More than just a barrier for light and sound, a well-chosen set of curtains will help determine the mood of a room.

Interior designers agree: A room is not complete without window treatments. From shutters and blinds to flowing panels of luxurious fabric, the way we dress our windows showcases our personal style. Today, custom window treatment options are virtually unlimited.

When narrowing down your window treatment ideas, be sure to consider functionality as much as style. Your choice of window covering affects how much shade and privacy your room will have. Also, artfully placed valances or draperies can create the illusion of taller ceilings. They can also serve as frames surrounding a beautiful outdoor view.

The right window treatments can turn an ordinary room into a cozy, welcoming space. Keep reading to learn more about the different types of window treatments available today. Browse our carefully selected assortment of photos and see which options will look best in your own beautiful home.

1. Window Shutters/Louvers Window Treatment Ideas

Shutters are a classic window treatment style, particularly in the south or in oceanside communities. Plantation shutters have louvers that can angle up or down to control light flow, or completely closed to darken the room. Conversely, some shutters have fixed louvers that cannot tip up or down.

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Shutters are great for providing privacy on the lower part of a window while leaving the top window panes uncovered. The louvers, or slats, on window shutters vary in width. Narrow slats provide a more refined look, but thicker, wider slats are more durable. Shutters usually install with hinges between the panels, so you can fold them open for an unobstructed view outside.

White is the classic color for shutters, but real wood or faux wood shutters are also popular. Dark wood stained shutters add traditional elegance to a matching wood-paneled office or den. Wood shutters are an excellent choice for kitchen window treatments, especially when the finish matches the cabinets. Shutters work well on bay window panels and are a popular kitchen window treatment in breakfast nooks.