How to select the Right Window Curtains
We’ve all been there, wanting to change or finish up a room, but those empty windows keep us from the goal. We ask ourselves, “How do I pick the right curtains to complete the space?” Before throwing your arms up in defeat or, even worse, giving up altogether, let us share with you 5 helpful tips we use to pick the perfect drapes every time.
1. Consider Your Budget
Draped curtains is notorious for placing strain on a budget but that doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t use it to cover your windows. We find it’s best to contemplate what look you are aiming for in your space and consider the scale and placement of the windows before moving on to budget. If your window is large, or if it requires a continuous drape, or you have very tall ceilings, we would recommend investing in custom drapery. While the price tag will be higher, you will receive a finished look that is exclusive to your space and style. Custom window treatments are always our first choice.
However, ready-to-hang curtains are widely available in a pretty diverse collection of colors, textures and patterns and are more budget-friendly than custom. The limitation to this style of drapery is the restricted sizing, so you will have a break in-between panels if hung as a grouping and you may find that they are too long or short for your windows.
2. Be Open To Exploring Options
Selecting the best curtains for your style means recognising what you are personally drawn to when it comes to home décor. We recommend doing a bit of virtual room hunting (Pinterest is great for this) before diving into the window treatment world. With so many options available, it’s no surprise that the majority of consumers default to white curtains. While we understand that choice and love white curtains for a clean look, there are many options available for windows waiting to be utilised. We challenge you to step outside of the comfort zone and try a little colour or pattern on your window. You might be surprised how variety can personalise a room and change how it feels.
3. Think About Thickness
There are four types of thickness to consider when curtain shopping: sheer, opaque, lined, and blackout. We find it’s best to ask what the room needs. Sheer curtains are ideal for layering on top of existing blinds or shades as well as standing alone for an ethereal, soft look. The most common type of ready-to-hang curtains available on the market are opaque and are excellent for filtering light and providing enough privacy that only shadows are visible at night. Lined and blackout curtains are the best option for privacy, light blocking, and energy efficiency and are the preferred choice for entertainment rooms and bedrooms.
4. Look Out For Length
The final element we consider when purchasing drapery is length. There are so many ways to change the style of a room with length alone. While custom drapery will be available in almost any width and length desired, you’ll find ready-to-hang curtains are limited to four or five set lengths which restrict how you hang your curtains and are usually confined to just above the window.
If you are wanting something more modern or are looking to expand the visual size of a room, we recommend hanging the drapery higher above the window, either to the ceiling or at a given height in-between the window and ceiling. Another style to consider is pooling, which occurs when the remaining fabric of a panel gathers on the floor. This style of hang is best limited to rooms with restricted use or homes without children or pets and is complementary to bohemian, contemporary, and shabby chic design.
Lastly, Be brave and make bold choices. Curtains can inject a lot of personality into a space to truly convey your style. Sometimes you have to make decisions that can seem scary and a bit of a risk. Take the leap and have a back-up, just in case the bold choice doesn’t work out. You can shop a variety of ready-made or custom curtains from Kamala Furnishing.