As warmer weather slowly makes its return, think for a moment about how your mood changes when a gray, rainy morning dissolves in to a sun-soaked afternoon, or when a hot, glaring summer afternoon gently softens and melts into a soothing sunset.

That is the impact of light. It has the power to change not just what you see, but how you see it, and how you feel.

As a design professional, I often find that the window fashions are either overlooked, or chosen almost as an afterthought. But one size most definitely does not fit all!

Window fashions are one of the key accessories to pull a room together. They are more than window dressing - by changing the dynamics of a room, they can have a dramatic impact on your space. Window fashions can create a mood, reflect or complement your style, and should personalize your home with a luminous signature. When choosing the right window fashions, it's best to begin by considering the basics: light source, function, privacy and style. Keeping these four elements in mined will give your project a sense of direction, and will accomplish the necessary functional aspects while also contributing to the room’s feel and style.

1. Light Source

Determining where the light comes from is important, so ensure that you know which direction your window faces. North light tends to be cold and clear, suggesting energy-efficient window treatments, while light from the south is warm and strong year-round, so light-diffusing window coverings may be required to protect your upholstery and rugs from fading and damage.

If your windows face east, bright, warm morning light calls for window coverings that block UV rays, while if the light comes from the west, hot and bright afternoons demand solutions that are both light controlling and light diffusing.

2. Function

Consider your needs and safety options when choosing your window fashions. Do you need to reduce glare while watching TV, or working at a desk near a bright window? Will you require light blocking shades for someone who sleeps during the day, or cord controls to avoid tempting a curious child or pet?

3. Privacy

Perhaps the only people who don’t need privacy in window treatments are those who have homes far from prying eyes. For the rest of us, however, privacy can be a significant factor.

If you have a bathroom window that looks directly into your neighbour’s home, you need privacy. When your dining room overlooks a busy sidewalk, you may want privacy. Or, perhaps it's as simple as wanting some discrete screening from, say, the garage or a central air conditioning unit.

4. Style

Get the light changing power you want in the style that you've chosen. Do you prefer a traditional or contemporary look? Relaxed or formal? Country warmth or urban sophistication?

Choose fabrics that enhance the beauty and enjoyment of your room, or add interest with contrasting yet complementary colors. Natural materials, like fine wood slats, bamboo, reeds and grasses are another wonderful option. These unique touches should be a reflection of your personal style.

Any associated hardware such as rods, finials or rings must not be overlooked - they are like the jewelry for your window fashions, and therefore, must also be selected with care.

Don't just cover your windows – window treatments are more than window dressing. Not only are they versatile and valuable decorating tools, window fashions create and/or add to the atmosphere that you want for your surroundings.

Jennifer Brouwer is the guiding force behind the service-oriented and value-focused company, Decor By Jennifer Inc. , an innovative renovation and design consultancy operating in the thriving area of York Region that creates breathtaking and functional spaces. Image from www.decorbyjennifer.com.