When you’re redecorating your home, curtains can be one of your most important decisions. The primary purpose of curtains is to block out light and provide privacy as needed, but they do so much more. The best curtains can completely complete the look and feel of a room. Conversely, the wrong curtains can completely derail your aesthetic. Here’s what you need to know to choose wisely.
Choosing the Right Size
There are a few things to remember to select the correct size curtains. First, you’ll want to measure the width of your window. Don’t be afraid to maximize the width. Curtains that aren’t wide enough to cover the entire window are a definite way to throw off your interior design plans.
Once you have that number, you’ll want to decide how long you want your curtains to be. The rule of thumb is that they should at least touch the floor, but you can also choose to make them longer or shorter as needed. Similar to the width, more can often be better than less regarding curtain length. Long curtains draw the eye downwards and make the room feel more spacious.
Picking Colors
If you’ve invested a lot of time into perfecting the color scheme of your interior design, then you know what a delicate balance it can be. Choosing the right curtain colors can be the perfect finishing touch or an unfortunate last straw.
When choosing curtains, you must choose between matching or contrasting colors.
Contrasting colors are good because they add visual interest. However, you have to be careful not to choose colors that are too different from other features of the room. Too much contrast creates confusion and a cluttered feel.
Matching colors are a safer bet but can often make a room feel bland. One strategy is to find curtains that are the same color as your walls but in a different shade. This adds depth and dimension without being too jarring.
If you’re really struggling to find the right color, remember that neutral colors are always a safe bet. Black, white, gray, and beige can all work well with almost any color scheme.
Bright-colored curtains are often a good choice for small rooms because they can help give the illusion of a larger space. However, if you have a large room, you may want to use darker or neutral curtains. Dark colors can prevent the room from looking large and empty.
Whatever color or colors you choose, consider the overall look and feel of the room to ensure that your curtains complement your home’s decor.
Getting the Best Material
When choosing materials, it is essential to consider both form and function. The primary purpose of curtains is to provide privacy and block out light. Beware of choosing curtains that only look great and don’t work well. There’s not much sense in having a perfectly designed room that you can’t use.
Various fabrics are available that offer different levels of light filtration and privacy, so be sure to select one that will meet your needs. Sheer, cotton, and linen fabrics allow some light to pass through, while velvet and blackout lining blocks almost all light. Cotton or linen curtains are a good option if you need a moderate amount of privacy and light filtration.
Pair Your Curtains With Shades For Best Results
What should you do if you find a set of curtains that match your aesthetic but don’t block light well? Experiment with window shades.
Roller window shades are great because they’re both functional and stylish. They come in various colors and materials to match any room’s decor. Plus, they can be rolled up or down as needed so they’re completely out of the way when you don’t need them. They can also be paired with window replacements and smart technology so you can retract them remotely with your smartphone.
Shades don’t have to be simply practical; they can add a touch of style too.
Black or grey blinds with a matte finish perfectly complement a sleek, modern space. If you prefer a warmer, rustic look, try layering woven shades with matching drapes.
Layers and Accessories
Once you’ve chosen the perfect curtains, it’s time to start layering and accessorizing. This means combining different types of fabrics, textures, and colors to achieve the perfect look. Left on their own, curtains can make your room appear incomplete. Use trimmings and other accessories to get a full look that makes your house feel cozier.
You can also add accessories like tiebacks and hooks to give your curtains a more polished look. And don’t forget about the rods! Curtain rods come in a variety of materials, sizes, and shapes. Rods may seem like a small detail, but they can add a lot of character to your curtains.
Are You Ready to Choose the Right Curtains?
Curtains can be the finishing touch to your interior design, but only if you choose wisely. By considering the size, color, and material of your curtains, you can create a look that is both stylish and complementary to the rest of your home. Once you’ve chosen your curtains, don’t forget to accessorize! A few well-placed layers and accessories can really elevate the look of any room.