We are absolutely thrilled to finally unveil our incredible custom modern window treatments! This project has been a long time coming, and we couldn’t be more excited to share the complete transformation they’ve brought to our home. After months of anticipation, the difference these treatments make in terms of aesthetics, privacy, and comfort is truly remarkable, and we’re eager to walk you through every detail of this significant home upgrade.
Our Seamless Partnership with Abbott Paint and Carpet
Earlier this summer, we collaborated with Abbott Paint and Carpet for a major exterior transformation, giving our house a stunning new paint color. Building on that fantastic experience, we were eager to partner with them again for another crucial home improvement project: addressing our window treatment needs. Many homeowners, ourselves included, might initially be unaware of the vast array of services Abbott provides beyond their renowned paint and carpet selections. Their name, while iconic, doesn’t fully capture their extensive offerings in modern window treatments and diverse flooring options.
This comprehensive service was incredibly welcome news for us, especially since we had been diligently researching the ideal window solutions for our newly installed windows from late last year. For several months, our home lacked proper coverings, leaving us with a significant absence of privacy. We were more than ready to find a sophisticated, functional, and aesthetically pleasing solution that would restore our sense of seclusion and enhance our living spaces.
Defining Our Vision: What We Wanted in Modern Window Treatments
Given that our home was built in 1939, we quickly realized that a custom approach would be essential for our window treatments. Older homes often feature non-standard window sizes and unique architectural elements, making off-the-shelf solutions impractical or ill-fitting. We knew we needed a tailored approach that would not only provide functionality but also complement our distinct interior style, a blend of mid-century farmhouse and Aztec influences. Here’s a detailed list of our specific requirements and aspirations that we presented to the experts at Abbott:
- Aesthetic Harmony: We sought shades that would seamlessly integrate with our unique home décor, reflecting both the rustic charm of farmhouse design and the geometric patterns often associated with Aztec styles. The goal was cohesion, not just coverage.
- Versatile Light Control & Privacy: A crucial desire was for shades that offered both top-down and bottom-up operation. This innovative feature allows us to maintain privacy at street level while still letting natural light flood in from the top, creating a bright and airy atmosphere without compromising seclusion.
- Optimal Sleep Environment: For all bedrooms, blackout shades were a non-negotiable. We prioritized creating a dark, serene environment conducive to restful sleep, blocking out streetlights and early morning sun.
- Expert Guidance & Stress-Free Process: Navigating the world of window treatments can be overwhelming. We yearned for professional assistance to help us sift through the myriad of options and determine the best solution tailored to our specific needs, thereby taking the stress out of the entire selection and installation process.
- Streamlined Experience: We highly valued a one-stop shopping and ordering process. The idea of coordinating multiple vendors or managing complex logistics was daunting; we wanted a partner who could handle everything from consultation to installation.
Seamless Selection and Ordering: Our Experience with Abbott
Working with Abbott Paint and Carpet truly eliminated all the guesswork from our window treatment journey. Our initial step involved visiting their St. Paul showroom, an impressive space where we could explore a comprehensive array of window treatment options firsthand. This immersive experience allowed us to touch various fabrics, see different operating systems, and visualize how various styles would look in our home. Their knowledgeable staff were on hand to answer our questions and guide us through the extensive collections.
Once we narrowed down our preferences and decided on the prestigious Hunter Douglas brand and the specific collection we wished to pursue, an Abbott designer scheduled an on-site visit to our home. This was a critical phase where their expert meticulously measured each window, ensuring absolute precision for our custom order. During this consultation, the designer also provided invaluable recommendations, explaining which treatments would be best suited for the unique sizes and shapes of our 1939 home’s windows, addressing any architectural quirks with clever solutions.
Following the design and measurement phase, Abbott took complete charge of the entire ordering process. This included managing product procurement, tracking timelines, and meticulously scheduling the installation. This full-service approach was a tremendous relief for us. Mark and I didn’t have to concern ourselves with the complexities of DIY installation – a task that, let’s be honest, would likely have consumed days of our time and potentially led to frustrating setbacks. The professional installation team ensured every shade was perfectly fitted and flawlessly functional.
In total, from the moment we finalized our brand and style selections to the exciting day of installation, the entire process spanned approximately four weeks. This efficient timeline, coupled with Abbott’s expert handling of every detail, made for an exceptionally smooth and satisfying home improvement project.
Our Choice: The Hunter Douglas Duette Collection
For all the windows throughout our home, we proudly selected the Duette Collection of Honeycomb Shades by Hunter Douglas. Specifically, we opted for the “Journal” color in the luxurious “Elan” fabric. You might be wondering, “What do all those terms truly signify?” Let us break it down for you.
The Duette Collection is renowned for its innovative honeycomb cellular design, which is not just about aesthetics but also highly functional. This unique structure traps air within its cells, creating an insulating barrier that significantly contributes to energy efficiency. In practical terms, this means our home stays warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer, potentially leading to noticeable savings on our energy bills – a fantastic long-term benefit for any homeowner.
Our decision to go with the “Journal” color was driven by its soft, neutral tone, a beautiful off-white that perfectly complements our wall color and existing home décor. The “Elan” fabric adds a refined texture and provides a subtle light filtering effect, allowing for a gentle diffusion of natural light while maintaining privacy. Most importantly, these are the much-desired top-down/bottom-up window treatments we envisioned! This versatile operation allows us to lower the shade from the top or raise it from the bottom, offering unparalleled control over natural light and privacy. We can enjoy sunlight streaming in while still shielding ourselves from outside views, a perfect balance for our living spaces.
And, of course, a resounding “HUZZAH!” for the blackout shades in the bedrooms. This specific feature ensures complete darkness, creating an optimal environment for undisturbed sleep – a luxury we’ve been longing for.
Investing in custom window treatments for your entire home is indeed a significant financial commitment, but it’s an investment that delivers a multitude of long-term benefits that we are incredibly enthusiastic about:
- Enhanced Energy Efficiency: As mentioned, the cellular design helps insulate windows, reducing heat loss in winter and heat gain in summer, contributing to a more comfortable home and lower utility costs.
- Superior Sound Absorption: The fabric and cellular structure of these shades also provide an excellent barrier against outside noise, creating a quieter and more peaceful indoor environment.
- Uncompromised Privacy: With the top-down/bottom-up feature and the option for blackout fabrics, we now have complete control over our privacy, ensuring comfort and security within our home.
- Elevated Overall Aesthetics: Beyond their functional advantages, these custom shades are a beautiful addition to our home’s interior. Their clean lines, elegant fabric, and perfect fit enhance the visual appeal of every room, tying our design elements together seamlessly.
Abbott’s Biggest Sale of the Year: An Unmissable Opportunity!
For all our fellow Minnesota residents, the timing of Abbott Paint and Carpet’s biggest sale of the year couldn’t be more perfect! Abbott is proudly celebrating their 9th Annual Private Sale, and you are cordially invited to take advantage of this exclusive event. This sale is a guaranteed opportunity to secure Abbott’s absolute lowest prices of the year across a wide range of products. Here’s how you can participate and lock in these incredible savings:
- Attend an Exclusive In-Store Event: Mark your calendars for one of three dedicated in-store events, each hosted at a different Abbott location. These events provide a unique chance to engage directly with Abbott’s amazing staff and expert designers. During the event, you’ll have the opportunity to register, which is the key to locking in their special discounted pricing. You’ll receive a comprehensive folder detailing all the specifics of the sale, including information on how to seamlessly place your order. Simply showing up and registering is all you need to do to unlock these exclusive benefits!
- Extended Ordering Period: Once registered, you’ll have a generous 30-day window to place your order and take full advantage of the discounted prices. This flexibility allows you ample time to make informed decisions about your home improvement projects, whether you’re looking for new paint colors, state-of-the-art flooring, or indeed, custom window treatments just like ours!
Seriously, there is every reason to attend one of these special events and register. There is absolutely no purchase required to register, but doing so guarantees you access to the private sale pricing. So, if you’ve been contemplating refreshing your home with new flooring, a vibrant coat of paint, or the transformative power of custom window treatments, now is unequivocally the time to act! Imagine getting your home perfectly prepared and looking its best just in time for the upcoming holiday season.
An added bonus: these private sale events are scheduled outside of regular business hours, offering a relaxed and unhurried atmosphere. This means you’re free to browse Abbott’s extensive selection of paint, flooring, and decorating options without the usual hustle and bustle. Expert designers and staff will be readily available to chat about your future projects, offering personalized advice and inspiration. And yes, there will be complimentary snacks and drinks to enhance your shopping experience!
Don’t miss out! Secure these Private Sale dates and locations on your calendar right away:
- St. Paul: Sunday, September 22 from 3:00 PM – 4:30 PM
- Stillwater: Thursday, September 26 from 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM
- White Bear Lake: Sunday, September 29 from 3:00 PM – 4:30 PM
This post is proudly sponsored by Abbott Paint and Carpet. While I was compensated for this feature, all opinions expressed are entirely my own and reflect my genuine satisfaction with their products and services.