Transforming Historic Windows into Modern Comfort: The Art of Custom Shade Sizing in Middlesex County
Middlesex County, Massachusetts, stands as a living museum of American architectural evolution, where Colonial homes feature symmetrical designs, central doors, and gabled roofs, while Victorian homes are known for ornate detailing, vibrant colors, and intricate trim. Modern homes complete this diverse landscape with their clean lines and energy-efficient designs. Each architectural style presents unique window treatment challenges that require specialized expertise and custom solutions.
The Unique Window Challenges of Middlesex County Architecture
Colonial homes, which dominate much of Middlesex County’s historic landscape, present specific challenges for window treatments. Colonial Revival homes often include gabled roofs, multi-paned double-hung windows with exterior blinds, and the ubiquitous center-hall plan. These windows were designed for functionality in harsh New England winters, featuring small, diamond-paned windows and heavy, vertically planked doors helped keep heat indoors. Today’s homeowners need custom solutions that preserve historical integrity while providing modern comfort and energy efficiency.
Victorian homes in the area present an entirely different set of challenges. Unlike Colonial or Tudor homes, Victorian homes embraced asymmetry in everything from their floor plans to the windows. Along with that asymmetry comes several different types of windows. Bay windows, transom windows, dormers, and eyebrow windows are all very common in Victorian homes. This diversity means that if you’re trying to match them, it can be difficult to find one window treatment that can fit all those different shapes and sizes–unless you choose a completely customizable window treatment.
Modern homes in Middlesex County, particularly those built during the mid-20th century modernist movement, offer their own unique considerations. Between 1930 and 1970, modern architectural ideas spread from Harvard University’s Graduate School of Design and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology to new residents filling the growing western suburbs of Boston and Cambridge. Many new homes in Concord and the surrounding towns in Middlesex County reflected modern ideas. These homes often feature large picture windows and unconventional shapes that require innovative shade solutions.
The Custom Shade Solution
The key to successfully treating windows in historic and modern Middlesex County homes lies in understanding that if you are trying to “dress” historic windows, which are often enormous or in non-standard sizes, you might have already learned that ready-made curtains, shades, and blinds that you can buy at the store are often not an option. You might also have learned that the options you do have are quite expensive.
Custom shade sizing becomes essential when dealing with the architectural diversity found throughout Middlesex County. If you’re measuring for more than one window, measure each one individually – never assume that your windows are the same size, even if they may look alike. This is particularly true in historic homes where settling, renovations, and original construction variations can result in significant size differences between seemingly identical windows.
Mohawk Shade & Blind: Your Local Custom Solution Partner
Located at 2098 Massachusetts Avenue Cambridge, MA 02140, Mohawk Shade & Blind Inc. brings over three decades of expertise to Middlesex County’s unique window treatment challenges. Mohawk Shade & Blind Inc. is a locally owned and operated company with over 30+ years of industry experience. We offer a variety of commercial and residential window covering installs. We specialize in blinds, shades and indoor shutter installation. We pride ourselves on the quality of our work as well as our commitment to outstanding results. We look forward to building lasting relationships and guarantee your satisfaction!
The company’s commitment to excellence is evident in their approach to each project. Since 1986, we’ve been crafting window solutions that transform houses into homes. Let our experts help you choose the perfect fit for your space. It’s more than just décor—it’s about creating harmony and comfort for you and your family.
Tailored Solutions for Each Architectural Style
For Colonial homes, Mohawk Shade & Blind understands the importance of maintaining historical authenticity while providing modern functionality. Colonial homes are typically outfitted with double hung windows and need window treatments that can accommodate this construction. Many homeowners in this period added extra insulation to their windows with simple tab curtains in small florals or muted plaids. As pictured above, many windows were covered with interior shutters that provided more insulation against the cold than curtains.
Victorian homes require a different approach entirely. The company recognizes that these homes need treatments that can handle asymmetry and diverse window usage also results in the sunlight coming into the home at a variety of angles. Custom solutions ensure that each unique window shape and size receives appropriate treatment while maintaining the home’s ornate character.
Modern homes benefit from the company’s ability to create sleek, functional solutions that complement contemporary design principles while maximizing the large windows and open spaces that define this architectural style.
The Professional Advantage
Working with Custom Shades Middlesex County specialists like Mohawk Shade & Blind ensures that your window treatments are properly measured, manufactured, and installed. Their process includes Discovery: We’ll begin by understanding your style, needs, and vision for your space. Exploration: Together, we’ll delve into a world of fabrics, colors, textures, and operating systems to find the perfect match for your windows. Creation: Our skilled artisans will meticulously craft your window treatments, ensuring every detail is perfect.
The importance of professional measurement cannot be overstated. Truth be told, I never went back to measure my window frames carefully enough to find out if the mistake was mine or theirs, but I suspect it was my mistake, seeing as, let’s face it, they’ve been making shades for 25 years to excellent reviews, whereas I’ve measured windows for custom window treatments three times. Frankly, I’m two for three in ordering custom shades that are too narrow – more on that other project in another post. The point is, measure carefully.
Energy Efficiency and Modern Comfort
Custom shades offer more than just aesthetic appeal. They provide crucial energy efficiency benefits, particularly important in Middlesex County’s variable climate. These are usually interior mounted (so you need at least 2-3 inches of window sill), and come in both light-filtering and blackout. Because they sit tight to the window, they also provide great insulation for both sound and temperature.
This is especially valuable for older Colonial and Victorian homes that may lack modern insulation. Older Colonial homes, especially those not updated with modern insulation and energy-efficient windows, can be less energy-efficient. The large windows and thick walls, while aesthetically pleasing, may lead to higher heating and cooling costs.
Preserving Character While Embracing Function
The challenge in Middlesex County is balancing historical preservation with modern functionality. Owners often ask how to maintain or restore charm without losing practicality. Preserve window proportions and entry details. Add insulation that does not disturb historic walls. Custom shades provide an ideal solution by offering modern convenience without compromising architectural integrity.
Whether you’re dealing with the symmetrical elegance of Colonial architecture, the ornate complexity of Victorian design, or the clean functionality of modern homes, custom shade sizing ensures that your window treatments enhance rather than detract from your home’s unique character. In Middlesex County, where architectural history spans centuries, this expertise isn’t just valuable—it’s essential for creating comfortable, beautiful, and historically appropriate living spaces.