What are Virtual Window Treatments?
Virtual window treatments are a representation via computer graphics to show you what something will look like before you buy it. Many window-covering dealers have this ability and you can find other virtual window treatments at a variety of online sites. It's as though an interior designer produced renderings or drawings of what your window will look like. Does this Spark an idea?
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Value of Virtual Window Treatments
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Making a decision that involves lots of money can be daunting, particularly when selecting things like window treatments. Items for your house are not like a dress or suit that you can hide in a closet if it doesn't turn out the way you thought it would. With modern CAD (computer aided design) programs found in many window covering shops, you can get a sneak peek before writing the check. There are various levels of reality, depending upon the retailer or website.
Advantages of Virtual Window Treatments
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Visualizing a finished window treatment from a piece of fabric or slat of a mini-blind or shutter is near impossible for most people. To be able to see a representation of your own window is invaluable in building confidence in your choice. These programs, free in many stores and websites, have flexibility built in. Does the color you chose feel overwhelming when you see it in the picture of your window or room? With the click of a mouse the color or pattern changes. You can use printouts to make the decision. Tack them up side-by-side and see what you really like. Virtual depictions give you a good idea of what the color, pattern, style or product will look like in reality.
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Different Degrees of Design Available
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Deciding between a website with stock representations of their treatments or a specialized store or service that will actually load a photo of your room and window into the program and implement something just for you, depends upon how much help you want or need. Free programs, generally with some limitations, abound. However, you might choose to pay for an interior decorator's time to guide you through the process and customize as much as possible to your unique needs. Through careful shopping, you might find window specialty stores that offer this deluxe service free if you buy through them.
Beyond Virtual Design
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Consider what is right for your house before you start playing with the window design tools. Which way does the window face? Will you get morning or afternoon sun? Do you need something to insulate against cold or heat? What about privacy? All of these factors enter into your choice of what type of window treatment to explore. Multiple layers of draperies, cornice or valance, tie-back draperies or balloon shades are often choices for traditional rooms, while sleek blinds or plantation shutters offer a more contemporary appearance as well as adjustable slats for privacy. Consider these things so you choose the right product. Good design is equal to the right solution for the challenge.
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