Revamp Your Space: Modern Window Treatments to Replace Dated Styles
- Feb 25
- 4 min read
Windows shape the look and feel of any room. Yet, many homes still feature window treatments that make spaces feel old and outdated. If your curtains, blinds, or shades belong to a bygone era of the past, if you've heard the words jabot or valance then you know exactly what I mean when I say they can drag down the overall style of your home. This post explores common window treatments that instantly age your interiors and offers fresh alternatives to bring your windows (and your rooms) into the modern day of interior design.
Window Treatments That Make Your Home Look Old
Certain window coverings have fallen out of favor because they tend to date stamp a space instantly. Recognizing these styles is the first step toward a modern refresh of your window treatments.
Heavy Drapes with Excessive Fabric
Thick, floor-length drapes that puddle on the floor, often with heavy pleats or swags were popular decades ago. While they can feel luxurious, they often overwhelm a room, making it look dark and stuffy. The bulky fabric and ornate details can clash with today’s preference for clean, airy spaces and don't even get me started on the difficulty of keeping them clean.
Vertical Blinds
Vertical blinds, especially those made of cheap vinyl, were once a go-to for sliding glass doors and large windows for their cost effective nature. Their rigid, repetitive slats and clunky tracks give off a dated vibe plus they also tend to collect dust and can be noisy when moved. My kids have them in their college apartment and if I had a nickel for every time they broke when I tried to look out the window, I'd be a bajillionare.
Lace Curtains
Lace curtains can certainly evoke a vintage charm but just as certainly feel out of place in modern interiors today. Their delicate patterns and sheer fabric can make rooms look cluttered or overly fussy, especially when layered with other window treatments. If you live in an old Victorian country house, fine, but otherwise there are better options available I promise.
Valances and Cornices
Valances and cornices—fabric or wood treatments that cover the top of windows (think fabric or wood covered box)—were once used to hide curtain rods or add extra layering of decorative finishes. In most modern homes today, they often appear bulky and unnecessary, interrupting clean lines and blocking natural light.
Faux Wood Blinds with Glossy Finish
Faux wood blinds with a shiny, plastic-like finish can look cheap and artificial. Unlike real wood or matte finishes, they lack warmth and texture, making a room feel less inviting. While I completely understand the need for the look for less, there are better alternatives in my humble opinion.
What to Use Instead: Modern Window Treatment Tips
Replacing outdated window treatments doesn’t mean sacrificing style or function. Modern options offer simplicity, elegance, and versatility. Here are some window treatment tips to help you choose fresh styles that elevate your home's overall decor.
Roller Shades for a Sleek Look
Roller shades provide a clean, minimal profile that works well in almost any room. They come in a variety of fabrics, from light-filtering to blackout, allowing you to control privacy and light. Choose neutral tones or subtle patterns to keep the look fresh and modern.
Roman Shades for Soft Texture
Roman shades add softness without bulk. Their smooth folds create gentle lines that complement both contemporary and traditional interiors alike. I always opt for natural fabrics like linen or cotton blends to keep the feel light and breathable but the fabrics and pattern options are seemingly endless.
Wooden or Bamboo Blinds for Warmth
Natural wood or bamboo blinds bring texture and warmth to a space and my favorite type of window treatment to use for my client projects. Unlike faux wood, real materials add warmth and authenticity to any space. They also filter light beautifully and are available in a wide variety of woven textures and stains to coordinate with your home décor.
Designer Tip: I always have mine lined with a privacy liner to protect the natural woven materials from sun damage.
Sheer Curtains for Airy Elegance
Sheer curtains soften windows while allowing natural light to flow in. Layer them with roller or Roman shades for privacy when needed. Choose lightweight fabrics in whites or soft neutrals to maintain an open, airy atmosphere.
Motorized Shades for Convenience
For a high-tech upgrade, motorized shades offer ease of use and a modern touch. They can be programmed to open and close at set times or controlled remotely, perfect for hard-to-reach windows or smart homes. While we've been able to plan ahead for motorized shades in large home remodels and new builds, there are also rechargeable options available as well.
Combining Function and Style
When updating your window treatments, consider both aesthetics and practical needs. Here are some additional window treatment tips to balance beauty and function:
Match treatments to room use: Use blackout shades in bedrooms for better sleep, and light-filtering options in living areas to maintain brightness.
Consider window size and shape: Floor-to-ceiling curtains can make small windows appear larger, while sleek blinds better suit wide or irregularly shaped windows.
Layer treatments: Combine shades with curtains for flexibility and depth. I'm working on a home right now that has sheer curtains, natural woven shades, and custom drapery panels. Its a trifecta of deliciousness in window treatments.
Keep hardware simple: Choose slim rods or hidden tracks to maintain a clean look.
Maintain proportion: Avoid overly long or too short curtains; they should just "kiss" or touch the floor or hover slightly above it.
