Crafted Conversations: Window Treatments 101 with Haley Weidenbaum of Everhem

The right window treatments can completely transform a space, adding depth, warmth, and a sense of intentional design. But with so many options—drapery, Roman shades, wovens —how do you know what’s right for your home? We turned to Haley Weidenbaum, Founder of Everhem, to break it all down. From selecting fabrics to layering for a more elevated look, she shares her expert insights on how to make window treatments feel like a natural extension of your style.

To celebrate, we’re partnering with Everhem for an exclusive giveaway—because thoughtful design should feel effortless. Enter for a chance to win $1,000 to shop Everhem and $1,000 to shop Cailíní Coastal to give your home the refresh it deserves.

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CC: We absolutely love Everhem and have used some of your pieces in our home! Tell us a bit about the brand and why you started it.

HW: After years of helping residential and commercial clients, I realized that custom window coverings were crucial but often neglected. Clients usually didn’t know where to start, had unrealistic budgets, or treated window treatments as an afterthought. I honed my skills in designing beautiful custom drapery, Roman shades, and woven wood shades, and noticed that when I posted project photos online, the most common question was about the drapery. That was my “aha” moment. I saw that both designers and homeowners wanted window coverings that perfectly fit their space but often didn’t know how to achieve it. Many were left navigating countless options without direction. So, I founded Everhem with a clear goal: to create a window treatment company grounded in interior design principles, bringing my expertise directly to consumers and helping them create the perfect window treatments for their homes.

CC: What factors should someone consider when choosing the right window treatments for my home?

HW: When you first begin the process of windows treatment for your home you need to consider a few key factors: 

Type of Window Treatment: At Everhem, we offer drapery & hardware, shades, and cafe curtains, providing versatile solutions that enhance both functionality and style, perfectly complementing your home.

From there you then need to decide on the following:

Fabric

Style

Lining

After which, depending on the product, Everhem walks you through a few more technical questions like mount position, control type, hardware finish, or rod size and then we help measure along with you through our website customizer or free virtual consultation! 

CC: How do different window treatments (e.g., drapery, roman shades, woven woods) affect the ambiance of a room?

HW: Window treatments can greatly influence both the functionality and aesthetics of a room. Each type—drapery, Roman shades, woven woods, or cafe curtains—can shape the room’s atmosphere in distinct ways. It’s important to understand the room’s use when choosing a window treatment. For example, in a kitchen, you might prioritize sun protection and a bit of privacy without obstructing the view. Cafe curtains can provide this balance effectively. On the other hand, heavier drapery or Roman shades can add a cozy, dramatic touch to a living room or bedroom. Choosing the right treatment involves considering both the room's function and the desired ambiance.

CC: Can you explain the benefits of custom window treatments versus ready-made options?

HW: Custom window treatments offer a perfect fit, tailored to your exact measurements. Unlike ready made sizes, which often lead to gaps and uneven coverage, our custom solutions at Everhem are measured to the 1/8 of an inch. This precision ensures both a flawless look and optimal performance, enhancing both the style and functionality of your windows.

(Photo Credit: @manor-designs)

CC: What are the most popular materials for window treatments, and how do they differ in functionality and appearance?

HW: Natural fabrics like linen and cotton are excellent choices for window treatments due to their superior quality and aesthetic appeal. These materials introduce a rich texture and subtle layer that elevate the design of your space. Linen and cotton not only enhance the overall look but also add a softness that complements and enriches other decor elements in the room.

(Credit: Jessica Alexander for Everhem)

CC: What are some tips for layering window treatments for a more luxurious look?

HW: Layering window treatments is a fantastic way to elevate the look of any room while enhancing both functionality and style. At Everhem, we recommend combining our elegant drapery with our versatile shades to create a luxurious, customized appearance. For a particularly refined touch, consider pairing our blackout drapery with an unlined woven wood shade. This combination not only provides effective room darkening and light filtering but also adds a sophisticated layer of coziness and texture to your space. It’s the perfect crossover between design and function. 

CC: How do you select the right color and pattern to complement the existing decor?

HW: Selecting the right color and pattern to complement your existing decor is key to achieving a harmonious look. Aim for timeless fabrics or designs that won't quickly go out of style. You want your window treatments to match your decor without feeling outdated too soon. At Everhem, we make this easy by offering a curated selection of classic options. Our choices are designed to endure, ensuring your window treatments remain stylish for years. 

(Credit: Jessica Alexander for Everhem)

CC: What trends are you seeing in window treatments? Are they here to stay?

HW: Lately, there’s been a noticeable shift towards darker colors and warmer hues in window treatments. Instead of the traditional white walls and drapery, moodier tones are becoming increasingly popular. This trend reflects a move towards more personalized and inviting spaces, suggesting these colors are here to stay. At Everhem, we’ve embraced this shift with our new Hues collection. Made from 100% linen, each hue in this line captures a unique character and mood, offering a rich palette that exudes sophistication and luxury.