Boutique windows are the next big interior trend. Team Viva picks up a few ideas from the experts

So far lumped together as part of interior decor and may be as a backdrop of luscious curtains, windows — from their shape, size, frames, shades and faux recesses — have emerged as the statement piece of your home in 2019.  They are the perfect prop for the blend of functionality and art, depending upon the space, position and lighting. Designers and trend forecasters are now working on windows as the pivot of spaces and an anchor of your personality, your personal perch as you let the outer world drift in and shape your worldview.

Wood and eco-friendly coatings

Living as we do in environmentally-challenged times, architects are working on ecologically-friendly and sustainable alternatives in keeping us comfortable and close to Mother Nature. So wooden windows are back in homes and workplaces with bold painted frames. Companies like Gorlini Bespoke Windows is increasingly using water-based paints as a conscientious choice. Using renewable organic waste materials that are unfit for human consumption, its team has developed bio coatings that help reduce the greenhouse effect caused by CO2 emissions. In line with the latest green policies adopted worldwide, their exceptionally-low environmental impact makes it worthwhile. Such coatings are also “high performance” and while other paints might take longer to dry and lesser time to fade away, this one has a faster drying record and greater non-yellowing properties.

Wooden shutters are making a comeback because they are classic and add a graphic feature to your home either open or shut. They allow natural light to filter through in a pleasant sort of way and allows light to stream around in dots and blobs.

Give nature a chance

Experts believe that it doesn’t matter about whether or not there is enough space for the window. As long as it is in the room, there is always a chance to make it attractive. No matter what the size, the sill can be highlighted by stacking an array of plants. Or there could be a wall formation of planters on either side of the window to lend a bit of character. “Plants are essential when it comes to decorating a small balcony or window sill. Avoid using too much floor space of the balcony, do not overcrowd it,” says Punam Kalra, creative director of I’M. She further suggests  placing small potted plants below the window sill on the outside for that refreshing feel and brightness.

For those who live in apartments and crave for gardens, putting themed plant and flower pots on window extensions is the next best thing. Says Kalra, “One can also place vines and planters in bottles. Waste bottles of soft drinks can be decorated and painted as per the colour scheme of your interior and can be used to skirt your windows.

Green fabric

Amita Kanwar, design director at Window Passions, says, “As we are increasingly moving towards sustainable fashion, curtains in organic fabrics like cotton and linens are the best to go by. The focus is on nature-inspired and eco-friendly materials to create an elegant and earthy atmosphere.”

You can replace draperies with matchstick blinds. Especially if you’ve got a small space for your windows, opting for slim blinds will let the natural light in. Use  botanical-printed blinds to create a vibe of a wooded meadow. Or go extravagant with Roman and European prints. Experts suggests that the newest and best way to give your room a dramatic look is to incorporate floor-length windows and tall curtains.

Bamboo roll-up blinds may give you a tropical freshness and can block out the harsh light during the peak of summer. If it’s opulence, then there are silk shades, subtle, lush and luminescent.

Accessorise your window

Experts suggest that according to the colour and decor of the room, one can also use different accessories to decorate windows. Hanging dream-catchers and wind chimes, for instance, is a way to give it a more boho-chic appearance. Another idea is to string rice lights around the window frames to make it glow in the dark. Or arrange wooden photo frames and portraits in symmetry with square windows, especially if your room colour hovers around pastels. Installing a translucent art panel in front of  a window creates a unique screen while lending an aura to a painting or glass work.

Squares over arches

 Likewise, while shapes remain popular, they’re decidedly rectilinear. Arched-top and similar curved shapes may appear dated for some of today’s more popular home styles. Squared-off edges and crisp lines are definitely the way to go.

Expansive glass

The growth in outdoor living has driven demand for opening glass walls and lift-and-slide doors, as well as larger windows mulled together. From dramatic views to increased daylight, the benefits are appealing to both buyer and builder alike.

A wave of change is blowing through the styles, size as well as the way windows are being dressed up which is reflective of contemporary homes.