Although curtains may not be as popular in new builds as they once were, they are still widely used in homes up and down the country. Any home decorator will tell you that a pair of curtains can either make or break a room and choosing a pair of curtains is not something which can be done overnight.
When it comes to buying curtains, there are many things which need to be considered: colour, fabric, and length are only three of many variables. With all these decisions to make, it is easy to become overwhelmed and frustrated with the process.
With this in mind, we have sourced some of the best advice available out there in regard to narrowing down your options and settling on the perfect pair of curtains for your home. Looking for some inspiration? There are plenty of different curtains online which you can look at!
#1: Fabric & Colour
The fabric is the most important thing to consider when it comes to curtains. The fabric will massively impact how your curtains function, block out light, look, and how long they last. If the fabric is too heavy, they may be hard to close properly, and if they are too light they might sit askew.
In addition to this, intense sunlight will fade fabric over time, so if you are installing curtains in a room which gets lots of natural light, you should avoid bright colours as these can fade much quicker. Linen, silk, and velvet are all solid material choices for curtains, as they hang the best and are more durable. Plus, these fabrics help keep the cold out and block light better than any others.
#2: Length & Lining
Before settling on a pair of curtains, figure out how far above the window you would like the curtains to start. Curtains which sit high above the window can make the room seem higher, with many designers often hanging curtains around six inches above the start of the window frame. Many designers opt for a higher look for a dramatic effect, whereas others start them lower for a more modern look.
The length and lining of curtains you select will depend on your style and the look you are going for. If you want a more contemporary look, add a few extra inches to your curtain’s length so that the curtain slightly pools onto the floor at the bottom. If, however, you would like a more modern look, the end of the curtains should sit flush with the floor.
Start measuring from the top of your window frame and then add or subtract inches where appropriate. In addition to this, add some extra inches on either side of your window for the width of the curtains. By installing curtains slightly to the side of the window panel, you will not block any natural light out when the curtains are open.
#3: Washing Machine Friendly vs Dry Clean
Deciding early-on whether you want to buy washing machine friendly or dry-clean only curtains will save you dramas in the long-term. Washing machine friendly curtains are not indicative of a lower quality; many high-quality curtains can be put in the washing machine or hand-washed at home.
If you don’t mind paying dry-cleaning bills, then this is not such a problem, but if dry cleaning would be a problem, you really should double check the washing instructions of any curtains you are considering buying.
#4: Custom Made Curtains or Off the Shelf
You may not think that custom-made curtains are a thing, but it is actually a huge market! If you are a person who has lots of bespoke furniture and homewares, why not have your curtains tailor-made for your home too?
Curtains are a massive part of any room and by investing in the services of a designer, you will end up with unique curtains, which nicely fit your room’s overall design and style, as opposed to a pair of curtains which stick out like a sore thumb and don’t fit in.
#5: Have a Consultation Done
Many companies will send a designer or consultant to your home to help you decide on a pair of curtains – either custom-made or off-the-shelf ones – which makes the whole process that bit easier.
Although having a consultation done costs extra money, it is well worth it if you don’t have a keen eye for detail or artistic flair. Plus, a second opinion when it comes to something so key to your home is never a bad idea! There are lots of online interior design services which can help, too – you do not have to have somebody come out to your home.
A pair of curtains can make or break a room. By exercising a little prudence and taking time to properly think about the type of curtains you want and what will fit your room, you will end up with a pair of curtains which seamlessly integrate into whichever room they are installed.
