Ask A Designer: Tips & Tricks For Updating Your Windows And Drapes

In this Ask A Designer column, Stacy Begg shares her advice for updating the windows in your home.

Question: I’m planning on replacing my living room windows. Should I make the interior of the windows black or keep them white? — D.B., Toronto

Do you have a design dilemma? Send your questions to [email protected].

Answer: Before you replace your living room windows, you’ll need to consider the type you want — double-hung or casement. This decision will depend on the existing windows throughout the rest of your house. I can see double-hung windows in the photograph (above), so if the rest of your home has this type of window you’ll want to be consistent.

If you’re changing all your windows, then a casement style might be a good choice, as it allows for lots of airflow. To freshen up this room, I also suggest painting the walls in a cool white like Benjamin Moore’s Decorator’s White.

Next, you can opt to add mullions or not (depending on the style of your house) and decide the color for the window frames.

Going black or staying with white windows will, again, depend on what you already have and whether you want to be consistent. Black window frames would be dramatic.

Jeld-Wen Windows & Doors

W-2500 Series Black-painted Clad Wood Casement Window, From $1,000, jeld-wen.com

White window frames with the right drapes can also look great. Now, you want a tight fit and a frame that is weatherproofed and sealed so it’s necessary to hire professional for proper installation.

Jeld-Wen Windows & Doors

Siteline Double-hung Wood Window, From $1,000, jeld-wen.com

Add a pair of floor-to-ceiling, centre-split drapes for each window. Opt for a solid fabric in a neutral color; linen would be a great choice. Or, you can have custom drapes made in a beautiful print to really transform your room.

Shop House & Home

Ready-to-Hang Back Tab Drape Panel in Ivory, $195, shophouseandhome.com

Hang the drapery rods between the crown moulding and the top of the window frame.

West Elm

Simple Metal Rod in Antique Bronze, $120, westelm.ca

Select a new coffee table that is sleek and contemporary, like this one from LD Shoppe.

 LD Shoppe

Luluma coffee table, $919, ldshoppe.com

Streamline your floor covering by removing the hide and just having one large rug. Finally, bring in pattern with throw pillows.

 Urban Barn

Aries Throw Pillow in Midnight/Ivory, $49, urbanbarn.com

A rosy linen pillow with a frayed edge adds nice texture, too. Happy decorating!

Wills & Prior

Lina Linen Throw Pillow in Rooibos, $109, willsandprior.com