Country curtain ideas – 30 window dressings for rural rooms (2023)

We've rounded up our favorite country curtain ideas to get your design pulses going.

Just the thought of a country home conjures up thoughts and feelings of a welcoming warmth, which is hard to achieve in reality without something to keep out the cold or soften harsh light.

Whether you love a heavy drape curtain or sheer voile, or the addition of a Roman blind or a shutter on your window, there's the ideal window treatment for your country home.

Country curtain ideas – the rustic view on window

Country homes tend to be characterful properties, with windows that need carefully thought out curtain ideas to celebrate the architecture of the property.

Whatever the quirks of your house, such as bay windows or deep alcoves, there is a perfect window treatment fit –and we've selected expert ideas here to help you decide on the best look for your home.

1. Coordinate country curtains with a headboard

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(Image credit: Iliv)

Interior designers use color trends and furnishings to pull a room scheme together, repeating motifs within the decor to create a sense of harmony. Here, that’s achieved by using the same fabric for the headboard and the curtains – Pavilion Adriatic by Iliv (opens in new tab).

Your bedroom curtain ideas should always complement, rather than clash, with the rest of the decor to promote that feeling of tranquillity you want in this room. But there are tricks to stop the overall look appearing too same-y. Here, fabrics in the same tones but in different patterns and scales are used across the bedding.

2. Use curtains to zone an open-concept living space

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(Image credit: Carpetright)

One of the beauties of a barn conversion is the lofty dimensions – huge, high ceilings and acres of floorspace. In a home like this, don't feel that your curtain ideas should be confined to windows and doorways.

Long curtain ideas can be used to divide the space, being closed for privacy around a bedroom at night, for example. Or separating the kitchen from more relaxing lounge areas.

Consider lining your curtains for sound insulation and warmth. Or put up a double-layered curtain with a different fabric on each side, allowing you to change the appearance of the room each one faces.

3. Match your curtains with your walls and floor

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(Image credit: Linwood)

Country style is about warmth and relaxation, and using wraparound color is a great way to bring that cocooning, comforting look.

‘The subtle sheen of velvet curtains makes them perfect for a glamorous room, but they are equally at home in a relaxed space such as the corner of a country breakfast room,’ assures John Smigielski, Marketing Director, Linwood (opens in new tab). ‘Here, Linwood Java Lotus – which is stain resistant, so can certainly take the knocks of everyday life – is teamed to perfection with terracotta tiles and salmon pink panelling to highlight the beauty of the pattern in the curtains.

‘For those rather afraid of bold designs, this a great way to introduce a colorful pattern without it overwhelming a room.’

4. Repeat columns of identical drapes

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(Image credit: Iliv)

This is a smart look for country curtain ideas – columns of identical drapery framing the windows of a room.

‘This is a look you’ll see in stately homes and prestigious country houses, but it translates really well to more typical family homes, too,’ says Andréa Childs, Editor of (opens in new tab).

‘If you have a row of windows, choose matching curtains to frame each view along a wall. Simplicity is key to making this look work, so choose a limited living room color scheme, and a large-scale pattern like this blue and white Delft pattern from Iliv.

5. Cover a door with drapes

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(Image credit: Dan Duchars/Future)

A large entranceway, spacious enough to count as a room in its own right, can be a feature on country homes. But having the exterior door opening into the space can let draughts in, and detract from the cozy ambience.

Adding a curtain over the doorway is the answer is a brilliant entryway idea. If there's room, put up an extra-long curtain rod that extends beyond the width of the door. That way, the curtain can be pulled back fully to lose easy access. Otherwise, opt for a curtain rod designed to fit on to the door itself, which will allow the curtain to move with the door as it is open and shut.

In the evening, the curtain can be pulled across the doorway to close off the room and keep it warm and snug.

6. Layer drapes for a luxe look

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(Image credit: 247 Curtains )

Using more than one window treatment idea allows you to filter light, add layers of color and pattern, or add texture and depth to a scheme.

‘If you are blessed with large windows, you can really have fun when it comes to patterns and colors,’ says Amy Wilson, interior designer for 247 Curtains (opens in new tab). ‘Layering works really well to help give your windows a luxurious feel. You could try a bold patterned Roman blind along with some made-to-measure curtains, or translucent drapes with heavier curtains in front.’

This approach works well when you're looking for ideas for large windows, as sheer curtains can soften extensive areas of glazing.

7. Play with geometric and natural patterns

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(Image credit: Laura Ashley)

Are you in the country checks and stripes camp? Or the florals and botanicals bunch? The beauty of combining wallpaper and curtains in a decorating scheme is that you can be both! In fact, by contrasting the formality of graphic patterns with the whimsical look of nature-inspired motifs, you bring a contemporary edge to rustic decor.

In this look from Laura Ashley (opens in new tab), the striped curtain fabric is mirrored in the area rug, creating instant synergy.

The type of curtain you choose plays an important part in the look, too. Here, curtains with an eyelet top bring an informality that suits a country room.

8. Mix it up with modern monochromes

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(Image credit: Graham & Brown)

A single fabric can add interest to your country curtain ideas, but three different tones will bring an extra dimension to your window treatments.

‘This room coordinates Majestic paint and Restore Midnight curtains, creating a simple monochromatic colour palette to add a contemporary edge to the more traditional room style,’ explains Amy Bant, Soft Furnishings and Interiors Expert at Graham & Brown (opens in new tab).

Pick two or more fabrics in shades from light to dark. They can be put on a single track, creating a trio of toning colors extending across the window. Alternatively, create a layered effect using separate tracks with a different fabric on each. That way, the curtains can be pulled across singly or together, to create a range of monochrome total effects.

9. Soften a home office with curtains

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(Image credit: John Lewis)

Getting the balance between functionality, formality and fun can be tricky in a home office, especially in a rustic home But this is where country curtain ideas can really help.

'These may be our workspaces, but they're also where we live, where our kids draw and do homework, and where we do the household bills as well as our day job,' says Andréa Childs, Editor of Country Homes & Interiors magazine. 'Softening the decor, with carpet, rugs and furniture in natural materials can make put the "home" in home office.

'For a country-inspired scheme, I'd look to floral and foliage-print fabrics that bring a touch of the rustic landscape inside.'

10. Dress patio doors

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(Image credit: Christina Wedge / J Elliott Style)

Jamie Elliott McPherson, an interior designer and founder of J.Elliott Style in North Carolina, created this stunning formal country dining room featuring elegant curtains framing French windows.

Despite the amount of fabric used in the room, the subtle design and wall-matching color mean the curtains blend into the background of the room. Instead, the windows themselves take centre stage.

11. Blend the curtains with the view beyond

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(Image credit: Pooky)

The position of curtains at the very edge of a room makes them the perfect bridge between indoors and out. Blur the boundaries even further by choosing a fabric that reflects the garden or scenery outdoors.

Here, a leafy green botanical print simulates the garden view and connects this dining room with the world beyond the window.

The same trick is used from indoors to out, with the grey flooring of the dining room replicated in the grey brickwork of the garden wall.

12. Choose the right country curtain color

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(Image credit: Future)

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The color of country curtains is mostly determined by the shades you already have in your space, and whether you want the curtains to make a statement or gently meld in.

'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,' says Romo's Emily Mould.

Another approach is to take into account your rural surroundings. 'Country house window treatments suit colours that bring the outside in as this helps create a gentle harmony with the outside,' advises Philippa Thorp, director of Thorp (opens in new tab).

13. Make plain curtains more interesting for a country-style room

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(Image credit: Future)

If you're concerned that a block color or neutral shade of curtain is going to be too simple, or you're looking for an easy way to update and refresh your plain curtains, there are a few options you have without replacing the fabric.

Tiebacks come in all shapes as sizes, from dainty ribbons to oversized tassels, so you can update these easily with the season.

Another approach is to change the curtain pole – although you would have to check with the company if your current curtains would fit on these, as types of hooks and the weight of the fabric need to be taken into account. New finials on either end would also provide a mini facelift.

14. Choose the best pattern for country curtains

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(Image credit: Gunter & Co)

When choosing a patterned fabric for your windows, you'll need to make sure it looks just as good when the curtain is pulled back.

For the pattern itself, just as with the color, 'consider whether you want to make a statement with a strong pattern or contrasting texture or whether you want a subtler look,' advises Emily Mould of Romo.

'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,' continues Emily. If you have smaller windows, opt for a small-scale pattern to create a more refined look.'

15. Match curtains to a traditional country window treatment

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(Image credit: Adrian Briscoe)

Traditionally, country homes would be built with solid shutters, to maximize the warmth retained indoors.

If you're lucky enough to have these in your home, a refresh of paint will make them a lust-worthy feature. If you prefer more softness, adding curtains around these works wonderfully, too.

16. Go white for a light look

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(Image credit: Future)

White country curtain ideas, or at least pale neutrals, seem like a no-brainer selection as they are sure to match most schemes, but is it sensible?

On the plus side, you will achieve a light look to your windows, even if you have chosen a heavier fabric, and not distract from any other strong designs in the space. Additionally, you don't have to worry about the sun fading the color.

That said, there is the practical consideration of dirt to contend with. Curtains are one of the least regularly cleaned items in a home, and so a white curtain will show any soiling, either from dust on a windowsill or dirty paws on the drape of a floor length curtain. If possible, choose a stain resistant fabric to prevent this from becoming an issue.

17. Pick sheer curtains for dark rooms

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(Image credit: Future)

Sheers provide a lovely and gentle touch to a country window which beautifully filter light into a room.

If you still want the privacy offered by traditional curtains, then consider pairing these with a decorative voile to stop the windows from looking bare when the curtains are open, while offering an opportunity to play with pattern.

Sheer fabrics also work well to soften the 'harder' areas of the house, such as bathrooms. Choose a design with spots of color for impact and to add interest to what is often a neutral space.

18. Combine curtains with blinds for a sumptuous look

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(Image credit: Future)

Curtains and blinds are a wonderful combination, and give you the best of both worlds. By layering these two up you also have the opportunity to play with color and pattern – two different patterns can be a fun addition, although do stick to one key shade to ensure cohesion.

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Bedrooms in particular will benefit from this combination, as the blind effectively blocks out sunlight, and the curtains can provide extra softness and decoration.

19. Get curtain length just right

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(Image credit: Neptune)

When deciding how long or short you would like your country-style curtains to go, take into account what type of window you are dressing.

Cottage or dormer windows suit curtains to the windowsill, while floor-length is the the best for tall sash windows and bays.

'If you want to puddle your curtains, go for no more than 15cm extra length to ensure the effect looks intentional,' says Harry Cole, founder of Loom & Last (opens in new tab).

20. Dress a country bedroom for comfort

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(Image credit: Future)

Bedrooms are the perfect place to indulge your softer side with curtains.

Simple patterns and tonal shades are the way to go in these spaces, as it is primarily an area for rest and relaxation. A lovely way to add decoration here is the use of a pelmet, which will frame the window while creating the illusion of height and neatly concealing poles and tracks.

21. Match country curtains with blackout material

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(Image credit: Future)

In a bedroom, country curtains are often light and filmy, but that won't block out the light, so consider also blackout blinds or lined curtains for your bedroom so you can effectively block out unwelcome light.

'I always line curtains,' says Victoria Walker, product manager at Hilarys (opens in new tab). 'It makes them look fuller, helps reduce light leakage and provides extra privacy.'

Another alternative is adding a layer of voile, which are sheer and translucent and a great way of letting the light in while still offering privacy.

22. Combine curtains with shutters

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(Image credit: Romo)

'Country houses also benefit from shutters where possible as well as curtains not only for practical reasons but together they frame the window and set off the view,' says Philippa Thorp.

As lovely as shutters are by themselves, windows can sometimes look bare without additional dressing, so by layering up in this way you can achieve a neat solution without detracting from the window's elegance.

23. Use country curtains to dress awkwardly shaped windows

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(Image credit: Sanderson)

Country homes are more likely than most to have awkwardly shaped or sized windows.

If you wish to dress a tiny window, you could use a curtain to lengthen the appearance of the space, even if the fabric ends up being considerably bigger than the glazing. Patterns help, too. Vertical stripes, for example, naturally trick the eye into thinking something is taller than it is.

24. Know when to swap curtains for blinds

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(Image credit: Future)

If you're not wedded to curtains, or have an awkward shape to deal with, then tailored fabric blinds make a sleek alternative to curtains that are certainly worth considering. Aligning two or three across a wide window offers flexibility, ideal for situations like dressing a bay window.

'Roman blinds are ideal, as they provide privacy and you can adjust the amount of light,' adds Chris Lapthorne, head of marketing at Luxaflex (opens in new tab).

25. Pick curtains to match the room's tones

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(Image credit: Future/Adrian Briscoe)

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Ready-made curtains are ideal if you need something in a hurry and they are an affordable choice if your windows are standard sizes, or if you are looking for something simple like voile panels or curtains for a small window.

Here, tactile fabrics and graphite accents add depth to this scheme where the clean lines of crafted wood furniture take center stage. The vertical lines on the tongue-and-groove panelling contrast beautifully with the horizontal lines on the curtain.

26. Line curtains for warmth and luxury

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(Image credit: Paul Massey)

Although some lighter weight fabrics are suited to a relaxed look, most curtain fabrics benefit from lining to boost the quality of their drape, as well as protecting the face fabric from sunlight.

Lining also boosts heat retention, and you can buy thermal lining which is helpful if you have large expanses of glass. Here, smart asymmetrical banding has a strong modern look.

27. Add a pelmet

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(Image credit: Future/Mel Yates)

Consider how to complete your look. You might choose to fit a pelmet across the top of the window to conceal the track. You can also use a pelmet as a decorative feature or to create the illusion of height. Usually made of plywood or MDF, they can be painted or covered in fabric.

28. Frame a window seat

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(Image credit: Future/Carolyn Barber)

For a crisp, modern look, blinds are very effective, and can be just as eye-catching as curtains. Bought ready made or made to order in the same way as curtains, they use minimal fabric, they tend to be cost effective, and can be used alone or layered under curtains. The Roman blind, which draws up into horizontal pleats when raised, has a soft and dressy look, tying beautifully with the window seat below.

29. Add detailing with trimmings

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(Image credit: Susie Watson Designs)

A white sheer provides privacy while still allowing soft light to filter through its fabric. Here, delicate embroidery has been used to add a pretty detail, creating a subtle statement on a simple design.

30. Hang double-height curtains

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(Image credit: Future)

Having a double-height space with extensive glazing doesn't mean you have to forgo curtains. In fact, they can add the decorative element often missing from repurposed working buildings, such as barns, haylofts and stables.

If your windows are super-tall, an automated curtain rail system will be your friend, allowing you to open and shut the drapes at the touch of a button.

You can also order bespoke solutions, such as arched rails, that will echo the shape of the window.

How do I measure for curtains?

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(Image credit: Mary Wadsworth)

Measure twice, cut once isn't just a rule for carpentry. Curtain fabric can be expensive, so you want to be precise in your measurements.

In fact, even if you have chosen to use a made-to-measure service, we would recommend having an idea of your measurements in advance. This will allow you to more accurately calculate fabric quantities and labor costs.

If at all possible, it's best to install your tracks and poles before you measure, for a more accurate account. Make sure to take into account the space needed for the curtains to be drawn back either side of the window, which is usually around 15-20cm/6-8in depending on the thickness of the fabric.

How do you modify curtains?

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(Image credit: Future)

One thing people seem to forget is that curtains can offer much more flexibility than they suggest.

When having curtains made, if you choose a double lining, you can reverse the pattern or color. Opt for a simple heading that can be threaded onto a pole; this will ensure the curtain is easily reversible, allowing you to change the look with the seasons.

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Alternatively, invest in clip-on thermal panels to bulk out summer curtains to keep things cozy over the winter.

FAQs

What is the trend for window dressing? ›

“Traditional items such as shutters and Roman shades are popular in many areas.” Pulliam says that roller and solar shades are some of the fastest-growing products because they are now available in a variety of colors and transparencies. These are popular window treatment options.

What are unique alternatives to curtains? ›

Valances—and there are plenty of other non-curtain options you can choose from as well, including blinds, shades, shutters, verticals, roman shades, and stained glass film.

How should curtains look from outside the house? ›

If you're not sure where to start when choosing window treatments, there is one rule that won't lead you wrong - go white to the street side. Many homeowner's associations require that all street-facing window treatments be white, and for good reason. This is an easy way to avoid the mismatched, "Skittles" look.

What curtains are in style 2023? ›

Grommets and wave pleats are being left behind, with pinch pleat drapery gaining popularity instead. The more adventurous are opting for Austrian shades and soft romantic draped shades, which bring more drama to the windows and allow them to take center stage in the design of a room.”

What kind of curtains are in style right now? ›

Curtain materials like organic cotton, bamboo and recycled fabrics are becoming increasingly popular choices for window treatments. Not only are these materials better for the environment, but they also offer a natural, organic feel to a space.

What can I use to cover windows besides curtains? ›

What Can I Put on Windows Besides Curtains?
  • Blinds. Blinds are one of the most popular window coverings out there for a reason: they work. ...
  • Shades. Shades can be used instead of curtains or blinds. ...
  • Plantation Shutters.

What are better than curtains? ›

Blinds last longer.

They're also more rigid and rugged than curtains, so less prone to everyday wear and tear. Fabric curtains, be they cotton, linen, velvet, or silk, are more prone to tearing, staining, and molding, so they often need replacement within a decade.

How can I cover my windows without curtains? ›

Mount shutters on both sides of your window to frame it or place a wider shutter on one side. Louvered shutters work like blinds. You can close them entirely or open the louvers to let in light and fresh air. Board and batten and panel shutters are solid — completely blocking out the window when in place.

What is the rule of thumb for curtains? ›

A rule of thumb (from Architectural Digest) is that curtains should be hung between four to six inches above the window frame, so install your curtain rod accordingly. When you hang the curtain rod high, it will make the window appear taller.

Should all rooms in a house have same curtains? ›

Coordinate Adjoining Rooms

If you go from formal, heavy drapes in your living room to light and airy curtains or vertical blinds in your dining room, the 'flow' between the rooms may seem off. This doesn't mean you need to have the same window treatments throughout your whole house.

What curtains look good from outside? ›

The top outdoor-friendly fabrics are acrylic, polyester, canvas and olefin.

How to make your home look expensive with curtains? ›

If you are using curtains, make sure you hang them full length and hang the rod wide and high. Also, make sure your curtain panels are wide and have a good amount of fabric so they create lots of folds: this will make them look more luxe.

Should curtains be lighter or darker than couch? ›

In this case, the curtain color should be lighter so that it doesn't take over the room and take attention away from the sofa. If the windows are small, like 4 feet tall by 6 feet wide, the curtain color may be darker than the sofa to match the room's color scheme.

How do you make curtains look expensive? ›

How to Make Your Curtains Look More Expensive
  1. Hang them high—and wide. Mount your curtain hardware as close to the ceiling as possible for a high-end look. ...
  2. Use statement hardware. ...
  3. Weigh them down. ...
  4. Train them. ...
  5. 3 Styling Tricks That Make Your Space Feel Twice as Big.

What is the color of the curtain in 2023? ›

Colour of the year 2023: Digital Lavender.

What is the lucky color curtain for 2023? ›

Forest green is the lucky color for 2023, a color that can represent both – earth and water.

What is not in style 2023? ›

Are high waisted pants out of style 2023? High waist pants are out of fashion for spring 2023 – especially the carrot pants, paper bag pants and palazzo pants. And high waisted pants will be out of style for fall winter 2023/24, too. In fact, the high waist pants were not seen on the fall winter 2023/24 runways.

What color curtains are in style? ›

Neutral colors like gray, black, taupe, beige, ivory and shades of white are fresh and modern. Pick curtains at least one shade lighter or darker than the walls to prevent them from blending in and disappearing. If you're choosing white curtains, remember that light colors tend to be less opaque than dark colors.

What type of curtains are most popular? ›

Popular Types of Curtain Styles. Choosing your curtain style and construction depends on your home's style and the functionality you need. They can be both formal or casual, depending on your room's décor. Three of the most popular curtain styles are grommet, rod pocket, and pinch pleat curtains.

Are valances still in style? ›

However, window valances are not totally out of style. They are a timeless window treatment that can remain fashionable for many years after installation, but homeowners should take care when choosing their valances.

How do you cover a window creatively? ›

Creative Ideas For Covering Your Windows
  1. Make use of vintage tablecloths and aprons. ...
  2. Frosted glass is always a classic. ...
  3. A fun wooden sign. ...
  4. Southern style with shutters. ...
  5. Folding screens are easy to move around. ...
  6. Hang plants and watch them grow. ...
  7. Shelves for your collections. ...
  8. Faux stained glass for an elegant look.
Jun 3, 2022

What should I put around my windows? ›

Window caulking is easy and cheap and should be the first line of defense against winter drafts. Caulk around the exterior perimeter of leaky windows. Also, seal the crack between the interior trim and the wall with caulk, as this is where air leaking around the window frame will most likely enter the house.

Is it OK to just have blinds without curtains? ›

It's ok to go bare—for the right reasons. To hear most designers say it, window treatments are the jewelry of the home, the finishing touch without which no good room is complete. But, as with every rule—design and elsewhere—there are exceptions.

Which curtains take up least space? ›

Eyelet curtain heading

Modern, unfussy and extremely neat. With their regular even pleats, this heading requires the least amount of space either side of the window to stack back.

What kind of curtains go with blinds? ›

An ideal combination if you're opting for prints, is blinds in a single colour, paired with patterned curtains that feature the colour on the blind. If you love the natural texture of timber, install a solid colour curtain to balance the look or create layers of texture by adding patterned drapes to contrast it.

Are curtains old fashioned now? ›

The draperies of today definitely don't look like the giant balloon swags of the 80's or the lacy country curtains of the 60's. Honestly, though, most drapery panel styles are pretty darn timeless – it's really more that fabric tastes change as trends change.

Are window nets old fashioned? ›

Net curtains are out of date and haven't been as desirable for a long time, unfortunately – most people don't know that there is a better, modern alternative to net curtains. If you take a look down a street in England, you'll most likely see them in someone's window.

How can I make my window look bigger without curtains? ›

Hang your rod higher.

If you want your window to appear taller and wider, try this trick from designer Don Stewart: "Install an extra long curtain rod at, or near, the ceiling for floor length drapes to create this illusion." This basically combines two window tricks into one — genius.

How do you cover windows while waiting for blinds? ›

Darker coloured sheets or towels, and even blankets can be more desired to block out the light. Make sure they cover most of the window if not the entire window. This technique is common and can be a very cheap and effective solution.

Should curtains touch the floor or be above? ›

The answer isn't necessarily intuitive, especially since most windows in a home don't extend all the way to the ground, but more often than not, curtains and drapes look best when they reach the floor.

How many inches wider than window should curtains be? ›

A common rule for displaying curtains properly says the curtains finished width should be at least 2 times the width of your window (if not more) to achieve a look of proper fullness. Example: If your window measures 36" wide (window width x 2 = 72"), you need curtains that will give a minimum width of 72".

How far above should you hang curtains? ›

DO Hang High. The higher the curtain rod, the taller the window will appear, so fix your curtain rod closer to the ceiling than the top of your window, if you can. One rule of thumb is that they should sit 4-6 inches above the window frame.

Is it better to have plain or patterned curtains? ›

Whilst Patterned curtains are great, there's also benefits to keeping it plain and simple with your window dressings. A plain curtain will be timeless, it won't go out of style and it's unlikely you will fall out of love with them in the way you might with an eclectic pattern.

Does a room look bigger with or without curtains? ›

Making Your Room Look Larger or Smaller with Curtains

High-hanging curtains with long vertical stripes create the illusion of height, which is excellent for low ceilings. However, short curtains and horizontal stripes shorten your wall height and make the room appear smaller.

Do rooms look bigger without curtains? ›

Using blinds will almost always make a room look bigger than it would do with curtains, both because curtains protrude into the room more and have a fussier appearance than blinds, and they generally cover more of the walls around the window too.

What color curtains make a room look bigger? ›

Since bright colors are more reflective, the room looks airier and more open because it contains more natural light. Dark colors do just the opposite because they absorb light and make a space look smaller.

Do curtains look better short or long? ›

Standard curtains come in three lengths—84 inches, 96 inches, or 108 inches—but experts say you should opt for longer rather than shorter. Blythe is a freelance writer for MarthaStewart.com.

Where should I hang curtains to make the room look bigger? ›

By hanging curtains from the highest point of the wall that fall all the way down to the floor, you create a soft and subtle guide for the eye to follow, encouraging you to take in all of the space you have therefore giving the illusion of a larger room.

What makes a house look tacky? ›

Bad Lighting

Bright, white lighting is a quick way to make a room feel washed out and makes any potentially tacky design decisions stand out even more. Dim, minimal lighting, on the other hand, can work in basements but can also pretty quickly make a man-cave feel a bit too much like an actual cave.

What colors make a house look expensive? ›

Fresh Paint will make your Home look Expensive

Light airy neutral paint colors make a room look expensive. Choose from white, beige (yes beige is back!), cream and off-white colors. Dark brown and black are also on trend so will make your interiors look more upscale as well.

Should curtains be darker than the walls? ›

Should curtains be the same colour as the wall? The rule of thumb is to choose curtains that are in the same colour family as the walls. Yet, be sure to choose a slightly lighter or darker share of the wall to create a tone-on-tone effect.

What color curtains make a room cozy? ›

'Cool colors, green, blue, and purple, are calming so they work best for bedrooms. Lighter colors tend to be more soothing, and darker colors are more stimulating. If you're looking for a calming place to rest and relax, consider soothing pastels such as pale blues, light pinks, or light greens.

How do you match a sofa with curtains? ›

If your sofa is dark, match the curtains with another dark colour to keep the room feeling cosy, or choose a lighter shade to brighten it up. Similarly, if your sofa is light, choose a light colour for your curtains to keep that airy feeling, or a darker colour – perhaps in the same shade – to add some contrast.

Should my couch face my window? ›

'A sofa should be at least a foot from the window,' says Jen Ebert, Homes & Gardens Digital Editor. 'This allows for drapes to be pulled back and forth without catching, and also makes it easier to clean behind. Pulling a sofa away from a window by a foot will also enhance your living room's feeling of spaciousness.

Do longer curtains look better? ›

The length of your curtain is dependent on the ratio of width to height. A window that is longer in length than width can benefit from longer curtains giving the window a larger feel. However, a very wide window that is unusually short may look better with shorter curtains.

Is it cheaper to make curtains or buy them? ›

Apart from saving just small pennies for your curtains, you should also consider if it's time-wise for you; convenience is a big factor these days. Sewing curtain fabrics might be cheaper, but it sure do cost you a lot of time.

Why do my curtains look cheap? ›

The biggest reason store-bought curtain panels often look cheap, is they aren't wide enough for the windows they're dressing (see photo above). Most curtain panels are just decorative- they don't ever get drawn shut because the window has blinds on it.

How do I choose a window treatment color? ›

A good rule to follow if you're unsure which you prefer is that if your room is painted a neutral color, then use a bright window treatment; if your room is a bright color, then use a neutral color window treatment. Lastly, if your room's walls are patterned, then use a solid-color window treatment.

What is the most popular type of window shades? ›

Horizontal or venetian blinds are the most popular window blinds today. There are multiple varieties that manufacturers craft with slats of plastic, wood, or metal. You can tilt these slats to let less or more light in as you desire. You can control the louvers on venetian blinds with a manual string.

Are drapes outdated? ›

This era included oversized furniture, dark patterned rugs, and last but not least, heavy drapery. The simple answer to whether your traditional drapes will make your modern home look outdated is yes, it will.

Should blinds be lighter or darker than trim? ›

And since most blinds fit inside the trim, they generally should match or be slightly darker than the trim. If you currently have white blinds or window treatments, wood blinds will of course look darker but won't necessarily darken the room unless all the walls are dark, too.

Should blinds be lighter or darker than walls? ›

Blinds can be lighter or darker than your walls, but there are a few things to keep in mind before choosing a color. To ensure that everything blends well together, the blinds and walls should be at least one shade lighter or darker than each other, but most importantly, they should also be a similar tone.

What is the best curtain color for living room? ›

Neutral colors like gray, black, taupe, beige, ivory and shades of white are fresh and modern. Pick curtains at least one shade lighter or darker than the walls to prevent them from blending in and disappearing. If you're choosing white curtains, remember that light colors tend to be less opaque than dark colors.

What Colour blinds look best on windows? ›

Beige and white blinds will probably always be the most popular neutrals, but furnishing your windows with grey gives you options that other neutral colours do not. Consider greige, a neutral grey with a hint of beige or brown. Try charcoal grey instead of black or dark blue.

What shades are in style? ›

Top 10 Trending Window Coverings List
  • 1) Automated Blinds & Shades. ...
  • 2) Roller Shades. ...
  • 3) Roman Shades. ...
  • 4) Cellular Shades. ...
  • 5) Silhouette Shades. ...
  • 6) Banded Shades (Zebra Shades) ...
  • 7) Top-Down/Bottom-Up Shades. ...
  • 8) Luminette Privacy Sheers.
Feb 24, 2022

Should all windows have the same shades? ›

To keep it short, the answer is no, absolutely not! There are no hard and fast rules when it comes to styling your own home. That being said, however, you can never underestimate the appeal of cohesion! Here's what to consider when coordinating blinds in the home.

Is it better to have blinds or curtains? ›

Curtains will give better light control but blinds may be more practical in a smaller space. If you decide on a blind, have it made longer and wider than the window to minimise light drift. Curtains are best installed close to the ceiling or better still, with a pelmet above to stop light from escaping.

Are valances over blinds outdated? ›

In conclusion, valances are not dated at all. By following these three tips, you'll find one that's perfect for you. I also recommend that you check out our custom valances if you want some inspiration. For even more modern solutions, check out our faux Roman shade valances.

What can I put on my windows so I can see out but no one can see in? ›

Blackout window film looks and acts just like it sounds. It's black and does a good job blocking the light and view 24/7. Blackout window film is a type of decorative window film that completely blocks light from coming in and out, which is different than most decorative window film.

What can I put on windows instead of nets? ›

Window film could be just the product you need. Our window film will give your home more privacy, without any reduction in the natural light coming in. The windows will look exactly as they did before the film was fitted – and there won't be a net curtain in sight.

What is the modern version of net curtains? ›

1. Contemporary shades. For sheer elegance, Voile Roman blinds are a beautiful addition to any home. Creating a sleek and simple look, these stylish blinds are great for providing day time privacy, and are especially suited to wide windows.

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