The Filtered Light Look

Image: Memotions

Does your home need a new look but you can’t commit to full-on home redecoration project? No problem. Get new light instead.

If you love decorating, chances are you know all about the popularity of the filtered light look. Changing your window treatments not only changes the view from inside (and outside) your home, it actually changes the appearance of everything in your interior.

Here’s how you can create a brand new look for your home by just changing the light.

Shades of Gray (or White, or Yellow, or Peach …)

The last time you cleaned your windows you probably removed your curtains, drapes and shades. When you did, you undoubtedly noticed how much lighter your room became. Your furniture looked different — fresher, somehow. You were almost sad to put your drapes back up, in fact.

With filtered shades, you don’t have to. Banish the image of the plastic shades that adorned your windows when you were six, because today’s shades feature marvelous texture as well as light-diffusing properties that provide brightness without stridency, privacy without darkness, and elegance without over-doneness.

Remember Sheers?

Don’t overlook good old-fashioned sheers in the pursuit of diffused light. For a modern spin, move your existing hardware six inches above and outside the window molding. This way you gain the full effect of the light and the full effect of your drapes. Add sheers on an inexpensive rod in the middle and voila! Problem solved.

Even better, sheers are remarkably inexpensive. They come in an array of delicate patterns and colors. If you’re still craving a fresh touch, change your hardware; House Beautiful suggests brass for its
classic patina and ability to blend effectively with a variety of décor.

The Café Rod

Café rods are another inexpensive old-school option that change the light in your room. This is an ideal choice when you crave brightness but the view is less than spectacular. For example, if your windows overlook a roof or a parking lot but still get adequate light, a café rod hung halfway down the window will hide the ugly view while still maintaining the light.

Like sheers, café rod hardware is inexpensive, and the fabric itself is widely available in a huge range of colors and styles. They’re also easy to install, unlike other types of light-altering solutions.