Curtain Design Ideas

Find the incredible collection of curtain design ideas here.

As any decorator will tell you, curtains make a room but only when chosen correctly. When it comes to window treatments, it's a matter of color and fabric, length and lining, and custom made versus off the shelf. With so many decisions, it's easy to feel overwhelmed, so we asked a few pros for advice on narrowing down the options and selecting the right curtains for your home. Window curtains have the power to completely transform the look and feel of rooms, so it’s worth thinking carefully about the window dressings you choose for your home. If you’re not sure how to go about selecting these accessories, keep reading. Here’s your ultimate guide to picking the perfect pair.

Color And Fabric - Fabric is an essential part of choosing curtains, since the material will dictate how well your curtains function and hold up over time. Work with a big sample, at least 2 yards, since a smaller piece may not show the fabric's true drape. Also, remember sunlight will fade fabrics over time. If the room in question gets a lot of light, it's smart to avoid bright colors, since they tend to fade faster.

When it comes to material, linen, silk, faux silk and velvet are the best choices to use for window treatments since they tend to hang the best. Faux silk tends to be the most durable and in a particularly sunny room, faux silk doesn't deteriorate as quickly as real silk. Some fabrics can help keep out the cold. Many home use suede, velvet, tapestry or tweed since their weight helps block light and keep heat in. Still, nearly any fabric can be interlined with bump, a thick, insulating felt material. And interlining a piece of fabric slipped between the lining and the face fabric can also help prolong the life of the curtains.

Get Creative With Colour - Depending on the color you opt for, your window dressings might blend seamlessly into the background or stand out and make a bold style statement. Don’t be afraid to play around with color when you’re choosing these products. With a little imagination, you can create stunning results. For example, in an otherwise neutral space, extravagantly patterned, bold colored fabrics or lime green curtains can add instant personality. Regardless of the hues you select, be sure to echo the effect around the room. By purchasing cushions or throws in complementary designs, you can give your rooms a cohesive, professionally finished look.

There are four types of thickness to consider when curtain shopping sheer, 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.

Make Sure They Measure Up - It’s crucial that your window dressings are a suitable size. Your curtain supplier should provide detailed sizing instructions to help you identify the best options. Bear in mind though, there are no set rules when it comes to deciding on dimensions. If you want to give the illusion of added height and create an opulent feel in your home, you might want to hang your window curtains well above your window. Designers often hang window curtains around six inches above frames, but for a dramatic look, you can go higher. For a crisp, modern finish, you might want to have your panels fall flush with your floors. Alternatively, if you want your rooms to exude a sense of indulgence, you could puddle your window dressings on the floor.