4 Timeless Window Treatment Styles Updated for Today’s Homes
Traditional window treatments, such as drapes, Roman shades, and woven wood shades, are making a comeback, blending classic style with modern applications and evolving designs that offer elegance, versatility, and a connection to sustainable trends. These treatments are being updated with sleeker styles, modern fabrics, and tailored shapes to complement both contemporary and traditional interiors, providing depth, texture, and functionality to every space.
Trend #1: Pleated Draperies
Pleated curtains are timeless, with styles like pinch pleats or goblet pleats being especially popular. They’re always in style and remain staples in spaces like the dining rooms, living rooms, and primary bedrooms. If you prefer a more minimalistic look, stationary draperies paired with shades may be the perfect choice.
Ripplefold draperies are clean and architectural, with smooth, consistent S-curves that create a minimalist, tailored effect, perfect for modern or transitional homes.
Gorgeous ripplefold draperies framing the bed and windows.
Trend #2: Trim & Tassel Accents
To keep window treatments timeless, I recommend adding a tape or trim to a basic, timeless, solid-colored fabric. Whether it’s a micro cord along the leading edge or dramatic tassel accents, these details can be designed to fit your unique style and needs.
Dramatic draperies with tassel trim
Trend #3: Charming Cafe Curtains
Cafe curtains have quietly become a design favorite again—both in kitchens and other cozy spaces—because they strike the perfect balance of charm, function, and versatility. They provide light and privacy in a single layer, since they only cover the lower half of the window. With their romantic, clean charm, cafe curtains create an inviting, old-world atmosphere that still feels fresh.
Adorble cafe curtains to add warmth and still allow light
Trend #4: Drapery Hardware
Drapery hardware also plays a critical role. Sleek track systems (ceiling- or wall-mounted) make the hardware almost invisible, while metal rods in black, gold, or brushed brass with classic finials look stylish for decades. I love to select a custom drapery rod that fits your space. Why not have a rod custom-sprayed to match your wall color, creating the perfect custom look?
Blending modern and traditional elements in window treatments is a perfect way to create the elevated, modern-transitional look you love—think Nancy Meyers sophistication meets clean-lined architecture.
When choosing fabrics, consider lined linen, silk, wool blends, or high-quality velvet. Proportions and architectural details also play a significant role in creating the right design. We would be delighted to collaborate with you to create the perfect custom style for your home.
Custom sprayed drapery rods to match the walls
Key Takeaways: Timeless Window Treatments for Modern Homes
Pleated draperies, café curtains, and classic trims are making a comeback in today’s modern interiors.
Updated fabrics, sleek hardware, and tailored designs bring traditional window treatments into contemporary spaces.
From pleats and tassels to rods and rings, custom window treatments allow you to create a look that’s perfectly suited to your home’s architecture and style.
High-quality fabrics like lined linen, silk, wool blends, and velvet add depth, durability, and elegance.
Need a custom window treatment expert for your modern home? I've got your back! Contact me here and let's chat traditional details & more.
Warmly,
Dawne
Meet the Author
Dawne Paris is the owner and lead designer at Interiors by Between the Seams, a Northeast Ohio-based studio specializing in custom window treatments and home design.
With a passion for cohesive, functional spaces, Dawne helps homeowners transform their living areas with thoughtful design choices, including bespoke drapery, shades, and blinds that enhance both style and function.
