Today's Supersized Windows Call For Innovative Fashion Solutions

When building a dream house, today's homeowners want more than a room with a view. They want lots of rooms and bigger windows to maximize the view and let in more light.

Recent statistics from the National Association of Homebuilders (NAHB) indicate that new houses continue to get larger and so do windows.

They show that a majority of Gen X'ers and Y's prefer nine-foot or higher ceilings-and soaring rooms often incorporate enormous windows.

NAHB also reports that baby boomers, in their well-established tradition of defying convention, are seeking diverse housing solutions. But whatever their choices, they want an abundance of natural light and therefore larger windows in their new homes.

The trend also applies to remodeling homes. "As homes age, many homeowners need to replace windows. When they do, they often upgrade to bigger windows or trade a few small windows for a large one," said Joan Stephen, President of the National Association of the Remodeling Industry.

The trend holds for apartments as well, where realtors report that loft-style apartments and new glass towers are gaining popularity over traditional apartments.

One window covering manufacturer is keeping pace with the need to dress all these big windows while recognizing the consumer preference for diffused light and a wide view. Hunter Douglas has introduced Quartette™, a four-inch vane size in Silhouette® window shadings.

This innovative, light-transforming window fashion, with its soft fabric vanes suspended between sheer panels, was previously available in two- and three-inch vane sizes. In the new style, the shadings make a dramatic architectural statement at the window.

Silhouette Quartette combines the look of shutters with the softness and elegance of a sheer in sizes up to 10-feet wide and 10-feet high. Yet it also boasts superior UV protection and provides the maximum view-through of any Silhouette vane size.

"When you have huge windows, you want something heftier," said interior designer Elaine Griffin. "The four-inch vane size brings window dressing to a new dimension."

Available in 24 colors in two popular fabric styles, Silhouette Quartette softly diffuses light while providing the big view today's consumers crave.