Window treatments can add appeal to your log cabin while providing privacy and helping with energy efficiency. If you’re lucky enough to be tucked away in the woods or in a remote location without neighbors, you may prefer to keep your windows bare. But most cabin owners will want some form of window treatments.
There are several things that you need to consider when choosing window treatments for your log cabin.
1. Privacy Needs
One of the primary reasons people hang curtains and blinds in their windows is to provide privacy. Window coverings prevent passersby from peering into your home after dark.
For some cabin owners, privacy isn’t a concern. They may want window treatments for other purposes. But for most people, privacy will be something to consider.
If your cabin is situated close to a neighbor, solid curtains, blinds or shades can provide you with the privacy you want.
If your windows face unpopulated areas, you may prefer sheer curtains that allow more light into your space.
When choosing your window treatments, privacy should be your top concern. Make sure that you’re meeting this need.
2. Theme and Color Scheme
The window treatments you choose should match the theme and color scheme of your space. They should complement the room, not compete or clash with the space.
3. Light
It’s important to remember that any window treatments you install will affect the lighting in the room to some degree. Even with sheer curtains, some sunlight will be blocked or filtered.
Consider the positioning of the windows. The goal should be to let in light while blocking solar gain in the summer. Remember, your window treatments can help you save on energy costs and keep your home comfortable all year long, so choose wisely.
4. Balance of Hard vs. Soft Materials
Windows can be treated with soft or hard materials. It’s important to consider the look and feel of your space right now to determine which one will best complement the room.
Log cabins are often filled with hard materials – wood, stone, tile, leather furnishings. While beautiful to look at, these hard materials can make a space feel cold and unwelcoming. Soft curtains or valences can help the room feel more balanced.
Soft materials can also help absorb sound and prevent echoing.
Does this mean that you have to have curtains or valences in every room? Not necessarily. Hard materials may work in some rooms, like the bedroom, where other softer materials help balance out the space.
5. Personal Style
When considering all of the important things, like light, privacy and material, it’s important not to lose sense of your own personal style. Make sure that your window treatments reflect your own personal taste. They should be a reflection of your personality.
Choosing window treatments for your log cabin isn’t a decision to take lightly. Take your time to weigh your options. Consider all of the points above to find a solution that meets your needs and your personal style.
