Selecting the perfect window treatments for historic, mid-century modern, or craftsman homes in New Albany, IN requires a delicate balance between preserving architectural character and meeting modern needs. As a homeowner of one of these distinctive properties, you understand that standard, off-the-shelf window coverings often fall short of complementing your home’s unique aesthetic and historical significance.

At WindowDecor, we’ve helped countless New Albany residents enhance their historic and architectural homes with custom window treatments that honor original design while providing modern comfort, light control and privacy.

Understanding Your Home’s Architectural Style

Before selecting window treatments for your distinctive home, it’s essential to understand the key characteristics of your architectural style:

Historic Homes in New Albany, IN

New Albany boasts a rich history, with many homes dating back to the 19th century and even the 18th century in some cases. The city’s historic districts feature various styles including:

• Victorian: Characterized by ornate details, tall windows, and decorative trim
• Federal: Known for symmetrical facades and simpler, elegant window designs
• Georgian: Distinguished by balanced proportions and classical details
• Colonial: Featuring practical window designs with divided light patterns
• Greek Revival: Distinguished by columns and formal, balanced proportions
• Italianate: Featuring tall, narrow windows with elaborate hoods or crowns

Mid-Century Modern Homes

Developed between the 1940s and 1970s, mid-century modern homes typically include:

• Large, often floor-to-ceiling windows that welcome natural light
• Clean lines and minimal ornamentation for a sleek appearance
• Indoor-outdoor living concepts with extensive glass
• Open floor plans that maximize sunlight and views

Craftsman-Style Homes

Popular in the early 20th century, craftsman homes (also known as Arts and Crafts style) are known for:

• Double-hung windows with multiple panes in the upper sash
• Built-in window seats and nooks
• Natural materials and handcrafted details
• Wide window trim and distinctive architectural moldings

Best Window Treatment Options for Historic Homes

Plantation Shutters: Timeless Elegance for Historic Properties

Plantation shutters represent one of the most historically appropriate choices for older homes in New Albany. These versatile window coverings:

• Complement various architectural styles from Victorian to Colonial
• Provide excellent insulation against Indiana’s seasonal temperature fluctuations
• Offer precise light control while maintaining privacy
• Add value to historic properties with their elegant appearance

Our custom plantation shutters are crafted with furniture-grade materials and mortise-joint construction, ensuring they match the quality craftsmanship of your historic home. We can customize the louver size, slat width, frame style, and finish or stain to complement original woodwork and trim.

Interior Shutters: Historical Accuracy

Interior shutters have been used since the 15th century and remain an authentic choice for many historic homes:

• Historically accurate for Colonial, Federal, and Georgian homes
• Available in various styles to match different eras
• Can be stained or painted to match existing woodwork
• Provide excellent insulation for older windows

Custom Drapery: Authentic Period Style

For truly authentic window treatments in historic New Albany homes, consider:

• Full-length draperies with period-appropriate fabrics and textile patterns
• Layered window treatments combining sheer undercurtains with heavier drapes
• Swag and jabot treatments for formal spaces
• Custom valances or wooden cornices designed to match original architectural details
• Tiebacks and holdbacks that complement the era of your home
• Swagged or floor-length curtains for Victorian-era homes

Roman Shades: Elegant Simplicity

Roman shades offer a clean, tailored look that works beautifully in historic homes:

• Available in period-appropriate fabrics and prints
• Provide a streamlined alternative to fuller drapery
• Can be customized to match historic color schemes
• Work well in smaller windows common in older homes
• Available in relaxed fold styles for a softer look

Venetian Blinds: Traditional Option

Venetian blinds have a long history dating back to the 18th century:

• Historically appropriate for many Federal and Colonial homes
• Available in wood finishes that complement period furnishings
• Provide excellent light control with adjustable slats
• Can be paired with decorative tape for added visual interest

Window Treatments for Mid-Century Modern Homes

Roller and Solar Shades: Sleek Minimalism

The clean lines of mid-century modern architecture pair perfectly with:

• Simple roller shades in neutral tones
• Solar shades that reduce glare while maintaining views
• Minimal hardware that doesn’t compete with architectural features
• Motorized options for seamless operation of large window walls

Horizontal Blinds: Linear Precision

For mid-century homes featuring horizontal lines and geometric patterns:

• Wood blinds with wider slats to complement the era’s aesthetic
• Aluminum blinds for a more industrial, sleek aesthetic
• Minimal valances or exposed headrails
• Neutral colors that complement wood paneling and built-ins

Sheer Curtains: Softened Modernism

To soften the sometimes stark lines of mid-century architecture:

• Simple, ceiling-mounted curtain tracks
• Sheer fabrics that filter light without blocking views
• Ripple fold or wave fold styles for clean, contemporary pleating
• Neutral or monochromatic color schemes that maintain the sleek look

Craftsman-Style Home Window Treatments

Wood Blinds: Natural Materials

Craftsman homes celebrate natural materials and craftsmanship, making wood blinds an excellent choice:

• Stained finishes that complement original woodwork
• Decorative tape options that add visual interest
• 2″ or 2.5″ slats for balanced proportions
• Routeless options for improved light control

Cellular Shades: Energy Efficiency with Style

For improved energy efficiency in older craftsman homes:

• Honeycomb construction provides insulation against New Albany’s climate extremes
• Top-down/bottom-up options for privacy with light
• Natural fabric textures that complement craftsman aesthetics
• Custom sizing for unique window dimensions
• Pleated design that adds subtle texture

Woven Wood Shades: Organic Texture

The natural materials and textures of woven wood shades pair beautifully with craftsman architecture:

• Bamboo, grass, and reed materials add organic texture
• Natural variations complement handcrafted woodwork
• Light-filtering qualities create warm, ambient light
• Edge bindings can be customized to match interior colors

Window Treatment Ideas for Different Window Styles

Bay Windows

Bay windows are common in many historic and craftsman homes and require special consideration:

• Individual treatments for each section to allow for versatility
• Continuous treatments that follow the angles for a unified look
• Custom-fitted blinds or shades that maximize the beautiful window shape
• Roman shades that showcase the bay while providing functionality

Arched Windows

For the intricate arched windows often found in historic homes:

• Specialty-shaped shutters that follow the arch precisely
• Custom drapery with curved rods that highlight the arch
• Stationary treatments for the arched portion with operable coverings below
• Fan-fold shades designed specifically for arched windows

Large Picture Windows

Mid-century homes often feature expansive picture windows that deserve special treatment:

• Motorized shades for convenient operation of large expanses
• Solar screen fabrics that protect furnishings from UV damage
• Minimal treatments that don’t detract from the view
• Side panels that frame the window without covering it

Practical Considerations for Period Homes

Energy Efficiency Challenges

Older homes in New Albany often face energy efficiency challenges:

• Drafty Windows: Cellular shades and lined draperies can significantly reduce air infiltration
• Single-Pane Glass: Insulating window treatments help compensate for poor thermal performance
• Solar Heat Gain: Solar shades and plantation shutters provide UV protection for furnishings while reducing cooling costs
• Winter Heat Loss: Layered window treatments offer additional insulation during Indiana winters

Preserving Original Features

When installing window treatments in historic or architectural homes:

• Avoid Drilling: Where possible, use tension rods or inside-mount treatments to preserve original woodwork
• Respect Proportions: Choose treatments that maintain the original window proportions and sightlines
• Consider Visibility from Outside: Select window coverings that maintain the home’s exterior appearance
• Work Around Unique Shapes: Custom solutions for arched, bay, or unusually sized windows preserve architectural integrity

Modern Functionality for Traditional Spaces

Integrate modern convenience without compromising style:

• Motorized Options: Control hard-to-reach windows in historic homes with vaulted ceilings
• Cordless Safety: Child-safe options for family homes that eliminate dangerous hanging cords
• Smart Home Integration: Automated treatments that can be programmed for energy efficiency
• UV Protection: Specialized fabrics and materials that protect valuable antiques and original flooring

Color and Material Selection Guide

Historic Home Color Palettes

When selecting window treatments for historic New Albany homes, consider:

• Victorian: Rich jewel tones, complex patterns, and luxurious fabrics
• Federal/Colonial: Muted blues, reds, and neutrals with simple patterns
• Greek Revival: Classic whites, creams, and blues with formal symmetrical patterns
• Italianate: Warm earth tones, deep greens, and ornate damasks

Mid-Century Modern Materials

For authentic mid-century modern window treatments:

• Natural fibers like cotton, linen, and wool
• Geometric patterns or solid colors
• Materials with minimal texture
• Colors inspired by nature: olive green, harvest gold, teak, and earthy oranges

Craftsman-Appropriate Selections

Craftsman homes typically feature:

• Natural wood tones and stains
• Earthy greens, browns, and rusty reds
• Botanical and nature-inspired prints
• Handcrafted textures and materials that add warmth

Finding the Right Balance: Authenticity vs. Practicality

As a homeowner of a distinctive property in New Albany, you’re constantly balancing preservation with livability. When selecting window treatments:

1. Prioritize key rooms: Focus on historically accurate treatments in public spaces while allowing more practical solutions in private areas
2. Consider visibility: Choose period-appropriate options for street-facing windows to maintain curb appeal
3. Layer solutions: Combine authentic-looking drapery with modern blinds or shades for both style and function
4. Consult experts: Work with professionals who understand both historical aesthetics and modern window treatment technology

Expert Installation for Architectural Homes

Professional installation is particularly important for older homes with:

• Settlement issues affecting window square
• Unusual dimensions requiring custom solutions
• Valuable original woodwork that needs protection
• Challenging access or height considerations

At WindowDecor, our installation team has over 30 years of experience working with historic and architectural homes throughout Southern Indiana. We understand the unique challenges these properties present and take extra care to preserve original features while ensuring perfect fit and function.

The WindowDecor Advantage for Historic and Architectural Homes

As a family-owned business with over 30 years of experience, WindowDecor understands the unique challenges and opportunities presented by New Albany’s historic and architectural homes:

• Custom Manufacturing: We create window treatments specifically sized for non-standard windows common in older homes
• Expert Consultation: Our design team understands period-appropriate styles and can help you make historically informed choices
• Professional Installation: Our installers are experienced with the challenges of older homes, including uneven walls and out-of-square windows
• Local Knowledge: We’ve worked with numerous historic and architectural homes throughout New Albany and understand local preservation guidelines
• Hunter Douglas Quality: As an authorized dealer, we offer premium products with superior craftsmanship

A Wide Array of Options for Every Style

No matter which architectural style your home represents, WindowDecor offers a wide array of window treatment options to beautify your windows while respecting their historical significance:

• Different styles of blinds and shutters to match any era
• Versatility in design, from simple to ornate
• Custom fabrics that match historical textiles or provide a contemporary complement
• Specialty hardware that enhances the authentic look of your window treatments

Case Study: Preserving Character in a New Albany Victorian

When the Johnsons purchased their 1890s Victorian in New Albany’s historic district, they faced common challenges:

• Beautiful but drafty original windows
• Strict historic district guidelines for visible window treatments
• A desire for privacy without sacrificing natural light
• The need to protect antique furnishings from UV damage

Our solution combined custom plantation shutters for street-facing windows with layered treatments (cellular shades and drapery) for the rear of the home. This approach preserved the historic character visible from the street while providing modern comfort and energy efficiency throughout.

FAQ: Window Treatments for Historic and Architectural Homes

What are the most historically accurate window treatments for a Victorian home in New Albany?

For Victorian homes, layered window treatments including lace undercurtains, heavy drapes with tiebacks, and valances or cornices would be most historically accurate. Plantation shutters were also common in this era, particularly in Southern Indiana homes influenced by plantation architecture.

How can I improve energy efficiency in my mid-century modern home without compromising the architectural style?

Solar shades and minimal roller shades offer energy efficiency while maintaining the clean lines of mid-century design. For maximum efficiency without visual impact, consider adding motorized treatments that can be programmed to adjust with the sun’s position throughout the day.

Are plantation shutters appropriate for craftsman-style homes?

While not originally common in craftsman homes, plantation shutters can work well if designed to complement the existing woodwork. Choose stain colors that match original trim and select appropriate mounting options that respect the window’s architectural details.

What window treatments work best for unusual window shapes in historic homes?

Custom treatments are essential for arched, round, or oddly-sized windows. Options include specialty-shaped plantation shutters, custom roman shades, or stationary drapery panels designed to frame unusual openings while highlighting their distinctive shape.

How do I choose window treatments that won’t damage original woodwork?

Consider inside-mount treatments that fit within the window frame rather than mounting hardware to historic trim. When outside mounts are necessary, work with installers experienced in historic homes who can minimize impact on original materials.

What are the best window treatments for maintaining the look and feel of a historic home while adding modern convenience?

Layered window treatments often provide the best combination of historical accuracy and modern function. For example, combining plantation shutters with decorative side panels gives you the light control and privacy of shutters with the softening effect and historical appearance of fabric treatments.

Preserve Your Home’s Character with Expert Guidance

Your historic, mid-century, or craftsman home in New Albany deserves window treatments that enhance its architectural integrity while meeting your modern needs for privacy, light control, and energy efficiency.

At WindowDecor, we’ve been helping homeowners throughout Southern Indiana find this perfect balance since 1993. Our family-owned business understands the unique character of New Albany’s distinctive homes and offers custom solutions that respect their architectural heritage.

Ready to explore the perfect window treatment options for your architectural home? Contact us today to schedule a free consultation with our design experts. We’ll help you navigate the choices that best preserve and enhance your home’s unique character while adding modern comfort and functionality.