If unlined, silks are particularly susceptible to sun rot. Avoid curtains with intricate or bold patterns, as they fade quickly and show sun fade more than solid prints. If you’re buying fabric to have your curtains custom-made, make sure to use decorator fabric specifically. The thread count is typically higher, so they last longer. Some brands of fabric are designed for sunny rooms, so choosing one of these brands is advised.
If you have allergies, consider sheer fabrics. They are excellent at preventing pollen from entering open windows. Sheers come in a range of materials, including cotton, silk and synthetics. Cotton is the most cost-effective choice. You can add another curtain in a heavier fabric during the colder months, then remove it and just leave the sheers when the temperature warms up.
If cold winters are an issue, heavy fabrics will help insulate the room and increase the energy efficiency of your heating system. [4] X Research source Another option would be using cotton duck curtain lining, which is very heavy and thick. Keep in mind that heavier fabrics have a traditional look, so you may want to avoid these if your room has a modern feel.
Blackout curtains can also help insulate the room and keep hot or cold air from seeping in from outside. These specialty curtains can usually be found at any home furnishing store. They come in a wide range of styles, colors, and patterns. Seek out curtains that are labelled with terms like “blackout,” “room-darkening,” and/or “light-blocking. ”
As an alternative, you can create a unique vibe by choosing curtain colors that don’t tie in with the current color scheme. You don’t want the curtains to clash with the décor, but as long as the colors are complementary, they don’t have to exactly match. As an alternative to matching the color, you can match the texture. For instance, choose cotton curtains to match a sofa with a cotton slipcover.
Formal home interiors are best dressed with heavy, printed curtains. These create a dramatic effect. Go with thinner, more delicate printed fabrics for a casual vibe. Adding fun, printed curtains is an easy way to upgrade the décor of a room and helps create a polished feel.
Make a statement with a bold pop of contrasting color or give a neutral room a focal point with a vibrant curtain hue. You can also create contrast by layering curtains. For instance, put a curtain with a bold color or pattern on top of or next to a neutral-colored curtain. Alternatively, you can soften a room by blending with existing colors.
If, for example, stripes are already a subtle theme in the room, you may want to consider striped curtains to match. [9] X Research source Pattern mixing can also be effective if you are going for an offbeat vintage vibe. White curtains are always a great idea if you’re looking for a nice clean look. [10] X Expert Source Karen ParzialeHome Stager & Interior Designer [v161369_b01] 21 April 2020.
For rooms with low ceilings, consider floor-to-ceiling drapes, which will create the illusion of more space. You can even get super long curtains that puddle on the floor for a dramatic, luxurious look.
Choose shorter lengths if you have children and/or pets to prevent curtains from getting damaged. If you battle excessive dust in a particular room, go with curtains that don’t reach the floor. Otherwise they will get dirty very quickly.
Unless you plan on changing out your curtains often, use lining to lengthen the shelf life of your drapes.
For example, if the décor in a room is already busy, think about pulling a single background color out of your statement wallpaper design. Then use that as a monochrome curtain theme. [13] X Expert Source Karen ParzialeHome Stager & Interior Designer [v161369_b01] 21 April 2020. Curtains should always tie into the design of the room. [14] X Research source
For instance, your bedroom and kitchen shouldn’t have the same curtains. Kitchens generally need more light than a bedroom and the fabric should be one you can wash frequently, like cotton. Bedroom curtains can be chosen for more aesthetic reasons, with less emphasis on light and durability. [16] X Research source If privacy is an issue, make sure the curtains span the entire width of the window and can’t be seen through when they’re pulled closed.
If you’re unsure, consider the rod pocket. It’s is one of the most basic headers, and it compliments a variety of styles. [19] X Research source There are many other header options available, so make sure to explore them all. Ultimately, go with something that ties into your room’s style. Don’t forget to consider if the curtains are purely decorative or if they’re meant to be functional. You could choose stationary panels on the ends of the windows if you don’t plan to move them, or you could put a rod across the width of the window so the curtains can be opened and closed.
The décor of your home, including the curtains, is an individual aesthetic choice that reflects your personal style. Most important of all, your window treatment choices should be visually appealing to you.
