Is your living space feeling a bit dated? Many interior designers recommend making a few small changes to achieve a completely different look as opposed to giving your space an expensive overhaul. An easy and budget-friendly way to change the appearance of your space is to modernise what’s at your windows.
One option is to add some of the stylish outdoor blinds Melbourne residents are turning to for an outdoor space makeover. If it’s your indoor space that needs to be spruced up, our few expert guidelines on curtains might be just what you’re looking for. Keep reading for a few easy-to-follow tips to find the right curtains for your space.
Pointers to Help You Choose Space Changing Curtains
The top reason why curtains can have such a dramatic change on your space has to do with the endless range of styles, colours and designs to choose from. Whether you opt for lighter sheer curtains or heavier statement curtains, there’s an option to match any décor style. As you set out to pick new curtains for your space, consider these expert tips.
1. Identify the Curtain’s Purpose
Before you purchase a new set of curtains, it’s essential to know its purpose in the room. Consider the following:
- Privacy & light: Will your curtains be mostly decorative or used to block out light? For the latter, you’ll need a heavier curtain. Curtains on windows that face the street should also provide you with adequate privacy.
- Stylish look: Do you want to create an elegant curtained look but blocking out light isn’t important? Then sheer curtains could be a more stylish alternative.
- Blinds: Would you prefer to completely move away from traditional curtains? Indoor Ziptrack blinds are worth looking into if this is the case.
Once you’ve identified what you want the curtain to do, you’ll be able to start your shortlist for the perfect option.
2. Match the Curtain to the Room
What the curtain’s purpose will be is as important as the room it will be in. For the most part, curtains should accentuate your existing décor rather than overwhelm or undermine it. Here you want to consider these simple suggestions.
French Windows
Rooms with large French windows always look best with layered curtains. Sheer curtains are excellent for layering over heavier curtains. Here you can go as far as mixing lace with fabric or even opt for different colours.
Kitchens
Curtains in the kitchen can create a homely feeling and accentuate a rustic, traditional design. However, they will need regular washing as it’s easy for the fabric to absorb odours. Many homeowners with a modern kitchen design often opt for blinds rather than curtains because they’re easier to clean.
Bedrooms
Bedrooms should always have curtain styles that are conducive to better sleeping habits. This means being dark enough to block out light.
Did you know that lighter-coloured curtains can make a space seem bigger and more open? This will go a long way to preventing your room from feeling cramped or cluttered.
For kids’ bedrooms, it’s ideal to choose curtains that match their age. Curtains are easy to change when kids are older and want a different style in the room. You can choose a bright, bold colour to match cartoon bedding early on and other funky décor later on.
3. Lining vs No Lining
Once you’ve decided on the curtain you want, the next question revolves around whether it should be lined or not. Does it really make a difference? Here’s why most interior designers recommend lined curtains:
- Lining in your curtains protect wood floors and furnishings from the sun’s harmful rays.
- The added volume of a lined curtain creates a richer, fuller look, making the room look more stylish. This is partly why most hotels have thick, lined curtains.
- Lined curtains are also more energy efficient as they help to keep a space warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer.
- Since lined curtains are heavier and thicker, they also serve to add privacy and reduce unwanted light in the room. This is ideal for people who sleep during the day or have the hassle of streetlights shining into their rooms.
4. Never Underestimate Colour
When deciding on the colour of your curtains, opt for a shade that will complement the colours of the carpets, walls, floors and other furnishings. If your room is a little boring and doesn’t already have a focal point, you can use your curtains to create the standout feature.
For instance, a room with neutral-coloured walls, floors and furnishings will benefit from brightly coloured curtains. You can accentuate the curtains with matching throw cushions. It’s a quick and easy way to add some of your own personality to a room.
Final Thought
The right type, style and colour curtain can make a boring or dated room spring to life. Choosing a fabric that’s both functional and easy to clean will make the curtain easy to manage without becoming drab. Consider our simple tips to help you choose the best window coverings for your space!
