For many of us, the last thing we want to be in the summer is hot. Since staying inside with the air conditioner on full blast is the best way to keep cool during the summer, you want your home decor to be enjoyable. Forget heavy drapes. Summer calls for light and airy window treatments—ones that enhance the beauty of your home while also allowing natural light to filter through and keep the space cool.
Here are some of our favorite practical (and stylish) window treatment ideas for summer.
Valances
This short but powerful window dressing adds a touch of elegance to your kitchen without overwhelming it. Valances are typically made from lightweight fabrics like cotton or linen, giving the space a decorative touch without blocking much sunlight. Choose valances in bright, summery colors like sunflower yellow or cornflower blue, or patterns like florals, stripes, or the summertime classic gingham to refresh the vibe in your space.
Café Curtains
Do you want to take advantage of the longer daytime hours in summer? Café curtains cover only the lower half of your kitchen windows, providing plenty of privacy without diminishing the natural light pouring in. Opt for sheer or lightweight fabrics in summer prints when working with this window treatment. These materials can help brighten the space and open up the feel of your kitchen. As a bonus, an interior designer in Richmond, VA, says these fabrics are usually easier to clean, making them ideal for kitchens!
Prairie Curtains
If you love all things rustic, these curtains, characterized by their simple, gathered style, are for you. Prairie curtains are usually made of muslin or voile, two other lightweight fabrics ideal for hotter times of year. They typically consist of two panels tied back to allow light in, resulting in a relaxed countryside feel. Don’t go too heavy with colors. Neutral colors or soft pastels will help maintain that light, airy ambiance summer calls for.
Roman Shades
This classic, sophisticated window dressing works for any time of year, especially in the kitchen. Linen or cotton Roman shades are ideal for summer because even when not raised, they’ll still allow some light to filter through in a soft, diffused way. You can find Roman shades in summer colors, but plenty of playful options like botanical prints are also available!
Sheer Curtains
If you’re not overly concerned with privacy, sheer curtains are extremely versatile and can be layered! They provide a delicate, airy feel and allow plenty of natural light. When the cooler months roll around, you can add in cornices, valances, or another style of curtain to add weight to the space. But for the summer, play with easy, breezy sheers and let your creativity flow!
Bamboo Blinds
These earthy blinds can add a natural touch of elegance and nature to your kitchen. They’re lightweight and allow excellent light control, making them ideal for summer as they block out the sun’s harsh glare without filtering out too much! Bamboo’s natural texture and color can complement several kinds of kitchen styles, too.
Don’t neglect your kitchen when it comes to dressing up the windows. With these window treatment ideas, you can transform your kitchen into a bright, airy, and inviting space—perfect for summer!