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Ideas for curtain valances


8 curtain valances to dress windows |

(Image credit: Future)

There’s something charming about a window valance – the pretty ruffles and pleats have a lovely softness that can break up the hard visual lines of the window frame. And of course, they hide the curtain pole or track between drapes – that being their functional purpose, after all. 

Full and opulent, these window treatment ideas have a grandeur about them which means they’re ideal for giving a sense of occasion to windows of period properties – they also act as a fabulous draught excluder in the winter. 

Window valance ideas

If you're considering curtain ideas now, it makes sense to take a look at window valance ideas, too. Below, we've listed our favorite window valance ideas – and valance lookalike designs – so that you can dress your windows in style.

1. Deep window valance ideas work well with florals

(Image credit: Carlos Garcia Interiors)

Interior designer Carlos Garcia spends his time between London and Norfolk. His beautiful country home is the epitome of elegant yet lived in style and is full of fabulous fabrics, antique finds and classic furniture. 

Carlos uses window valance ideas in a few of his rooms, including this delightful country bedroom where they add a cozy feel to this quintessentially English look.

2. Double stripes and a hint of gold on top

(Image credit: Penny Morrison/Mike Garlick)

‘For me, window valances exude luxury and they are an extra attention to detail and give a very finished feel,’ says renowned interior designer Penny Morrison .

‘Valances add a sense of height and can balance particularly tall windows and long living room drape ideas. Equally, they are a neat way to hide the tracks on which curtains are hung as well as any blinds set behind. 

The proportion of a valance is key, you do not want them so narrow that they look mean, neither too wide that they look heavy or block too much light. Shaped valances and fringe trims are the real icing on the cake!’

(Image credit: Molly Mahon )

Famous for her stunning block print fabrics, textile designer Molly Mahon also loves a valance.  

Uber pretty, Molly’s Greencombe fabric design looks great as drapes with a slightly raised valence in the middle. It completes the look and almost finishes the top of the window frame perfectly. Add in a brightly colored tie-back and you’ll wonder why you never had one before. 

4. Fewer frills and more pleats create a sophisticated look

(Image credit: VSP Interiors )

This elegant valence in this living room designed by VSP Interiors is a less ruffly version for those who want a more refined look. 

‘Some windows have dead spaces above them and others just need a grander window treatment – I generally like to keep mine simple, and without swags,’ explains creative director Henriette Von Stockhausen.

‘It’s important that the valance doesn’t cover too much of the window as a large percentage of light comes in through the top 25% of the window.’

5. Use a valance to bridge the gap when your window is wide

(Image credit: Kit Kemp/Firmdale Hotels)

If you have a wide window then a window valance is ideal for bridging that expanse between your drapes.  

Kit Kemp, founder and creative director of Firmdale Hotels and Kit Kemp Design Studio , shows how well this works in the Charlotte Street Hotel drawing room. It softens the window whilst adding color and pattern to the room and you can use the same fabric design with your cushions too so the whole room has a cohesive and cozy feel. 

6. Create a lighter look with a flat, fluted valance

(Image credit: Jon Day)

While the thought of a bold colored and patterned room may seem jarring and over the top, it can be achieved with thoughtful beauty. 

‘Take into consideration what will happen to the pattern when it is wrapped around an armchair – will it get chopped about or will a large scale pattern disappear around over the edge of an arm? Does this matter or does it even enhance the effect?’ advises textile designer Neisha Crosland .

Keeping to rounded shapes, from the scalloped pelmet to the curved arms of the chair, helps to create an overall softness, which makes the contrasting patterns seem to hug in on one another rather than creating harsh lines of divergence.  

7. Create a window valance look with a flop-over frill

(Image credit: Vanessa Arbuthnot)

For window valance ideas that echo rustic romance, consider a flop-over-frill at the top of your curtains. Popular in France, this detail looks best with ticking or a smart stripe in a contrasting color picked out from the main fabric and can be hung using curtain tape with positions for the hooks. 

Having your made-to-measure curtains finished with a leading edge (along the vertical side) in a heavier, darker fabric will not only protect them, it’s another way to introduce a contrasting shade.

8. Choose a deep window valance to exaggerate a window's height

(Image credit: Penny Morrison)

A window valance doesn't have to be hung over the window itself – here, it is hung above the window to create the impression of a much taller window.

'This is a classic decorator's trick that interior designers use successfully to make windows feel larger – a desirable feature, even in the smallest of cottages,' says H&G's Editor in Chief Lucy Searle.

What is the difference between a pelmet and a valance? 

Valances are often confused with pelmets, they both run between your drapes and hide poles and tracks, but a pelmet is usually a flat layer of fabric over a wood frame, so it’s a hard covering rather than soft and frilly like a valance. 

Are valances in style? 

Although they are something more often found in a period property, a window valance can be as ‘in style’ as the fabric it’s made from. Choose a ditsy trad floral and it won’t look contemporary, however, using a modern print and an ‘on trend’ color will give it a more updated look. 

Sophie has been an interior stylist and journalist for over 20 years and has worked for many of the main interior magazines during that time, both in-house and as a freelancer. On the side, as well as being the News Editor for indie magazine, 91, she trained to be a florist in 2019 and launched The Prettiest Posy where she curates beautiful flowers for modern weddings and events.  For H&G, she writes features about interior design – and is known for having an eye for a beautiful room.

Window Valance Ideas & Valance Window Treatment Ideas

April 19, 2021 by Chelle

I am always searching for ideas to rejuvenate my home whether it be a new pillow on my sofa, rearranging a vignette on my mantle, or if I’m feeling super adventurous, even repainting a room. A wonderful tip to refresh your space is to add a valance over any window in your home. Valances were first popularized during the Baroque period and although their shapes and fabric choices have grown in those 400 years, they have never gone out of style. There are various window valance ideas, but choosing the perfect idea may come easier if you follow this guide to top your windows with any of the following valance window treatment ideas.

Sources: FarmHouse Room

Why Choose a Valance?

Window valances are a decorative accessory, but finishing off your windows with a valance will make them appear taller, conceal drapery hardware, add depth and detail to the room, and hide architectural flaws such as differing window heights. Valances are a stylish choice for every room in your home and are an especially nice touch in kitchens and bathrooms as they add softness to their surroundings.

It’s amazing how much taller these windows look after adding a valance!

Valances also offer the chance to display your unique design personality. Choose a fun, bright fabric if you dare to be bold or match your valances to your drapes for a more traditional approach. You can create a coordinated designer look by taking inspiration from the ambiance and colors already within your space including walls, sofas, rugs and window treatments by choosing a complementary valance window treatment idea. Before you choose a valance, balance the window proportions to the size of your chosen valance. Remember the adage of Goldilocks: “not too small, not too big, just right!” But don’t worry, it’s not intimidating. Just know the height of your valance should be 1/6th the overall height of your whole window treatment, whether it be drapery, cellular shades, or a bare window.

Valance Styles

Below you will see the variety of styles you can choose when selecting your personal balance, but don’t let the words confuse you. At BG we make it simple as we offer you a more curated assortment.

Old School

These draped and fluffy ruffles veer to the romantic, more flamboyant design valance style. Classic style and draped valances make a lovely addition. A valance with more draped details will give you a more traditional look.

Modern Flair

A more tailored and traditional look can be designed with color coordinated drapery and valance or you can mix up your window treatments and fabric choices. They do not have to be matchy-matchy, just color coordinated.

On My Own

Valances are bold enough to stand on their own as a simple touch can have a big effect. Any design style can benefit by adding a dainty sheer or a splash of color over a window. It can make quite an impression but remember you do not need to have window blinds or drapery to highlight your design style. A valance is perfectly pretty on its own, letting all the natural light shine through. If you are a DIYer, making a simple but unique window topping can easily be styled with some bright scarves, colorful bandanas, a stenciled piece of burlap, an interesting piece of driftwood or any patchwork of materials that evoke the mood of your room. Check out Pinterest to pique your imagination.

Be Colorful

Whether you are going for a pop of color or want to coordinate with a bold wall, valances make it easy to introduce different hues and tones into a room. Adding a colorful valance will turn your windows into a focal point.

Accessorize

Valances are the topping to beautiful windows, but you can make these accessories even more interesting. Look for decorative piping, beads, sashes, or fringe details. Adding these special touches will give your windows another layer of interest. This is an especially good technique if your valance and drapes are the same fabric.

Valances are a beautiful and practical window accessory that will enhance the ambiance of any room. Give your windows a little extra attention and enliven your view with your favorite valance design that will return the favor with endless compliments.

If you think a window valance or a cornice will give your windows a much needed refresh, explore our selections at Blindsgalore.

Tags: accessory, addition, colorful, conceal, cover, decorative accessories, drape, flair, hardware, practical, romantic, style, swath, top, top of window, traditional, treatment, valance, window treatments

Chelle

109 photos of the best options for creating a unique design

When people talk about interior design, most often they mean wallpaper, paint, tiles, skirting boards - repairs, in a word. When people talk about interiors, they mean furniture. But when it comes to decor, it usually means curtains, curtains, paintings, stained-glass windows, carpets, and so on. At the same time, the term "design" can be used to refer to the design of the room as a whole, to characterize the interior and decor. And you can buy curtains in specialized stores, where you will be advised on quality and suitable colors will be selected. nine0003

Curtains must comply with the general style, design concept. In this case, the design will be harmonious, aesthetic, you will not want to change anything. In 2017, design in eco and ethnic style is popular. For fashion, as you know, it is desirable to keep up.

Contents

  1. Curtain concept
  2. Trap of illusion
  3. Basic rules
  4. Curtain functions
  5. Best kitchen curtains
  6. Living room decor
  7. 0013
  8. Photo of curtain ideas

Curtain concept

Curtains help to give the space the right proportions. This element must be paid attention to. The main character of the famous fairy tale “Alice in Wonderland” knew absolutely nothing about curtains, she was not fond of design, and yet she checked it in practice - reality really has proportions.


Photo ideas for curtains in the interior invite you to a world where everything is possible. The small dimensions of the apartment, the low ceiling, the spaciousness beyond measure, the unfortunate shape of the rooms - nothing will prevent dreams from coming true. nine0004

The need for aesthetic pleasure must be satisfied at the first request, with one look at the surrounding space.

A lot depends on curtains. This is the source of creativity. With their help, magical illusions are created. Modern ideas for curtains involve risk, rejection of stereotypes. Permissible and acceptable:


Several decades ago this was not possible. Chaos complements harmony. Lambrequins, ruffles, flounces, drawstrings are also used.

Illusion trap

Looking through the photos of different options, they usually choose not the curtains that they liked, but the decor that makes a good impression. Sometimes you can't repeat an idea. Beauty is blinding, it's easy to fall for its tricks. In practice, everything may not be as good as in the photo. nine0004

This decorative element is a tool for dividing the area. This must not be forgotten. Curtains can replace a wall. This is a popular take.

Previously, they tried to emphasize the window opening, its isolation. Times have changed, and this design option is becoming less common, giving the impression of a more extravagant solution. In modern rooms, there is usually one window - not two, three, as before.

Curtains can create a separate space - a window sill. The question is whether this is included in the plans or not. Simple rules and design secrets allow you to avoid mistakes. nine0004

Basic Rules

Curtains for windows must be chosen, focusing not only on emotions and sensations. Taken into account:

Paying attention to these moments, changing beautiful ideas if necessary, bringing them in line with reality, you can achieve good results. nine0004

Functions of curtains

Curtains should give aesthetic pleasure, decorate the room, hide flaws, emphasize dignity. But not only for this they are bought. They protect from sunlight, dust, smells coming from the street, from the views of strangers.

For a long time the Slavs closed the windows with shutters. This took a lot of time. Today, the rhythm of life makes every minute to cherish.

It is irrational to restrict access to flowers and other items placed on the windowsill. Curtains should move easily. Caring for them should also not turn into a tedious, lengthy process. nine0004

The best curtains for the kitchen

In the kitchen, lush curtains are usually useless. Nearby may be a sink or stove, gas water heater. Moisture, steam, heat - all this is the kitchen. Appetite is caused by bright colors, pastel colors are conducive to conversation. If the kitchen is very spacious, splendor is just the way. The size of the room is critical. Safety and practicality come first.


2017 curtain ideas will definitely come in handy here. Curtains made of straw and bamboo, a stand for knives made of wood, natural stones for sharpening them - this is a fashionable, modern ensemble, Japanese motifs. Ethno-style offers to look at the world from a different angle, to be surprised, it becomes wiser. nine0004

Living room decor

It is customary to welcome guests in the living room. More precisely, at the front door, but before it was not so. The doors were opened by servants. The hosts waited in the living room or in the hall. What to tell them about yourself, your character, everyone decides for himself. One person will be happy to tell you what style he likes, convey his emotions in design, while the other will choose a neutral atmosphere, classic decor.

The use of four or more canvases of the same material but different colors, unusual fastenings, bright lining sewn to the wrong side are trifles that can soften conservatism. nine0004

More daring solutions include decorating the canvas with fabric accessories such as beads, ribbons, braid. Accessories have a special charm. This is a detail that catches the eye or does not attract attention, but without it the impression is completely different.

With their help, you can break the harmony of the original canvas, which is not so bad. Curtain design ideas are not limited to the options offered by the manufacturer.

Bedroom curtains

Sleep is an important part of human life. The bedroom should be comfortable. The design of the room can influence dreams. If every day is full of fuss, it is important to choose delicate fabrics, calm tones. The sense organs will rest.


However, you can also pay attention to bright, extravagant curtains, cornices, fixtures - when you wake up, the mood should be good. In some cases, it is better to compromise, hide some curtains with others, change the decor from time to time, or choose the best option for yourself and stop there. nine0004

The use of shiny elements, fabrics is relevant in this room. The ideas of curtains for the bedroom of bachelors, dreamers, lovers, spouses are a sea of ​​​​surrealism, minimalism, and classics. A resident of a metropolis may lack the starry sky or nobility, sophistication, chic. Cupid, Eros or Cupid loves white, no doubt.

Room dimensions are important. If the bed is located next to the window, it is important to decorate it with medium-length curtains. Otherwise, they will interfere. They should be dense, protect sleep from streams of light. Twilight is sometimes needed during the day. nine0004

Photos of curtains

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Curtain design - 150 photos of curtains, choose the best options for the interior

A window is not only a source of light in a room, but also part of your interior. It is important that the window is "dressed" in a pleasant fabric, which will become one of the most important parts of your room. Undoubtedly, when choosing curtains, it is necessary to take into account the interior as a whole. Adhere to the color scheme of the premises and the general style of the interior. Do not forget that the window should not be bulky, and the curtains should not interfere with the functioning of the window. The curtain design photo shows some of the best solutions of this year.

Symbol of the hearth

The kitchen is the very room in which one has to spend a sufficient amount of time every day, therefore the kitchen is a kind of “symbol of the hearth”. Properly selected curtains are extremely important for this room. Lush curtains in small kitchens will look too cumbersome, they obviously have a place somewhere in the living room, but at the same time, awkwardly weighing blinds will give off cold and boredom. In this situation, it is most acceptable to use curtains of light colors from plain materials. It is important that there is always light in the kitchen. nine0004

It is also worth considering the functional load on the curtains. They should be well washed, let in light, not fade under the influence of sunlight, and most importantly, be resistant to different temperatures, because sometimes the kitchen turns into a real “steam room”. Many designers suggest using the following options:

I. Curtains.

II. Roller blinds.

III. Roman curtains.

IV. Blinds.

V. Tulle.

Blinds

Very often housewives give their preference to blinds, regardless of their attractiveness. In order to get rid of the feeling of being in the office, you need to choose blinds from various materials and decorated in different colors. Blinds with photo printing look very interesting. The design of curtains, photos of the novelties of which are presented on the site, are perfect for decorating any room.

Roman blinds

The design of thin slats and fabric is especially popular, and although it is not known for certain who invented it, it is customary to call such blinds Roman blinds. nine0004

The pleated fabric is very functional and suitable for any kitchen. Despite the simplicity of form, a variety of materials and textures will allow you to choose curtains for any size and shape:

I. Natural cotton.

II. jute material.

III. Linen.

IV. Bamboo.

Roller blinds

Designers do not bypass this type of curtains. Despite their simplicity, they do an excellent job with their functions. And the ease of care makes them worthy candidates for your kitchen. As a rule, such curtains are made in a plain style or decorated with patterns and photo prints. If you are looking for curtains for the kitchen with a balcony, then they will be a great solution. A variety of models will give a special accent to your premises. nine0004

Curtains

No matter what style prevails, curtains will find their place in any home. Curtain panels will be an excellent solution, they will not only expand the space due to their lightness, but also give an intricate visual effect.

Photo design of curtains for the living room and hall

The choice of window "clothing" for the living room is very large. The simplest task becomes a huge problem. A variety of models of curtains and tulle can give the room comfort and hospitality. nine0004

It is worth highlighting the main types that are often used in the interior:

I. Classic.

II. English.

III. Austrian.

IV. French.

V. Roman.

VI. Roll.

VII. Japanese.

Roman

They are often used in any space with limited space.

This is really a saving option for an already cramped room. Due to the snug fit to the window, they will not take up much-needed space and fit perfectly into the modern and minimalist style. nine0004

Japanese Curtains

Leading the way in minimalism is the 2022 Japanese curtain design. Thanks to the system fixed on the eaves, the canvases move freely, like doors in a closet.

Due to the absence of folds, they can become an art object. A large pattern or drawing will draw the attention of your guests for a long time.

Classic

The ultimate curtain design that will never go out of style. These are long, wide canvases, with many decorative folds and descending to the floor. nine0004

English curtains

Curtains of this type can also be used as an alternative to ordinary tulle. Their distinctive feature is rounded folds of a translucent type in the lower part of the composition.

Austrian curtains

They look good as an independent element of decor. They may somehow resemble the English version of the curtains, in general, because of their lower part with rounded folds. When assembled, they look much more impressive. They are perfect for art deco style and of course everyone's favorite classic style. nine0004

French-style curtains

In fact, it is very easy to confuse them with Austrian curtains, but there are a lot of differences. The French, who are addicted to luxury, are used to sewing curtains from expensive fabrics. They look great both folded and unfolded. This is a truly sophisticated style that will fill the living room with noble classics and give it aristocracy.

Bedroom

Bedroom curtains should be light and devoid of brightness. Bright colors are not conducive to peace. They are distracting and do not promote good sleep. It is more appropriate to use catchy sleeping colors. However, translucent curtains will also not work. They should protect from sunlight and other troubles that interfere with restful sleep. Blackout curtains in classic strength are perfect. nine0004

The choice of curtains is also determined by style, but you should not focus only on what is fashionable, because the most important thing here is functionality.

Fashion curtains

In 2022, the neutral range is still not losing ground, despite the fact that it is far from being a novelty or some kind of breakthrough in design. This is perhaps the classic that will never go out of fashion, like the classic combination of black and white.

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