Summer Window Treatment Ideas for Your Farmhouse
For most, summer means spending more time outdoors soaking up the sun. But that doesn’t mean you should neglect the inside of your home! When warm weather rolls around, there are plenty of things you can do indoors to make your home feel lighter and airier, like swapping out your curtains. Doing this can be a practical and refreshing update that offers several benefits. But how do you choose the right curtains? You’ll want to find something that increases natural light, creates a sense of openness, and elevates the overall ambiance of your living space.
See Our 4 Favorite Summer Window Treatment Ideas Below
Valances
In the summer, valances are a great, lightweight option for our windows. They’re usually made of fabrics like cotton, linen, or sheer materials and don’t obstruct the view from your window. Since they allow sunlight to filter into a room seamlessly, they’re perfect for living and dining rooms as well as kitchens.
Valances have a minimalistic feel, allowing you to add a decorative touch without overwhelming the space. Plus, they come in many styles. For a traditional rustic space, this farmhouse valance is affordable and on-trend with its stripe design! If you prefer bohemian-styled spaces, this valance with pom poms would be an excellent choice. Moreover, valances are easy to maintain and clean and are budget-friendly. Looking for something a bit more elevated? This Roman valance is a versatile option designed to mimic Roman shades but at a much lower cost!
Prairie Curtains
Also known as prairie-style curtains or prairie swag curtains, this window treatment is characterized by lightweight fabric panels gathered or pleated horizontally across the top to create a gently scalloped or swag effect. Prairie curtains are often associated with the rustic charm and simplicity of prairie or farmhouse decor, making them a popular choice for country-style homes and cottages, especially in the summertime. Whether you prefer a dainty floral patterned prairie curtain or a simple chambray, they’re another lightweight, breathable option for your windows that allow plenty of sunlight to enter the home.
Panels
You probably don’t associate paneled curtains (also known as drapes) with summer, thinking more about the warmth and insulation they provide during winter. However, they can also be a useful window treatment in the summer! The right panels can block the sun out of living spaces and bedrooms and ultimately keep your home cooler, especially when the air conditioning is running. Instead of thick paneled curtains, try checkered gray sheer panels to add visual interest to your space. Or, if you want to open up the room and create an airy atmosphere, these antique white panels will do the job.
Window Tiers
Do you want to enjoy natural daylight while minimizing harsh glare and UV exposure? Try window tiers! Also known as tier curtains or café curtains, window tiers usually only cover the bottom half or two-thirds of a window. Because window tiers cover only the bottom portion of the window, they allow for increased airflow compared to full-length curtains or drapes, which can help keep your home cooler and more comfortable during the summer. For more coverage and added style, you can pair them with a valance or swag.
As you think about your summer window treatment options, you should also consider the curtain hardware. A new drape, swag, or valance could mean your current curtain rods and hooks no longer complement each other. Aside from style, you may also want to change colors. Think swapping a black curtain rod for metallic gold, which is warmer and more fitting for the summer season.
Need help finding your summer window treatments? Shop Piper Classics’ selection of farmhouse curtains. We have everything you need from valances to prairie curtains, fishtail swags, and more.
About the author
Written by Janine Bosh, Owner of Piper Classics
With decades of experience in home decor and design, I have a deep passion for creating beautiful, functional spaces that reflect personal style. From selecting the perfect colors and textures to curating timeless pieces, I love helping others bring their decorating visions to life.