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Window dressing curtains


65+ Curtain Ideas to Inspire Your Next Home Makeover

1

Lemon Ombré

Read McKendree

While curtains are designed to keep light out, they can also accentuate it in the daytime too. Take this sunny bedroom in a Woodstock, New York, home with interiors by White Webb where the curtains—dip-dyed alpaca linen versions from Rosemary Hallgarten—frame the views outside.

2

Luxurious Gold Valence

Simon Watson

If you’re looking for period drama, opt for a gorgeous draped valance and complementary Roman shade, as with this Midas-touched bedroom in (yes) a historic Italian tower.

3

Height-Accentuating

Laure Joliet

This look, in a Tudor-style home sensitively reimagined by ELLE DECOR A-List designer Frances Merrill, could have easily gone over-the-top cottagecore. But funky silhouettes and neutral, floor-grazing curtains positioned high above the windows not only bring the look down to earth but flaunt those gorgeous timber ceilings.

4

Complementary Patterns

Simon Upton

If you’re stuck with tiny windows, use curtains to create the illusion of size. Here, in a 16th-century painterly Parisian pad, designer Eric Allart selected a longer curtain in a Simrane floral (the same textile that appears on the headboard and bedding) to move the eye around the maximalist space.

5

Floral and Traditional

Simon Watson

A full-blown valance look doesn’t need to be stuffy, as designer Veere Grenney proves in this cheery London townhouse. The antique furnishings and ruffles may lean traditional, but a 1960s Gaetano Sciolari pendant and an abstract artwork by Daniel Jacomet keep things contemporary and cool.

6

Mint Green Curtains

Serena Eller

Leave it to textiles expert Caterina Fabrizio, the second-generation co-owner of her family’s textile house, Dedar, to know how to hang curtains where it counts. Here in her primary bedroom, the mint green shades have a fun, black-and-white striped backing and help to bring the green of the garden inside. Another word of advice? Swap out your fabrics seasonally, just as you might change your wardrobe. “The furniture stays and the fabrics and carpets change,” Fabrizio says.

7

Striped Roman Shades

Pär Bengtsson

These striped Roman shades in a brand new Houston residence designed by Elizabeth Young add visual zip to an otherwise all-white room. Follow suit if you live in a rental or aren’t ready to commit to patterned wallpaper—and zhuzh up with fun furnishings and accessories, of course!

8

Sunny Floor-Grazing Curtains

Paul Costello

If your home is blessed with an abundance of natural light, embrace it! Design duo Brockschmidt & Coleman were entranced by the Southern sunshine that seeped into author Walter Isaacson’s New Orleans abode, so painted the dining room walls in Farrow & Ball’s Hound Lemon and selected sweeping curtains to match.

9

Gauzy and Casual Curtains

David Land

If you love enveloping rooms in a deep paint color, lighten things up with lighter-than-air drapes. Here, in a Brooklyn apartment designed by Danielle Fennoy, eggplant-colored walls are contrasted by gauzy, crinkled curtains. Elliott the cat approves!

10

Arts and Crafts–Inspired

Douglas Friedman

This snug family room in a Sonoma, California, estate designed by Ken Fulk is giving us just the right amount of cozy Arts and Crafts vibes with timber paneling, star-patterned terra-cotta floor tiles, and floral Pierre Frey window treatments.

11

Sage and Striped

Jennifer Hughes

We’ll sprinkle sage over everything—including curtains! Here, two striped sage panels in landscape architect Thomas Woltz’s Virginia Victorian part over a fabulous French Directoire daybed.

12

Tiny Checks

Douglas Friedman

In the media room of his New York City home, TV personality Thom Filicia dressed his windows in floor-length curtains patterned in the tiniest of gray-and-white checks, a move that—pro tip—not only gives the illusion of more generous windows, but also adds subtle texture to the largely neutral scheme.

13

Prettily Patterned Roman Shades

Pascal Chevallier

Leave it to a Dior executive to have shades that look like haute couture! In the breakfast room of her Paris flat, Mathilde Favier selected a floral fabric by the late, great French decorator Madeleine Castaing to inject feminine flair to a classic Roman shade.

14

Gauzy Neutrals

Read McKendree

The views from this Pebble Beach, California, house are too good to be tampered with. So design firm Workshop/APD ensured that the curtains wouldn’t interfere. Follow suit by selecting a long, semi-sheer neutral for a laid-back vibe.

15

Textured Roman Shades

Stephen Kent Johnson

For a rustic, layered look, opt for thick, textured fabrics, as designer Ryan Lawson did in this Connecticut Colonial. The natural fibers pair perfectly with the homeowners’ bohemian artworks and accessories.

16

Geometric and Floor-Grazing

Mike Van Tassell

Designer Gail Davis used subtly patterned, floor-length curtains to create the illusion of height in this New Jersey home office. The diminutive green print, meanwhile, works to draw the eye outside.

17

A Touch of the Tropics

Douglas Friedman

No one uses pattern quite like Martyn Lawrence Bullard. Here in this dreamy Maui home, he worked to bring the lush tropical colors inside in both the window treatments and in the bed curtains, which are in a JAB Anstoetz fabric.

18

Pistachio-Hued

Pierrick Verny

The unapologetically maximalist home of French lighting designer Marie-Lise Féry features plenty of unexpected color combos. We especially love how she used curtains in pistachio (a textile by Métaphores) and dusty pink (a Kvadrat fabric) hues to pick up the colors in the rest of the room.

19

Boho Border

Amy Neunsinger

If all-over pattern isn’t quite your thing, take a cue from design duo Nickey Kehoe and opt for sweeping curtains with an ornate border, as seen here in star chef Suzanne Goin’s Los Angeles home. Pattern recognition alert: The curtains nod to the checked edging on the lampshade.

20

Rust-Colored Velvet

Yves Drieghe

Antiques dealer and designer Jean-Philippe Demeyer called a medieval hunting lodge home. So it’s no surprise that the windows also featured details fit for an aristocrat, like these sumptuous rust-colored draperies. But if you choose to go heavy, make sure you lighten the mood with bright furnishings.

21

All-Over Pattern

Haris Kenjar

Can clashing patterns on your furniture and windows actually work? Yes, according to Heidi Caillier, who selected an abundance of bold prints in this Fox Island home outside Seattle. The trick is balancing scales and patterns, as with the large floral Scalamandré print on the sofa and the smaller, geometric Katie Lee fabric on the window treatments.

22

Peachy-Keen Sheers

Thomas Loof

Another fun idea: Choose curtains that are a tint or two lighter than your walls, as Summer Thornton did in this Chicago home. Note that the cashmere curtains’ lower trim picks up the exact color of the de Gournay damask wallcovering.

23

Stripes Galore

Douglas Friedman

This 1920s Palm Beach villa has a flamboyant history (it used to belong to a duped countess) and flamboyant interiors to match, ever since interior designer Mark D. Sikes overhauled it. Also matching? The furnishings, walls, and window treatments, all in a Fermoie stripe. Do it if you dare!

24

Flipped Prints

Isabel Parra

For a home in the Hamptons, up-and-coming designer Remy Renzullo looked to the decorating greats of the 20th century (think Billy Baldwin and Sister Parish) and his own childhood home. Here, in a bedroom, he played with a French ​​Provençal fabric, upholstering the bed and curtains in a dark blue pattern and covering the walls in its reverse.

25

Farmhouse Sweet

Mikkel Vang

Not all curtains need to be dramatic or floor-grazing. Here in the guest bedroom of a New York farmhouse, designer Virginia Tupker hung mid-length drapes. Their length creates a perfect sight line across the room, and their pattern—a Les Indiennes cotton—introduces just the right amount of country-chic sweet.

26

Lush Botanical Print

Ricardo Labougle

There are patterns aplenty in this Paris apartment designed by Lorenzo Castillo. To keep things classy, not clashy, the designer selected prints in the same teal, red, and cream colors, as with the GP & J Baker linen curtains. Follow suit to pull off a similarly elegant look.

27

Buttery Yellow

Jennifer Hughes

At first blush, Darryl Carter’s 1913 Washington, D. C., townhouse appears to be largely neutral. But the designer relied on subtle, citrus-hued textiles to bring in a ray of warmth, as he did with the floor-length butter-yellow curtains.

28

Opulent Florals

Mikkel Vang

Designer Nathan Turner liberally applied Nicholas Herbert’s floral Coromandel cotton to the walls and windows of this New York pied-à-terre to bring lightness to the room’s heavy, dark wood furnishings. After all, you can never have too much of a good thing.

29

Midas-Touched

Stephen Kent Johnson

You might think that floor-length curtains work best in a bedroom or a formal sitting room, but New York designer Tatyana Miron Ahlers shows that they can work in a kitchen too. Here, in her Manhattan apartment, she hung up golden draperies to complement cinnamon-colored banquettes and the multicolored flecks in the terrazzo flooring.

30

Regal Roman

Paul Costello

In her New Orleans home, the late author and hostess-with-the-mostest Julia Reed worked with designers Bill Brockschmidt and Courtney Coleman to create a space that nodded to tradition, but that was filled with her own flourishes. To give the living room that classic, timeless feel, she selected shades in a sunny Pierre Frey stripe.

31

Variegated Valence

Miguel Flores-Vianna

Ava Gardner once lived in this Madrid apartment, and designer Isabel López-Quesada ensured that the place kept the “earthiness” that once attracted the Hollywood starlet to the Spanish city—but with a hearty dose of glamour. Here in the bedroom, López-Quesada worked with a white base, but added panache with a matching curtain and valance in a Brunschwig & Fils fabric.

32

Organic Materials

Richard Foulser

Interior designers Nate Berkus and Jeremiah Brent used rolled seagrass rugs as shades for the windows of their Montauk retreat, which is filled with design details influenced by their trips to Portugal, Mexico, and Peru.

33

Pattern on Pattern

Michael Mundy

Yes, you can mix and match patterns when decorating a room. This living room in a Beverly Hills home designed by Michael S. Smith is a gorgeous example of deploying floral and nature-filled prints on both furniture and the walls, topped off by the patterned curtains in a Namay Samay fabric.

34

Sandy Hues

Ricardo Labougle

In a beach house on the coast of Uruguay, the earthy wall color was inspired by a bottle of sand from Petra, Jordan, and is complemented perfectly by the off-white curtains.

35

An Extension of the Walls

Julie Soefer

Interior designer Marie Flanigan chose to hang these curtains in a Houston family’s home as if they were coming out of the ceiling—all the better to frame the windows rather than block them.

36

Horizontal Stripes

Douglas Friedman

These ceiling-height curtains with horizontal stripes add a shot of flair in the otherwise all-white living room of an art collector’s Palm Beach home.

37

Earth Tones

Stephan Julliard

The pops of color of the sofa and pillows are the main focus of this living room in a London flat by designer Nebihe Cihan—everything else, including the curtains, acts as a neutral backdrop.

38

Blinds and Curtains

Eric Piasecki

In a Fifth Avenue triplex in Manhattan, the living room is wrapped by windows, so blinds were a necessity. Designer Katie Ridder also added curtains of a Pierre Frey fabric for a more unique and decorative touch.

39

Sheer White

Marili Forastieri

In the living room of a Long Island, New York, beach house designed by Rodney Lawrence, the eye is drawn directly to the ceiling, which was inspired by the mural in Grand Central Terminal. White curtains were the way to go here, so as not to take away from the mural.

40

Block of Red

Reid Rolls

Floor-to-ceiling curtains complement the red accents placed throughout the composition of this Cincinnati living room. They also pair perfectly with the adjacent Mondrian-inspired Porter Teleo wallcovering.

41

Creamy Neutral Canvas

William Waldron

ED A-Lister Nicole Fuller used a cream Dedar fabric for window treatments to create a monochromatic canvas so bright, accent pieces can pop in this Greenwich Village townhouse. The striped curtains also add subtle and sophisticated texture.

42

A Floor-Length Roman Shade

Lisa Romerein

A sheer striped window treatment is used to add privacy and create a tailored look in this Bel Air, California, office. While the shade is structured, the lightweight fabric feels relaxed as it filters the sun without completely blocking it.

43

Blue Trim

Simon Upton

Blue trim detail on the curtains adds structure to this abstract art–filled living room. The striped border also creates a decorative frame for the windows.

44

Deep Blue

Andrew Boyd

Just because you have a statement wall doesn’t mean you can’t have vibrant curtains as well. In this blue living room, the almost matching curtains complement the already bold space, adding a textural element for depth.

45

Fruit-Inspired

Alec Hemer

These bright curtains channel our favorite summer fruits, adding to the quirky and vibrant decor of the space. The curtains are made from a thicker fabric, which is ideal if you’re looking to darken the space or cool it down.

46

Almost Matching

William Abranowicz

In actress Minnie Driver’s Hollywood home, the living room has a generous dose of vintage fabrics and patterns. The curtains and the shades come in complementary colors and patterns, which add a dynamic twist without overwhelming the already pattern-filled room. While the shades are heavy and designed to block sunlight, the curtains remain sheer and airy.

47

Soft Palette

Sasha Bikoff Interior Design

When decorating a home, designer Sasha Bikoff looks to nature to create softer palettes. “If you revert back to nature and see how all those colors work together organically, you can easily apply them to a space as well,” she notes. This Impressionist-style living room is light and whimsical, just like a garden.

48

Stormy Shades

Giorgio Possenti

This moody Russian living room uses minimal color and maximum pattern to achieve a dark, modern vibe. The curtains are made with rich, silky fabrics, with a pattern that accents the small touches of ornate decor.

49

Luminous Golden Curtains

Pascal Chevallier

In the library of a Parisian home, the sofa is upholstered in a cotton damask, the armchair is covered in a silk velvet, and the slipper chair is based on a Mongiardino design; the desk is Louis XV, the chandelier is Louis XIV, and the 19th-century rug is Persian.

50

Blue-and-Cream Patterns

James Merrell

In a Long Island, New York, home, the family room’s custom furnishings include a sofa upholstered in a Lee Jofa fabric, a tufted sofa in a Chapas Textiles weave, a leather ottoman, and a pair of armchairs covered in a Kravet linen blend; the 1950s cerused-oak side table and 19th-century copper lantern are French, the curtains are of a Home Couture fabric, and the wallpaper is by Phillip Jeffries.

51

Accent Stripes

James Merrell

In an Ibiza, Spain, home, limestone floors covered in custom Spanish esparto rugs from Antonia Molina, walls in a sandy lime plaster, and a wood-beam ceiling set a rustic tone in the living room. Custom sofa by Atelier Tapissier Seigneur and curtains in a quilted Braquenié fabric; the Oeil cocktail table by Pierre Chapo is vintage, and the painting over the mantel is by Alex Katz.

52

Blue Standout

John M. Hall

The dining room walls in designer Garance Aufaure’s Paris home are sheathed in a linen toile and hung with a collection of Moustiers ceramics. The custom curtains are of a blue linen.

53

Matching with the Furniture

James Merrell

In the living room of a weekend home in Bridgehampton, New York, designed by Steven Gambrel, the custom sofa is upholstered in a Mark Alexander fabric, and the same Arabel Fabrics linen is used for both the curtains and the armchair.

54

Silky Look

Ricardo Labougle

Custom designs fill this vibrant London townhouse, including a sofa covered in a Donghia patterned velvet, another upholstered in a Le Manach silk velvet, and a round banquette, which is topped with a 1940s French bronze sculpture. The curtains are of a Jim Thompson silk, and the walls are painted in Farrow & Ball’s Cornforth White.

55

Curtain Room Divider

William Abranowicz

In an industrialist San Francisco loft, a curtain is used to divide the living area, offering privacy and a simple design transition between the rooms. The bookcase is a custom design, the sculpture on the floor is Odalisque I by Manuel Neri, and the floors are polished concrete.

56

Monochromatic

Simon Upton

In the master suite of an Upper East Side home, the curtains in this monochromatic blue room perfectly match the decor. The armchairs are a 1950s Gianfranco Frattini design, and the painting is by Friedrich Kunath.

57

Red Striped

Simon Upton

In a historic English estate with modern accents, jovial red curtains of a Bennison fabric brighten the living room. The walls are painted in Tablecloth by Paint & Paper Library, and the artwork above the mantel is by Fred Ingrams.

58

Airy Curtains

Richard Powers

The breathy, translucent beige curtains in this Palm Beach apartment echo the lucid nature of a nearby glass chair by Jacques Adnet and René Coulon. The 1970s Italian cocktail table is by Gae Aulenti, and the concrete wall plaques are by Radu Comsa.

59

Tan and English

Ricardo Labougle

In the living room of a London townhouse, neutral curtains add a bout of English elegance to the space, which is furnished with a vintage sofa by Ico Parisi and Otto Schultz chairs covered in a Clarence House fabric. The light fixture is by Vilhelm Lauritzen.

60

Quadrille

Eric Piasecki

In this Manhattan townhouse, curtains of a Quadrille fabric with just a touch of blue play off the bold turquoise walls, painted in C2 Paint Luxe in Bewilder. The sofa and club chair, both by Anthony Lawrence-Belfair, are covered in Holland & Sherry wools.

61

Linen with a Pattern

Miguel Flores-Vianna

In designer Penny Morrison’s Welsh country home, the living room curtains are of a linen print by Penny Morrison Fabrics. The fuchsia tones echo the pink hues throughout the space without distracting from the rich green walls.

62

Plaid

Simon Upton

63

Effortless White

Joshua McHugh

In a Long Island bachelor pad that was updated to accommodate family life, airy white curtains in the living room are juxtaposed with leather club chairs based on postwar Scandinavian designs.

64

Mustard Yellow

William Waldron

The mustard-yellow curtains in this New York City penthouse are of a Pindler linen; a quartet of mirrors hang over a Louis XVI mantel.

65

Neat Blue

Björn Wallander

A foyer opens to a blue-tinted living room, which features crisp blue curtains, in this Oakland, California, home. The walls are painted in White Dove and the ceiling in Stone Brown, both by Benjamin Moore.

66

Creamy White

Björn Wallner

White-and-gray curtains blend seamlessly into this Upper East Side apartment that gives old-school decorating an all-white makeover. The white chandelier is in the style of Diego Giacometti, and the rustic Chinese-style chairs surround a marble table from R. E. Steel Antiques.

Anna Fixsen Deputy Digital Editor Anna Fixsen, Deputy Digital Editor at ELLE DECOR, focuses on how to share the best of the design world through in-depth reportage and online storytelling.

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(Image credit: Henry Prideaux/Tom Sullam)

By Rhoda Parry

last updated

Window treatment ideas are myriad. Fulfilling a vital practical function of blocking out noise and light and providing privacy, they are also amongst the most influential decorative features a room can have.

Both functional and decorative, curtain ideas and window blind ideas are the barrier between inside and outside. They shield us from harsh light during the day and are drawn tight at night. What's more, window dressings create privacy from prying eyes.

Equally, like a stand-out painting, window treatment ideas can bring character and verve to an interiors scheme or be a quiet counterfoil to a flamboyant scheme. 

So why spend money on beautiful paint shades and great quality furniture if you’re going to skimp on the window dressing ideas? They are the finishing touch to your interior design – that final piece that completes the space. 

Window treatment ideas

There are rules to follow to help you get window dressing ideas just right. These address certain issues like ceiling height, dealing with color and pattern and the big question – do you let them drape? 

We’ve pulled together a range of decorating ideas for window treatments, with expert tips on how to deal with the most common issues so you can make your room feel fabulous.

1. Team a patterned blind with wallpaper

(Image credit: Gunter & Co)

‘When you already have a patterned wallpaper,’ explains Irene Gunter, founder of global interior designer studio Gunter & Co , ‘choosing a subtle fabric in a mix of soft colors that match tonally is a good way to embrace the maximalist trend in your home in a way that is a little less overwhelming.

'It’s a good idea to use blackout lining as this ensures the fabric doesn’t look overly yellow, which can happen when the light shines through.’ 

2. Hang a Roman blind to soften a bathroom

(Image credit: Future/Simon Bevan)

A pretty Roman blind is a sure winner when it comes to window treatment ideas. Window blind ideas will add softness and character to a contemporary bathroom space. Here, a simple motif on the blind is reminiscent of Indian woodblocks, and chimes well with other elements of moody Eastern influence. 

For blinds or curtains to work well in a bathroom, make sure your room is well-ventilated to prevent any mildew developing. Avoid full-length designs if you can – or at least ones that hang on the floor – and opt for a lightweight fabric that will not only maintain privacy while letting in sunlight, but will also dry quicker in case they do get damp. 

Shown here is a Roman blind in Tasha’s Trip in Charcoal, linen by Kit Kemp at Christopher Farr Cloth and edged in Newport Galon braid from Houlès. The bath is Drummonds.

3. Choose a decorative Roman blind to add color and pattern

(Image credit: Colefax & Fowler)

Be creative with bespoke Roman blinds for window treatment ideas. You can bring a decorative aspect to windows by choosing fabrics that reflect and echo your soft furnishings – on your window seat ideas and beyond. 

It’s also important to determine whether a style of the blind is appropriate for the window and that the scale of the design complements the other fabrics in the room.

‘I often use a sheer Roman blind within the reveal and a more decorative design on the outer,’ says Janie Money, associate director at Sibyl Colefax & John Fowler . ‘If you use a plain material, define with a contrasting trim.’ 

Shown is Carsina fabric in red/sage with Corin Braid trim in tomato/teal both Colefax & Fowler.

4. Pick a slubby linen for a relaxed, country appeal

(Image credit: Future/Brent Darby)

Whereas a bedroom benefits from black-out blinds, a kitchen is a place to welcome in the natural morning light, for more inspiration, see our kitchen window ideas.

Roman blinds, which fold up rather than roll, which aren’t too heavy work well in this breakfast area by interior designer Sophie Ashby at Studio Ashby , as they allow you to control how much light comes through.

5. Frame a window to create a focal point

(Image credit: Henry Prideaux/Tom Sullam)

A ‘lambrequin’ is a traditional design technique that provides a window treatment with a dramatic edge, and is a fabulous way to jazz up a window with a blind so it becomes almost architectural in style. Interior designer, Henry Prideaux explains, ‘I am always delighted when there is an opportunity to use a lambrequin layered over a Roman blind within a suitable scheme, framing the window like a theater set to give a space structure and gravitas.'

6. Pick solar shades for bright rooms

(Image credit: Stoneside)

A bright room that you spend lots of time in during the day is wonderful, of course, but if you have noticed that your furnishings are suffering from fading, you might like to consider solar shades, which allow light in – unlike black-out blinds – but are made from a material whose weave blocks some of the light.  

‘Solar shades now come in stylish and beautiful options, and are great investment pieces for larger spaces such as a living room,’ explains interior designer Mary Patton . ‘Preserving energy and protecting your furniture from the sun is a major plus.’

Remember that fabrics with tighter weaves will allow less light in – this means you can specify the weave to suit the amount of light control you need. And, if you can't reach the shades' mechanisms, motorized solar shades are available. 

Mary’s favorite place to shop solar shades? Stoneside , who will allow you to select from a wide range.

7. Pick a roller blind that's picture perfect

(Image credit: Surface View)

Find window treatment ideas that looks just as good as the real view behind it. This blind by Surface View features Dedham Vale by John Constable is from the V&A collection.

‘Artwork can bring drama, beauty and a little fun to windows with roller blinds that are unlike anything you will have seen before,’ says Michael Ayerst, managing director of Surface View.

This kind of window treatment ideas help to create an inspiring office space no matter what time of day.

8. Create the illusion of ceiling height

(Image credit: Henry Prideaux/Tom Sullam)

One of the biggest issues with dressing windows can be low ceilings, we’re not all blessed with stunning high-ceilinged rooms, so tricks need to be employed to create the illusion of height, as London-based interior designer, Henry Prideaux shares below:

‘A trick that good designers often use – if a window is low in proportion to the ceiling height, is to position fittings as high as possible so that curtain ideas are hung above the top of the window frame to draw the eye upwards making the room feel taller and the overall effect more dramatic. 

'In a similar way, Roman blinds don’t necessarily have to sit immediately on top of the window. They can be fitted slightly higher and then pulled down to conceal any expanse of bare wall above the window to make the elevation appear taller allowing the window treatment to be more appropriate within the rest of the room. ’

9. Create a luxe look by going door to door

(Image credit: Gunter & Co)

The requirements of window treatment ideas will vary room to room, but they are all designed to provide levels of privacy, shade, soundproofing and warmth. 

If you are looking for bedroom curtain ideas, think luxury. In this three-bedroom London maisonette design by Gunter & Co, the bedroom has double doors which lead out onto a patio. Wall-to-wall curtains were added in front, not only to help block out light and sound when the room is occupied, but by using heavy fabric floor-to-ceiling, the curtains will also help keep out any unwanted drafts. 

‘We worked with a palette of rich colors to make the most of the daylight on offer in the property, from lighter colors in light-filled spaces to warm and rich shades in darker spaces,’ says Irene Gunter, founder of Gunter & Co.

As well as these practical elements, the rich textures and deep folds of the Christopher Farr Cloth fabric in the curtains help to create a cozy atmosphere in the bedroom when drawn, a great bedroom window treatment idea.  

10. Correct uneven proportions with window dressings

(Image credit: Kelling Designs)

Potentially more of an issue in older properties but a tricky issue nonetheless, so we enlisted the advice of Emma Derterding, founder and creative director of Kelling Designs for her solution:

‘If you have windows at various heights within the same room, then I'd always utilize these to give the illusion space. For the higher window, take your curtains right to the ceiling as this will make the room feel taller and make the most of the ceiling height. 

'For lower windows, fit the curtain rail to above the window leaving the wall above exposed as this will help balance the space and give a sense of grandeur.’

11. Choose a warm shade for a cool room

(Image credit: Future/Davide Lovatti)

A pelmet, also known as a cornice board, is a box frame used to conceal the top of curtains, and is commonly found in classic-style interiors. 

Pelmets can be made by using foam core or plywood to create a structure which can either be painted a similar tone to your walls, or upholstered in fabric to match the curtains hung beneath.  

Though largely a decorative feature giving prominence to windows, they – and other window valance ideas – are also designed to help conceal and also offer additional insulation around your windows, which is why they are so popular in older buildings such as this Kensington townhouse. 

Here, interior designer Christiana Syrris, then at Studio Indigo , used a bold mustard hue both on the walls and the window dressing. This technique provides a modern twist while also adding depth and interesting within a singular color palette. 

12. Use curtains as a decorative backdrop

(Image credit: Romo/Black Edition)

Great for modern curtain ideas, you can use patterned curtains to create a design statement – almost like a backdrop to the rest of your scheme, this will work especially well if the fabric is quite sheer and light can seep through them. We asked Emily Mould, Design Director at Romo and Black Edition for her advice on using patterns.

‘Creating a maximalist statement has evolved to become much more considered, moving away from the pattern clash of the past. Choose a hero pattern and introduce color, print and texture around it, allowing the design to take centerstage whilst layers of print and color add depth and textural touches to make a harmonious interior.’

13. Work with the room proportions you have

(Image credit: Interior Fox)

‘Opt for floor to ceiling curtains, ensuring there are no gaps. This look adds height to a room, while keeping a clean and simple aesthetic. And attention to detail goes a long way, explain Jenna and Mariana from London-based Interior Fox . 

‘For example, we like to swap out the eyelets to match the curtain pole. This simple but effective technique makes all the difference and helps to create a more unified and custom look. 

'Gone are the days of shorter curtains, they feel dated and can make a window feel small and boxed in. Instead create a cohesive look by complementing the curtains with the wall color. ’

14. Tackle a corner window cleverly

(Image credit: Loom & Last)

If you’re lucky enough to have a beautiful corner window then dressing it correctly is key to maintaining the light and character of the space – this might be a particular issue if you are looking for cottage curtain ideas which often have to address tricky spaces. We asked Harry Cole, founder of Loom & Last how to deal with this tricky window treatment.

‘Corner windows offer a great source of light, but it can be a daunting decorating decision when dressing them. Simplify the design process by treating each window as a single unit and hang each pair of curtains on separate rods. To ensure unity within the space, position the rods at the same height to create an L shape, but remember to allow enough room between the brackets.’

15. Choose a bold layered look with curtains and wallpaper

(Image credit: Future / Jan Baldwin)

Looking for bold and beautiful window treatment ideas? These Osborne Red curtains from Blithfield, make a strong statement alongside the Iznik wallpaper in Madder Pink from Rapture & Wright at The Fabric Collective.  

The secret here is to keep the density of color the same. Taking center stage is the side table that breaks the intensity of pattern. 

16. Opt for a feature length curtain

(Image credit: Livingetc at Hillarys)

Floor-to-ceiling curtains can create a sense of height in a space, and a contemporary solution is to conceal the track in the ceiling cavity. These are the Vedra Amarilla curtains from the Livingetc collection for Hillarys .

17. Create another dimension with a layered feel

(Image credit: Natalia Miyar)

‘Floor length curtains create warmth and layers of texture in a sitting room or bedroom,’ says interior designer Natalia Miyar . 

‘If the room has strong statement furniture, I choose a soft, textured fabric or multi-toned curtains to subtly add another dimension to the space.’ 

The curtain fabric used here is from Dominique Kieffer by Italian company, Rubelli .

18. Merge indoors and out with botanical prints

(Image credit: Future/Polly Wreford)

A curtain filled with dense foliage will echo the greenery outside. This is English Oak fabric in Teal by Linwood . 

When thinking about window treatment ideas, draw the eye through the room with a piece of furniture. Here a pouffe is upholstered in a linking design – SN Schwarzwald Col 1 by Dedar .

(Image credit: Carlos Garcia Interiors)

Often used for living room drape ideas, in a period property, we can use the character of the original features and inspiration of the past to recreate window dressings how they used to be. In this instance, the valance complements the rest of the scheme and frames the beautiful window seat area perfectly – ideal if you are researching country curtain ideas. 

Carlos Garcia, interior decorator at Carlos Garcia Interiors shares what he did:

‘I chose a valance to give softness, warmth and a touch of understated opulence to the room. The loosely hand gathered heading adds informality too and suits the beautiful Robert Kime floral linen.’

20. Follow through on the rest of your scheme

(Image credit: Future/Rei Moon)

Your guest bedroom is a perfect opportunity to get creative and design a scheme reminiscent of boutique hotel interiors. These curtains run the course of the walls, and were custom made by JAB Anstoetz to match the velvet-upholstered sofa bed nestled in between. 

21. Get the colors right

(Image credit: Kit Kemp)

The easiest way to get the color right is to match to your existing scheme. By that, we mean the key colors, so in this room, we have the paprika walls and natural chair. Both these shades can be seen in the curtain fabric and they create a cohesive feel. 

If you love your fabric then why not have an armchair covered in the same design? Matching like this is a big trend this year and it ties in with the maximalist look that’s doing the interior rounds too. 

22. Create a cohesive feel with matched patterns

(Image credit: Warner House)

'Almost any fabric can become a blind and, as with curtains, we recommend the use of beautiful linings,’ says Emma Clarke, director of Warner House . ‘Blackout should be a consideration depending on the room and interlining material for an elegant finish. ’ 

Shown on the windows here is Warner House’s Balmoral Olive.

Adding tape or bullion trims to the bottom edge creates interest bringing individuality to your scheme. Try layering both curtains and blinds for warmth and depth.

23. Choose the right fabric and drape

(Image credit: Davide Lovatti)

Molly Freshwater, Creative Director at Secret Linen Store explains what she looks for when it comes to choosing the right fabric and drape:

‘I always think of window dressing as the final finishing touch to your room. The color is important, but for me the fabric and drape is at the top of my curtain list to get right. My first rule of curtains is that they should be long to the floor and in the case of 100% linen curtains, even longer.

'If it’s an airy, bright feel that you want in the room, it has to be 100% linen. These curtains let the light dapple through, and give you privacy at the same time. They can be drawn back to almost nothing during the day, and if you want to tie them they are so light, you need only use a lovely ribbon.

'If you need to keep the light out completely, a blind behind the linen will do this job and leave your room looking light and airy as and when you want it.’

24. Use shutters for privacy, shade – and color

(Image credit: Benjamin Moore)

Shutters aren't just for indoors – they are making their way outdoors, too, to create cool shade on a south-facing porch or for providing privacy on a porch that is overlooked. They are a wonderful tool for extending your indoor space outdoors – and for providing a colorful backdrop. Of course, a pale green is wonderful for linking that transitional zone to the foliage outdoors.

It's vital that the shutters you choose for this purpose are made from materials – and have fixings – that are tough enough to stand up to temperature fluctuations and downpours. 

25. Consider shutter color carefully

(Image credit: California Shutters)

Louvered shutters like these look effortlessly elegant – and are wonderful for bedrooms because they can filter out noise, dirt and even the cold.  

However, it's worth making a point or two about the light levels of a room and how they are affected by shutters. First – most shutters don't block out light as efficiently as other window dressings, although the darker the shutter color, the more effective they are at dulling early morning light. Secondly, the color of your shutters will alter the color of the light that filters into your room: white shutters will reflect white light in; yellow shutters will make a room feel sunnier, whereas grey shutters will make a bright room feel cool.  

26. Choose Venetian blinds for a streamlined look

(Image credit: Blinds2Go)

Venetian blinds are super smart, practical – and perfect if you are on a budget or furnishing a rental home. From outside, they give the impression of shutters – but at a much lower price. Like shutters, they do gather dust, so white or pale finishes are better for disguising this and creating bright rooms.

27. Co-ordinate curtains with upholstery

(Image credit: Kitty linen in Blue/Green, The English Garden Collection, Linwood)

Opting for decorative fabrics over curtains and upholstery is a brilliant way to inject colour, pattern and personality into a bedroom. Covering the headboard and bed frame in the same design as the curtains will not only make a beautiful statement, it will also help create a cohesive, unified look. However, if you've considering doing this, then the key is to introduce additional, subtler fabrics throughout the room to soften the strong print advise the experts.

‘Using the same pattern on two items in a room creates cohesion, however, don’t make it too matchy matchy,’ says Ella Richards, head of design at Linwood . ‘You need to add elements of surprise – the bedroom would be rather dull without the dark blue pelmet, the footstool with its tweed-style weave and the dash of yellow from the bedside table. It’s all about little surprises.’

28. Channel the ruffle trend with a ruched blind

(Image credit: Blind in Woodblock Forest linen Madeaux)

Making a feature of bathroom windows with a fabric blind is a brilliant way to inject pattern, colour and personality into what can feel cold, clinical spaces. Ruffles are all the rage at the moment so why not create a nod to the look with a ruched ‘London’ style fabric blind? 

‘Bathrooms often feel stark and cold, full of hard surfaces and bright white finishes, adding a large scale floral fabric ruched to create a ‘London’ blind with a contrast or striped trim delivers a touch of whimsy, creating a considered and joyful interior,’ says Richard Smith, founder & creative director, Madeaux

29. Balance light and privacy with a venetian blind

(Image credit: Blinds2Go Metropolitan Snow and Parchment wooden venetian blind)

Venetian blinds have adjustable horizontal slats, also known as louvres, which allow you to control light levels whilst maintaining privacy – this makes venetian blinds a perfect choice for bathrooms, plus, depending on the material they can be water-resistant and can be easily wiped clean which is important in moist areas.

‘As bathrooms are usually quite steamy rooms, roller blinds with polyester or polyester mix fabric are practical choices as they are resistant to damp and humid conditions and are easy to wipe clean. Alternatively, Wood Impression venetian blinds offer the look of real wood but with the water resistance suitable to a bathroom environment,’ says Jackie Hoyte of Blinds2Go

30. Choose full length curtains for a traditional look

(Image credit: Warner House)

For a traditional living room consider curtains in decorative prints inspired by historic designs such as this Palampore tree of life design from Warner House which draws from the exotic chintzes printed in the 17th-century on the Coromandel Coast for the European market. 

‘Almost any fabric can be used as a curtain provided it has beautiful drape. Best quality curtain lining and interlining materials give a luxurious finish, enhancing the beauty of the fabric and accentuating shape and fullness,’ says Lee Clarke, Director at Warner House.

‘We believe “more is more” and in almost every instance we would advise curtains should be full length: puddled for a traditional feel, or flush to the floor for a modern finish. '

'Be generous with your widths to avoid lacklustre, thin curtains – show off color and design with sumptuous fullness,' advises Lee Clarke. 'Hang curtains above the window frame for extra height and to showcase a fabulous sweeping design. We love the pinch pleat heading: triple pinch for a heritage look, or the double pinch for a sleeker finish.' 

What window treatments are popular today?

Our edit of the best window treatments ideas are in style for 2021: they include both decorative Roman and roller blinds that add layering and comfort to a room to more pared back blinds that provide solar shading; for curtains, luxurious layered looks are popular amongst interior designers; shutters are perennially popular and are even finding their way on to porches; for rental properties, Venetian blinds provide streamlined, smart looks – but on a more affordable budget than shutters. 

How do I measure up for window treatments?

Follow measuring instructions carefully for the specific blinds or curtains you wish to order and the situation you want to fit it into, such as a bay window or patio door or standard rectangular window. These are provided on most retailers’ websites. Use a metal measuring tape as fabric tapes can stretch or give inaccurate measurements. Also decide which side you want the controls on for convenience of use.

How do you decide whether to fit inside or outside the recess? Leah Brandwood, Head of Design, Blinds 2go , explains this will depend on whether your window has a recess or not and what obstructions there are to fitting the blind inside the recess, such as handles, window fittings and the direction the window opens. 

‘If the space is clear then it comes down to personal preference, but most people prefer to fit their blinds inside the recess and curtains are fitted outside the recess,’ she says.

The main options are eyelet – usually where large, metal rings are set within the fabric at the top of the curtain and easily loop onto a curtain pole – or pleated – a more classic look where gathered folds run along the top of a curtain which can be attached to a track or a pole with hooks. There are then further variations between these looks, which all give slightly different appearances.  

‘At Warner House we love the pinch pleat heading; triple pinch for a heritage look, double pinch for a sleeker finish,’ says Emma Clarke, director, Warner House. 'Be generous with your widths to avoid lacklustre, thin curtains. Hang curtains above the window frame for extra height and to showcase a fabulous sweeping design.'

Once you’ve decided, you can then start to have fun choosing a curtain pole, or take a look into pelmets to cover the top of the curtain entirely. 

How do I pick a pattern for my window treatments?

‘There are a range of practical and aesthetic considerations when choosing curtain fabric,’ says Emily Mould, Design Director Romo and Black Edition . ‘Consider whether you want to make a statement with a strong color, pattern or contrasting texture or whether you want a subtler look with a plain, textural neutral or muted pastel shade. 

See: Cottage curtain ideas – inspiration for a pretty, cozy home

'A bold, large-scale design can create a striking focal point and will work best when used for large windows where the full repeat can be fully appreciated. If you have smaller windows, opt for a small-scale pattern to create a more refined look. 

'Consider the quality of the material; an elegant lightweight sheer can gently diffuse the sunlight whilst dressing your windows with more substantial fabrics such as luxurious wools or sumptuous velvets can help prevent drafts and retain heat. 

'Color is also important; pale earthy blues and greens can provide a relaxing haven whilst rich shades of plum or scarlet create an intimate space and luxuriant tones of ochre or burnt orange can induce a feeling of warmth.'

(Image credit: Henry Prideaux/Tom Sullam)

(Image credit: Henry Prideaux/Tom Sullam)

With over 30 years of working in journalism on women's home and lifestyle media brands, Rhoda is an Editorial Director, Homes Content, at Future. Over time, Rhoda has worked on the entire homes and gardens portfolio including Homes & Gardens, Country Homes & Interiors, Livingetc, Ideal Home, Style at Home, Woman & Home, 25 Beautiful Homes, Amateur Gardening and Easy Gardens. She was also editor of Country Homes & Interiors for 14 years, leading it across print and creating the blog Country Days. She has also worked at Woman’s Weekly, Family Circle and Practical Parenting.

Roller blinds for plastic windows. Mounting types. Types of fabrics.

We all try to make our house or apartment cozy and beautiful, so that it would be nice to be in it, relax, and just live. One of the most important elements of apartment decor is the design of plastic windows. It carries not only an aesthetic function, but should also protect well from prying eyes, bright sun and room heating. In this case, it is not necessary to opt for classic curtains. We advise you to look at modern and effective sun protection systems, such as roller blinds , in particular roller blinds for plastic windows. They appeared in Russia quite a long time ago, in the early 2000s, but they have not lost their relevance to the present.

Types of roller blinds for plastic windows

Roller blinds for plastic windows or as they are also called " light filters for windows " got such a name due to the fact that the fabric twists into a compact roll when lifted. In turn, which is closed with a special casing. To prevent the fabric from sagging and dangling when opening and tilting the window sash, special guides run along the sides of the roller blind. They are made of aluminum or plastic. Also, the guides close the gaps - the gaps between the fabric and the frame, and when using the BlackOut fabric, they allow almost completely (up to 90%) will get rid of the light entering the room. Ideal for those who "live" at night and like to sleep longer in the morning in the dark.

"Mini" roller blinds and types of fabrics

Also, roller blinds for plastic windows are open type without a box - cassette. Here the fabric roll is open and not protected from dust. This is the most budget option for roller blinds. Due to the special magnets installed at the bottom of the frame, the fabric does not sway when the draft and opening of the sash. Read more: “Types of roller blinds” . Next, consider the classification of fabrics for roller blinds according to the degree of light transmission:

Translucent, transmitting sun and light

Such fabrics are used more for room decor. They have the lowest density, but at the same time they look interesting on the window due to transparent inserts or small, barely noticeable perforations (for example, “ Screen ” fabric). Such fabrics are the most technologically advanced and protect well from the bright sun. True, they have a drawback - in the evening, with the lights on, everything that happens in the room will be visible. The undeniable advantage of these fabrics is that through closed roller blinds you can observe what is happening on the street. As a rule, such roller blinds perform the function of tulle and quite often they are combined with traditional curtains. nine0005

Transmitting light, but at the same time cutting off direct sunlight

Such fabrics prevent ultraviolet radiation from entering the room, protect from heating, and prevent fading of furniture and interior items. It also protects well from prying eyes. In the evening, when it's dark outside and the lights are on, you can't see anything.

Reflective

These fabrics are treated with a special shiny, mother-of-pearl composition “Perl”, which reflects direct sunlight like a mirror. These fabrics (often referred to as DimOut) are more effective than standard translucent fabrics. Recommended for installation on the sunny side, for better reflection and protection. nine0005

Non-transmitting light

This type of fabric is called “ BlackOut ”, which means darkness in English. Such fabrics have the highest density and are designed to almost completely darken the room. In turn, a special kind of “BlackOut” fabric with a mirrored reverse side is able to protect even from the extreme southern sun. Also, up to 20% lower the temperature in the room. Please note that although the fabric is dimming, 100% dimming cannot be obtained. Light still passes from below and to the sides of the roller blind, despite the passing guides. nine0005

Roller blinds for plastic windows are installed on the frame without drilling using a special, industrial adhesive tape on a foam basis. Thus, they do not violate the integrity of the plastic window. When dismantling, if necessary, it is enough to wipe the frame with a solvent - there will be no traces left. All fabrics are treated with a special anti-static and dust-repellent impregnation and do not require any special care. In case of contamination, it is enough to wipe with a damp sponge and soapy water.
Our catalogs contain a huge selection of colors and textures of fabrics for roller blinds on plastic windows. It will not be difficult for you to choose exactly what is ideal for your interior, and our experienced specialists will help you in this difficult choice. nine0005

Blackout roller blinds uni 2

"Open" roller blinds on the bay window

Light filters for "cassette type" windows

Roller blinds for the loggia

for anthracite windows

Cassette curtains in the nursery, blackout star fabric

Light filters for cassette type windows

Light filters for cassette type windows

Mini light filters, panoramic windows

Light filters for "cassette type" windows on the veranda

"Mini" roller blinds for the balcony, chain control, magnets for adhesive tape

Roller blinds uni 2 anthracite

Light filters for "cassette type" windows

Blackout fabric, cassette roller blinds dark gray complete set

Roller blinds Screen in the living room, installation on the sashes

Cassette blinds with Lusto reflective fabric

Cassette roller blinds with silver fittings and blackout fabric

Curtains "mini" with a dark gray complete set, installation on anthracite windows

Light filters for "open" type windows in the bathroom

Light filters for "cassette type" windows

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How to choose roller shades or blinds according to the window size? – Amigo articles

If the question arose of how to choose roller blinds for plastic windows, you can independently take measurements to determine the optimal dimensions of the structure. It can be open or closed: in the first case, the canvas is simply wound onto a shaft and mounted on brackets, in the second case it is placed in a special box and moves with the help of guides. The answer to the question of how to choose roller blinds according to the size of the window will depend on the type of design chosen and its features. nine0005

Sizing rules

How to choose the right size blinds or curtains for plastic windows? The choice depends on the type of installation and the location of the curtains: they can be mounted on the wall above the opening, on the ceiling, on the window frame or directly on the window sash. Dimensions can be calculated independently, while you must adhere to the following rules:

When measuring the width of the glass, it is not necessary to grab the frame - the width of the transparent part is measured directly. Otherwise, the curtain will be too wide, and it will be difficult to install it in the window opening. If a handle is installed on the sash, then it is necessary to make a double-sided indent, then the roller blind will not interfere with opening and closing the sash. nine0005

According to similar rules, the sizes of roller blinds are selected - it is necessary to take into account the location and type of fastening to the window. When choosing blinds can be added to the width up to 20 cm to visually expand the boundaries of the window opening.

#slider_80_roller blinds_/rulonnye-shtory/rulonnye-tkani/_-#

Dimensioning according to mounting type

To answer the question of how to choose the right size roller blinds, you first need to decide how and where they will be installed, as well as their design. Roller blinds are divided into two types: nine0005

The selection of roller blinds for plastic windows in size also depends on the installation method. Open structures are mounted above the window on the wall or ceiling, on average, the standard length of such structures is 160-170 cm. The curtain must completely cover the window opening, so you need to add up to 20 cm, depending on the installation height of the support shaft. If the curtain is installed on a glass balcony door, its standard height is 215 cm, plus up to 20 cm is added to the installation. nine0005

Closed cassette structures are mounted in the opening, so measurements must be as accurate as possible. Such curtains can be mounted without drilling using double-sided adhesive tape: the block is attached directly to the frame, the canvas is lowered down on the rails.

How to measure correctly?

When determining the width of a roller blind, it is recommended to use a standard construction tape, equipped with a metal tape. It is better not to use simple school rulers or tailor's tape, as this significantly reduces the accuracy of measurements. Tailoring tape is able to stretch strongly, as a result, deviations can reach one centimeter - this will lead to problems when installing a roller blind. nine0005

You can choose to make custom-made roller blinds according to personally calculated sizes or purchase finished products. The second option is suitable for residents of typical apartments with standard sizes of window openings - in this case, it will be possible to immediately install a ready-made sun protection system.

When making to order, it is recommended to call a specialist at home to carry out the most accurate measurements. The company "Amigo" offers the manufacture of sun protection systems of various types, this will make it possible to decorate the window in an original way and protect the room from excess sunlight.

Learn more