Design Style Guide
Design Style Guide
STYLE
GUIDE
CONTENTS
F RENCH CO U N TRY DE S IG N ST YL E .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
GL AM DESIG N STY LE .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
C ONCLUSION. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46
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W H AT ’ S YO U R
DESIGN STYLE? TRADITIONAL
MODERN
URBAN
IN THE WO R L D O F DE S I G N , trends and styles are
constantly changing. Part of what makes design so fascinating
and exciting is that it is fluid and always evolving. Common terms C OA S TA L
and labels are used in order to help with communicating different
ideas and themes, but these labels are fluid as well. CONTEMPORARY
Just as no two people see colors the exact same way, design is
often subjective to the viewer. Over the years, certain labels have TRANSITIONAL
become more defined and design styles have been named based
upon certain recurring characteristics. These design styles are
CRAFTSMAN
broad categories that can be broken down into a wide variety of
subcategories. And even some of these subcategories are blended
with subcategories of other design styles to create a unique blend MID-CENTURY
or crossover design style of their own. MODERN
The primary rule of design is that there are no rules! Rather there
FRENCH
are guidelines to help facilitate common understanding of what
COUNTRY
we are trying to accomplish.
SHABBY CHIC
REFINED, CLASSIC,
T I M E L E S S , C O M F O R TA B L E 44
TRADITIONAL DESIGN STYLE
5
TRADITIONAL DESIGN STYLE
K E Y F E AT U R E S W I N D O W T R E ATM E N T S
of Traditional Design for Traditional Design Styles
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MODERN URBAN DESIGN STYLE
L I G H T, B R E E Z Y, R E L A X E D
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C OA S TA L D E S I G N S T Y L E
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C OA S TA L D E S I G N S T Y L E
K E Y F E AT U R E S W I N D O W T R E ATM E N T S
of Coastal Design for Coastal Design Styles
S L E E K , S O P H I S T I C AT E D, S T R E A M L I N E D
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CONTEMPORARY DESIGN STYLE
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CONTEMPORARY DESIGN STYLE
C A S UA L , TA I L O R E D, H A R M O N I O U S
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TRANSITIONAL DESIGN STYLE
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TRANSITIONAL DESIGN STYLE
K E Y F E AT U R E S W I N D O W T R E ATM E N T S
of Transitional Design for Transitional Design Styles
A R T I S T I C , U N D E R S TAT E D,
I N T R I C AT E , L I N E A R 19
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CRAFTSMAN DESIGN STYLE
The most important design element in this style is wood which emphasizes
natural organic beauty, honesty and purity. Oak is the iconic choice for this style,
but pine and maple are also popular options.
While accessories are kept minimal, metal is another choice for accent pieces.
Hammered or distressed warm metals, such as brass, copper, and bronze, are
excellent complements to natural wood furnishings, trims, and flooring.
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CRAFTSMAN DESIGN STYLE
This design style features open floor plans, split levels, large windows, sliding
doors, and flat roofs. Stylized furnishings and statement lighting also play an
important role in mid-century modern design.
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MID-CENTURY MODERN DESIGN STYLE
K E Y F E AT U R E S W I N D O W T R E ATM E N T S
of Mid Century Modern Design for Mid-Century Modern
Design Styles
Mid-century modern design emphasizes pared-
down forms, contemporary patterns, natural Window treatments that will work with mid-
materials, and a seamless flow between the century modern design will be simple and
inside and the outdoors. When done well, mid- functional. Since large windows typically play
century design combines functional comfort an important part in this design style, window
with chic style and brings together organic and treatments are going to be used to serve a
man-made elements. Here are some of the key specific purpose without detracting from the
features of mid-century modern design: grandeur of the windows.
• Stripped down, pure forms and simple Simple, horizontal blinds or sheer blinds are
shapes going to be a popular choice to provide light
control and privacy for larger windows.
• Strong horizontal and vertical lines
• Features bold, geometric patterns If soft treatments are desired, consider bold
geometric patterns, or contrasting color
• Sleek metallic hardware such as stainless
blocking, for drapes or side panels. Again, the
steel or nickel
goal is not to take anything away from the
• Heavily textured materials such as burlap window itself.
and chunky knits
Another window treatment option that lends
• Open floor plans featuring large windows itself well to mid-century modern design would
and lots of natural light be a simple roller shade. Roller shades come in
a wide range of opacities and can be excellent
• A mix of materials such as woods with
at providing light control when lowered, but are
glass, to showcase a joining of organic and
subtle and unobtrusive when raised.
man-made
PA S T O R A L , R U R A L , E L E G A N T
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FRENCH COUNTRY DESIGN STYLE
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FRENCH COUNTRY DESIGN STYLE
K E Y F E AT U R E S W I N D O W T R E ATM E N T S
of French Country Design for French Country Design Styles
French country design embraces rough, Window treatment options that will work
unfinished, and slightly worn surfaces. It well with the French country style will be
is warm, welcoming, and unpretentious. It soft treatments, Roman shades, sheer blinds,
embraces a combination of wood, fabric, and wood blinds.
and wrought iron materials. Some of the key
The materials for soft window treatments
characteristics of French country design are
will favor linens, cotton, and toile. Gingham,
the following:
stripes, and florals are popular patterns for
• Evokes a warm, inviting, and
drapes, curtains, and fabric top treatments.
unpretentious atmosphere
Roman shades are a popular choice to add
• Incorporates natural elements to blend colors, patterns, and texture to the window
the indoors and outdoors treatments while also providing light control
• Lightly worn surfaces add to the and privacy.
rustic feel
Sheer blinds are a great fit for this style
• Trim and delicate fabrics, such as
since they add a simple elegance to any
lace, used on edges of materials and
room. Sheers are a great way to filter the
accessories
natural light coming into a room.
• Color palettes reflect the rural
countryside with warm whites, calm Wood blinds are another popular option for
blues, and earthy hues French country designed rooms. They can be
painted, stained, or left natural to add to the
• Use of patterns and big floral prints
rustic feel of the space.
• Wood materials are often whitewashed
• Wrought iron or metals that show
patina or slight rust are popular
• Large, oversized or chunky accessories
and furniture
WA R M , I N V I T I N G , C O M F O R TA B L E
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TUSCAN DESIGN STYLE
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TUSCAN DESIGN STYLE
Farmhouse design is not to be confused with “country kitsch.” When done well,
farmhouse design should be an elegant balance of old and new that creates a
relaxed and cozy atmosphere.
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FA R M H O U S E D E S I G N S T Y L E
K E Y F E AT U R E S W I N D O W T R E ATM E N T S
of Farmhouse Design for Farmhouse Design Styles
Farmhouse design should be rustic and comfortable. While farmhouse design styles love to showcase
The goal is to create an atmosphere full of big open windows, window treatments are still an
warmth and character. Here are some of the main important addition.
characteristics of farmhouse design:
Simple side panels are a great way to emphasize
• Simplistic design reflecting a comfortable yet large, gorgeous windows. Adding a little trim or
rustic decor fringe to the edges of these soft treatments is a
beautiful and dynamic design element.
• Unpretentious style with sentimental touches
Shutters are a staple of farmhouse design. Shutters
• Natural and organic materials such as wood, have timeless, homey quality that never goes out
reeds, wicker, and rattan of style. Plus they can be natural wood, stained, or
painted to enhance the color palette of your room.
• Raw and exposed wood or unfinished materials
Woven wood shades are another beautifully simple
• Items that were once painted or stained often
window treatment that will enhance the rustic feel of
show signs of being weathered and worn
the space while adding light control and privacy to
(ie: peeling paint, sun bleached boards, well
these windows when needed.
weathered wood)
Curtains are a signature look for any farmhouse
• Mismatched and vintage accessories and
styled space. These can be the full length of the
furniture that add to the character and charm
window or they can be “cafe curtains” that are
mounted in the middle of the window.
• Accessories and accent pieces are typically
chosen for sentimental reasons
The fun thing about curtains is that there are so
many fabrics to choose from! From light and airy
• Color palettes are warm neutrals, earth tones,
sheers to solid colors to fun plaids or gingham
and maybe splashes of pastels
prints, the possibilities are practically endless. Top
• Rustic fabric choices such as burlap or natural these off with a colorful valance or a repurposed
woven materials mixed with patterns such as wood cornice to bring your farmhouse decor
stripes, plaids, and gingham together.
Glam design draws inspiration from art deco design and elements of Hollywood
style. Textures and glossy finishes also bring an atmosphere of extravagance
and romance.
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GLAM DESIGN STYLE
K E Y F E AT U R E S
Nothing says luxury quite like luscious fabrics and
sweeping valances. Bold geometric patterns can be
of Glam Design used or solids with color blocking or banded edges.
Sheer fabric can also be a great way to add to the
While glam design is extravagant, it is not cluttered.
romantic, dream-like feel of the room.
The goal is to maintain sleek, classic lines and
a clean, minimalist look while highlighting the When hanging drapes, the closer to the ceiling the
glamorous elements. Here are some of the defining better! Even if the window is not that tall, by hanging
features of glam design: the drapes higher, you are asking the eye to travel
• Luscious materials and textures from top to bottom. This will make the room feel
• Metallics, mirrored or glossy finished more spacious and give the illusion that the window
accessories and accents itself is bigger as well.
• Minimalist approach to decor and accessories For glam design, drapery hardware can also
• Wall decor and artwork over-sized and either embellish the style of the room. Choosing decorative
black and white or vibrant and abstract hardware that is metallic or shiny is a great way to
• Emphasis on clean lines and classic shapes add a little glitz and glam to the window treatment.
Tiebacks are also a fun way to add decorative
• Accents of metallic, crystal, or mirrors -
touches to any drapery.
anything shiny or glitzy
• Incorporates bold geometric patterns Another soft window treatment option for glam
• Includes striking contrast whenever possible design is Roman shades. While these may not be
as grand as floor to ceiling drapes, they can still
• Color palettes are a balance of saturated, jewel
incorporate beautiful fabrics and materials. Edging,
tones and clean, neutral colors
banding, and trim can also be added to these soft
• Intended to give a feeling of opulence and window treatments for a little extra flair.
luxury
Roman shades will extend to cover the window itself
and can be raised so that just a portion of the shade
W I N D O W T R E ATM E N T S remains visible. These can be added to side panels
for Glam Design Styles or draperies and have a beautiful, completed look
when topped with a valance, cornice, or swag.
The intention of glam style is to make everything feel
large and extravagant. When it comes to windows,
the best way to make your space feel larger than life
is to add floor to ceiling soft window treatments.
N AT U R A L , U N P R E T E N T I O U S , R U G G E D
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RUSTIC DESIGN STYLE
Rustic design is all about natural materials, raw and unfinished edges, and
organic lines and shapes. Everything is simple and casual, comfortable and
worn. Nothing too polished would typically be found in this design style but that
is what adds to its rough, weathered charm.
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RUSTIC DESIGN STYLE
K E Y F E AT U R E S
goal is to make the window treatments blend into
the natural structure of the room.
of Rustic Design
The primary focus for these window treatments
Rustic design should be a balance of hospitality and
is going to be function - what do you need these
grit. The goal is to inspire a warm and welcoming
window treatments to do for your space?
atmosphere through simple design and organic,
earthy materials. Here are some of the basic features Do you need light control for harsh, afternoon sun?
of rustic design:
Or perhaps something for privacy after the sun has
• Raw, unfinished materials in the natural state gone down? Consider shades that can be easily
such as wood and stone lowered and raised as needed. There are several
• Handmade furniture and accessories styles and materials that can be used for window
• Rougher fabrics such as burlap and canvas shades.
V I N TAG E , C A S UA L , R O M A N T I C
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SHABBY CHIC DESIGN STYLE
Shabby chic emerged as a response to the opulence of glam design. This design
style takes a very different approach from the decadence and extravagance of
glam and instead focuses on muted colors, secondhand pieces, and repurposed
materials. Shabby chic is meant to feel comfortable and lived in.
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SHABBY CHIC DESIGN STYLE
K E Y F E AT U R E S W I N D O W T R E ATM E N T S
of Shabby Chic Design for Shabby Chic Styles
Shabby chic is a delicate balance of carefree For windows in a shabby chic styled room,
and put together. The goal of shabby chic soft window treatments will give you the
is to bring together different elements that desired look and feel.
give a personal touch and make you feel
Long, flowing drapes will add to the
at home. Here are some of the defining
romantic atmosphere of the space. Fabrics
features of shabby chic design:
can be thick and cozy with beautiful pastel
• Antique furniture and vintage pieces or neutral colors, or they can be light and
are key airy with sheers or lace.
• Worn and comfortable furniture and There is a wide variety of options for
accessories to create a homey feel embellishments from top treatments to tie
backs and trim on the edges. All of these can
• Comfortable fabrics such as cotton and add a vintage or antique feel to the windows.
linens mixed with delicate sheers
or lace Shutters can also bring a beautiful, nostalgic
feel to windows to complete the shabby chic
• Distressed materials that showcase a look. Wood finishes or light colored shutters
worn, weathered appearance would be great options for these windows.
C OLOR F U L , WA R M , W E LC OM I NG
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SOUTHWESTERN DESIGN STYLE
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SOUTHWESTERN DESIGN STYLE
You may already have an idea of what your personal design style is, or you may be
pleasantly surprised. Remember to consider that your design style is an extension of all
aspects of your life - where you come from, where you are, and where you are going. Allow
yourself to see the elements of these design styles that are reflected from your
life experience.
No matter what your design style is, window treatments are a pivotal piece to any space.
The right window treatments will enhance the overall decor of the room and make it feel
alive. Window treatments should bring balance and order to your room while adding to the
decor and creating a statement. Our Gotcha Covered Designers are experts at taking your
windows and adding a “wow” factor that you never realized was missing!
With such a wide variety of styles to choose from, working with a Gotcha Covered Design
Expert is a wonderful way to get started. They have just the right tools to help you hone in
on your own unique design style and find the perfect window treatments to fit within
your space.
Are you looking to add new window treatments to your home or workplace? We have
a wide selection of amazing window treatments from blinds and shutters to shades
and draperies! Be sure to reach out to us at (888) 650-6187 or schedule a free design
consultation to see what our Gotcha Covered Design Team can do for you!