Spanish churches inspired Mission Style.
Mission style, sometimes called Mission Revival Style, was inspired by old Spanish churches built in the Southwest and California in the late 1800s. The movement merged with the Arts and Crafts style of the early 1900s.
Born out of humble beginnings of the Spanish missionaries, mission style is simple, warm and inviting. Windows in Mission Style architecture feature beautiful wood trim and sometimes stained glass. Because Mission Style windows are decorative and artsy, when selecting window treatments, it is important to choose options that compliment the window without concealing it. Does this Spark an idea?
Wood Blinds
Wood blinds work perfectly with Mission Style windows. Feel free to go with a different color wood than the trim. Honey oak, deep cherry or natural maple can be mixed with mahogany. Choose larger slats to maintain the arts-and-crafts look. If possible, mount the hardware for the blinds inside the window.
Shutters
Shutters offer some of the same benefits for Mission Style windows as blinds. However, because shutters use hinges, they can be opened to fully expose the Mission Style window and create the illusion of a larger window. Installing shutters only on the lower half of the window creates depth and character.
Café Curtains
Café curtains only cover the bottom half of a window. This options is perfect for windows in the kitchen or in areas of the home where privacy and sunlight are not a problem. Mount the hardware outside of the window trim and choose wooden rods for added warmth. Avoid ruffles or frilly trim on the fabric, as this may clash with the clean lines associated with Mission Style.
Woven Texture Shades
Rattan, bamboo or grass cloth are a few of the woven-texture shades that look great with Mission Style windows. Using woven texture shades can create interest. These shades provide protection from sunlight without blocking the light all together. As with blinds, it is best to mount these inside the window.
Nothing
That's right, nothing. If your Mission Style windows have stained glass or elaborate mill work, forgoing treatments is a beautiful option. This works best with a wall of windows in the back of the home, with a view of a wooded area or scenic back yard. Too much unfiltered sunlight can damage upholstery and rugs.
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