A high-mounted window treatment
makes the window seem larger.

On the Lighter Side

During the summer, let the outdoors play the starring role in your family's activities as well as your home. Replace heavier draperies with light and easy treatments that make the most of your views outside and let in lots of natural light. These simple, white panels are made from muslin, so they're an affordable seasonal change. Make them a no-sew project by hemming them with fabric tape. Tack curtain rings to the top of the panels and hang them on a rod. Mount the rod higher than your woodwork to let your window -- and the view beyond -- be the most important thing your eye sees.

A café curtain lets in loads of
light while still giving you
privacy where you need it.

For years, it was customary to soften a window by hanging a valance at the top. Now, turn the concept upside down with a light and airy café curtain sewn from a summery blue-and-white plaid fabric. When privacy is needed on only the lower half, leave the window's top exposed to let in more sunny rays. If sun-fading is a concern, install blinds at the top of the window; lower them when needed to block the light, and keep them raised inconspicuously the rest of the time.