The Most Requested Window Treatment Trends in 2026
Photo Credit: Three Girls
Windows could truly be one of the most overlooked parts of your home. Our society focuses so much on buying new furniture and decor and then don't think our windows and coverings won't affect how a space gets pulled all together. This is the year of stepping it up with our window design. Interior designers and experts are always paying attention to the latest trends, and they definitely do not leave window coverings unnoticed.
Today, homeowners and designers are looking for solutions that balance clean aesthetics, functionality, comfort, and smart technology. In a way, it is like we have begun modernizing the classic styles to create a transitional effect on our windows.
Rather than feeling overly decorative or heavy, modern window treatments are increasingly focused on simplicity, softness, and seamless integration within the overall design of a space.
I like to call window coverings the shapeshifters of a space. They can make a room look big, taller, cozier, add a pop of colour, hide an awkward wall, and so much more. Here are some of the most requested trends we are currently seeing across residential and commercial projects.
Photo Credit: Hunter Douglas
Layered Window Treatments
Layering treatments are continuing to be one of the most requested approaches in modern interiors. Designers and homeowners are using the combination of soft drapery with fully functional shades to really make a room feel customed and finished.
By pairing these together, it allows a space to achieve that private and soft feel while still being able to maintain daytime light control and functionality. It really gives any room that luxury-hotel effect.
Some fan favourtie combinations are:
• Roller shades + drapery
• Blackout roller shades layered behind sheers
• Roman shades + drapery
• Sheer shades + side panels
Who doesn't love a layered look and plus, it helps spaces feel more complete and luxurious.
Floor-to-Ceiling Drapery
Ceiling mounted drapery continues to grow in popularity because of the elevated and architectural look it creates. It can dramatize a space without the need for any harsh colours of fabrics. The version of this style drapery that is in right now is cleaner than the heavy drapery look that was in years ago.
Photo Credit: Luxury Home Decor Inspiration
Some looks that are especially strong are warm whites, sheer linen fabrics, oatmeal and soft neutrals
By extending drapery from ceiling to floor, spaces feel taller, softer, and more refined. Allowing for window coverings to be neat and discreet without the need for any poles or wall-mounted brackets.
Photo Credit: Patricia Cost
This application works especially well in:
• Condos
• Modern homes
• Open concept interiors
• Spaces with large glazing
• Minimal architectural environments
Ceiling mounted installations also help create a more seamless visual flow throughout the room.
Motorization and Smart Home Integration
Motorized shades and drapery are quickly becoming standard in many high-end homes. This is one feature that is becoming less of an upgrade and more as an expected must-have in today's day and age.
Photo Credit: Hunter Douglas
Research from companies like Lutron discovered that only 43% of residential architects and interior designers recommended automated shades to their clients, whereas 56% indicated they are an absolute must in their clients' home. They also point out that although 38% of homeowners are interested in the smart home integration of automated shades, only 11% are currently using them in their homes.
"Motorized shades are increasingly viewed as a standard feature rather than a luxury. With motorization, shades become active systems responding to light, time of day, or voice commands. Motorized shades can also solve practical concerns, preserving artwork, flooring and furniture from the harsh sunlight and providing coverage for tall windows and hard-to-reach skylights.” — Melissa Andresko, Chief Corporate Brand Ambassador at Lutron
Photo Credit: Hunter Douglas
Homeowners appreciate the convenience of controlling light and privacy through remotes, apps, or voice assistants.
Motorization is especially popular in:
• Homes with oversized windows
• Hard to reach applications
• Smart homes
• Media rooms
• Primary bedrooms
Automated schedules also improve energy efficiency and comfort throughout the day.
Natural Woven Woods and Linen Roman Shades
These window treatments have become exceptionally strong and are definitely making their appearance. There is something about woven wood in the right space that just feels perfect. They bring a sense of nature indoors without feeling too bold. Right now, these shades are finer and more intricate than ever, leaving you with such an incredible tailored look up close.
Photo Credit: Hunter Douglas
Even linen textures and materials, especially in roman shades, are so classy and something that designers will always come back to. Although, roman shades have always been around, the look of them has barely changed, however, the choice of fabric such a softer linen has truly made them feel current again.
Photo Credit: Hunter Douglas
Both of these shades work so well because the softness of their materials brings warmth and movement to a window, while their structure folds keep a very polished look.
Decorative Details
This year we have definitely seen a lot more patterns and details come back but in a more refined way. Such an interesting change for 2026 but I'm here for it! After so many years of minimal window treatments, designers are starting to gear towards the unmistakably custom look again.
A lot of designers are specifically looking at custom valances, tassels, upholstered cornices, cafe curtains, elegant drapery patterns, and leading-edge trims, all looking a lot different from the elaborate styles we remember.
A simple drapery panel can be completed with a contrasted leading edge or subtle trim. Or a simple shade can also be complimented by a beautifully patterned drapery panel that adds a pop of colour to a dull room.
Hunter Douglas Fan Favourites
Right now, Hunter Douglas window treatments are trending in the direction of smart technology, practical light control, and a cozy style. Some of their most popular window treatments for this year are
The Duolite shade with a roller in behind
Duette Cellular Shades
Provenance Woven Wood Shades
Duette Honeycomb Shades
Sihilouette Sheer Shades
Designer Roller Shades
Photo Credit: Hunter Douglas
The styles all reflect the current trends and evolving preferences of homeowners and designers. Hunter Douglas continues to pave the way for innovative and smart technological design, all in supporting efficiency and comfort in modern living spaces.
Window treatments are no longer viewed as simply functional additions to a space. Perhaps this is what 2026 trends are all about, not a comeback of past traditional window treatments, but a return to treatments with consideration and made specifically for each room. They have become an integrated part of the overall design experience.
At The View Window Fashions, we help homeowners and designers navigate both timeless and emerging trends to create solutions that feel functional, elevated, and thoughtfully tailored to each project.