Make the most of your windows

THEY let the light into your home and frame the views outside. They let the fresh air waft in and are an important decor feature, but most important of all, they increase the value of your home.

Here are some tips to make your windows a focal feature.

WHEN it comes to making any changes to your windows one rule applies -- don't compromise. Buy the best possible quality materials you can afford.

Even though cheaper materials might beckon now, in the long run you will no doubt regret using badly finished window frames, cheap curtaining or badly installed burglar bars and awnings.

If you don't get the very best you can at the outset, the price you will eventually have to pay will be to replace weather beaten windows or to have your curtains remade -- with linings this time -- or to throw out flimsy burglar bars once the burglars have unscrewed the cheapies.

Because windows are a focal point in most rooms and because good ones raise the value of your property considerably, choose carefully when you decide to revamp them.

Wooden cottage pane windows always look pretty from the inside as well as the outside and are still one of the favourite styles used by renovators.

If your house has a more modern or minimalist look, then opt for clean cut aluminium or steel for durability and that upmarket edge.

Sash windows are also back in style and look romantic with swathes of muslin billowing about in the breeze or with crisp roman blinds

Of course your choice depends on the kind of look you're trying to create as well as the architecture of your home, so if you are unsure what style to go for, it might be worthwhile to glean some professional advice from an architect.

Once your new windows have been installed and the glazing done, it's time decide on the curtaining. Here the choices are so wide it might be best to consult as many decor magazines as you can lay your hands on to make the perfect choice.

Colour is probably the most crucial decision and it might be best to pick up a colour from your existing furnishings as a starting point. Then it's time to visit a fabric or curtaining shop and start collecting swatches. You'll find that retailers are usually only too happy to part with samples, swatches and catalogues that you can take home and match to your carpets, upholstery and wall colours.

Having done your 'curtain research' you will probably have some idea regarding the style of curtaining you would like.

Long full curtains will complement a traditional room, blinds add style and simplicity and look especially good in bathrooms and kitchens, while draped muslin looks elegant and romantic in living areas and bedrooms.

Your next decision will be about the finishing touches. Do you want pelmets, tiebacks and finials? Will you need borders and trims with your chosen style?