Curtains in the interior: Tips and ideas

Curtains create a complete image of the interior, the main thing is to choose them correctly.

When choosing curtains you need to focus on shape, size and function of the window. For example, in the premises of the bedroom, home cinema or in the living room with TV the role of textiles is to absorb sunlight. Therefore the design of curtains should assume full darkening. For usual windows a couple of simple curtains on the ledge will fit, short blinds in “cafe” style or simply lifting blinds.

Large windows provide space for creativity: you can choose curtains with bright pattern in electric blue or translucent curtains in neutral color to let as much light as possible.

For a room with low ceilings and large windows curtains of fabric in a vertical strip are suitable – this will create the illusion of higher ceilings.

If the room is small, avoid curtains with large ornaments.

If the room is quite dark with the windows facing north, then lifting curtains, which are mounted in the recess of the window and permanently close its upper part, should be avoided. If the windows are small, avoid curtains of heavy fabrics – they will close the whole light.

Tulle is also often used to make a window less transparent. But now tulle is produced in such a variety of colors, designs and patterns that it may be used for decoration as a separate element. Tulle is often combined with decorative curtains (not moving along the window), but for lighter design it can also be used without them. It is worth choosing curtains of transparent fabrics, if you do not want to prevent the natural light.

What kind of ledges to choose for curtains?

Ledges can be a major element for the design of curtains. Almost always ledges are placed above the window. The ledge is quite simple, because the curtains just move on it, but decorative finials (ornaments on the edges of the ledge) as well as hooks, rings, loops, eyelets make the opportunities for the designer almost unlimited.

How to choose the fabric for curtains?

If you do not want to buy ready-made curtains, and decided to make them yourself or order sewing in a specialized studio, you will need the following tips:

• While choosing textiles, pay attention to its practicality in the application and further care. For example, natural fabrics have properties of shrinkage, so you should provide additional margin to the height of the product. Practically all tissues are prone to fading in the sun, so the lining is a mandatory part of the curtains. Synthetic fabrics are less capricious in care than natural ones, and it is easier to keep them in perfect condition.
• Curtains made of fabrics such as wool, flannel, thick tweed look good in country houses and cottages. All natural fabrics are ideal for curtains and lifting blinds. The most popular fabric for curtains is cotton. Blinds made of cotton are better to be hung in the kitchen or in the nursery – if necessary they can be washed in the machine. Velvet is ideal for rigorous curtains – they may look very nice, if finished with fringe and decorated with lace. If you prefer silk curtains, do not save on fabric – let it fall to the floor, since it is very impressive.