Top Window Coverings Recommended by Interior Designers in 2025
TLDR;
In 2025, interior designers recommend window coverings that blend smart technology, sustainability, and style for modern homes and offices. Popular choices include motorized shades, smart glass, cellular shades, sustainable drapes, and layered curtains that balance aesthetics with energy efficiency and convenience.
Best Window Treatments 2025: Quick Reference Table
| Window Treatment | Ideal Use | Key Benefits | Designer's Tip |
|---|---|---|---|
| Smart Glass | Offices, luxury homes | Privacy, UV control, aesthetics | Ideal for minimalist & tech-forward designs |
| Motorized Shades | Bedrooms, living rooms | Convenience, smart-home integration | Best for hard-to-reach windows |
| Sustainable Drapes | Eco-friendly homes, living rooms | Environmentally friendly, stylish | Combine with natural textures |
| Cellular Shades | Energy-conscious spaces | Insulation, energy efficiency | Choose double-layered for max insulation |
| Layered Curtains | Large windows, open spaces | Versatility, aesthetics | Combine sheer and blackout fabrics |
Smart Window Treatments: Smart Glass & Motorized Options
Smart window treatments offer a blend of high-tech innovation and elegant design. They let you control light, privacy, and temperature with ease.
Smart Glass – High-Tech Window Solutions
Smart glass transforms ordinary windows into dynamic surfaces that switch from clear to opaque at the touch of a button.
- When to use: Luxury homes, modern offices, and minimalist interiors.
- Designer insight: Balances aesthetics with functionality, ideal for privacy without sacrificing natural light.
- Pros:
- Instant privacy control
- UV protection reducing furniture fading
- Sleek, minimalist look
- Cons:
- Higher cost
- Requires electrical installation
- Maintenance considerations
Motorized Shades – Convenience Meets Style
Motorized shades are a favorite among interior designers for their blend of ease and sophistication.
- Why designers recommend: They offer smart-home integration and energy efficiency.
- Ideal locations: High ceilings, large windows, and hard-to-reach places.
- Features:
- Remote and app control
- Programmable schedules for light and privacy
- Energy savings by optimizing solar heat gain
Smart window treatments like motorized shades and smart glass offer seamless integration into modern lifestyles, enhancing both comfort and design.
Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Window Coverings
As sustainability grows in importance, eco-friendly window coverings are becoming top recommendations by designers.
Natural Woven Shades (Bamboo & Hemp)
These shades bring nature indoors, blending organic textures with modern design.
- Ideal for: Eco-conscious homes, spaces with biophilic design elements.
- Benefits:
- Renewable materials
- Adds warmth and texture
- Lightweight and durable
Sustainable Drapes & Fabrics
Designers suggest drapes made from hemp, organic cotton, and linen for their style and environmental impact.
- Advantages:
- Low-maintenance and long-lasting
- Breathable fabrics that regulate temperature
- Often biodegradable or recyclable
Choosing sustainable window coverings supports eco-friendly interiors without compromising on aesthetics.
Energy-Efficient Window Treatments: Cellular Shades & Insulated Drapes
Energy efficiency is a major focus in 2025, with window treatments for insulation that conserve energy while elevating style.
Cellular (Honeycomb) Shades
Cellular shades trap air in their honeycomb cells, creating an insulating barrier.
- Why designers prefer: Excellent energy savings, reduces heat loss in winter and heat gain in summer.
- Real-world use:
- Ideal for energy-conscious homeowners
- Helps lower utility bills
- Available in light-filtering and blackout options
Insulated & Acoustic Drapery
These drapes combine energy efficiency with noise reduction—perfect for bedrooms and media rooms.
- Benefits:
- Thick lining insulates windows
- Dampens outside noise
- Adds luxury with plush fabrics
Energy-efficient treatments create comfort and savings, making them a wise choice for modern interiors.
Drapery Trends: Layering & Luxury Fabrics
Layering window treatments adds depth and flexibility to any room’s design.
Layering Window Treatments for Depth & Versatility
Layering involves combining sheers, blackout curtains, and decorative drapes—an especially effective approach for window treatments for small spaces where flexibility and visual depth are essential.
- Designer technique:
- Sheers allow soft natural light during the day
- Blackout fabrics provide privacy and block light at night
- Decorative layers add color and texture
- Benefits:
- Seasonal adaptability
- Customizable privacy and light control
- Enhances room ambiance
Luxury Drapery: Fabrics & Finishes
Luxury fabrics such as silk, velvet, and embellished materials are trending.
- Why designers choose them: They create a rich, tactile experience and elevate the room’s atmosphere.
- Ideal use: Formal living rooms, master bedrooms, and upscale commercial spaces.
Luxury drapery paired with layering techniques brings sophistication and personalized style to window coverings.
Practical Comparison & Decision-Making Guide
Selecting the right window coverings involves weighing cost, maintenance, and lifespan.
Choosing Window Coverings: Cost, Maintenance & Lifespan
| Treatment | Cost Range | Maintenance Level | Lifespan | Designer’s Recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Smart Glass | High | Moderate | 10+ years | Best for luxury, tech-savvy homes |
| Motorized Shades | Moderate-High | Low | 7-12 years | Great for convenience and accessibility |
| Sustainable Drapes | Low-Moderate | Low | 5-10 years | Ideal for eco-friendly, budget-conscious |
| Cellular Shades | Moderate | Low | 7-15 years | Top for energy efficiency |
| Layered Curtains | Variable | Moderate | Depends on fabrics | Offers flexibility and style |
Regular cleaning and prompt repairs extend the life of any window covering, ensuring long-term value.
FAQs: Interior Designer Recommendations for Window Treatments
What are the best window treatments for large windows in luxury homes?
Layered curtains with luxury fabrics and motorized shades are the top picks, combining grandeur with functionality.
Are smart window treatments worth the investment?
Yes, for convenience, energy savings, and integration with smart homes, smart window treatments provide excellent ROI.
Which sustainable window coverings do interior designers prefer in 2025?
Natural woven shades, hemp drapes, and organic fabrics are preferred for their eco-friendly and aesthetic qualities.
What are interior designers' top window treatments for privacy and insulation?
Cellular shades and insulated drapery deliver superior privacy and energy efficiency while enhancing design.
