From Builder-Grade to Favorite Corner: How Custom Curtains Transformed Our Breakfast Nook

By Chelsea Laccetti

Pictured: Rae Natural Bamboo Woven Shades - Series S in Raspy S11

When we first chose our house, the breakfast nook was actually one of the spots that sold me. Though it wasn’t exactly what I envisioned, I was inspired by it and could see the potential to update this space to be less builder grade and add more character. 

Here in Southwest Florida, charm and character can be hard to find (and pricy) in a home and builder grade rules the land. Thus, we are on a mission to turn our boring “builder beige” home that looks like all the others in our neighborhood to something unique and special that feels like home and feels like us. Starting with this breakfast nook that I knew from the beginning could be something special.

One thing I have learned with design over the years is that the smallest changes can make all of the difference and completely change the vibe. For this nook, the small change that made the biggest impact was the custom curtains from TWOPAGES.

We picked a bamboo textured roman shade that instantly added that touch of warmth and felt just right. We were somewhat cautious in replacing our plantation shutters knowing that they are very popular and a common sought after item on a buyers check list when considering resale. But honestly, they weren’t even very functional in this space and didn’t allow enough light in when necessary. The difference in just the functionality alone has been drastic and the space has felt brighter and more welcoming and not to mention has made the space feel larger. 

Once the shades were in, everything else fell into place. We painted the walls of the nook a contrasting color to add more depth and drama to the space which helps make it feel like a true “nook”. We then added a few vintage accessories and playful color with the dining chairs and the space truly feels like us. Now it’s where I sit with my coffee in the mornings and its our favorite spot for date night. It’s amazing how a few thoughtful changes set the stage for all of this.

That is what I love about going custom for window treatments. Though the house itself might have the same floor tile as all the other houses in the community (for now), our shades are custom to our space making it feel intentional and authentic to us. From a design perspective, it’s so necessary to give window treatments just as much thought as you do any other item selection. It’s important and has a large impact on the space itself. Authenticity is big in our household and little by little we are making changes to our home to let it speak for itself.

If you are thinking about giving your windows a refresh, I can’t recommend TWOPAGES enough. I have used their window treatments for several projects and they always come out great.

*All photographs credit: Chelsea Laccetti

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