The charm of historic New York homes that can’t be replicated. From cozy townhouses and brownstones to buildings that still carry a Victorian flair, each space brings with it quirks and character that make it a welcome challenge to decorate.
This is where custom window treatments enter the fold. Historic NYC homes often feature window sizes and shapes that were built long before modern window fashions were even conceptualized. However, with the right pieces, you can seamlessly blend the past and present for a decorated space that you love spending time in. Here’s how:
Custom Drapery That Highlights Original Details
In historic interiors, drapery becomes more than fabric. It’s a way to frame the architecture. Longer, fuller panels emphasize height and bring a quiet elegance to rooms built with proportion in mind. Sheer shades soften the daylight that pours through old glass, while lined draperies help with insulation, especially in buildings where temperatures can shift with the seasons.
Drapery and side panels also work well in spaces that still lean on their original trim. Instead of competing with moldings, it adds movement and warmth, giving the whole room a sense of cohesion without adding visual clutter.
Tailored Shades for Modern Function
Light in historic NYC homes flows throughout the day, and custom shades help guide that light without overpowering the architecture. They sit neatly within the frame, allowing original details to remain visible. In small apartments or townhomes, this more streamlined approach helps the room feel open and calm.
Fabric-forward shades bring a diffused glow that suits reading corners, narrow living rooms, and parlor-style spaces. In high-exposure areas or street-facing windows, room-darkening options create a quieter, more intimate atmosphere when needed.
Add subtle depth with structured Roman shades or go for the understated simplicity of roller shades. Regardless of your preference, the world’s your oyster when it comes to selecting the perfect fabric scheme.
Layering for Balance
A layered approach, combining shades with custom drapery, offers flexibility. During the day, shades handle brightness and privacy. As evening sets in, drapery softens the room’s edges and adds depth.
This pairing keeps the architecture in focus while bringing in a level of comfort that older buildings sometimes lack on their own.
Discover Unique Custom Window Treatments near New York City
Custom window treatments aren’t just for light and privacy; they’re a way for you to express your eye for design inherent to the NYC landscape. Whether you go for structured Roman shades or classic hardwood blinds, each window fashion has the potential to serve as a focal point.
Thoughtful window treatments for historic homes are just as important as the décor you pair with them. Let our team help you harmonize the past and present in your space.
Visit One of Our NYC Window Treatment Stores or Book a Consultation Online Today to get started with one of our designers!
We are locally owned and operated, always happy to serve the New York City area, including Manhattan, SoHo, Chelsea, Long Island City, Gramercy Park, Hell’s Kitchen, Lower East Side, Throgs Neck, The Bronx, Upper East Side, Upper West Side, Uptown West, Yorkville.
