Q&A with Cindy Gayer of Window Wear Design
What should we know about window designs and coverings in 2019?
There are three things I really want people to know about modern window coverings. First, form and function now go hand in hand, especially in the world of custom work. There are parts of the country where your window coverings are mainly there for looks but here in Southwest Florida it’s a necessity. We spend a lot of money to have large, plentiful windows, but we need to cover them to control UV rays and heat which protects our interiors and creates a more energy efficient home. All those windows also bring privacy concerns, so window coverings serve a range of important services.
Second, they are also a fashion statement. They enhance the beautiful view and soften the framing of the window. With so many material options available, your window coverings should never distract from or clash with the interior design of your home.
Third, they are now more user-friendly than ever before. Over the last few years, we have seen the integration of technology into almost every level of window coverings with automation becoming a necessity, not just a luxury. These automation options are now quieter, smaller, and easier to use. Now, with one button you can control your whole room, which is important since our homes here have so many windows. While there are still hard-wired options that plug into an outlet like a lamp, the advancements in battery operated systems now make it a great choice for any home. The cost of automated window coverings has also become much more affordable, so it now works for every budget. Finally, thanks to automated drapery, this technology now works for all materials and styles.
What should we keep in mind as we select window coverings?
Lifestyle is one of the most important factors to consider. We want to know how you live day to day and one of the main questions we ask is how you like to sleep—do you need a little sun in to wake up or are you someone who loves a completely dark room? Solar shades are a good option for the main living spaces in your home as they block UV rays and reduce heat by 90%. They also won’t obstruct your view, and provide daytime privacy while letting the light in. They are now our number one product since they protect your home while looking chic against any design style. If you do have solar shades, we suggest adding a second layer of blinds or shutters since the privacy effect is reversed at night, as the light source changes from outside to inside the home. For those who need blackout curtains, there is a wide range of fabrics available and light channels with zero light leakage can be achieved through doubling up on layers. We also consider the function a person needs. For those planning to age in place, we suggest something that is motorized or at least lightweight for ease of use.
What can we do to protect our window coverings from the Southwest Florida sun?
A main concern we often address is longevity. After all, this is the first defense against the damaging effects of the sun and it’s also an investment both financially and in your home’s design, so you want something that will stand the test of time. Thankfully, the modern window covering is designed to last. Tested like paint or high performance fabrics, the modern materials used in our window coverings are put through rigorous tests to make sure they will withstand the heat and UV rays coming through your windows. Another way to protect your coverings is by layering. Shades and shutters placed under decorative fabrics will keep the top layer from fading and will further protect other surfaces in your home as well.
We have a lot of large sliding doors in our Southwest Florida homes. What’s the best way to cover those?
Roll shades are one of the best options and they can be motorized or manually operated. With many fabrics we can create something that’s 158 inches wide so we are able to cover large areas. I personally love a lot of the Hunter Douglas products for style, ease of use, and longevity. Sliding plantation shutters are great for bedrooms and I would also suggest motorized drapes for these large sliding doors, since they bring style and versatility. Sliding panels are also a sleek and modern way to cover these bigger areas.
What will be big in 2020 and will there be a change in tastes and trends next year?
Nationally, there is a trend towards a more modern and industrial look; however, here in Naples we will still be seeing the much loved look of coastal chic with a transitional flair as represented by designer, Laurie Walter. She is a great example of a designer who brings in the sand, water, and colors of the sky while keeping window treatments neutral to highlight original artwork and furnishings. While there is a range of new colors trends on the market, blue will continue to hold strong here. We are seeing more navy blue used in homes here and we are having fun as we work with designers who bring in the oranges and yellows of the sunset. Technology will continue to develop in in 2020, and we are excited to see what new products are rolled out for our clients as the year progresses.
Can we mix and match styles throughout the home or should the style match while the fabric is different?
Unless you are looking for an eclectic home, it’s best to keep the style, color, feel, and trends basically the same throughout the interior spaces. We like to consider the flow with style and color, down to the bedding upholstery when we meet with our clients. We are also able to provide more than just window coverings—we offer many different upholstery options from headboards to furniture, and can even cover the walls in entire rooms like home theaters and offices. We believe it’s important to consult with a professional before making any big decisions and we are here to help you as you choose the best options based on your needs and lifestyle.
Cindy Gayer and her team bring have been in Naples for around 20 years and Window Wear Design is a full service window design company which can provide all of the services and products necessary in the creation of both decorative and protective window treatments. Window Wear Design is also well known and highly respected among the interior design community in Southwest Florida. Call (239) 513-1714 for your next project!