French doors and windows are a timeless feature that are both practical and aesthetically pleasing. They are common in many homes today but dressing them appropriately may appear problematic. Choosing the right window styling is key to maintaining their functionality and aesthetic appeal. Whether you're looking to enhance privacy, control light, or add a decorative touch, there are plenty of ways to style French doors and windows. Here’s how to dress them effectively and why each option is worth considering.
Curtains
Curtains are a great, versatile option for dressing French doors and windows. Not only are there many different options when it comes to style, they are easily drawn back to allow easy access to and from the internal and external areas
If you are looking for something to help block out the light, curtains in heavier fabrics, perhaps with a blackout lining would be ideal. Heavier fabrics also help to block out drafts, helping to insulate your home. For something a bit lighter, opting for sheer or semi-sheer fabrics may work better for you like our lovely client Steph Elswood. We dressed her bifold doors with beautiful sheer curtains to allow light to gently filter in during the day, whilst also providing privacy from neighbours.
Can’t decide? Heavier curtains pair well with sheer curtains, giving you the optimum light control and privacy for day and night. During our in-home design consultations, we come to you with a whole range of different fabric samples and help you choose which would look best for you.
Shutters
Shutters are ageless and practical and are another great option for French doors and windows. Our shutters are made to measure with the ability to make them completely custom to you, from colour through to mechanisms and louvre styles.
Crafted from solid hardwood, our shutters are built for durability, making them the perfect window styling for high-traffic areas in the home. They are an excellent choice for light control, with adjustable louvres that let you customise the amount of light entering your space. You can also pull them back completely to allow a full flow of natural light whenever desired.
Shutters can reduce heat loss by nearly 30%, making them an excellent choice for keeping your house extra warm and cosy.
Explore our amazing client’s home in Hoo Park for stunning inspiration on how shutters transformed their French windows.
Honeycomb Blinds
Honeycomb blinds, also known as pleated or cellular blinds are a window styling that marries both form and function. These blinds feature a unique cellular or honeycomb structure formed by two or more layers of fabric joined at pleats.
One reason why honeycomb blinds are a great solution for French doors and windows is their ability to help regulate indoor temperatures. The cells form individual air pockets that act as natural insulators, helping to control internal temperatures. Honeycomb blinds are also slim and compact which means they will not interfere with door operation and great for smaller spaces.
Honeycomb blinds can also help reduce heat loss by up to 33% so is ideal for those looking to keep the heat in on those colder days.
Our honeycomb blinds can also be motorised. Through a touch of a button, you can let daylight flood into your room in the morning or shut the dark evenings out at night with simplicity and ease.
Concealed Blinds
If you're in the process of a build with French doors or windows, now is the time to start thinking about window stylings. One great option would be concealed blinds. Concealed blinds can be hidden inside the wall or ceiling, using a specially designed aluminium box, creating a minimalistic and sleek appearance above your windows.
Concealed blinds have a minimalist design blending seamlessly with any décor and also beneficial for smaller spaces as they do not clutter the room. The blinds are completely hidden from sight when not lowered, providing a sleek appearance. The blinds can also be raised and lowered easily with motorisation so you can adjust depending on how much light or privacy you want, perfect for smart living.
These blinds are also ideal for families with children and pets as they eliminate the need for dangling cords and chains.
Reflective Window Films
Reflective window films offer a sleek and modern look, complimenting the clean lines of French windows, great for more contemporary home designs. They are available in a variety of tint levels depending on your taste and are extremely easy to maintain, making them a popular choice amongst our clients.
Reflective window films provide a clear view of the outdoors, allowing natural light to enter while reducing glare. Their reflective properties mean that your privacy is protected as the film creates a mirrored effect on the external side of the glass. These films can also block up to 99% of harmful UV rays, which means that your furniture and flooring are protected against light damage.
What Are The Best Window Stylings For French Doors And Windows?
When it comes to dressing French doors and windows, the right choice can transform both the functionality and style of your space. From the elegance of curtains and drapes to the sleek practicality of reflective window films, concealed blinds, and shutters, there are countless options to suit your needs. Each window styling offers unique benefits, whether it’s improved light control, enhanced privacy, or a polished aesthetic.
Consider your priorities—whether it’s durability for high-traffic areas, ease of maintenance, or a minimalist look—and choose a solution that complements your home’s design and lifestyle. At Feather and Grey Interiors we offer a complimentary design consultation where we discuss your options and help you choose the right window styling for you and your home.
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