Brownstone architecture is one of Brooklyn’s most telling–and most appealing–characteristics. The historic, tree-lined streets of neighborhoods like Park Slope, Brooklyn Heights, and Windsor Terrace are among the most beautiful in New York City. But just as lovely as the exteriors of these iconic dwellings is the interior architecture. Since many of the homes were originally owned by wealthy families in the late 1800s, the main levels are almost always dedicated to formal entertaining. Which means lots of Italianate architectural detail, including our favorite elements, the beautiful, signature bay windows overlooking the sidewalks. Windows that are such a special, distinct feature of these homes, that they deserve extra special care when choosing window treatments.
So what should you look for when choosing window treatments for a Brooklyn brownstone? Here are a few top options.
Window Treatment Ideas
Classic Drapery
If you’re embracing the classic feel of your brownstone, full, traditional drapery feels right at home on the formal parlor. To highlight the soaring ceilings typically found in these residences, install your drapery flush to ceiling instead of just above the window casing, which will draw the eye up (if you’re lucky, to the original crown molding and ceiling medallions above). While double-pleated styles in rich fabrics like brocade, velvet, or silk would certainly be appropriate in such grand space, one of the reason we love drapery is because it can be customized in the perfect color, fabric, and print to enhance the overall design scheme of your home. How gorgeous are the drapes in this brownstone by designer Nick Olsen?
Crisp Roman Shades
Roman shades offer the same texture, color, and pattern options as drapery, but with a crisper and less formal feel. Simple, flat Roman shades are an ideal option in a more casual, family-friendly front room, or as a complement to clean-lined, tailored decor. Fuller styles, like tulip Roman Shades work well in a more feminine or romantic-style space. Another bonus: Roman shades can also be custom-ordered in a variety of sun-blocking fabrics and opaqueness-levels to suit the functional needs of your home, too.
Luminette Shades
If you prefer to let the beauty of historic window casings speak for themselves or you’re after a simple, practical option, luminette shades make an excellent choice. Not only do they offer excellent light-filtering ability and a streamlined appearance, but cellular construction makes luminette shades an excellent insulator too. Because one of the only drawbacks to rooms with high ceilings is that they can be much more expensive to heat and cool.
For more window treatment options for your New York City home, or to schedule a complimentary in-home consultation, get in touch with The Shade Company.
