towards freezing, we are rarely thinking about cleaning windows, however, Michael Wandschneider, director of product management at Marvin, suggests it is a great way to spot damage ahead of a freeze.

He suggests, ‘Start by giving your windows a thorough inspection and cleaning, assessing for any potential deterioration. After cleaning, check all window frames for drafts and gaps. You can do this by guiding a lighted candle around the windows to see where the flame flickers. If you find a spot, seal it with caulk, new weatherstripping, or foam. If your home has older wooden window frames, it’s also a good idea to check for loose panes and missing sections of glaze so you can reglaze the panes as needed.

‘In general, old windows can have the same effect on your heating bill as leaving a window open all winter long, so it never hurts to consider replacing your old windows with newer, energy-efficient ones.’ Consider consulting a trusted local professional to help you decide if you should repair or replace a window.

He adds, ‘After cleaning, don’t be concerned about condensation or frost. Condensation is actually a sign that your windows are working and maintaining the interior temperature of your home.'

3. Check your door’s weep holes

Weep holes sound a bit strange, but they are vitally important to your windows and doors – and you may have covered them up, warns Al Ruggie, marketing director at ASAP Restoration. They are one of the many places you shouldn’t caulk around windows to avoid damage.

He explains, ‘Most people don’t realize it until they have to hang a door themselves after painting, but all doors and windows have weep holes that allow for water vapor and heat transfer through the material that the window or door is made from. It usually looks like a hole about the size of a pencil lead, and many people accidentally cover them up with paint when renovating, or they just let them get clogged with debris from years of not knowing it was even there.

‘If you open up the weep holes in the windows and doors, you can help to prevent the material from swelling with increased water vapor in the air, and through thermal expansion throughout the seasons, saving them from damage.’

4. Remove screens

If you have window screens, now is the best time to take them down – using the best way to clean window screens to keep them safe in storage. Neglecting to do so is a common home maintenance mistake never to make in winter.

Al Ruggie of ASAP Restoration continues, ‘If you have removable screens on your windows, it's probably a good idea to take them off and store them for the winter. When screens stay on the windows through the winter, they can get frozen to the window, they can become overloaded with snow and ice, and both of these things can damage the frame of the screen, and even the window itself in some instances.

‘Keeping the screens off of the window prevents it from being able to hold snow and ice as easily and this can help prevent dams from forming that spread apart the wood and metal materials of the screen, frame, and window.'

5. Remove ice and snow from window sills

During the freeze itself, if it is safe to go outside, it is vital that you keep up your home maintenance – most notably removing snow and ice build-up from your doors and windows, just as you would de-ice garden paths and patios, says Michael Strmac, co-founder at Universal Windows Direct.

He explains, ‘Clean excessive snow and ice buildup off window sills to prevent water from back flowing inside when snow/ice melts.’

Preparing your windows and doors ahead of a freeze warning is a great way to keep a home warm all day while ensuring that your property withstands fluctuating temperatures and potential water damage, saving you money on both heating and repairs.

Andy Cohen may be seen most often in the Watch What Happens Live! lounge, where he interviews celebrities and discusses all things Bravo reality TV, but up until recently, he called a West Village apartment home.

The host and producer's former abode was just listed for sale for $14,000,000, and it's a gem worth peeking at.

Built as a pre-war unit in the coveted New York City neighborhood and renovated by interior designer Eric Hughes and architect Gordon Kahn, the apartment features three bedrooms. 4.5 bathrooms, and not one but two wood-burning fireplaces. The best part? There are 25 windows, giving panoramic views of the city and plenty of natural light to the two-floor, 3,500 sq. ft. apartment.

The living room is arugably the centerpiece of the home. Plush, green carpet contrasts opposing blue and striped sofas, while a gold-rimmed coffee table keeps the room feeling sophisticated. Meanwhile, some pop art (a staple in the apartment) adds some froth.

Every entertainer needs ample dining space, and Cohen's fits the bill. The beautiful and unique, striped chandelier, hangs delicately over the dining table accompanied by both benches and seats, with a perfect view of the New York City skyline from the windows.

The powder room is hard to miss thanks to its fire engine red paint job and gallery wall of more pop art. We love how vibrant this space is, with textured red features, such as a velvet seat and lacquered vanity adding dimension to the space.

The bedroom features a gray backdrop and colorful details, including a plush, purple carpet, a green, tartan bed frame, and a blue bedside table. The gold wall lamps and quirky Snoopy sculpture combine luxury and humour – a recurring theme in the apartment.

Meanwhile, the bathroom continues the industrial gray theme, with vivid pops of blue on the shower tiling. A wood tub once again brings some of the natural world into the urban space.

The spacious kitchen taps into subtle metallic accents via gold handles on cabinetry, while the cabinets themselves are covered in a rich, blue hue. The floral wallpaper contrasts the urban, city background, visible from multiple windows in the area.

Step into Andy Cohen's office: warm woods offer a handsome demeanor, while a striped, rainbow carpet and black and white, patterned seats make the area feel inviting. We particularly love the open shelving unit in the space, with plenty of room for books and decor.

The nursery space is bright thanks to double windows, along with a sunset pattern on one of the walls.

The stunning staircase, designed by Gordon Kahn, divides the two floors and is a masterwork in material combination, comprising of glass, walnut, and steel.

Andy Cohen's apartment is listed with Ryan Serhant and Donna Strugatz at Serhant.

Shop the look below.

Shop Andy Cohen's NYC Apartment Edit

Inviting natural light into your home has many benefits from making your home appear larger to improving your mood. One of the best ways to do this is with the use of large windows, and it stands to reason that keeping them uncovered as often as possible only increases these benefits. Hilary Swank's home, backed by floor-to-ceiling, untreated windows is one of the most striking examples we've seen.

The actress's living room encourages a conversation between the interiors and the stunning snowy mountains behind the home. Rustic modern design with a natural wood ceiling and sculptural furniture echo the shapes of the outdoors. The absence of window treatments especially invites the outdoors in.

Bare windows are quickly becoming one of the biggest interior design trends of the year. In January, The Atlantic did a deep dive on 'why rich people don't cover their windows', touting uncovered windows as the newest understated status symbol. Looking at the inside of Swank's home, it's easy to understand why. Though there is nothing flashy about it, the large, uncovered window gives the space an undeniable sense of luxury.

Jo Trotman, window expert at The Residence Collection states: 'Now that windows can be very much a part of a space rather than being seen as a structural necessity of your home, I think the bare window trend will be incorporated into many homes. Especially those with picturesque views or south-facing gardens so that they can make the most of the natural light and warmth.'

Dressing a window without curtains is quickly becoming the norm. Trotman continues, 'Historically, people believe that windows are traditional white frames that don’t particularly inspire a space unless dressed with curtains or blinds. Now with the range of color options available for window frames, interior style can really be taken into account when making a decision about colored frames, which really compliments the bare window trend.'

The window treatment trend is popular for its many design benefits. 'Bare windows are aesthetically pleasing as it’s a way for those with minimalist style to create clean lines, boost the sense of space and maximize the view from your home too, making them a great foundation for many different individual styles and interiors,' says Trotman.

She adds: 'For example, if minimalist decor is your style, then incorporating the Japandi trend is a great choice. Introducing neutral shades, minimal accessories and natural materials to your window area will give the illusion of a bright and decluttered space, allowing for more natural light to shine through your windows.'

Shop the Rustic Modern Edit

If you are interested in trying the trend but live in a busy area like a city, there are further considerations to take into account. Trotman advises: 'If you live in a busy area or have nosey neighbours, but want to embrace the naked window trend, then one way to do so is to add a privacy window film. You can still see outside, while the external view becomes reflective, meaning no one can be looking in as they walk by your windows. With privacy film, natural light can still let the light into your home, while taking away the restrictions that come with curtains and blinds. So you can still embrace the trend while protecting your privacy.' You can also try planting some of the best plants for privacy outside your window to create a 'green curtain' that allows light in but allows you to go window-treatment-free.

A bold window is always a good idea, and opting to recreate Hilary Swank's large, triangular window elevates the trend even more.

Decorator's Address Book is a monthly series in which our interior design team finds out where designers like to browse and shop for their projects. Each edition focuses on a different element of home decor to bring you the best expert-recommended stores.

For September's Address Book we are making things a bit cozier. September is a month that starts in one season and finishes in another, so transitional your home from summer into fall starts to happen over these next few weeks. Throw down rugs, switch out bedding, change your throw pillows and for many of us change our window treatments for colors, prints, and materials that better reflect the change in weather.

So this month, we have asked interior designers where they shop for window treatments. There's a big range here, from online stores you've probably heard of that come highly recommended, to hidden local gems designers go back to time and time again. If you are looking for new window treatment ideas, right here is a great place to start.

The Shade Store

Marie Flanigan, Founder of Marie Flanigan Interiors and marieflanigan.com

'The Shade Store is a great option for custom window treatments that perfectly complement each space. Its extensive selection of fabrics and finishes offers endless possibilities, allowing for a tailored look that suits any style, from modern to traditional. With versatile options ranging from drapery to shades and blinds, they make it easy to create just the right atmosphere in any room. The Shade Store showrooms are located across the U.S. allowing for easy access to samples and scheming.'

Becky Shea, Principal at Becky Shea Design

'The Shade Store is my primary go-to for window treatments when working on projects in the USA. Their versatility has been unmatched in my experience, providing a wide array of beautiful fabrics, the option for COM (Customer Owned Material), which provides unlimited customization, and even going as far as to create treatments in sizings that have never been done before. That's not to mention that their pricing is very competitive while offering an in-house installation team & design team to ensure the job is done correctly the first round. Our rep, Tom, has been with us for probably 7 years and is absolutely amazing; my husband Jake and I recently attended his wedding!'

Elyssa Contardo of Elyssa Contardo Interior Design

'When I’m using a retail store I like working with The Shade Store. Their showrooms are organized well and they have a great selection of colors to choose from. I will then bring in all my fabrics swatches to their showroom and pick a coordinating drape fabric from their collection. I also love working with Desert Window Treatments and PD Drapery. These are the two companies I use for all of my projects in Palm Desert.'

'Drapery and shades can get pretty complicated and are very detailed. There are a lot of options and when working on a new build all of these options need to be called out during the framing phase to accommodate the soffit depths for the different options. I would recommend pulling concepts of what you like and planning on what you like. This will eliminate a lot of unnecessary options when shopping for your drapes. And then I would pick the coordinating materials and execute from there.'

Soledad Alzaga, San Francisco based Interior Designer

'For drapes and shades, I work a lot with The Shade Store. They have good options of materials, great customer service, "to the trade" specialists and I like their products. They make the process easy with online booking for measuring and keeping track of the process after that. I like that they have showrooms if clients want to see the different options in person. They also offer rendering services so you can see how their products will look like in your space.'

Decorview

Emily Henderson, Designer, Presenter, and Founder of Style by Emily Henderson

'For custom window treatments you can't miss with Decorview. They have what feels like endless amazing options and make each step of the process so easy and wonderful. I've used them many times and I've always loved the result. As well as the hundreds of options, they make each step of the process so easy and wonderful. The customer service is unmatched. I've used them many times and I've always loved the result.'

Lutron

Becky Shea, principal at Becky Shea Design

'Lutron is a household name when it comes to window treatments and lighting, and they have never let me down when it comes to delivering a wonderful product. They will also do COM and have a big selection of amazing fabrics to choose from. The big advantage for Lutron is having the ability to integrate with systems such as Crestron, Control4 or Savant, each of which provide a unified way to automate your window treatments, lighting, HVAC, security and other elements of your home into a single service.'

Everhem

Kristina Khersonsky, interior designer and founder of STUDIO KEETA

'Window treatments are the single-most afterthought piece in the room by clients. However, they are the final piece to really pull together the entire space. Window treatments can soften the space, add drama, or a final layer of personality.'

'If the window treatments aren’t bespoke – meaning we’ve selected a specific textile for a client and worked with our fabricator on a specific style – we’ve looked to a company called Everhem. Everhem has designer-quality offerings at a reasonable price point. They offer a plethora of textiles in a variety of styles. Their company make it simple to select what your space needs from start to finish.'

Danielle Chiprut Founder of Danielle Rose Design Co.

'We often source window treatments from Everhem. Their site is incredibly easy to navigate, making it simple to customize and purchase window treatments at a very reasonable price point. I love how effortless it is to order swatches, allowing us to see and feel the materials before making a final decision. Everhem specializes in custom, high-quality window treatments that perfectly fit any space. Their tailored Roman shades and custom drapery are standout options, combining quality craftsmanship with beautiful design and an ease of use! We also love their custom cafe curtains!'

Etsy

Thea Bloch-Neal, Durham-based Founder and Lead Designer of Curated by Thea

'I love using Etsy for curtains! They have so many options at great prices. Plus, you are always able to talk to a real person about customization options! I love the specifc stores, Shop by Elena and Lanting Curtains.'

TwoPages

Theresa Butler, Principal and Founder of Theresa Butler Interiors

'The TBI team sources window treatments from a range of options, tailored to fit our client's budget. We especially enjoy creating custom window treatments that perfectly match the windows and style of the space. For ready-made drapery, we’ve had excellent results with online sources like TwoPages and Etsy. While these drapes are pre-made, they offer customizable features such as header style, length, width, and more.'

'We prefer TwoPages for their wide range of vibrant colors and styles in drapery and window treatments and you can get them fairly quickly. On Etsy, we often find success searching for unique patterns or companies that will use designer fabrics for custom orders.'

Chad Made

Mollie Ranize, Lead Interior Designer and Founder at Dmar Interiors

'We almost always have our client's window treatments custom-made. That way we can control the perfect outcome and provide a high-quality product with fabric selected specifically for each room of a home.'

'Occasionally if we are doing a quick spruce up and need to get the look for less, we have a reasonably priced vendor called Chad Made. We have their swatchbooks, so we are able to make sure we are getting the perfect colors for the fabrics. They only have solids, but that works in most cases. They also have very clear measuring tools online and their installation instructions are very straightforward. This vendor is a great way to get custom treatments at fair prices.'

Smith & Noble

Interior Designer, Julie Anne Burch

'When it comes to window treatments, I always make sure to bring in the right specialist for the job. Their expertise is invaluable in choosing the best products, and their deep connections with vendors across various companies ensure we get top-quality solutions tailored to each project.For hard treatments, brands like Smith & Noble and Hunter Douglas are usually my go-to. They offer an incredible range of shades and other options that can suit just about any space.'

And, of course, every major fabric house has a dedicated collection specifically crafted for window coverings.We often find ourselves turning to the big names in the fabric world – Schumacher, Scalamandré, Pierre Frey, Clarence House, Lee Jofa – the list goes on. These houses offer a wealth of options that never fail to inspire.'

Pottery Barn

Hillary Cohen Interior Designer and Founder of HCO Interiors

'I really like Pottery Barn linen drapes and Roman shades, particularly the Emery Linen. If you are looking for a neutral linen, they are a great quality for the price. My trick is to order the drapes and have a dry cleaner hem them to achieve a custom height when needed. The roman shade sizes can be customized.'

Wovn Home

Kylie K. Bass of KKB Interiors

'We recently started working with Wovn Home and absolutely love working with Davina and her team. They sell beautiful fabrics in-house, but we also tend to shop a lot at Cowtan and Tout, Kravet, Castel, and then Zak & Fox and Temple Studio for fun patterns!'

'In terms of fabrication, I prioritize working with hard-working, creative, solution-oriented, and kind people! When it comes to fabric, it's important to have access to showrooms that offer a wide range of quality options to suit any project needs.'

Norman

Maria Pulice founder of Bellissima Designs

'My go-to vendor for most window treatments would be Norman. I have been using them for close to 20 years and they just keep getting better. The offering is pretty expansive, including shutters and blinds (both faux and real wood), honeycomb, Roman and roller shades. Their newest product called Smart Drape is the perfect solution for patio sliders and large windows. All of these products can be automated. With winning many awards for child safety and product innovation no vendor in my opinion can come close.'

Morgik Metal

Caroline Kopp, Interior Designer and Founder of Caroline Kopp Interiors

'I LOVE Morgik Metal for beautiful custom curtain hardware. They have stunning authentic finishes and do a wonderful French pole. A continuous, non-telescoping, curtain rod really elevates the whole look of your window in a very subtle, IYKYK kind of way.'

Drapery Street

Stephanie Wiott of Stephanie Wiott Designs

'Luckily for us, we have a local gem that is our go to for window treatments. They are a local Indiana Trade and so close that we can walk to their shop! The team at Drapery Street, located in Carmel, Indiana, is well versed in all their product lines and the quality of their work is simply beautiful.'

'When we can't use Drapery Street, we really prefer to find other local shops with their own workrooms. Using these types of vendors for window coverings offers our clients limitless choices in fabrics and so many options to get more creative, by using tapes, pom-poms, depending on the space and so, so much more. It's also preferable to have someone to speak and work with, face to face, to make sure these beautiful textiles are created and show exactly the way we intended them to!'

'When we can't use Drapery Street, or another local gem, it really depends on the project. We love Pottery Barn for little girls' bedrooms as they always have the cutest options for those sweet little spaces. Restoration is a go for linen!'

The Collective

Sarah Hargrave, Interior Designer and Founder of The Collective

'Window treatments are the most essential item in making a space feel completely finished. For this reason, bespoke details and embellishments as well as technical functionality must all be on point. To really achieve the luxe, fully custom feel, window treatments can't be bought off the rack.'

'Some design groups, such as The Collective in Dallas, offer a la carte services should you want the elevated outcome even if you're not in the market for full-service design. Make the space completely yours by layering in tassels, trim, tape, or pleat accessories.'

Alexander Blank Fabrics & Design

Elizabeth Cross-Beard, Founder of Palm Henri Interiors

'As a Baltimore-based Interior Designer who works within a wide variety of architectural spaces and design aesthetics, we most always collaborate with Alexander Blank Fabrics & Design for our custom window treatments.'

'Not only does Alexander Blank have a fantastic showroom with an array of rods, pleat styles and fabrics; but they also handle all facets of the process from measuring to installation, taking weight off both the designer and client. Whether a petite Bathroom needing a cafe curtain, a Family Room wanting tailored linen panels, or a Grand Residence wanting voluminous draping, they are our go-to!'

Good quality window treatments make all the difference. They are often as dominant in a room as the flooring, or the wall color or a piece of furniture, so picking the right print, color, and style for your space is key.

It's time to ditch the dull white woodwork around your windows and embrace color.

You can go as bold or as paired back as you like. From color drenching so your window frames match the walls, going for a bold shade to add a pop of color, or creating a tonal look as a subtle yet noticeable scheme.

We spoke with designers and color experts to get their insight into which paint colors work best, and how to choose the best shades for your windows.

What color windows should you choose? 

Think of this new look like you would an accent color, as essentially that's what it is. All you need to do first is to prep your windows ready for painting and choose your shade.

There are no real hard and fast color rules – it can be a standout feature or they can blend with your walls – it's up to you, but here are some of our favorite, designer-approved shades to add instant interest to any room.

1. Yellow

Nothing beats a sunshine yellow and all it invokes. It's the ultimate in positivity and joy and will instantly lift a scheme when used on a window.

'For those seeking a bright, summery atmosphere, Chalk Paint in Arles – a sunny orange-yellow – can bring warmth and joy to any space. This color is perfect for creating a cohesive, cheerful environment,' says paint and color expert, Annie Sloan.

If you adore the window color you've chosen remember you can color drench too, Annie continues: 'Imagine a sunroom where the walls, trim, and even some furniture pieces are painted in Arles. This approach envelops the room in a warm, inviting glow, making the space feel unified and lively.'

2. Emerald

Dark colors recede which can be useful when wanting to create drama in a moody style space. This bold living room has an all-encompassing feel so it makes sense to paint the window frames the same color too – traditional white would be far too harsh visually.

Jamie Watkins, co-founder of Divine Savages agrees, 'When the colors of the window frames are coordinated with other elements in the room it helps to maintain a continuous visual flow throughout the space. You can choose wallpaper as the starting point, everything else can complement or contrast with it through varying tonal hues and textures.'

It pays to match your scheme as much as possible, Jamie explains, 'Matching colors in this way serves as a neutral backdrop that allows for greater flexibility in changing other elements of the decor, such as furniture and lighting, allowing them to stand out more effectively. The overall effect is a space that feels more thoughtfully designed and aesthetically pleasing.'

For a similar shade to this bold emerald check out Lick's Green 20 Matt, a dark green with blue and black undertones.

3. Black

If you love a contrasting look then black is your color, and if you team it with white you've got yourself a bold monochromatic scheme that's chic yet eye-catching.

Soften your window sill a little by placing plants and vases of flowers on it, and use a crisp white blind.

'I love painting windows black on the inside that way the outside truly comes in. When window trim is white you only see white but when they are black you can see the green of the trees and blue sky,' says Cecilia Casagrande, founder of Casagrande Studio.

The jet black finish creates a frame of your outside view as Cecilia mentions, tie it in with the rest of your scheme by choosing some black accessories.

4. Red

Create a real punch in a room's color scheme by decorating with red, and the beauty of it is that the rest of your scheme could be white and this fabulous window is the focal point. Unexpected red theory ticked off.

'Primary colors can be used to inject color and add a youthful touch to an interior, especially when used in contrast with more pared-back tones. A bold red like FTT-009 – Bright Red can create a graphic accent when used on window woodwork, and pairs well with light, bright hues like Cotton Street No.3 for a striking color palette,' says Dominic Myland, CEO of Mylands.

To complete the look opt for either matching drapes or an eye-catching blind, we love this striped fabric with the red window frame.

5. Pistachio

Create a soothing view outside with a pistachio – gentle on the eye when your window is big or also incorporates a door, it's a great alternative to white.

Looking good enough to eat this shade will go with white, blush pink and sky blue walls. We asked Helen Parker, creative director at deVOL Kitchens for her thoughts on using this charming shade, 'Let's start with the Crittall windows, the color of pistachio ice cream, they are the most delightfully mouth-watering windows we have ever seen, apparently the first time this color has been chosen for these kinds of windows and doors. We are pretty sure it won’t be the last, it has given people such a thrill to see this daring decision turn out so stylishly.'

We agree! If you want to pop online and order a similar shade check out Benjamin Moore's Scenic View 424, it's both pale and warming to the eye.

Our window frames are a huge part of each room and up to now have mostly been painted in classic white, which does have its place. However, if you fancy changing it up and adding a splash of color then choose a shade that complements the rest of your scheme.

You only have to take a quick scroll through the feeds of some of the most renowned interior designers to find an array of woven or 'chik' blinds hung at some of the most beautiful windows.

Seemingly retro, these sheer window treatments are back on trend in a big way, and I'm seriously on board. On a quest to find something whimsical and unimposing for the windows and patio doors in my home, I stumbled upon chik blinds and it was pretty much love at first sight.

Beloved by experts, and certainly piquing my interest, I reached out to the experts to further understand their love for these organic blinds. Here's what they had to say.

What Are Chik Blinds?

'Chik' window blinds were originally invented in Northern India and are crafted from natural materials like bamboo, jute, rattan, or grasses, to bring an organic and timeless touch to window dressing. Made up of horizontal strips, they are a perfect summer window treatment idea as they still allow plenty of light to filter through.

Designed to shield you from direct sunlight and keep the room cool, they create a dappled light effect that dances across the room and often feature intricate latticework and a rope with which to lower or tie them up.

Chik blinds add texture and warmth to a space, creating a cozy yet sophisticated ambiance that’s hard to achieve with traditional and heavier window treatments.

'I adore chik blinds,' says interior designer Ali Burgoon Nolan, founder of Studio Burgoon. 'For this project [seen above], we made this selection as the reeded blind complements the woven seagrass dining chairs.'

'The windows in this dining nook are southwest-facing so the evening light can be a bit jarring in the summer months,' Ali explains. 'The chik blinds filter that harsh lighting into the most gorgeous dappled light patterns that dance across our dinner table. I love how they make this nook more dynamic with their textural yet casual feel.'

Beyond aesthetics, chik blinds offer practical benefits that make them a popular choice among designers. They provide excellent light control without being overbearing, making them ideal for creating a cozy environment.

Heide Hendricks and Rafe Churchill of Hendricks Churchill, an architecture and interior design studio, are huge fans of chik blinds both personally and for their clients.

'This photograph [seen above] was taken at our family home, Ellsworth,' they explain. 'Chik blinds are an easy way to elevate a space by bringing in texture and warmth. The handstitched lattice designs in cotton string paired with the natural bamboo act as a versatile piece that can either play up or down the formality of a room.'

'They are easy to use and can be purchased at a fairly accessible cost,' Heide continues. 'Plus, they can also help scale down larger windows to create a sense of intimacy that feels organic to the space. In the case of Ellsworth, the chik blinds work to break up the linearity of the Shaker kitchen cabinets while acting as a warm counterpoint to the veiny, white marble.'

'There is an irregularity to these blinds that gives them a sense of craft which compliments the woodwork in the kitchen and surrounding pantry and mudroom. Practically, the blinds allow the kitchen to receive wonderful muted light all day long.'

I'll admit, I've never put too much thought into window treatments until I moved into my new home. Previously, I've either lived in rentals or in our first house which had window shutters everywhere so I haven't really had to give them much consideration until now.

And while I'm of course very excited to choose curtain ideas for the bedrooms and am leaning into the cafe curtain trend for my living room, at the back of my house we have a sun-drenched sunroom with large windows and patio doors to dress. Which is how I came across chik blinds.

Adding texture and warmth to a window and still 'dressing it', woven blinds feel like the perfect blend of functionality mixed with a little whimsy. Blocking light isn't essential in my space (in fact, it would be detrimental) so I'm not phased by the amount of soft light that will be able to shine through these sheer window treatments.

If you are, however, interior designer Benji Lewis offers a great solution. 'There’s something very cosmopolitan about a chik blind. I love the idea of using floor-length curtains to dress windows with chik blinds to provide shading from daylight and a sense of privacy,' he suggests.

One of the main reasons designers love these blinds is their versatility. Complementing a variety of interior design styles, the neutral tones and rustic texture make them feel casual yet super design-led - whether you're designing a bedroom, kitchen, or living room.

Additionally, they allow other design statements in a space to sing. 'If a room is already full of pattern, especially on the walls and ceiling, I will often opt for a solid or natural fiber window covering,' suggests Peter Dunham.

With their combination of style, versatility, and eco-friendliness, it’s no wonder that chik blinds have become a staple in interior designers' toolkits. Personally, I've just placed a big order on Etsy to deck out my sunroom and am considering adding more to my kitchen too. I love that they feel special and give a sense of pattern without heavy fabrics and motifs, and of course, the dappled light effect. Would you consider chik blinds for your home?

Contemporary kitchen designs can often feel quite cold and sterile, leaning too heavily on simplicity and functionality. But fitting a modern space with characterful details, like lush textures and intricate craftsmanship, is a fast track to design success. In this space, designed by bespoke kitchen brand Roundhouse, this winning combination is seen in full force.

Complete with bold, black-and-white marble and thoughtful details in every direction, this space is a relaxing retreat. To hear more about the design process, and explore the details of the space, H&G spoke with Daniel Lau, senior design consultant at Roundhouse. Here, Daniel shares how the Roundhouse team brought this modern kitchen to life.

Marble is a trend-defying, high-quality, and timeless material that looks great in any kitchen – and bold veining is one of 2024's standout trends. An eye-catching pattern is unexpected and exciting, making an otherwise pared-back space stand out.

In this marble kitchen by Roundhouse, bold black-and-white countertops and backsplash elevate the entire space, making it feel luxurious and lively. Pairing beautifully with a neutral color palette here, the one-of-a-kind material proves its versatility.

'A marble with this much movement adds character to the space. Every slab or marble is completely unique and we wanted to create a feature, a point of interest, a conversation starter of sorts,' Daniel tells H&G.

Despite marble's front-and-center role in this design scheme, another statement feature draws the eye: the dark, built-in dining table protruding from the kitchen island. Wrapped around the island and made of natural stone, the table is fully bespoke and formed with functionality in mind.

'The concept behind the dining table element was for a contrasting element to "come out of" the white marble. We chose a custom-stained black granite stone to provide this contrast. Not only that, it’s also an extremely sturdy natural material – perfect for a space as busy as a family kitchen,' says Daniel.

'The sculptural island was the most challenging element in this particular project. I spent many sleepless nights working on the technical aspect of how the island would actually be constructed,' Daniel continues.

But over time – spent working with Roundhouse's technical team, specialist stone fabricators, and the client – Daniel says the design began to come together. Decisions were made on how and where to cut the stone, how the island would blend into the hardwood floor, and 'how it would interact with the semi-cantilevered black granite.'

'All of these details had to be carefully considered and then produced in 3D mock-ups so everyone involved could approve how it would look before a single piece of stone was cut,' says Daniel. Ultimately, the final product is streamlined, unique, and a stunning match with the rest of the space.

The kitchen space blends seamlessly into a dining room, marked by floor-to-ceiling glass doors and chic checkered curtains. Though the two rooms feel quite distinct, Daniel says the open-plan space's color palette allows them to blend into one another quite easily.

'The monochromatic design language is carried throughout the lower ground floor where the kitchen is, as well as the rest of the property. The client chose black Crittall framed doors leading into the garden, black pendant lights, and of course the black-fronted Wolf ovens. All these elements link the entire space,' says Daniel.

When it comes to using texture in interior design, the kitchen isn't always the first room to spring to mind. But cabinets and countertops offer plenty of opportunity for striking textures and materials, as seen throughout this space.

'Mixing different and sometimes unconventional materials, details and textures is what we do best at Roundhouse. Being in a rather unique position of being able to design bespoke classic and contemporary designs sets us apart from other kitchen design studios and this project is a perfect example of that,' says Daniel.

The combination of Shaker-style, floor-to-ceiling cabinetry and handle-less matte black lower cabinets makes for a dramatic juxtaposition that still blends beautifully.

Shop the look

In true Roundhouse fashion, the finished space is stylish and pure luxury – a blend of contemporary class and characterful charm. Daniel says that despite design standstills along the way, the final look is 'absolutely fantastic.'

'When you see the space in person, you forget about all the challenging moments during the design process. Everyone involved in the project was key to bringing this unique design to life and I’d like to say how much of a privilege it was to be part of such an amazing project,' Daniel concludes.

Struggling to manage the heat in your home? Temperatures are set to soar this summer – and we certainly aren’t complaining. But, for homes that aren’t equipped for intense heat, that long, hot summer we’ve been dreaming of can feel uncomfortable and, at times, unbearable.

Luckily, learning how to keep a home cool in a heatwave doesn’t always have to be an expensive endeavor.

Whether you've been exploring how to cool down a living room or pondering the fans vs air conditioners debate, for this trick, all you need is a humble fan. Read on to learn more about this easy, budget-friendly method.

Does pointing a fan out of a window work?

Pointing your fan out of the window in the warmest parts of your home will help to blow hot air out, whereas pointing a fan inwards on the cooler side of your home will help to draw cool air in. The best part about this eco-cooling method is that it can be used in any home. It’s also perfect for anyone on a budget, who may have been researching home remedies to stay cool, as most of us already have a fan tucked away in a cupboard.

‘In the summer, when it gets cooler at night, this is a great way to save on AC costs and cool down a house,’ says Max Veggeberg, CEO and founder of Tetra.

Importantly, pointing a fan out of a window is most effective at removing hot air from the room when it’s cooler outside, so this method is most useful for those mild summer nights when the temperature outside starts to drop.

So, if you own a fan, you’re in luck. This simple trick is a great way to cool down your home without installing any of the available air conditioning types.

Here, experts share their top five tips when using this method to cool down a room in your home.

1. Create a cross breeze

By creating a cross-breeze in your space, the fresh air drawn in by your fan will be able to circulate and flow directly throughout your home.

‘The method really works by making a cross-breeze that expels the warm air outwards from the room and draws in the cooler outside air,’ says Yashar Mosaferi, HVAC expert and president of Klondike AC. ‘This will have maximum effect if there is another window open on the opposite side of the room or house, to let cool air in and warm air out, particularly in homes without air conditioning.’

This method is effective, too, even without a fan, but is maximized with one.

2. Invest in a programmable thermostat

Felicia Wilkes, home specialist at A-One Refrigeration & Heating Inc. advises investing in a programmable thermostat to maximize the cooling effects of pointing your fan out of a window, particularly for times when you are not at home.

‘For optimum cooling I recommend homeowners invest in a programmable thermostat,’ she says. ‘This allows you to automatically adjust temperatures based on occupancy and time of day, saving energy when you’re not home,’ she says.

3. Shade windows

Where possible, shading windows will further reduce the room temperature of your home and keep the air cool, without added costs or harmful environmental factors.

‘Use curtains, such as sheer window treatment ideas, blinds, or reflective films to block direct sunlight, which can significantly heat up a room,' says Wilkes.

We explore what can you put on a window to keep heat out in our separate feature.

4. Point the fan out of the highest window

As heat rises, upstairs is always the warmest part of any home. So, if you’ve been desperately wondering how to keep upstairs cool in summer, this is a great trick to know. ‘For maximum cooling, point the fan out the highest window since warm air rises,’ says Allen Chenault, heating, ventilation and AC expert at AC’s Heating & Air.

This will ensure that stuffy air is drawn out of your space, lowering the room temperature and preventing humidity.

5. Seal air leaks

Finally, consider sealing any air leaks in and around your home, which will help to trap cool air in your home when you close your window.

‘Check for gaps around windows, doors, and electrical outlets,’ says Wilkes. ‘Sealing these leaks prevents cool air from escaping and warm air from entering.’

FAQs

Does putting a wet towel over a fan make it cooler?

If you only have one fan for your entire home, placing wet towels near it can help to further reduce temperatures as the water will evaporate, bringing down the air temperature and increasing the cooling effects.

Now that you're armed with these tips, find your fans, open your windows, and enjoy a cool summer indoors!

In the head to head of shutters vs blinds, it can be hard to know which will prove to be the better solution for your windows.

Both shutters and blinds can be chic and practical window treatment ideas for many different rooms in a home but it’s important to make the best choice for each window for sufficient light control, to create the privacy level needed, and to maximize style.

Design pros have extensive experience of choosing window treatments for their projects, so we asked them what you need to know to make the best pick every time and, below, are their guidelines.

Shutters vs blinds: the ultimate guide

Window blind ideas can be super functional and elegant ways to dress a window. On their own or combined with curtain ideas, they can introduce texture and color to add interest to a room as well as filtering or blocking light.

But shutter ideas are increasingly popular for their sleek good looks and functionality. They’re great for rooms that need privacy and allow good light control.

What do the pros recommend you pay attention to in the shutters vs blinds debate? This is their advice.

Textural appeal

Aileen Warren of Jackson Warren Interiors has a preference for swapping out shutters.

‘In pretty much every home we have worked on recently, if the room has shutters we are replacing them with grass shades,’ she says. ‘Grass shades offer a softer look and allow for more layering with drapes on top.'

‘Shutters feel a little cold and you don’t get an opportunity to introduce another texture or fabric layer – it limits your design,' she adds.

Impact on budget

Your budget counts when choosing between shutters and blinds, and even when choosing the material either is made from, points out interior designer Stacey Dobrovolny.

‘For shutters, you can expect to pay a different price point for wood (stained or painted) and vinyl composite. The most popular shutters are vinyl shutters because they are less expensive.'

Shutters could be worth the extra money though. ‘A big selling point to shutters is that they are the only window treatment that adds value to your home from a resale standpoint,’ she adds. ‘Your return on investment can be as high as 75 percent for the cost paid.'

‘With mini blinds, there are a few types to choose from,’ she continues. ‘You have aluminum, wood, and faux wood mini blinds. While aluminum blinds are not used as much as they were in years past, there are certain environments where they make sense from a cost perspective, as they are the least expensive.’

Even if you don’t choose aluminum, however, you can save. ‘The cost for blinds is considerably less than plantation shutters,’ she says.

Ease of installation

It’s important to know the difference in ease of installation when picking between shutters and blinds.

‘Plantation shutters are a bit more difficult to install because each shutter requires precise measurements to fit properly within the window frame,’ explains architect and interior designer Priyanshi Jain.

‘They require heavy and specialized tools to drill into the walls and install mounting brackets. Blinds are easier to install, as they come with pre-drilled holes and require minimal drilling and screwing for their installation.’

Style results

Weigh up whether shutters or blinds will better suit the style of the room they’re planned for as well as the effect they create in themselves.

‘Wood shutters, just like wood flooring, can add a rich and warm tone to any room,’ says Stacey Dobrovolny. Note her caution, though. ‘Wood is not always the appropriate choice due to sun exposure or moisture.’

The slat size should also be considered. ‘The slat size choice should be based upon both the window size and if you are going for a more modern or classic look,’ says Stacey. ‘The larger slats generally lend themselves to a more modern aesthetic.’

Slat sizes also matter for blinds. ‘The type and slat size of blinds chosen would also come down to the window size and look you are going for,’ she says.

Stacey agrees with Aileen Warren, above, that layering is an advantage with blinds. ‘Drapery side panels, valances and cornice treatments can be added to the window to add pattern, softness, and visual interest to a space without having any impact on the operation of the mini blinds,’ she says.

Maintenance needs

How easy shutters are to care for in comparison to what you need to do to clean blinds might weigh into your decision.

‘Window treatments get dirty, and shutters are so much easier to clean and maintain,’ says Rick Berres, owner of remodeling specialists Honey-Doers. ‘They’re easy to wipe.’

Joseph Passalacqua agrees. ‘In terms of cleaning, plantation shutters hold a slight advantage,’ he says. ‘Their wider slats are easier to dust, and they don’t require frequent adjustments to maintain their appearance. When it comes to blinds, those with thin slats can be more challenging to clean and tend to gather more dust. As someone who runs a cleaning service business, I’ve noticed that clients who choose plantation shutters are generally more satisfied with how easy they are to maintain.’

Light and privacy control

It’s always worth thinking about how hard shutters or blinds will have to work in controlling the light that enters the room, and in terms of maintaining privacy.

‘Shutters lend themselves to controlling light and provide privacy well,’ says Stacey Dobrovolny. ‘But visually they take up a lot of space due to the thickness of the slats.’

As for blinds? ‘The light adjustability is nearly the same as with shutters, however, since the slats are considerably thinner, they tend to “disappear” more in the line of sight so that you can see more of the outdoors,’ she says.

‘They can be fully raised and lowered (or anywhere in between), which is an advantage they have over shutters which either have the adjustable louvers or completely open.’

‘You will also get more light blocking with mini blinds, since the louvers are curved and nest on top of one another.’

If you like to change the look of your rooms frequently, blinds are an easier update than shutters or try another window treatment trend that designers favor for a new look. For a summer update, think sheer window treatments, and get in the know about the window treatment mistakes to avoid to ensure whatever you choose is a success.

There are a few key bits of insider information you'll need when it comes to how to style a bed in front of a window. This is not an easy layout to work with, and one that should be approached with caution, in case you end up blocking the light, making it difficult to reach the window treatments or worse still, end up lying in a draft. 

Happily, designers have been working around unfortunate window placements for years, and have honed their skills for making a bed in front of a window look not just like a necessity, but intentional. 'The goal is to enhance the bed and integrate the windows into the overall scheme, rather than making it appear as a last resort,' says interior designer and founder of House Nine Jojo Barr. And this is how to get this tricky bedroom layout right.

1. Create the illusion of height

It's a clever optical illusion, but sometimes using a bed to hide part of the window can actually create the sense that there is more window than there is. As seen here in this project by Dallas-based Amy's Interiors, the high headboard and equally high curtain rail – much higher than the actual window – immediately trick the eye into thinking the windows are massive. It's a brave approach, but works here due the room being dual aspect, and there still being plenty of light flooding in from the side of the bed.

'The bed was placed in front of the window out of necessity because this Park Cities home was built in the 1920s,' says the studio founder Amy Smith Atkins. 'The bedroom is a downstairs bedroom which is an asset. This was the most comfortable bedroom layout which is always a priority when we are space planning. And we love when someone wants to work with the integrity of an original home so this was the best solution. It works great and we loved the way it turned out!'

2. Choose blinds for ease

It can be hard to get behind a bed to curtains if it's right up to the window, so a blind is more practical choice. As seen here in this room by the Florida-based practice Calimia Home, it allows you to close it with a side-fastening mechanism, rather than having to stretch across.

'We chose a Linen Roman Shad over curtains for ease of opening, especially with the bed against the window, and to maintain a balanced focus between the window, bed, and sconces,' says Monique Miller, the studio's Creative Director and Founding Partner.

3. Make the placement look intentional

While placing a bed under a window may not be the first choice, it shouldn't look like the only option. The goal is to enhance the bed and integrate the windows into the overall scheme, rather than making it appear as a last resort. In this teenage boy's bedroom designed by House Nine, the studio decided to paint the window frames black, creating a striking impact and incorporating the windows as a key design element.

'While placing a bed under a window is usually a last resort, in this loft bedroom, it was the only available wall for the bed,' says the studio's founder and creative lead Jojo Barr. 'By making the window a focal point, we've created an intentional look. The window acts as a decorative headboard, framing the bed and achieving a similar effect to a traditional headboard.'

4. Ensure the windows are sealed

When placing a bed in front of a window, it's important to remember how this will feel, as much as how it looks.

'It's crucial to ensure your windows are well-sealed to avoid drafts,' Jojo says. 'Imagine what it will feel like lying in bed – you don't want any drafts. If you have old windows, such as sash windows that are difficult to seal, use heavy, well-lined, and interlined window dressings with blackout properties to prevent light leaks.'

5. Complement the window with the bedding

Admittedly, Studio Peake placed this bed up against the window instead of in front of it, but founder Sarah Peake used a decorative approach so clever and simple that it can – and should – be applied in layouts that more closely fit the headline of this article. By matching the color of the bedding to the window frame it makes the two work as one, and helps to ensure the placement reads as more intentional. 

'I love using textured throws on beds for an extra layer of color and interest,' Sarah says. 'It’s easy to forget about beds when you’re putting together fabric schemes but they are such a big expanse in a bedroom so I put a lot of thought into what goes onto them. This mohair throw from Loewe was perfect and worked so well to pull in the other colors in the room.'

6. Keep the headboard low

Of course, in order to maximize the daylight as much as possible, another approach is not to block the windows at all. A low headboard will mean that even if your windows are not as high as these ones, they are still as unhampered as they can be, despite having a large piece of furniture sat in front of them.

It helps that the window frames are painted the same color as the walls here, cutting down on the amount of visual distraction and allowing the small windows to seem bigger than they actually are. 

7. Pick a cohesive color scheme

The grays in this bedroom all have a very subtle pink tint to them, a mauve tone that makes them warmer than blue-toned grays (which tend to read more 'Scandi' and have a coolness to them). This makes them kinder for a bedroom, as they seem a little more welcoming. It helps that they are enhanced by the pink of the curtains which also have a grey tint to them, lending a beautiful feeling of harmony. 

Remember to think of the window dressings as part of the scheme, particularly when placing a bed in front of the window. It adds to the effect of being cohesive. 'If using traditional window dressings like curtains or blinds, ensure the fabric complements the bedding and overall design scheme,' Jojo says.

Having a bed in front of the window may be a tricky layout, but it's one that has plenty of ways around. The key it to ensure it doesn't feel too disjointed, you want the bed to look as if it's meant to be in that position rather than it was the only option. Following these simple, yet effective designer approved tips will ensure you get this layout spot on.

Choosing window treatments can often be an afterthought, but ask any interior designer and they will tell you that they are integral to the look, function and comfort of a room. 

With so many options available, from curtain ideas and blinds, to shutters and window film – it’s tricky to decide which style is best suited to your space. Curtains are often considered the traditional choice, but when it comes to window treatment ideas are curtains out of style? 

While some see them as timeless and elegant, others argue they can feel dated compared with sleek roller blinds and shutters. To get the verdict, we asked interior designers and industry experts what they thought, plus we share their advice on how to keep curtains looking timeless and fresh for window treatment trends.

Are curtains out of style?

When we asked interior designers if curtains were out of style for this year's window treatment trends, the feedback was unanimous: curtains are most definitely still in style and are great for bringing character and comfort to any room. 

Practically speaking, curtains offer essential control over light and privacy, plus they help insulate heat and sound, however, they can also make a wonderful design feature. From discreet, lightweight voiles to thick, full-length black-out drapes complete with pelmets, there’s a style for every room, plus there’s an infinite array of fabrics to choose from to coordinate with any interior scheme.

‘Curtains are very much in style, and are an important part of setting the tone for a room. I like to think that curtains to a room are like shoes to an outfit,' says Kristen Scharer of the Washington, DC and Ohio-based Kristen Scharer Interiors. 'Curtains have an incredibly transformative ability to dress-up or dress-down a room depending on their design, style, material, length, width, level of transparency, etc.’

Emma Deterding, founder of Kelling Designs and KD Loves agrees that curtains have enduring appeal. 'Curtains remain a timeless staple in interior design, offering a blend of functionality and the opportunity to add a design-led finishing touch. They are a versatile option that complements both modern and traditional spaces, and aside from the beauty and impact they can add, are popular for enhancing privacy, controlling natural light and even improving acoustics in a room.' 

The benefit of curtains over blinds and shutters is that they bring extra softness to interiors and are wonderful for creating warm, comforting environments. Sleek roller blinds and shutters work wonderfully in a contemporary space, and are loved for their streamlined look – plus they are available in water-resistant materials making them perfect for bathrooms and moist areas. Alternatively, curtains offer a more relaxed, traditional feel which many find welcoming and comforting, especially in bedrooms and bathrooms.

We explore drapes vs curtains vs shades vs blinds in our dedicated feature.

How can you keep curtains looking timeless?

To help prevent your curtains from going out of style we asked the experts to share their tips for achieving timeless curtain designs alongside some dos and don'ts on what to consider.

1. Visual balance is key

For curtains that stand the test of time, the right fabric is key. Always consider the other colors and prints within a room when choosing fabrics say the experts. If you have ornate wallpaper ideas, think about subtle curtains in plain fabrics, similarly, if you have a neutral scheme, a patterned curtain can be a fabulous way to add depth and interest.

'I always opt for neutral curtains if there's a lot of color and pattern in the room already. Not only does this help to balance the scheme, but if you have spectacular views out the window, then this will allow them to flow into the room making the room feel a lot larger,' advises Emma Deterding of Kelling Designs. 'If you have a neutral design scheme, then introducing some color and pattern through curtains will not only make a statement but will automatically draw the eye to the window, again making the room feel more spacious.'

2. Invest in quality fabrics

Perhaps not surprisingly, fabric choice was cited as the most important thing to consider when we asked the experts for their curtain advice.

'By selecting different fabrics, patterns, and colors, you can steer how a room is perceived,' advises interior designer Henriette von Stockhausen, founder of VSP interiors. 'It’s essential to invest in good quality materials to achieve longevity. Avoid delicate fabrics like silks in windows that receive a lot of sunlight, as they can deteriorate quickly.'

'Sheer window treatments and light curtains can create illusions of spaciousness by allowing light to filter through, while heavier, thickly lined curtains can keep drafts and cold out in large rooms with tall windows, such as those in old country houses. Overall, curtains can make a significant difference in both the practical and aesthetic aspects of living spaces.'

3. Don't be afraid to be bold

When it comes to window treatment trends, curtains are still popular, in fact, interior designers and homeowners alike are going bigger and bolder with their fabric choices to make their curtains a real focal point. 

‘One of the main fabric trends for curtains I see is patterns and motifs – curtains are becoming a centrepiece for the room, as such there is a willingness to go bolder with the fabric choice,' says Hayley McAfee, head of fabric and wallpaper brand Villa Nova. 'Alternatively combine natural textures to create a soft, ‘cocooned’ feel. This can be created by having a heavier blind with floaty curtains or even by adding a border to the bottom section of the curtains in a different texture. For example,  a pair of linen drapes teamed with a border of velvet.’

'If you are bold and daring, then why not use the same bold fabric on the pelmet as your curtains, or opt for a contrasting design to really make your window dressings sing?' adds interior designer Emma Deterding.

4. Match curtains to walls for a seamless look

Opting for a pared-back look and matching curtains to your room color ideas is an easy way to keep rooms feeling timeless and restful. Decorating with neutrals over both walls and window treatments, as demonstrated here, is a look guaranteed to stand the test of time and is ideal for guest accommodation or rental properties. The benefit of using curtains over shutters or roller blinds in neutral spaces is that they add a layer of softness, helping add subtle warmth without overwhelming a scheme. 

‘Curtains are a brilliant way of bringing warmth, interest and character to a room and as we continue to crave welcoming, cocooning spaces within our home they are very much in demand,'  says Caroline Milns, Head of Interior Design, Zulufish.

5. Avoid excess draping and frills

Heavy floor-to-ceiling drapes which gather on the floor paired with plenty of swags and frills can be great for achieving a flamboyant, maximalist look, but some feel the excess frills are what date curtains and give them a bad rep. 'For a timeless look, keep curtains classic on a pole without excessive draping. This style will remain elegant and last for many years,' suggests Henriette von Stockhausen.

To keep curtains looking good over the years, always ensure they are made to fit the space and are correctly fitted. 'The most common curtain mistake to avoid we see is clients mounting their curtains too low (you really want to mount them as high as you can to help emphasize the height of your ceilings), or not having it that their curtain material hits the floors,' adds Cathleen Gruver of Northern Virginia-based interior design firm Gruver Cooley.

If you want to keep things traditional with a pelmet then keep it simple, says Henriette von Stockhausen. 'I particularly favor simple curtains on a pole or a pelmet attached to a pole over heavily upholstered pelmets, which can feel too rigid and dated.'

6. Conceal curtain fittings for a contemporary look

When it comes to choosing curtains it's not just material you need to consider – how curtains hang and the fittings you choose can have a big impact on the look and feel of the space. 'Curtains that finish flush with the floor will create a sleek, contemporary look, whilst allowing a slight ‘puddle’ of fabric on the floor will give a more traditional feel,' says Caroline Milns, Head of Interior Design, Zulufish. 

Generally speaking, curtains attached to a track and which sit flush with the ceiling give a more streamlined, contemporary look, while those hung on poles with rings have a more traditional feel. 'I am very keen on running the curtains into the coffers or architectural molding (as pictured above), which allows the curtains to hang seamlessly, creating a constant flow of fabric from ceiling to floor. This keeps the overall appearance very pared back, so that the curtains just soften the angles of the window, creating a very timeless and elegant look' adds Caroline Milns.

'If you do want to give your curtains a really decorative touch then it’s worth considering a pelmet, these can be very simple with straight lines for modern curtain ideas, even finished in timber and not fabric, or perhaps try an unusual, geometric shape and play with the lines of it.'

7. Go for an on-trend cafe curtain

Cafe curtains are having a moment right now and are part of a wider interior design trend towards cafe-inspired interiors which has become a particularly popular aesthetic in kitchens. Cafe curtains are nothing new – the design, usually in lightweight linen, cotton or sheer fabric, has been around for decades, but fell out of fashion along with 80s net curtains. Now they're back and are popular with those looking to bring a touch of romantic European cafe culture into their homes. 

Aesthetics aside, simple cafe curtains are a discreet way to provide privacy without overwhelming a room, plus they help soften spaces such as bathrooms which can often feel stark and clinical. 

For interior designer Louise Copeland, the cafe curtain is the perfect solution for this small bathroom in her Germantown, NY project. 'The window in this bathroom is quite low and so we didn’t want to cover it completely and block the beautiful view outside. Instead, we applied a sheer curtain with a contemporary print to make the traditional curtain more updated, making the curtain as short as possible while still providing privacy,' explains Louise Copeland, founder of L.B. Copeland Inteirors.

8. Choose a classic pinch pleat

Just as the curtain fittings are important, the curtain heading style you choose can have a big impact on how your curtains look and feel, too. For a sleek look consider a simple wave curtain or a tailored pinch pleat. Alternatively, if you're a fan of the vintage or cottage curtain look go for a cottage pleat. You could even have a flop-over-frill for a really soft, pretty look.

Currently the pinch pleat is a favourite among many interior designers. 'Pinch pleat curtains are having a moment – particularly in more formal spaces,' says Kristen Scharer of the Washington, DC and Ohio-based Kristen Scharer Interiors. Many of my clients incorporate curtains more for look than function in, say, a living room or dining room. The pinch pleat allows the fabric to remain tailored and crisp- bringing elements of elegance, warmth and sophistication to a room without the fuss.'

Interior designer Kathleen Groomer also favors a pinch pleat. 'I think keeping hardware on your curtains minimal is great, and getting a curtain with a pinch pleat can help elevate your space as well.' 

For more timeless curtain inspiration, we explore in our separate piece, do curtains need to match?

It goes without saying that come summer, we're all looking for ways to bring some of that daylight and warmth indoors. Letting in an abundance of natural light, and providing a breezy, elegant look, sheer window treatments remain a staple in most interior designers' arsenals.

So when it comes to refreshing your home for summer, sheer window treatments stand out as a rather stylish and practical choice. These light-filtering, airy drapes, blinds, and curtains not only let in the perfect amount of natural sunlight but also help to soften the look of a space while maintaining an open, welcoming feel.

If that sounds appealing, we've sat down with the experts to find out why they love sheers so much, and their favorite ways of introducing these traditional window treatments into your home.

Switching out heavier drapes and fabrics for sheer materials for your curtain ideas and window blind ideas can transform your space for summer with minimal effort.

The delicate fabric filters sunlight, reducing glare while allowing a warm, diffused glow to fill your rooms. Sheers offer a sophisticated way to play with light and privacy, adding layers of fabric without overwhelming or darkening the room.

And while you may still see sheer curtains and voiles as traditional, today interior designers are using them in much more modern capacities that suit a range of rooms – from bathroom window treatments, to kitchen window curtains, and bedroom window treatment ideas. They also work particularly well in sunrooms and garden rooms, providing a better connection to the outdoors.

Their ability to blend seamlessly with various interior design styles also makes them a favorite among homeowners and designers alike.

Sheer curtains are the epitome of understated. They provide a subtle backdrop that complements rather than competes with your existing decor, meaning they will work with your personal style whether you fall on the side of traditional or modern, minimal or maximal.

With their combination of beauty, functionality, and ease of use, it's no wonder sheer window treatments are a go-to recommendation from interior designers. Here, they share their favorite ways to work with sheer treatments.

4 Ways To Use Sheer Window Treatments In Your Home

1. Sheer roman blinds

Unlike traditional Roman blinds, which can be quite heavy and opaque, sheer Roman blinds are made from light, airy fabrics. They can be customized to fit any window size or shape, making them suitable for a variety of spaces, from small kitchen windows to large bay windows.

'Sheers are fantastic for filtering light through a bright window, adding a bit of privacy if your neighbors are a bit too close for comfort (common in city dwellings), or just adding a bit of extra "oomph" to your window dressing which can be called for in a more formal room,' explains interior designer Bethany Adams. 'I like to add sheer soft romans behind drapery if there's an obstruction beneath, like a radiator, or piece of furniture, especially in living rooms.'

Tanner Morgan, of Morgan Madison Design, is also a fan. 'A space is hardly complete without a luxe set of over-and-under curtains or a soft Roman shade in a sheer fabric. One of our favorite tricks from our design playbook is a double Roman shade with a motorized sheer below either a fixed or operational opaque over-Roman.'

2. Sheer cafe curtain

A trending alternative would be the vintage-inspired cafe curtain. Typically covering the lower half of a window, these charming curtains provide privacy while still allowing an abundance of sunlight to filter through the upper portion and softly through the sheer half-curtain.

Helen Parker, creative director at deVOL, creates aged brass cafe curtain rails for this purpose. 'We love these deVOL rails and cannot stop thinking of the endless fabrics and places we can use them,' says Helen. 'Find a window, find a delicate piece of sheer wispy fabric, and attach one of our brass rails to create a vignette of beauty.'

'In bedrooms, I'll often use a sheer pinch pleat drapery panel, while kitchens and bathrooms usually get a sheer cafe curtain,' adds Bethany Adams. Perfect for kitchens and breakfast nooks, they add a touch of vintage charm and create a cozy, inviting atmosphere.

3. Sheer curtains and drapes

'We're all about ensuring a home is cozy and inviting and I think people often underestimate how impactful sheer drapes can be to accomplish this,' says Alex Azat, founder of Plaster & Patina.

'They add warmth, texture, and interest to a space, and oftentimes, if the space receives sunlight, amplifies and diffuses the incoming light, making it softer but more evenly spread throughout a space. We absolutely love introducing sheer drapes to our spaces and feel their impact is paid back tenfold.'

One of the primary advantages of sheer curtains is their versatility. They can be layered with heavier drapes or blinds to create a multi-dimensional window treatment that offers both privacy and light control.

For example, for bedroom curtain ideas, sheer curtains can be paired with blackout drapes to provide a serene, light-filled environment during the day and complete darkness at night. While in a bathroom, privacy can be provided with a blind or shutters.

4. Sheer natural or bamboo blinds

Blinds made from natural materials like bamboo, reeds, or grasses, will not only add texture and warmth to a space but also allow for a gentle diffusion of light. They provide a unique blend of rustic charm and modern organic style.

Offering more privacy than sheer drapes and fabric blinds, they create a warm, dappled effect that still feels light and bright. This makes them an ideal choice for living rooms, dining areas, and bedrooms.

'In this room, we wanted the warmth of woven window treatments without blocking any light,' explains interior designer Alexandra Kaehler who designed the traditional sunroom space above.

They are also a fantastic option for eco-conscious homeowners who want to reduce their impact on the environment. Additionally, the natural tones and textures of bamboo or rattan can complement a wide range of interior styles, from traditional to coastal decor ideas to bohemian or retro.

Whether you opt for the elegance of Roman blinds, the charm of cafe curtains, the versatility of sheer curtains and drapes, or the natural allure of woven blinds, each option brings its own unique blend of style and functionality that is loved by interior designers.

By embracing the art of sheer window treatments, you can be sure to enjoy a season filled with brightness, warmth, and style in your living spaces.

With summer quickly approaching (and warm weather already here), it's the perfect time to take stock of your window treatments and consider some upgrades. Keeping the sun at bay prevents your carefully designed and styled home from being too hot to enjoy. And though the need for shade is universal, making the right choice for your specific space can prove quite the challenge.

From shutters to window blind ideas, the types of treatment on the market are nearly endless, and the vast range of colors and patterns available only complicates the process. But if you've narrowed down your search to Roman shades, you're halfway there – and famed interior designer Nate Berkus is here to help with the rest. He just shared his no-fail guide to selecting the style of Roman shade that will work best with your whole home's design scheme.

These are his top window treatment tips for a cool, stylish summer.

How to select a Roman shade style for your home

Interior design is a very personal process, and the process of picking out curtains and blinds is no exception. Nate shares that 'pretty much every designer has their own take and their own opinion, sort of their go-to when it comes to figuring out window treatments.'

He says he's received quite a few questions about the selection process – a fact that comes as no surprise given the designer's recent collection with The Shade Store. Because he's had quite a bit of practice picking out the best of the best, Nate's now sharing his 'cheat sheet for your windows at home.'

According to Nate, the first step is distinguishing between the two main types of Roman shade: inside and outside mount. Inside-mounted shades will sit in between the window frame, only covering the window itself. Outside-mounted shades will extend a bit further, giving a clean look that covers the entire window and frame. Though the look of the latter might be a bit more streamlined, Nate says he prefers an inside-mounted Roman shade because of their ability to block light more effectively.

'It's great for room darkening, because... the shade sits inside the window frame, not on the mounting of the frame, which means that you don't get a lot of light on the sides,' says Nate.

Whether you're on board with Nate's rationale or not, you'll next be tasked with selecting a style. Nate says it doesn't matter much whether you choose automatic or manual shades – it's the shape and style that really counts. When it comes to aesthetics, there are two main styles to choose from.

'There are two types of Roman shades, really. One is a flat fold – that means the line goes straight across on the bottom. And the other is more of a balloon shade, or a relaxed shade, which means that it swoops because the fabric is not as tight,' says Nate.

Though it'll differ for every home, Nate says his go-to style is an inside-mounted, motorized shade. From there, assess your interior design style and decide which fold will suit it best. While a relaxed fold will add character and extra design flair, traditional homes may benefit from the sleeker, cleaner style that flat folds offer.

'If you want it more tailored, a flat fold. If you want it a little bit looser and more romantic, a relaxed Roman,' Nate concludes.

If you've made up your mind, you won't have to look far to fulfill your Roman shade dreams – Nate's collection with The Shade Store boasts 23 materials and over 70 colors. And if you're not quite sold on the Roman shades but want to update your window treatments for summer, roller shades, drapery, cornices, and pillows are also on offer.

The impact of considered, controlled natural lighting can't be understated, and Nate's advice practically guarantees you won't get lost in the purchasing process.

Window treatment mistakes are, unfortunately, quite easy to make. Because drapes and blinds tend to be chosen later in a project, when other colors and pieces have already been selected, decisions are often made when budgets are lower, creative minds are distracted and people are in a hurry to get the room completed.

'Nothing elevates a room quite like window treatments,' says the designer Ashley Ferguson. 'The right drapery selection can be make-or-break for a space, especially for a large window.'

So in order to stop you making any errors with your window treatment ideas, which can both cost you more in the long run (if you need to redo) or can ruin the way a room comes together. Ashley and a host of other interior designers have shared their advice for getting window treatments right, the little tricks that can end up making a big difference.

1. Approaching installation wrongly

When it comes to measuring up for window treatments, there is a right way and wrong way – and the right way might surprise you. And in fact, if you approach the installation of your window treatments in the way that the interior designer Olga Ashby suggests, you'll find it's much easier to ensure the perfect measurements and avoid costly mistakes.

'Everyone is always in a rush, but we always install the curtain poles and curtains separately,' Olga says 'When the pole is installed we measure up a precise drop and adjust the curtains accordingly.' Measuring the curtains without the pole in place will give you a difference of about one inch – which can actually make a surprisingly large impact on the overall look. 

2. Getting the width wrong

There is an easy equation to measuring up the width of the fabric needed for window treatments, too, and Olga Ashby is on hand to supply it.

'In terms of width, we normally hang the outside of the curtains eight to ten inches further out than the window itself and then make sure they cover two inches of the window itself, which hides the window frame. This way, you get a nice pillar of around 12 inches of fabric on either side of your window treatment.' 

3. Making the window look smaller

When chosen wrongly, a window treatment can actually make the window it's hung against look smaller, thereby making the room feel darker and more cramped. Quite a big effect for a swathe of fabric!

'A tried-and-true tip is to hang the drapery taller and wider than the window to create the illusion of a more open, airy space,' says the Austin, TX.-based interior designer Ashley Ferguson. 'This will also give the window treatment a very sophisticated and tailored feel.'

4. Scrimping on the quality

As curtains are often a finishing touch, chosen after much of the rest of the room has been designed, they often come when much of the budget has been spent. This means it can be tempting to scrimp on them, in order to claw back some money that was unexpectedly spent elsewhere.

But Olga says this is a false economy, and can quickly lead to shrinkage, or even stretch. All those carefully made measurements gone to waste. 'It is important to choose the fabric which wouldn’t stretch over time, though it can shrink if it is hung over a radiator,' she says 'So we only shop for good quality fabric.' 100% cotton is a good choice, being both durable and washable, prolonging the life of your window treatments.

5. Accidentally increasing the budget

While on the subject of budgets, the wrong window treatment can actually up your spend considerably – either because you have to redo them or because the material doesn't age well.

If you are looking to save on how much you're spending, Ashley has a pro-tip. 'To save on costs, an alternative option is to use stationary panels,' she says. 'While these won't provide privacy, they will achieve the look of drapery panels and work to visually soften the room.'

6. Obscuring the view

If you're lucky enough to have a picture window, or large glass panes that look out onto an incredible view, the worst thing you can do is obscure that with the wrong window treatment. At the same time, you do need to choose something, so as to deal with glare, or perhaps enhance privacy. 

In this space designed by Amy Kartheiser, she went for sheer drapes which help to dapple the sunlight a little, while not totally hiding the incredible scenery outside. 'I love to think about beautiful views as a piece of art in itself,' Amy says. 'And just like designing a room around a show-stopping piece of art, I will also design a room around a beautiful view. In this lakeside project, we designed the color palette of the room around the beautiful water and sunrise visible from floor-to-ceiling windows.'

7. Using pattern wrongly

Although patterned curtains are a fun way to introduce print into a space – keeping it at the edges so as not to dominate the design – it's not advisable for every window. 

'Nothing elevates a room quite like window treatments,' Ashley says 'The right drapery selection can be make-or-break for a space, especially for a large window. In this scenario, above, it's best to avoid patterns and opt for a solid-toned curtain. The drapery doesn't necessarily need to be neutral, but definitely a solid color. Busy patterned drapery on a large window can quickly overwhelm a space. Instead, incorporate some fun pattern on pillow textiles or elsewhere in the room.' 

8. Creating too much of a color contrast

Another temptation can be to go for a bright curtain – and for a neutral room this can look well curated. But in a space that already has a lot of color in it, the result can be overwhelming.

Here, Amy chose an ombre blue effect for the curtains, but by matching that blue to colors seen on the furniture already it created a cohesive scheme.

'Neon colors such as yellow, orange or green would create a jarring visual contrast. Deep browns would feel too heavy. Burnt orange would feel too earthy and disruptive. The muted tones we chose helped create a balanced and relaxing living room,' Amy explains.

9. Forgetting a valance

Valances tend to feel a little formal, but when used in the right space they can actually become a perfect finishing touch, a little extra addition that has the overall effect of making the room seem well-considered. Here, in this kitchen designed by Missy Stewart, choosing a valance in the same fabric has the window treatment simply creates an extra, elevated layer.

'A valance is just a great pop of color in a kitchen and ties in with the color theme,' Missy says. By choosing blue for both the window treatment and counter stools, the whole room looks so much more grown up and inviting.

Window treatment mistakes are easy to make, but easy to avoid. The key takeaways are simple; measure, measure measure, don't let your window treatments be an after-thought both in terms of style and budget and really consider what styles, colors and patterns are going to work in your space – what you put at your windows can have as much impact as the color of your walls or material of your flooring. 

The Uplift is a monthly series in which our Style & Trends Editor Charlotte Olby uncovers the best decor to bring joy to your home. She consults our experts and picks through thousands of pieces from the biggest designers and retailers to bring you the very best.

Summer is upon us, and with that comes the natural need to throw those windows and doors open in search of sunlight and a gentle breeze. So it makes sense that switching out your window treatments when the warmer weather starts to hit is an excellent way to get your home summer-ready.

And the editors at Homes & Gardens agree. Summer is all about bringing the outdoors in. Lightweight, airy fabrics such as sheer bamboo blinds or linen drapes can replace heavier winter materials, allowing sunlight to filter through and brighten your rooms. They can really set the tone of a room, provide privacy, and control natural light, making window treatments a versatile and impactful addition to any space.

Personally, I am remodeling and have curtains and blinds to source for just about every room in my home. I'm on a personal mission to find window treatments to shop this June that deliver on style and quality and that are purse-friendly without compromising on those two key attributes. So I've taken on hours of research to source my top picks.

Here, I've tapped into the expert minds of the H&G editors to help me find the very best curtains and blinds out there. Whether you're looking for something soft, subtle, and neutral, a trend-led cafe curtain, or perhaps a more statement-making drape, there's a perfect option for every aesthetic below. Here's what we found.

Whether you love a simple blind or prefer to make a statement at your windows, there's surely something to suit your style here. From luxury, trend-led buys from Pottery Barn, Anthropologie, and Lulu & Georgia to more function-first and budget-friendly picks from Wayfair and Amazon, our editors have used their years of shopping and interiors knowledge to bring you an edit of the best. Happy shopping!

There is nothing quite so quaint as a bay window seat – a traditionally aristocratic design feature with roots in the English Renaissance and Victorian eras. While we have long admired the window seat aesthetic, we had almost made peace with the fact that this feature just isn't feasible in many modern homes, but Nicole Kidman may have changed our minds.

The Big Little Lies actress may not have the conventional bay window that is so synonymous with this seat, but her twist on the conventional just made the feature accessible in every type of home. Instead of exhibiting a bespoke, built-in seat, Kidman opted for a wooden bench that (almost perfectly) fits the window area.

Unlike the traditional window seat, Kidman's furnishing is easily transportable and changeable, meaning she has the flexibility to change up the area more easily than if she had a built-in alternative. It's the perfect spot to enjoy the sun in the same way we would with a classic window seat, only it's much simpler to create, and we can't believe we've not thought of doing it sooner.

In placing her bench in front of the window, Kidman has given her room a more regent aesthetic, but there's more to this spot than its good looks. It is perhaps unsurprising that time basking in the sun can improve our mood and, consequently, our wellbeing, and even if we need to spend our days inside, we can still enjoy its benefits with thoughtful furniture placement.

Debbie Leigh, the design manager at ILIV, encourages us to follow Kidman's lead by strategically placing our seating to maximize the light that comes through our windows. Naturally, the most impactful way to accentuate sunlight is through a window seat (even if it's with a twist like Kidman's), but we can also do so on a smaller scale with something as humble as a simple chair.

'For a dose of comfort, consider crafting a beautifully dressed window seat, complete with plush throw pillows, where you can relax and soak in the scenic views outside. These simple additions help to create a serene and inviting atmosphere that celebrates the beauty of natural light and the splendor of the outdoors,' Leigh comments.

'Watch the way the sunshine moves around your home and position your furniture to make the most of every last ray. Creating sunny vistas can transform your space into a haven of tranquility; a simple chair and side table in a light-filled spot offer the perfect place to unwind.'

Following Kidman's lead begins with the right furnishing. We love this similar bench, which, when dressed with a contrasting cream cushion, will look perfect alongside a window.

One of the most commonly asked questions in interior design is which work best – drapes or curtains? The answer is both can work equally as well but it does depend on the space and what you're after with your window treatment ideas. 

'We love that drapes showcase the beauty and craftsmanship of a fabric by how they drape, and good-quality designs with an interesting pattern can really elevate a scheme,' says Tim Walter, managing director of George Spencer Designs. 

Whereas Caroline Milns, head of design at Zulufish likes blinds for certain spaces, 'Providing a sleek and crisp feel, blinds are the perfect option for a more contemporary and modern feel within a home.'

With the help of interior design experts we consider drapes vs blinds and look at the pros and cons of both (and have a look at using the two together) so you can decide which option suits your home best.

Why choose drapes?

Full drapes with pattern can be a key design feature

Drapes can be an integral part of your space if you want them to be, or, they can be plain and a secondary element that's more practical than stand out. In this texture and pattern filled maximalist living room they are a focal point that brings the whole scheme together and enhances the beautiful window too.

'Choosing a lively pattern for your drapes, such as a fun floral or bold stripe, is a great way to bring personality to a room. Selecting drapes in a complimentary, but different, color to your furniture perfectly ties a scheme together and adds depth and interest,' says Tim Walter, managing director, George Spencer Designs. 

They can be light and airy

If you want your drapes to enhance rather than be eye-catching then choose a neutral color in a fabric that suits your needs – in the summer a lightweight cotton or voile is ideal, and in the winter a midweight linen or velvet will do the trick.

Caroline Milns, head of design at Zulufish says it's important to be cohesive, 'Drapes can be inspired by the color palette of the room – pick out a specific color that may be woven throughout the interior, but also look to bring different patterns and textures into play to create a layered effect within the room by adding weight and drama. From a practical perspective, drapes also diffuse sound a lot more than blinds.'

Cafe drapes add charm in a kitchen

So how do you use drapes in a kitchen? We love this option adopted by Pearl Lowe in her charming vintage kitchen. 

Helen Parker, creative director at deVOL Kitchens says a cafe curtain is the prettiest option – we agree! 'It is actually a very useful and authentic method of sectioning off a room, hiding a view or creating privacy. Find a window, find a delicate piece of sheer wispy fabric, and attach one of our brass rails to create a vignette of beauty.'

Lace is an ideal choice if you love the cafecore trend, it offers a touch of privacy and allows the light to come through making it a good choice for a kitchen that needs brightening up. 

Drapes can be used in a bathroom

Drapes and bathrooms aren't necessarily something you may think go hand in hand – however, get it right and they will look fabulous and elegant. 

Sometimes, a bathroom window in a space might not be suitable for a blind, and the only option might be drapes. We also love the use of symmetry and you get that more with drapes due to the length than with a blind in this instance.

Chloe Cutts, designer at Sims Hilditch explains, 'Drapes have numerous advantages. They serve as a great foundation for any design scheme and offer ample opportunities for customization, from fabric and pelmets to tassels and trims. With an endless array of fabrics, patterns, and styles, they are incredibly versatile and can complement almost any interior which ultimately allows for a more bespoke finish to a space.'

Elongate a ceiling with floor length drapes

As well as being practical and decorative, drapes are also great for tricking the eye when it comes to low ceilings. 

Hang the rail as close to the ceiling as you can and ensure the drapes either touch the floor or slightly 'puddle'. The length will draw the eye up and make the room feel more spacious. 

In this elegant bedroom, blinds wouldn't have the same effect, Brad Ramsey, principal and founder of Brad Ramsey Interiors says, 'In general, I think the most popular way to treat a window for both aesthetics and function is with drapery.  There are lots of ways to layer a window, but nothing brings as much softness and individuality to a space as drapery does.'

Hang both winter and summer drapes

Drapes offer options in that you can hang both a heavyweight and thinner pair together, not only will they create interest, but also can be practical. 

Ramdane Touhami, designer of The Drei Berge Collection for Fischbacher 1819, explains, 'Me, I hate to change drapes. I don’t like it, so I had the idea to have this winter-y thing, you push it to the side, and you have the summer one. This is the concept. I don’t know if it’s going to work, no one’s done it like that, but the idea is to have the winter and the summer on top of each other. And it’s beautiful. In the winter, you want cover, but you still want to have the light because there’s not so much light. In the summer, you really want dark. It’s the idea of playing with the light.'

You can also hang two different colors together which is a great idea for a modern living room. 

Why choose blinds?

They take up less space

More economical in terms of fabric usage – only one width instead of two per window – blinds definitely offer a different aesthetic when used alone. There's no touching the floor and the way they can be pulled up when not in use gives them a cleaner more minimalist look. 

'Drapery panels are still amongst the most popular window coverings, although Roman shades are also a great alternative,' says Lauren Lerner, CEO and founder of Living with Lolo.

'Window covering styles can often depend on the location. For example, we like adding Roman shades to master bathrooms as opposed to drapery panels so they are not sitting near the floor where water can reach them.' 

Blinds can be discreet

When you want your window treatments to take a back seat there's nothing more discreet than a blind as it will fit neatly with the frame. 

A neutral color will make the blind recede visually too – in this minimalist living room, the blinds add a hint of warmth to the scheme. Note your eye doesn't get drawn down like it would if there were drapes. They allow light to flood into the space but offer some privacy. 

Use both drapes and blinds in one space

The versatility of both blinds and drapes means they can be used separately, but together in the same space. 

It works well when some windows are smaller than others, or if you want to add curtains to a door that leads out to the backyard. 

And you don't need to match up the fabric types says Megan Warren, founder and principal designer at Megan Warren Design, 'We used Roman shades and drapes for the breakfast room. Even though the materials were completely different because the colors coordinated it worked really well. The drapes are a Kravet Fabric with a small neutral pattern and the Roman shades are a natural woven material from Hartmann & Forbes.'

Or use them together

Perhaps one of the most popular window treatment trends is to combine both blinds and drapes together. It certainly gives you the best of both worlds. 

'I love to work drapes into a bedroom, living room or family room. Drapes add so much to a space. Functionally they provide privacy and insulation. Visually they add a layer of texture and verticality that makes any room feel so much more elevated and finished. My go-to is to layer drapes over blinds or shades to allow for different needs in terms of privacy and light filtering,' says Sandy Yen, founder of Yen Collective. 

What's great about using both is that you can really play with texture and pattern – we love the rattan blind here, it adds a tactile quality to this cozy space. 

Both drapes and blinds have their merits and can be as striking as each other. They can be colorful, muted, tactile, and elegant and if you can't decide which to choose – why not use both together? 

Caulking around windows is essential for enhancing energy efficiency, and preventing drafts and heat loss. However, knowing where not to caulk is equally important in ensuring their functionality and longevity.

Understanding where you shouldn't caulk around windows is crucial for effectively weatherproofing your windows and preserving their integrity – helping you to avoid creating drafts and trapping moisture, which could lead to window damage over time.

Whether you're caulking to seal gaps in windows and stop cold air leaks, caulking to cut your energy bills, or simply seeking to soundproof windows without replacing them, our experts have provided essential tips to help you avoid costly mistakes. 

Where you shouldn't caulk around windows

'As a general rule of thumb, homeowners should not caulk parts of a window that are meant to move, provide air circulation, or drain moisture,' explains Hugh Williams, home improvement expert at Magic Window. 'However, the specific components that fall under these categories will differ between window types and styles.'

1. Between movable parts

'Avoid caulking joints or seams between movable parts of a window, such as between the sash and the frame. Sealing these areas can restrict the window's proper operation,' explains Josh Mitchell, HVAC expert and owner of Air Conditioner Lab. 'This can create unwanted drafts, compromising the window’s energy efficiency, and can ultimately result in higher utility bills.

'You want to maintain flexibility where components need to move or where air exchange is necessary for functional reasons.'

2. The interior and exterior of the window

'Faulty window installations often result in a gap in the interior window sill, causing drafts. While caulking the gap might seem like the solution to closing this gap and preventing drafts, it will instead trap moisture and foster an environment for mold to spore,' warns Hugh Williams. In cases like this, instead of subpar attempts to repair a window, it's better to replace or reinstall the sill to address this issue effectively.

'Also, when sealing gaps between the window frame and the exterior wall, avoid caulking directly onto the window sill,' recommends Arlen Wang. 'Sills are designed to channel water away from the window, and caulking them can prevent proper drainage, leading to water pooling and potential leaks.'

3. Window sash tracks

In sliding windows, the sashes (the part of the window that moves) glide along tracks. 

'Caulking along the tracks where windows slide can impede their smooth operation, even rendering your window inoperable,' warns Arlen Wang, a contractor and Co-Founder of AnbuSafety. 'Instead, use silicone spray or dry lubricants to maintain functionality without compromising the seal.' 

You can use this CRC water-based silicone lubricant from Amazon.

4. Expansion gaps

'Windows require a small gap around the frame to accommodate thermal expansion and contraction. Caulking this gap tightly can cause stress on the window frame and sealant, leading to cracks and failure over time,' explains Arlen Wang.

Additionally, caulking window expansion joints can restrict the natural movement of different window frame materials, such as vinyl, which can constrict and expand depending on the weather. This can compromise the window's structural integrity and reduce the window’s lifespan.

Leave a small, unsealed space to allow for movement and prevent potential damage.

5. Weep holes

Weep holes are small openings generally found on the bottom exterior of the window frame. These are designed to drain away any moisture that gets trapped inside.

Homeowners might caulk these holes thinking that they’re fixing a frame deformity or preventing drafts, when in reality, these openings drain any water that collects on the frame, and sealing them can lead to water damage and mold growth inside the walls.

6. Drip Edge

'The angled protrusion on the underside of your roof just above the window helps direct rainwater away from the house. Caulking over the drip edge can disrupt water flow and potentially lead to leaks around the window frame,' warns Josh Mitchell, HVAC Technician.

Tips for proper caulking

• Use the right caulk: Different caulks are formulated for various applications. For optimal performance, choose a high-quality, exterior-grade, and window-specific caulk. For most exterior applications, a silicone-based caulk is preferred because it is waterproof, flexible, and resistant to temperature changes. This GE advanced silicone caulk is a best seller on Amazon.
• Focus on sealing gaps: Apply caulk around the perimeter of the window frame where it meets the siding or trim. This creates a tight seal that prevents drafts and moisture infiltration. Apply caulk smoothly and evenly, ensuring complete coverage without gaps.
• Maintain proper ventilation: Ensure proper airflow in your home, especially in areas with high humidity, like kitchens and bathrooms. This reduces condensation buildup around windows.
• Don't caulk over old caulk: Resist the urge to caulk over old, deteriorating caulk. This creates a layered effect that can trap moisture and hinder proper adhesion of the new caulk. Always remove caulk that is worn completely before applying a fresh layer.

While caulking around windows is important for weatherproofing and insulation, it’s essential to recognize where not to caulk to avoid potential issues. Paying attention to these details can help maintain the functionality of your windows and prevent moisture damage over time.

There are so many window treatment options out there. From curtains long and short to blinds (and all the styles they come in) to shutters. Shutters, typically reserved for more traditional-looking homes, can sit stylishly alongside most interior design styles from farmhouses to more modern homes. But, are they on trend?

With the rise in popularity of softer fabric window treatments or coverings, and the growing trend for cafe curtains, it can be easy to see why shutters might start to feel a little outdated in 2024. But they do bring a sense of nostalgic style, clean lines, and a lot of privacy that can be hard to achieve with window blinds and curtains.

So, we've taken it upon ourselves to sit down with some experts and get them to weigh in on window shutters. Their pros, their cons, and whether they'll be using them in their or their client's homes this year.

Are Window Shutters Out Of Style?

Shutters are versatile window treatments that have adorned homes for centuries, offering both functionality and aesthetic appeal. But have they become a thing of the past?

'YES, goodbye and good riddance,' says Kristen Fiore of Kristen Elizabeth Design. 'Unless you live in Florida or Hawaii, avoid shutters in your home. "Plantation Shutters" have a very distinct look that is most suited to tropical climates only so in homes that are in other climates, I feel that they look out of place. They are heavy and block an enormous amount of light into the room and home.'

While shutters offer excellent light control, their design can sometimes feel a bit imposing, especially in smaller spaces.

'Plus, shutters are cumbersome. The only way to open or close them is to use the louvers, you can never have a fully open window,' she continues. 'They create a feeling of being enclosed, even when open, the louvers can act as bars blocking a view and the light. Whenever we see them in a home we are updating, it is an immediate design choice to remove the shutters and welcome in the sun.'

According to designer Bethany Adams, however, window shutters continue to hold their own in the design world. They offer a level of privacy and light control that many other window treatments struggle to match.

'The moniker "plantation shutters" certainly should be [out of style], but the style of the shutter itself, however, is perfectly fine and useful in houses of the correct proportions (read: large),' she advises. 'Most of us would be better served by a 1" shutter which is harder to source, but much more appropriate to the scale of most homes.'

The general consensus is that window shutters can block out a lot of natural light, so you need to be sure to use them in an open space that prioritizes privacy over brightness.

'Shutters are classic but I think it’s important to consider where you are putting them because they can block a lot of light in a space if not used correctly,' advises Meredith Owen of Meredith Owen Interiors.

A kitchen or bathroom, for example, could just be the perfect spot for shutters. For one, they're inherently waterproof and do a great job providing privacy for bathrooms and overlooked rooms in your home.

Sam Tamlyn, managing director at California Shutters, says: 'With inevitable splashes and spills that occur in kitchens and bathrooms, easy maintenance is paramount. Shutters are a breeze to clean, requiring only a quick wipe between slats with a damp cloth.'

Additionally, shutters are known for their durability and low maintenance requirements, making them a practical choice for busy households.

'Wherever you are in your home, privacy is essential to relaxation,' says Sam. 'Unlike other window treatments, shutters provide complete flexibility for light and privacy, especially tier-on-tier and full-height designs. This means you can easily adjust the shutters throughout the day to suit your needs and requirements. For bathrooms, opt for tier-on-tier shutters to allow plenty of light in without taking away from privacy. For kitchens, especially those on busier streets, café-style shutters are always a popular choice.'

Ana Zuravliova, trend specialist at Blinds Direct, agrees, saying: 'While 2024 is looking like a year for the maximalists and lovers of bold patterned curtains and blinds, shutters still have an important part to play in home interiors.'

'When compared with soft fabric curtains and blinds, shutters offer equally beneficial light management and greater privacy, while also offering more versatility in certain rooms,' Ana advises. 'In the bathroom or kitchen for instance, where steam can severely damage soft fabrics, faux wood shutters are moisture resistant and will add an elegant finish that lasts for years.'

'The sleek appearance of shutters also makes them suitable for almost any 2024 interior design trend from minimalist rooms, to providing a counterbalance in vibrant maximalist spaces.'

If you're sold on the look of shutters, but concerned about the functionality in your home a great alternative is bamboo, rattan, or traditional chik blinds. Or, of course, you can go for a softer approach with curtains, drapes, roller, or Roman blinds.

Blinds and shades can provide the clean and streamlined appearance of shutters without the hassle of having to deal with slats, and they're much less obstructive. Additionally, curtains will offer a softer, more traditional feel, adding warmth and texture to a space. Ultimately, your choice between window shutters and alternative treatments will depend on your style preferences, budget, and the desired look and feel of the intended space.

While there is always much debate on what is 'on trend', it's clear that shutters are a timeless fixture that absolutely still has a place in modern interiors. With ease of light control, durability, and versatility, shutters offer a great option for homeowners seeking functionality and style. The key is to choose a window treatment that enhances the overall look and feel of your home, without getting too hung up on design trends.

Many homeowners decide to clean windows on a hot day due to misconceptions about the benefits of sunlight in the drying process. However, while cleaning windows on a scorching hot day might seem like the perfect time to get it done, it's a recipe for disaster. Here's why:

Why you should never clean windows on a hot day 

Firstly, when you clean windows on a hot day, the cleaning solution tends to evaporate too quickly. When temperatures soar above 70°F, the evaporation rate can double, making it nearly impossible to avoid cleaning windows without streaks.

‘Imagine trying to give your floor the perfect shine, but the wax dries faster than you can buff it,’ says Michelle Hansen, a cleaning and organizing expert and owner of Practical Perfection. ‘The same principle applies to window cleaning; quick drying impedes achieving a streak-free finish as the residue doesn't get wiped off in time.’

Secondly, the intense heat from direct sunlight can make the glass expand, creating the potential for cracking or stress fractures when cold cleaning solutions are applied. This thermal shock, also known as "thermal stress," is akin to pouring cold water on a hot glass dish or steam cleaning windows in the winter; there's a high risk of breakage. This is particularly a concern in regions with a hot climate, where window glass routinely experiences high temperatures.

Additionally, working with any cleaning solutions on a hot day can be physically taxing. There are safety concerns associated with working in hot temperatures, including the risk of dehydration and heat exhaustion, especially when working outdoors. These conditions can compromise your ability to clean effectively and safely.

FAQs

When should you clean your windows?

'I recommend cleaning windows during the cooler parts of the day or on milder, cloudier days,' says Alicia Johnson, a cleaning expert from Cleaning Green LLC. 'The optimal cleaning temperatures for windows are between 50°F and 70°F.'

Not only does this prevent the cleaner from evaporating too quickly but also reduces the risk of damaging the windows from thermal stress. Moreover, it's much more comfortable for the cleaning personnel, which minimizes the rush and potential for mistakes.

How often should you clean your windows?

For residential windows, you should look to fully clean them between 2 and 3 times per year. However, if you live in an area with many trees and pollen, it may be wise to clean more regularly to prevent build-up.

Remember, a little bit of planning can go a long way when it comes to window cleaning. Don't let the heat get the best of you – tackle those windows like a pro, but do it when the weather is on your side.

You can also use a magnetic window cleaning tool to help clean your windows without having to use ladders or go outside on a grey or cold day.

Replace or repair windows? Properly maintaining your windows will ensure their energy efficiency, keep them secure and make sure they stay looking good. 

So, first you need to identify the signs that your windows need attention. And once you’ve recognized what’s wrong you need to make a decision on what steps to take next. 

Is it an issue you can sort yourself or is it time to call in a professional? How much can you expect to pay for repairs or replacement? Here we answer these questions and more so you can make the right decision.

Repair or replace windows  

Old, drafty windows are often an inefficient eyesore, but should you replace or repair? Here we look at the reasons why your windows might need looking at, how to repair, the benefits of replacing and how much you can expect to pay for repair and replacement 

5 Signs Your Window Needs Attention

Look out for the tell tale signs that let you now is the time to get them fixed or replaced 

1. Condensation between panes 

‘One of the sure signs your windows need attention is if you see condensation’ reveals Misrraim Cardenas, CEO at Portella. ‘If condensation on your windows persists for long periods and appears between double-glazed panes, this often indicates a failed seal, which compromises the insulating properties of the windows. In this case, you either need to repair the seal or replace the window unit.’

Another sign to look out after cleaning, ‘If you see any signs of foggy glass after cleaning them, that likely means the seal between the two panes of glass has failed.’ suggests Jeremy R Prunty from Bronte Companies Property Solutions.  

2. Drafts of air 

‘If you move a lit candle (not a jar style candle) around the perimeter of your window on a windy day and you see the flame flicker or move, that is a good way to see if your windows are drafty and need attention’ says Prunty. Another simple test is to place your hand over the areas where the windows close to see if you can feel any cold air. 

3. Trouble Opening/Closing windows 

Difficulty opening and closing windows, or odd sounds when trying to open are sure signs that not all is good. ‘If they are tough to open or slam shut, odds are they have something inside that is broken causing them to not function as they should.’ shares Michael Strmac, Co-Founder of Universal Windows Direct. 

4. Higher energy bills 

If you have poor fitting or failing windows (such as drafts of air) this is typically reflected in your energy bills. ‘As per the studies, drafty windows can increase your energy bills by about 10% to 25%’ reveals Jay Sander of Maryland Contractors. 

5. Physical damage 

Any obvious signs of damage to the windows such as rotting frames or chipped or cracked glass are simple indicators that you need to get new windows or look at the different ways you can repair them. 

Repairing Windows

Minor damage, replacing parts and preservation of windows on historical homes are issues that you can typically fix yourself. But, it's worth remembering that bigger issues will need a professional and some will only be a temporary solution. 

Sealing drafts 

‘Sealing drafts is a relatively simple task every homeowner can handle,’ says Cardenas. ‘For this, you need to use store-bought weatherstripping. I recommend opting for ones that are specifically designed for the type of surface they will be applied.’ Duck Heavy Duty Rubber Weatherstrip Seal from Walmart is a good choice and easy to apply. ‘When using weatherstripping, make sure to cut it to fit precisely and adhere it firmly in place. For better results, clean the surface before application.’

The alternative - and not quite so easy to use - is a caulk gun, recommends Cardenas. ‘Start by removing old caulk and debris from cracks and gaps. When the target area is clean, apply a steady bead of caulk and smooth it out with a caulking tool or a wet finger.’

I recommend investing in a specialist caulk tool like this Amazon Basics 3-IN-1 Caulk Tool. This helps remove old caulk and gives a consistent smooth finish to the new caulk. 

Replace a pane 

When a window pane starts to fog up and you can see condensation on the inside it means that the seal has been compromised. This means it's time to replace the pane, but Prunty warns ‘Replacing insulated panes on certain windows sometimes costs more than the entire window.’

A component DIYer will be able to tackle the task, but if you’re unsure call in a professional. Break the seal, or crack the pane and you are looking at an expensive DIY mistake. 

Change hardware 

This is a relatively easy job to do, typically a screwdriver is all you need. But, it's not always easy as Prunty explains, ‘Original equipment replacement parts for older windows can be quite challenging to find and source.'  

Replacing Windows

Windows won't last forever and there will come a time when the best option is to replace. Major damage, old age, too many misty panes, drafts everywhere and poor energy efficiency are the more obvious reasons to replace rather than repair. 

Benefits of replacing windows 

• Improved energy efficiency - New energy efficient windows will help improve your homes insulation, keeping the heat in, your energy bills lower and helps the environment.  
• Better security - New improved locks, designs and toughened glass, will add extra security to your home. 
• Curb appeal -  New windows will improve the look of your home, add value and introduce soundproofing 

Types of windows

• Window Types - There are a few choices here with single/double hung, casement and sliding windows being the popular options. A single/double-hung window has two panels one on top of each other. These look good in period homes and offer good ventilation, but aren’t the most energy efficient.
  
  Casement windows open like a door, making them easy to open and offer a clear view, but can only really be cleaned from the outside. Sliding windows have two panels that slide on a rail. They save space and work well until the rail gets dirty or buckled making them less secure.
  
•  Window materials -   The popular materials for windows are vinyl, wood and aluminum. Vinyl windows are made from PVC, they are affordable, secure, offer good insulation, are moisture resistant and don't need painting. But, the material is not eco-friendly and not designed to be painted, though they can be.
  
  Wood windows are good insulators, offer a natural aesthetic and can be painted. But they are comparatively expensive and need regular maintenance to keep in good condition.
  
  Aluminum windows are low maintenance, durable and affordable. But they are not as energy efficient as other types, are prone to condensation and susceptible to corrosion. 

 Tip for choosing the right windows 

 What's the climate like where you live? Choose different options for different areas as Cardenas from Portella suggests, ‘There are different energy-efficient options on the market offering great insulation properties, however, your choice should be based on the climate in your region.'

He continues, 'For areas with consistent hot sunny days, windows with a Low-E glass might be an excellent choice. For cooler areas, I’d recommend double or triple-glazed windows with thermally-broken steel frames or fiberglass frames.'

Cost Considerations

It's the big one. When it's time to choose what you wish to do with your windows, costs can be a big factor in your decision making. 

Repair vs. replacement costs

Typically repairs are the more cost effective option. If you only need to add some weather stripping to stop draughts, this costs around $10 for a window or two. The same if you are looking to caulk, a tube of sealant like this GE Siliconized Acrylic Multipurpose Sealant from Walmart costs just $6.

Replacement costs for windows are commonly much higher apart from hardware with handles commonly costing around $10-$20 for a basic pair. But there's a steep rise when it's time to replace panes and windows.

To replace a pane of double glazed glass the average cost is around $200-$300, but less for smaller windows and more for larger and specialist glass. For a replacement window expect to pay anywhere between $400-$1000, again dependent on size, style and material.

The ROI of new windows 

Investing in new energy efficient windows will bring long term savings on your energy bills. How much you save will depend on the condition of the original windows that were replaced. But savings of 10-30% a month are not uncommon.

Alongside savings on bills installing new windows will add curb appeal and improve the value of your home by up to 10%. Plus if you are looking to sell, it will be an added attraction for potential buyers. 

Green Incentives to help with costs 

Introducing new energy efficient windows is positively encouraged by state and government, as Prunty reveals, ‘There are tax credits and incentives in every state, yet they vary from state to state. Depending on the state where the windows are installed, you can apply to deduct some costs on taxes. Also available is the ability to apply to get a credit with the local electric utility company.’ 

Interested? He continues, ‘A great online resource to look all of this up is DSIRE (a Database of State Incentives for Renewables & Efficiency)’. Cardenas recommends checking out the Windows & Skylights Tax Credit, which can save you up to 30%. 

Replace or repair? What you need to do next

After careful consideration of all the related issues, you need to make a decision on what is the best option for you. Do you need a full-scale replacement? Can you afford a full scale replacement? If so, find a local contractor and get the ball rolling. 

But, if you can’t afford to replace all, consider replacing the worst of the windows. If on a small budget, look at cost-friendly repairs, such as painting, caulking or weatherstripping.  

Whatever option you choose the sooner you take action, the sooner you will have a more energy efficient, warmer and cost effective home to enjoy.

Blending bold pattern, bright color, and expressive artwork in a single space is no simple task – the fine line between eye-catching and overwhelming is easy to cross. But some designers nail the balance, blending color with comfort and character with class.

Marie Cloud, owner and principal designer of Charlotte-based Indigo Pruitt Design Studio, achieved it all in this entryway. Originally designed for the Junior League of Greensboro's 2022-23 Designer Showhouse, the space went on to win 'Most Innovative Design' in Wayfair's 2024 Tastemakers Awards.

The Brownstone Boys, two Brooklyn-based interior designers and renovators who judged the competition said she 'threw the rule book out the window and danced on it' – and we can't help but agree. The small entryway, with its bright blue accents and defining wallpaper, makes the space a world of its own in the best way.

'The vision for this space was rooted in a desire to celebrate its inherent classical charm and traditional ambiance while introducing a contemporary twist and artistic touch to create a sense of surprise and innovation. I take great pride in having achieved this delicate balance, and believe the result not only meets but exceeds my original intentions,' Marie tells H&G.

A look inside the award-winning entryway

There's a near endless supply of design inspiration to be found in this small space, but the wallpaper is undeniably the room's boldest feature. Following the natural architectural flow of the space, the wallpaper carries the eye with ease.

The graphic black-and-white pattern incorporates small touches of muted blue and gold to make a true statement, and a complementary pattern takes to the ceiling for added interest. Marie shares that the main wallpaper is Capiz Offering from York Wallcoverings.

'The decision to extend the wallpaper onto the ceiling transforms it into a fifth wall, making a bold statement that adds depth and character to the space,' she says. Opposite the wallpapered ceiling, natural wood floors 'offer warmth and a classic foundation that grounds the more eclectic design elements,' Marie adds.

Though the space offers quite a bit of function, Marie has incorporated a comfort-forward reading nook design, perfect for cracking open a book and relaxing. Fitted with built-in shelves that easily hide from view, high ceilings, artwork and a convenient side table, the nook is an oasis within the highly patterned environment. The throw pillows, meant for function and comfort both, 'play off the wallpaper and seating, tying the space together,' says Marie.

'The nook seating area is designed to be a comfortable, intimate space that is conveniently located across the hall from the walk-in closet. The inner wall is upholstered with a textured chartreuse hue, which adds a tactile element and warmth to the seating area,' she tells H&G.

Pictured above, a large mirror rests atop an accessible console table, creating the illusion of a more expansive room. Carefully selected design accessories mimic the space's overall color scheme, which Marie says was integral to the design scheme from the start. Sherwin-Williams' Poolhouse, a bright yet understated blue, makes the trim and crown molding pop.

'I envisioned the color palette as grounded in tradition yet making a striking statement. The serene blue was selected first to harmonize with the classic interior architectural elements, setting a foundation for the space. Following that, the wallpaper was carefully chosen to further enhance and complement this palette,' she says.

Hallway lighting isn't often prioritized in design schemes, as these spaces serve as more transitional areas, as opposed to moody living rooms or dining rooms. But in this hallway, Marie made sure to integrate a layered lighting scheme, placing gold light fixtures of different shapes and intensities throughout the space. A small pendant acts as a reading light inside the nook, while sculptural pendant lights hang from the wallpapered ceiling.

'The lighting fixtures are chosen not only for their functionality, but also for their design qualities. They complement the metal details found in the frames and hardware throughout the space, providing a consistent design thread,' says Marie.

Art in a traditional gold frame hangs throughout the space, each piece emulating a striking motif. Marie says this was a 'deliberate thematic continuity,' with the characterful birds in each painting following from the wallpaper's design. She adds that each piece's name spoke to her when designing the space. 

Titled 'Flow,' 'Sunset,' 'Anxiety,' 'The Light,' and 'Falling Apart,' each piece of art carries its own charm and emotion. Pictured above, 'Sunset' and 'Anxiety' (Marie's personal favorite) are stacked in a thoughtful vignette.

'The artwork is a compelling element, reflecting the space's ethos and adding a narrative layer. I loved the emotional triggers each piece sets off, it feels so personal and intimate. The bold gold frames contribute to the room's luxurious feel and highlight the artwork as key focal points,' she says.

Attention to detail was key in this space – though the entryway color scheme is impressive on its own, each design accessory contributes to the overall, award-winning look. Marie says that each element was curated intentionally, from the books that line the seating nook's shelves to the vases and artwork placed in the adjacent laundry room. Each item plays a role in 'enhancing the narrative of the space,' she says. 

And because the space was originally part of a showroom, Marie had a bit more opportunity to make the experience truly unique for visitors.

'There is a hidden Bluetooth speaker that plays an intentionally curated playlist to set audio mood for the space. There is also a tiny table (not pictured) that has a glass bowl of golden wrapped chocolate for you to grab as you enter this hallway experience,' she adds.

Ultimately, any successful design caters to the five senses, creating a peaceful retreat for anyone who visits. Marie says this was a key focus, from the beginning stages of design to the final product.

'I wanted the hallway to be an experience. One that was unexpected and intense in its punch. My goal was to push the envelope on innovation and leave guests wowed by the level of detail and artistry,' she says.

With this project, Marie took an often dull space – a hallway – and made it into something awe-inspiring. Combining just the right amount of function, comfort, and design expertise, the final result would serve as a stunning first impression in any home.

Sometimes, the only place to put your bathroom sink is below a window. And while the natural lighting (and if you're lucky, picturesque view) is unbeatable, this layout doesn't leave much room for a mirror – a vital feature of any bathroom.

If you're stuck with a tricky layout and aren't sure where to fit a mirror for last-minute touch-ups, interior designer Emily Henderson has found the solution for you – and even though it's functional by nature, the final look doesn't compromise on style. This is how Emily fits a bathroom mirror into any space, and how you can do the same at home.

How Emily integrates mirrors into the trickiest of bathroom layouts

This week, Emily took to Instagram to share her guest bathroom redesign, and the results are to die for. Integrating a moody floral wallpaper from Kelly Ventura and eye-catching pink tile from Pratt + Larson, the final design is the perfect mix of dark and refreshing. 

And while the room's sleek pedestal sink ended up in just the right place, a built-in vintage window occupies the space where a mirror would usually shine: 'Putting the sink in front of the window was really the only option that made sense so we just went for it,' Emily tells H&G.

With all the rest of the design elements down pat, one question remained. How could Emily fit a mirror into this stunning space?

To solve this design dilemma, Emily took to the local antique shops – she tells us 'there's great thrifting in Portland.' While there's an endless supply of new and functional (and often, aesthetically pleasing) extendable mirrors on the market, this guest bathroom's design called for something a bit more antique. 

A masterclass in styling antiques, the ornate oval mirror is mounted to the wall, in between the shower and window, and can be extended outward when in use. Its slightly worn appearance only adds to its appeal, fitting in beautifully with an antique gold frame hung above the toilet area just beside the sink.

Though Emily says the mirror's vintage quality doesn't necessarily make daily use easy, she says it works well for a guest bathroom. Plus, there's a second mirror hung on the opposite wall, which is larger and the perfect back-up plan.

'This particular mirror is very old so not the greatest for practical, every day use (hence why it’s in the guest bathroom and not the main), so there’s a new mirror on the opposite wall. But had we chosen a newer mirror it would work great. Think of all the natural light for putting makeup on!' says Emily.

This simple trick can truly work in any space, but Emily says some rooms are more suited than others to the extendable mirror hack. Ultimately, these small mirrors are better for quick glances, and not necessarily functional enough for an organized morning routine.

'I’ve seen it done with larger mirrors which can make it awesome for a room like a primary bathroom. But otherwise, I think it’s best for a powder room or guest bathroom that isn’t used as much or needs a lot of daily "getting ready" function,' Emily says.

When in a pinch, this clever hack makes fitting a mirror into your bathroom easier than ever. Especially fit for a powder room or guest bath, an extendable mirror makes your naturally lit bathroom so much nicer – and with a vintage touch, the design scheme only gets more classy.

Energy efficiency is an important aspect to consider when it comes to home improvements. With rising energy costs and environmental concerns, finding ways to lower your energy consumption has become a top priority for many homeowners.

A straightforward way to improve your home's energy efficiency – and significantly cut energy bills – is to install energy-efficient windows. These windows are designed to help keep your home cool in the summer and warm in the winter, reducing the need for excessive heating or air conditioning. 

We asked energy experts to explain why now might be the perfect time to make the switch to energy-efficient windows in your own home. 

What are energy-efficient windows and how can they cut energy bills?

A recent research study by the US Department of Energy reveals that 'heat gain and heat loss through windows are responsible for 25%–30% of residential heating and cooling energy use.' Put simply – switching to energy-efficient windows is an easy way to lower your energy bills fast. 

What are energy-efficient windows?

'Energy-efficient windows are designed with technologies and features that enhance insulation, reduce air leakage, and block or reflect unwanted solar radiation,' explains David Miloshe, an electrician and home improvement expert at Fantastic Services. These are the features that contribute to improved energy efficiency: 

1. Low-emissivity (low-e) glass

Low-emissivity (Low-E) coatings are thin, invisible layers applied to the glass surface.  These coatings help control the amount of infrared and ultraviolet light that passes through the window, keeping heat inside during winter and outside during summer. 

Low-E coatings contribute to maintaining a comfortable indoor temperature and reducing the need for excessive heating or cooling. 

'These windows can be particularly beneficial for areas with persistent hot temperatures outside or in rooms that receive the most sunlight to significantly reduce reliance on cooling systems,' advises Misrraim Cardenas, CEO at Portella..

If you are looking for a quick fix, UV heat control window treatments, such as this one from Walmart, can also provide some heat transfer control.

2. Framing materials

Energy-efficient windows are often designed with thermal breaks, a window frame technology that helps to reduce heat transfer. 

'Window breaks are insulating materials between the interior and exterior window frames that help reduce the transfer of heat or cold through the frame, enhancing overall insulation,' explains David Miloshe. This ensures a more consistent indoor temperature,  making cooling and heating more efficient. 

3. Double or triple glazing

Energy-efficient windows often feature double or triple glazing, which involves multiple layers of glass that act as insulation.  In addition, the space between the panes is often filled with an inert gas like argon or krypton. These gases have lower thermal conductivity than air, helping to reduce the heat transfer through the window. 

4. Air leakage prevention

Energy-efficient windows are designed with tight seals and materials to minimize air leakage, which prevents drafts and helps maintain a consistent indoor temperature.

Proper sealing can reduce the amount of heat or cooling that needs to be generated.

How energy-efficient windows can reduce energy bills

'Energy-efficient windows minimize the heat transfer between the interior and exterior of a building to a greater extent than traditional windows,' explains David Miloshev. 'This helps to maintain a more consistent indoor temperature year-round, reducing the need for heating or cooling systems.'

In winter, they prevent cold air from entering your home and escaping through windows. This heat-retaining trick to keep a house warm will prevent you from having to set a higher temperature on a thermostat. 

In summer, energy-efficient windows keep your home cool by preventing cool air escaping or hot air from entering your home through windows. This will reduce your reliance on air cooling systems.

Are energy efficient windows worth the price tag?

While energy-efficient windows may have a higher upfront cost compared to traditional windows, the long-term savings on energy bills make this a worthwhile investment.

With improved insulation, energy-efficient windows lessen the strain on heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems. This can extend the lifespan of these systems and reduce maintenance costs.

In addition to saving you money, energy-efficient windows can also help lower greenhouse gas emissions and create a smaller carbon footprint.

So, to choose the right windows for your home, you should estimate the return on investment (ROI) of energy-efficient windows based on your potential energy savings. 

When looking for energy-efficient windows, find those with high Energy Star ratings or certifications from reputable organizations to ensure optimal performance and savings.

With new trends hitting the interiors spotlight all the time, it’s easy to see why transitional living room ideas are on the rise. Not only does this classic blend of old and new suit every style and size of property, but it’s also a timeless look you’ll never tire of.

So if you want to learn how to create a transitional style in your living room, read on for our expert-approved tricks of the trade that nail that balance between embracing current interior design trends, but also ensure the room still feels classic. 

What Is A Transitional Living Room?

Interior designers agree that transitional living rooms are a harmonious mix of traditional and contemporary style. You could try out elements of English country decor alongside mid-century modernism. Or neutral Scandi-style furniture within a listed building backdrop.

Above all else, these easy-on-the-eye living rooms are elegant, comfortable, and classic. This makes it a go-to style mantra whether it’s a busy family household or an apartment for one.

'The transitional living room redefines timeless grace with a modern twist, ensuring both comfort and a contemporary aesthetic,' says New York based designer Kati Curtis. 'It’s a blend where the essence of sleek and modern minimalism meets the warmth of classic style.'

What is the difference between transitional and traditional style living rooms?

Although transitional living rooms may share certain traits with traditional ones, there are differences too. Traditional spaces are often warm, heavy and cocoon-like with an emphasis on symmetry and saturated color. Transitional living rooms can include all of those elements too. However, the key difference for transitional style is blending the traditional with contemporary elements such as modern lighting or geometric patterns. The result is classic and timeless but with a fresh outlook. 

9 Transitional Living Room Ideas

One of the big advantages of transitional living rooms is that they are timeless yet original. In your own home, this means decorating this important communal space with a balance of styles that you adore.

For the living room, that could be an antique rug with a 1960s sideboard and modern art on the walls. Or perhaps a traditional couch upholstered in a contemporary striped fabric with a mix of patterned cushions.

'Transitional design is all about breaking free from the constraints of sticking solely to neutrals or adhering strictly to one aesthetic,' says British interior designer Matthew Williamson. 'For me, this means celebrating the unexpected juxtapositions, the harmonious clash of old and new, bold patterns alongside classic designs.'

There’s another big plus point for transitional living rooms too. With such a classic look, you can dip your toe in a few living room trends further down the line if you fancy a mini style update.

While this ‘anything goes’ style ethos sounds easy to pull off, it’s a good idea to follow a few design pointers. Read on for interior design style rules for transitional living rooms and get the perfect blend of old and new.

1. Reinstate original features

An effortless blend of vintage decor and contemporary is a hallmark of transitional living room style. And that includes the architectural detail of a room.

In period properties, restoring original details is a great starting point for your project. Look at reinstating fireplaces or plasterwork to suit the age of the house, whether these are originals or newer versions.

'For the living room in this Grade II listed townhouse, we restored the stunning cornice as well as introducing new Georgian moldings to frame the walls,' explains interior design Clémence Pirajean of London-based studio Pirajean Lees. 

'We reinstated the Georgian fireplace, a central focal point of the living room that had been removed during a previous renovation. The marble hearth is a more contemporary detail, grounding the fireplace in our current era. We then layered these architectural details with a mix of antique and contemporary furniture and accessories.'

2. Clash color in transitional living rooms

Just like transitional bedrooms, a mix of period and modern decor will create a unique and timeless living space you’ll never get tired of. For British interior designer Matthew Williamson, a playful use of color is one of the most important elements of this considered mash up of old and new.

'It’s about injecting personality and individuality into a space, and that, for me, means color,' he says. 'Color is the most powerful, exciting and universal tool in interiors. It’s the simplest way to make your home immediately joyful and optimistic and can work with a large variety of styles and aesthetics.'

This colorful living room is uplifted by bold pops of color, such as the soft aqua beams, cobalt blue side table, red strawberry vase, and hand-painted sideboard.

3. Add interest with sweeping curves

When designing a transitional living room, it’s important to soften any space that appears overly modern. This is especially so in a new-build home or extension which might have a boxy silhouette.

In this 1920s Tudor revival home, designed by Kentucky-based interior designer, Bethany Adams, the living room is located within a 1980s extension. With faux beams and a contemporary, plaster-finish fireplace, the new living room is indeed sleek and modern. However, the curvaceous ochre couch injects flow and a timeless family-friendly appeal.

'The idea was to have a highly climbable sofa, that would be comfortable for the whole family to curl up on to watch movies or read the newspaper while their young daughter played,' says Bethany. 'Crittall glass doors are modern but were also popular in 1920s homes so they leave one guessing.'

4. Sort out the key elements first

Layering color and decorating with pattern is a wonderful way to introduce a classic, transitional mood in your living room. But if you’re not confident with mixing up chevrons, stripes, and florals, the experts advise getting the big items sorted first.

Before you rush headlong into buying up piles of gorgeous print cushions, work out what you want for the main elements of the room.

'We always recommend looking at the key elements together such as paint and wallpaper and fabrics for key pieces like sofas and window treatments,' says London-based interior designer Kate Guinness. 'Once you have those things sorted, you can have fun playing around with what works for the smaller details, such as occasional chairs and cushions.'

5. Introduce texture in transitional living rooms

If you’re not a big fan of bold color or striking print, what’s the best way to add personality to a classic transitional living room?

A top tip is to introduce feel-good fabrics, especially in neutral living rooms. Not only will tactile elements cozy up a space, but textures such as wool, linen, and suede will add depth to a neutral color scheme.

'By anchoring the space in a neutral palette and embracing a variety of textures like leather and suede, this room skilfully mixes modern pieces with classic touches,' explains California-based designer Kriste Michelini. 'Homeowners should blend streamlined and heritage furnishings such as a sleek sofa set against a traditional fireplace and rug.'

6. Embrace different species of timber

Wood furniture and timber floors work equally well in both modern and traditional decor. So what’s the best way to use the classic warmth and elegance of timber in transitional living rooms?

'Mixing and matching wood species and stains brings a lived-in feel,' explains interior designer Hayley English who is based in California. 'Here the rustic timber armoire and classic oak flooring is offset with white painted beams, woodwork and door frames for a contemporary backdrop that makes the space feel larger and fresh.'

7. Focus on seating in transitional living rooms

Transitional living rooms need to be comfortable as well as stylish. So, your choice of couch and chairs is one of the most significant elements of the space.

'In this transitional living space, we deliberately chose a 10ft sofa and two armless lounge chairs dating back to the 1960s, prized for their distinctive character, unique lines, and proportions,' enthuses Nikki Haramoglis, principal designer at San Francisco-based Westward Atelier. 'These pieces underwent a revitalization process, being skilfully upholstered in durable krypton fabric to withstand high traffic.'

The choice of earth-toned fabric contributes to the timeless aesthetic and harmonizes with the room’s sleeker, more contemporary elements such as the marble and forged iron tables.

8. Invest in future heirlooms

'For transitional living rooms, it is important to invest in what we like to call our ‘Future Heirlooms’,' explains Chloe Vince, in-house decorating consultant at House of Hackney. 'These are artistically designed pieces made by British craftspeople specializing in generations-old trades. They are beautiful, functional and last a lifetime.'

In typical House of Hackney style, the brand gives traditional furnishings a modern twist, spot on for a transitional design ethos. The Artemis Blush rug is woven by British heritage brand Axminster Carpets while the handcrafted Wilton sofa is covered in its own Wild Card leopard print jacquard.

9. Embrace the architectural bones of transitional rooms

Respecting the architectural bones of a property is a crucial design tip, especially for transitional living rooms. Annie Harrison, founder of London-based design studio FARE INC. designed a worldly, cottage style in this Grade II-listed warehouse conversion (c. 1843), nestled along the River Thames in London.

;The apartment is dressed with light touch cultural patterns and modernist antiques,' says Annie, 'and the interior pays homage to its historic roots while embracing contemporary aesthetics. The original beams and columns, brimming with character, serve as the focal point, guiding the refurbishment process.'

The rustic charm is enhanced with tactile paints and rustic-grade flooring while monochromatic, Scandi-style decor and eclectic Eastern treasures add a touch of modernity.

Transitional living room ideas are always going to create timeless living rooms too. The blending of old and new, and different styles from different eras ensures a layered space, filled with depth and interest. Of course, you can bring into trends that you love too, but starting off with the transitional approach to your decor will result in a home that never dates. 

Reba McEntire's got a lot going on lately. With the announcement of a sitcom return and her recent performance of the national anthem at the 2024 Super Bowl, the Queen of Country is booked and busy. 

While the time for lounging may be minimal at the moment, when the actor and musician has a moment to unwind, she, of course, does so in style. Her set-up? A light brown leather couch, enhanced by dark brown, velvety curtains shielding the space from the sun. 

Curtains are so much more than a barrier between the home and the outside world. Factors such as fabric, color, and transparency can drastically alter the appearance of these window blockers and act as a cohesive part of a room's existing style.

When choosing curtains for a space, experts recommend beginning with color.

'Neutral colors are one of the most versatile picks for curtain colors; they go with a variety of trends from modern organic to Biophilic design,' says Homes & Gardens' digital editor, Jennifer Ebert. 'You can't go wrong with a beige or brown linen.'

Alternatively, patterned and textured curtains can add unexpected personality to an otherwise minimal space, such as Reba's rich brown set. 

'Graphic and geometric prints on curtains are striking,' Jen says. 'Interesting visuals on curtains act as a hanging art piece, and as such establish a focal position in a living room, bedroom, or dining room.'

There are also several types of curtains to choose from within curtains, from box pleats to tab tops. Jen recommends thinking about how the curtains fall and what the desired appearance will be.

'Any kind of pleat, whether pencil or pinch, will create visual interest through the material's natural gathering. For more of a unique cute, look for ripple fold or goblet pleated curtains, which are elegant in their tight gatherings.'

It's also worthwhile to consider how much light to let in. Sheer curtains, while delicate and ethereal, don't allow for much privacy, while thick, light-blocking curtains are extremely discreet but, for some, perhaps too dark.

Peruse some of our textured and colored curtain picks below.

Stained glass windows are typically associated with holy sites and historical buildings; however, Jessica Simpson has proved it's possible to recreate this aura in a domestic setting. Implementing them in the home provides interiors with unique, built-in artwork –and we're starting with her abode for inspiration.

The singer, actor, and businesswoman posted a photo set of her red and yellow stained glass window lighting up her dark wood bathroom. It's an unexpected but magnificent accent to the space – and one that's easier to replicate than one may think.

The solution? Window film. This is an easily applicable and customizable window treatment that has similar properties to real stained glass windows. They provide magnificent reflections and colors to a room, so the first step when choosing one is looking at your room's existing scheme.

'A color palette that resonates with your style and uplifts your mood should be the first thing to decide,' says Joanna Baumard, Co-founder of Purlfrost. 'Consider warm tones like yellows, oranges, and reds for a cozy feel, or opt for cool blues and greens to evoke a sense of tranquillity. Vibrant patterns and stained-glass effects can also add visual interest to your space.'

Stained glass and colored windows are a statement way to dress windows without curtains. They will technically look pretty anywhere, but for maximum impact, consider how the light hits certain spaces.

'It's important to identify key windows in your home where the color will have the greatest impact,' Joanna explains. 'Living areas, kitchens, and spaces that lack direct sunlight are ideal candidates for injecting a pop of color.' 

Jessica has brightened up a dark entryway using this method despite the sun not being direct. 'The interaction between the sun's rays and the tinted hues of the window film will create a stunning visual display, especially when using stained glass designs, transforming these dull areas of a home into a beautiful show of art.'

Stained glass, while gorgeous and unique, can be a significant investment. To try out the look without committing to the commission, Joanna recommends window film as a solid alternative.

'Reflective and mirrored window films are also a good option to consider; they can redirect sunlight deeper into your home and create an illusion of increased brightness,' Joanna suggests. 'Allow these films to bounce natural light around the room, creating a clear and open feel while reducing the need for artificial lighting during daylight hours.'

For a similar starting point, we love these options below. 

Window treatments form a key design element in pretty much every room throughout the home, not only as a practical addition but also as a stylistic one. With so many options spanning blinds, curtains, and shutters to name just a few, it can sometimes be tricky to decide which are best for your space. 

One window treatment idea that we're seeing more and more of so far in 2024, is café curtains. Dating back to 19th century Europe, café curtains perfectly embody a nostalgic, romantic style that adds instant charm to the home.

Interior designer Emily Henderson recently posted on Instagram about this window treatment trend, and we're taking on board her expertise. We spoke to Emily to learn more about café curtains and how to incorporate them into your home. Or, if café curtains aren't quite your style, she suggests another, more modern window treatment to consider too. 

What are café curtains?

Café curtains are typically made from lightweight fabrics in light colors and usually hung on the lower section of a window, creating an airy look as shown below. The beauty of them is that they allow some element of privacy from the outside world, while they still allow plenty of natural light to fill the room, making them a good choice for bright spaces where you want to create subtle shade but avoid anything too heavy. 

What's the best way to style café curtains?

According to Emily, café curtains can be embraced in lots of different ways and can be styled throughout the home, even beyond the kitchen or bathroom. 'I don’t feel like there are any hard rules with where and when to use café curtains,' explains Emily. 'I do love them in kitchens, but I also have them in two of the smaller windows in my living room and some in my primary bathroom. Ultimately, they are perfect for rooms where you still want to have that wonderful natural light coming in but also a little more privacy at the same time. It’s the best of both worlds.'

Once you've decided on a room that you'd like to decorate with café curtains, it's important to consider their placement in relation to the shape and size of the window. 'I would definitely think about where the rod is going to land on the window. If you have a window that slides open vertically then I would match the rod placement in line with the top rail of the moving window or go above it. After that, the height is up to what you think looks best!'

And when it comes to choosing the best fabric, it's really all down to your style preferences. 'I would also consider if you want your fabric to be light-filtering or not,' adds Emily. 'I prefer a thinner fabric for that reason but that style also works really great with my home. If your decor style would look great with something heavier, like velvet, and during the day you plan to slide the curtain to the side for more light that’s also great.'

Opt for Roman blinds in more modern spaces

While café curtains are a great choice for creating a vintage and airy look, they may not be the best choice for all spaces and styles. If your style leans more towards modern decor, café curtains can appear too delicate, while spaces that need more privacy and more light-blocking may benefit from heavier window blind ideas. Below, Emily explains the benefit of opting for Roman blinds instead: 

'I also love Roman shades. It’s just a different look and style that may work better than café curtains depending on the house, window, or style. If privacy is your goal, then Romans may be a better option since they cover the whole window when drawn, or if you prefer a more modern, tailored look. But I also have a Roman shade in my living room (and drapes) so mixing in different curtain styles is also a great option that can help your space feel a little more layered.'

Depending on your space and interior design style, window treatments can be chosen to best suit your space. Café curtains are an on-trend option that works well in bright spaces that have a vintage feel, such as farmhouse decor. In contemporary or even traditional style spaces, Roman blinds are a classic choice. Below, you can shop both window treatment styles to channel your favorite. 

As someone who enjoys the comfort of a cozy house during freezing weather, you can imagine how it felt to discover a chilly breeze was sneaking into my home through my windows.

Determined to solve this issue without replacing my windows or investing in expensive new window treatments, I jumped online and searched for some quick and effective DIY methods to block window gaps and prevent cold air leaks.

Below, I share my recommendations for quick fixes that you can follow to keep your home warm and insulate your windows when the thermostat dips below freezing.

DIY methods to seal gaps in windows and stop cold air leaks

The following three products are each ideal for providing your home with an immediate fix. Plus, when spring rolls around, you can remove them and opt for more permanent solutions like weatherproofing your windows or undertaking some eco-friendly home improvements.

1. Rope Caulk

Rope caulk is a soft, clay-like substance available in neutral shades like gray and brown, meaning it can blend seamlessly into most old window frames.

How to use it: Simply peel off the 1/8-inch strips and mold them to fit any gap, pressing them firmly in place. 

The Pros: What I love about rope caulk is that it doesn't leave any residue and is a breeze to remove. Plus, if you have some left over, it is good to use for up to four or five years.

The Cons: This can be a little tricky to apply, so you need to be very careful when tearing off strips. If you are too hasty, you might end up wasting the product. 

2. Removable Caulk

For smaller cracks, I turn to removable caulk. This easy-to-use products dries as a clear and rubbery seal, putting a stop to cold air leaks.

How to use it: It’s extremely straightforward to apply this product to your window gaps. I simply squeeze a bead of this sealant into cracks up to 1/4 inch wide and then use my finger to smooth the caulk out. 

The Pros: The real charm is its removability – when warmer weather returns, I can just peel it off and dispose of it. And a single tube can cover up to 56 feet, which is more than enough for my needs.

The Cons: You will also need to invest in a caulk gun, like this Dual Spring Trigger caulk gun from Walmart, if you want to get the technique right.

3. Foam Backer Rods

My final product recommendation is foam backer rods. These are made of closed-cell polyethylene and are ideal for slightly larger gaps. They come in various diameters, starting at a small 3/8 inch.

How to use them: Just gently press them in place, and they're practically invisible.

The Pros: They're non-sticky and easy to fit into wider gaps. Plus, they are reusable as long as they're not overly compressed.

The Cons: Of the 3 products mentioned here, this is the most temporary fix. When you notice larger gaps in your window frames, it usually means it’s time to replace or repair them.  

These easy DIY draft-proofing methods have been a game-changer for me. Each one is an affordable and easy-to-install solution that keeps my home cozier during winter and helps me to draft-proof my bathrooms and keep my entryway warm without heating.

Apricots are sun-loving trees that produce sweet and juicy fruits during the summer months. As glorious as apricots are, they are trees that do really benefit from some proper care and maintenance - and that includes pruning. But you may wonder, when is the best time to prune an apricot tree?

Stone fruits will not prosper without close attention to watering, feeding, and pruning annually. The pruning can create a nice shape, keep it healthy, and also promote the formation of flowers and ripe fruit.

We hear from some fruit tree experts to help know when to trim apricots at different stages of their lifespan. This can help you avoid falling foul of the pruning mistake of heading out with the tools at the wrong time of year.

Why is pruning important for apricot trees? 

Pruning fruit trees should be seen as an essential task, especially apricots as they are fast-growing fruit trees that can start bearing fruit quickly. A tree may survive and produce fruit without pruning, but a fruit tree that is regularly pruned will be healthier, more vigorous, and, most importantly, will produce a bounty of fruit every year.

What is the best time to prune apricot trees?

Lots of fruit trees are pruned in winter. If you want to prune apple trees or prune pear trees, for example, you would do this every winter when the tree is fully dormant. However, stone fruit trees, which includes apricots along with the likes of plums and peaches, are best pruned when they are actively growing. 

The reason stone fruits are not pruned in the middle of their dormancy is that they are more susceptible to diseases, such as silver leaf and canker. The bacteria that causes these infections are more rife in winter and can get into wounds from pruning cuts. Once the tree starts growing, it can heal wounds faster. 

Apricot trees can be trimmed when they are just starting to actively grow for the year, from late winter to early spring. The window to prune them starts when the sap is rising and just before the buds are starting to burst - the exact time of which will depend on your US hardiness zone. This early pruning is recommended for young trees that are not yet producing fruit, usually those that are under two years old. 

Joanna Glovinsky, founder of Fruitstitute in Los Angeles, claims that pruning as the tree is just starting to come out of dormancy can be beneficial to getting a good crop of fruits. She explains that stone fruits require ‘a whole lot of sugar’ to create fruit. That sugar is produced by photosynthesis during the growing season and is stored in the trunk and the roots during the winter months.

‘In the spring, when the tree is breaking dormancy, it's using those stored sugars to produce flowers, set fruit and then grow leaves. Stone fruit flower before putting out leaves, which means they require a lot of stored sugar for a good harvest,’ adds Joanna.

‘The main goal of dormant pruning is to help the tree maximize that energy allocation to only desired stems and branches.’

Older and established apricot trees are often pruned later in the year. Janet Melrose, the co-author of The Prairie Gardener's Go-To Guide for Fruit, says: ‘Older trees should be pruned after the fruit has been harvested, which is usually late June through July depending on the climate where the tree is planted. 

‘This avoids shock to the tree when fruit is maturing and allows enough time for healing.’ 

It is advisable to prune quickly after the tree has been harvested in the summer. This gives the tree lots of time to produce new wood that can carry fruits as soon as next year, with apricots flowering and fruiting on buds that appear on one-year-old wood.

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FAQs

Can you prune apricots in the fall?

It is not recommended to prune an apricot tree in the fall, as doing so can risk the health of the tree. Pruning in fall will encourage the tree to put out fresh growth, which will be damaged by the winter frosts. 

Janet Melrose adds: ‘Do avoid fall and winter pruning as the tree should be going into dormancy and pruning will interfere with this part of the tree's cycle. Likewise, pruning in the dead of winter should be avoided as the wounds will not heal quickly in dormancy.’

Apricots, despite their demanding nature, can actually be quite versatile fruit trees. While commonly grown in trained forms, as espalier trees or fan-trained, they are also great fruit trees to grow in pots and can actually be grown as indoor fruit trees, thanks to modern dwarf varieties that can reach up to five feet in height.