Which are the best window treatments for federation homes?
Choosing new window coverings for your federation home? These are the best styles to choose from.
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Modern blinds, curtains, shutters and awnings may be beautiful, but they aren’t always the best solution for homes built before the 1950s. Keep reading below for your guide to character windows, otherwise known as federation windows, and how to best cover them in the modern day.
Your guide to federation windows
What are federation style windows?
Federation style windows refer to the windows of houses built between the late 1800s and early 1900s. The windows of this time were commonly built as primary features in the home. Double hung and casement style frames were the norm, but as with earlier periods, coloured and stained glass were also popular.
Popular types of federation windows that were built during this era included bay windows. These windows provide a well-lit nook, or window seat internally, and were commonly built into front rooms or master bedrooms.
Fun fact: Heritage windows like federation windows were also larger than those of preceding eras because large glass panes were cheaper.
How to choose window treatments for federation windows
One of the best things about living in a federation style home is the oodles of character that the house possesses. Intricate timberwork, stunning leadlight heritage windows, chimneys and verandas are just some of the intricate features that make federation homes stand out.
Of course, while character or federation style homes are visually striking, it can be a struggle to choose window dressings that complement their quirks. So, here are our top tips for choosing the right coverings for federation windows.
- Match the traditional look and feel
- Choose the right fabrics and colours
- Complement the architecture of the home
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Indoor bay window coverings
To best cover your bay windows, look to styles that are the easiest to customise such as sheer curtains and indoor shutters.
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Exterior bay window coverings
Moving outside, outdoor awnings and outdoor shutters offer practical sun protection while perfectly matching the style of the windows.
If you want to pay homage to the historical design, you'll need to narrow down your options. Roller blinds, Roman blinds and Venetian blinds, for example, are certainly practical but won't do much to really enhance the interior style of a federation style home. Instead, consider curtains, sheers and vertisheers to create a relaxed, classic, homely space.
Common colour palettes seen inside federation style homes include classic creams, rich reds, and deep greens. These shades complement materials such as brick and terracotta, which are frequently used in character, federation, or heritage homes.
When it comes to choosing your blinds, curtains, or shutters, keep those hues in mind if you want to stay true to the original look and feel of the home. Otherwise, you can never go wrong with classic neutral colours (think shades of white, beige and grey), especially when paired with luxurious, textured curtain fabrics.
As we mentioned earlier, beautiful bay windows are a common characteristic of federation homes. Let yours be a stunning feature in the home by choosing the perfect window treatments.
Interested in fitting out your federation windows with blinds, curtains, shutters or outdoor awnings? To arrange a free measure and quote with a highly-trained consultant in your own home, give us a call on 13 13 15 or fill out this simple online form. We provide this service to a wide range of locations around metro and select regional areas, 6 days a week between 8am and 6pm.
All our blinds, curtains and awnings are made in Australia and are sold for the lowest prices in the market, guaranteed. Just bring in a quote on any competitor’s comparable item and we’ll beat it by 5%!