Modern living roomGoodshoot
The question
I live on the fifth floor of an apartment building and overlook a sea of treetops. I love the light and have no window treatments. Should I be worried about sun damage to my art and furniture?
The answer
When it comes to surface damage of all types, the sun can indeed be cruel. Protectionwise, you can shield art behind glass and/or put a 3M coating on windows to guard against UV rays. To avoid damaging art at all, you should place it away from direct sunlight on a north-facing wall. As for furniture, the same rules apply – situate as much as possible outside of direct sunlight and choose durable fabrics for upholstery. Silks will literally disintegrate before your eyes. Best bet: Have motorized sun shades installed above the windows to both maintain views and protect rooms from the sun with the touch of a button.
Follow architect and interior designer Dee Dee Taylor Eustace on Twitter: @ddtaylordd. Have a design problem? E-mail style@globeandmail.com.