Starting the process of shopping for custom window treatments can certainly feel intimidating. Whether this is your first time on the market for new solutions or you're a seasoned pro, beginning a home project can leave anyone feeling a little overwhelmed. Our goal is to make the path clear. By thinking through your priorities and preparing answers to some key questions, you'll be well on your way to finding the perfect solution for your home.
Your First Step: Scheduling an In-Home Service
To begin, you should schedule a Shop-at-Home Service. This service brings the showroom directly to you. One of our design consultants will come to your home with samples of all our products, allowing you to view the options in your own natural light and against your current decor. This makes the selection process far more accurate and comfortable. While a designer can certainly find a solution you'll love even if you're a blank slate, having an idea of what your priorities are before you start will make the whole experience much more efficient and enjoyable.
Four Essential Questions Your Consultant Will Ask
Being prepared with answers to these four questions is the most crucial step in your preparation for the consultation.
First, you must be prepared to discuss What Your Budget Is. It's important to be upfront with your budget expectations—both for yourself and your designer. Since all custom window treatments vary widely in price, sharing a budget (whether for the whole project or per individual window) helps the consultant immediately focus on recommendations you'll love at a price you can afford.
Second, have a general idea of How Big Your Windows Are. While a professional technician will take the final, precise measurements, having rough estimates is handy for the initial conversation. Note the approximate width, height, and depth of your windows, and also mention any unusual shapes or nearby obstructions like air conditioners or protruding handles.
Third, think about What You Like (and Dislike) About Your Current Treatments. Consider what is and isn't currently working. Do you like the privacy your current setup offers, but wish it was easier to clean or maybe sleeker? Are you happy with the look, but have issues with glare or insulation? Sharing these details will help your consultant pinpoint solutions that directly solve your current problems.
Finally, clarify How You Want to Operate Them. How you plan on using your blinds or shades is just as important as how they look. You should decide between standard cordless systems—which are an essential safety feature for homes with children and pets—or motorized options, which allow you to open and close your treatments with the touch of a button, perfect for high or hard-to-reach windows.
Four Topics to Consider for a Smoother Consultation
These considerations will help you articulate your needs and aesthetic vision clearly, ensuring the final product meets all your requirements.
You should Organize Your Goals and Priorities by taking a moment to look at the space and deciding on your top three needs. For instance, do you need to achieve a blackout effect in a bedroom, or is your primary goal just to control the light and manage privacy during the day? Clear priorities streamline the process.
Next, Consider Your Lifestyle and the room's function. The best window treatment depends entirely on its environment. For a nursery, safety features like cordless mechanisms are critical. If the window is in a kitchen or bathroom, you may need moisture-resistant options like faux-wood blinds or roller shades.
It's also beneficial to Get Inspired beforehand. Define your aesthetic vision before the meeting by gathering photos that show your style or creating a quick mood board. If available, order free material swatches to see and feel the fabric in your home's light, which makes color and texture decisions much easier.
Lastly, evaluate if Insulation is a Factor. Window treatments can help with energy efficiency. If you have south- or west-facing windows that get a lot of sun, ask about UV-resistant solar shades to protect floors and furniture, or insulated options like energy-efficient cellular shades to manage temperature.
Final Thoughts
The most important thing you can do to prepare is to come prepared with questions. Your consultant is eager to answer them and ensure you are well-informed. Make sure you ask about the expected lifespan of the product, how easy it is to clean and maintain, whether there are any warranties on materials or installation, and if the product will help reduce energy costs. Being prepared sets the foundation for a smooth and successful experience.
