Debbie Priovolos Interview

Fresh Window Treatments Renew a Room

Written by KK Ottesen

Photo by KK Ottesen

Debbie Priovolos of Deborah’s Window Wear & More explains how updating window treatments can change a room.

I go into houses where it’s been ten years and they still don’t have anything on the windows. It’s like having no pictures on the wall: something is not finished. Often it’s as simple as doing something up at the top. Other times, rooms scream for fabric. Everything’s very hard-hardwood floors, straight-lined furniture and there’s no softness. Rooms need some softness. It makes them welcoming, comfortable.

Change is Good

People are so afraid to make a commitment to fabric. It’s hard to take the leap and invest the money when you can’t visualize it. I have a computer program that imports digital images of a window and superimposes different types of treatments on it.

What’s In; What’s Out

Drapery is a big trend now. For a long time we weren’t doing drapery panels. Everybody said it reminded them of their grandmother’s house. But they’ve so come back. Silks are big. Faux silk is popular because it looks like silk but isn’t as pricey.

Expert Advice

I tell clients: Live with the windows for a couple of weeks with nothing on them and see how you feel about the light that’s coming in.

Do something that accents rather than hides. Rather than having this full outfit on your window-draperies, roller shades, sheers, top treatment-start with nothing and then add to it. You don’t want to lose your light.

Photo by Juris Bilmanis