Ideas for Living Room Window Valances

Window valances can elevate the style of any living room by framing views, adding privacy, and complementing the room's decor. With so many options for colors, fabrics, and designs to choose from, it's important to select window valances that align with your needs and aesthetic.

Whether you want to make a statement, let more light in, or simply add a decorative touch over blinds or curtains, valances present the perfect opportunity to showcase your personal flair. Read on for ideas and inspiration on styling the perfect living room valances.

Choosing Window Valances for Your Living Room

When selecting living room window valances, the first decision involves choosing a style. The three main types of valances are:

• Curtain valances: Made from fabric and hung above curtains for a layered look.
• Swag valances: Feature a decorative swag of fabric in the center that drapes in a graceful arc.
• Cascading valances: Flowing rows of gathered fabric that cascade from a mounting board.

Fabric valances can be made from various materials like cotton, linen, velvet, faux silk, or polyester blends. Alternatives like wood, faux wood, vinyl, or metal valances offer a sleek, modern appearance. The style you choose will depend on your living room's windows as well as your desired aesthetic.

Other factors to consider are room size, wall colors, furniture layout, and how much privacy is needed. Measure window sizes carefully and note any specialty shapes. This ensures you order the proper yardage and dimensions for a custom fit. Valances for single, double, bay, or corner windows each have special considerations during installation.

To narrow options further, low-key solid colors or simple stripes complement more traditional or minimalist rooms, while vivid patterns and exotic designs enliven modern or eclectic spaces. There are endless possibilities for expressing personal style with living room valances.

Designing an Inviting Living Room with Valances

Strategic placement of window valances impacts how natural light enters the living room. Floor-length window treatments can block sun glare without eliminating views or brightness. When privacy is a concern, a wider and lower-hanging valance paired with sheer curtains filters light while obscuring sight lines.

For rooms with multiple windows, connecting separate valances together augments the feeling of spaciousness. Creative valance ideas include framing identical windows with matching swags or cascades. Alternatively, choose complementary fabrics and styles to define each one.

To unify the room's look, select valance colors and patterns that coordinate with other textures and hues present. For example, bold ikat or damask prints might resonate with global-inspired carpets and pillows. Delicate lace and floral designs pair suitably with French country or vintage cottage decor.

Remember that window valances don't necessarily need to match your existing curtains. Contrasting colors and uneven hemlines add visual interest and depth. Mix different textiles like cotton, linen, and velvet or combine mattes with shiny silks. This lively eclecticism showcases creativity.

Tips for Harmonizing Valances with Living Room Style

• Farmhouse: White eyelet lace, calico prints, cottage stripes
• Modern: Solid bold hues, crisp geometric patterns
• Rustic Lodge: Buffalo checks, textured wools, timber frames
• Coastal: Airy linens, sailboat prints, coordinating seashells and starfish
• Victorian: Velvets, trims and tassels, floral tapestries
• Contemporary: Metal, woods, or sleek solids

Installing Window Valances in Living Rooms

Proper valance installation impacts both functionality and decorative appeal. Most valances mount to the wall or window frame right above the trim using nails, screws, adhesive Velcro strips, or snap-in brackets.

Consider hanging room darkening drapery liners on the backside for better light control. Some homeowners also install separate privacy curtains beneath their valances. Layer window treatments together according to personal preferences.

Measure window height to determine optimal valance length. As a general rule of thumb, hang the bottom hem about one-third down from the top of the window trim to maximize the visible glass area. This also creates the illusion of taller windows.

For wider windows, extend rod-mounted curtain valances 6-12 inches outside the window trim on each side. Wider placement helps frame the window and define it as a focal point in the room.

Valance Mounting Styles

• Shallow brackets or nails for a tailored, straight edge
• Curtain rods allow swags and tails to hang gracefully
• Decorative crown mounts for a finished, built-in look

Some homeowners opt to install floor-to-ceiling bay window valances that cover the entire vertical surface. This treatment makes a stunning style statement and adds loads of texture. It does compromise views, however, so consider your priorities before committing.

Decorative Touches for Living Room Valances

Once the perfect living room window valances are hung, have fun accessorizing with complementary fabrics and trims. Layer in ruffled curtains or breezy sheers to filter light gracefully. Up the opulence factor with chandelier crystals or beads dangling from swag points and tails.

For a cleaner look, integrate sleek cornices at the tops of curtains. Box valances completely conceal curtain rods and hardware. Lambrequins, which only cover the top portion of a window, add shape and architectural detail.

Don't overlook the power of additional accents like tiebacks and tassels. Velvet ribbons spiral bound as lush rosettas. Twisted cords ending in chunky knots or braided trim infuse texture and artistry while holding window treatments out of view.

Valance Embellishment Ideas

• Crystals, beads, or fringe swags
• Contrasting cord trims and ornate tiebacks
• Banding tape and decorative nail heads
• Tassels, rosettes, braids and holding knots

For casual everyday charm, keep it simple with pattern mixing and relaxed sensibilities. However for showstopping drama, layer on the opulence with ornate accents and contrast fabrics. Either way, window valances invite personalized flair.

Operating Window Treatments with Valances

Look for living room valances that pair functionality with beauty for the ultimate window treatment. Today's options range from old world manual operation to convenient motorization. Consider how much hands-on control is necessary.

Cordless Roman shades offer easy up and down movements to modify sunlight as needed. Motorized systems requiring minimal physical effort are ideal for hard-to-reach windows. Ensure automated features include child safety mechanisms.

Investigate noise ratings when purchasing electric window treatments. Muffling movement sounds preserves the peacefulness of quiet sanctuaries. Additionally, smooth lift systems prevent the disruption of jerky starts and stops.

On the decorative side, stationary valances like swags and cascades primarily serve as eye-catching focal elements. While they don't adjust openness, their striking allure enhances overall ambiance. Remember, not all window treatments need to move.

Valance Control Types

• Cordless lift
• Wand or rod control
• Motorized remote operation
• Manual pull cord
• Stationary

Proper care also ensures living room valances maintain their beauty over many years of service. Regular dusting prevents dirt buildup within delicate fabrics. Follow any special washing guidance indicated on attached tags as needed. Limit sun exposure on vibrant hues vulnerable to fading.