Most interior designers work their rooms around where the light comes from, so if you’ve got a window, chances are  it’s a focal point. It is imperative, therefore, that you dress your windows properly, considering a number of factors before you make your final decision. Below is a short guide to help you make the right choice for your curtains.

Tone

The first consideration you might make is the overall formality or intended casualness of the room. A formal living or dining room with elegant furniture requires equally well-dressed windows. Classic drapes in silk damask or velvet with swags or tie-backs over sheer netting is appropriate for this level of formality, whereas a simple, natural, slouchy Tab-top would better suit more laid-back surroundings.

Detail, Coordination & Contrast

Silk fringe or rosettes, and other fancy trimmings are often used in living and dining rooms, but if you prefer a clean, simple line, then by all means use what you like. If you’re a minimalist, you won’t be happy living with fussy details.

For a more casual, but still sophisticated room, panels or drapes of natural silk in colors which coordinate with the floor coverings and upholstery make a nice statement. Wool blends and linen are also chic in this setting, and should meld with your chosen furnishings. For example,  a softly draped wool panel is superb with an overstuffed couch, and dark polished wood tables.

Materials

You’ll need to decide what fabrics and materials best suit the environment, tone and function of your room. For example, if you’re furnishing a bathroom window, it is wise to select a material that is fairly water resistant, like cotton, wool or hemp. If you’re decorating for a bedroom, consider a blackout lining and a heavier fabric to block out the light. Drafty hallway? Interline your draperies with thermal lining to lock in the heat and save on your energy bills. Think carefully about light too. Silk curtains, for example, fade easilly when exposed to harsh sunlight, so if you are going for the luxury look in a naturally illuminated area, be sure to line the material carefully.

Exhibition or Privacy?

A fourth factor to consider is the windows themselves. Think about how you plan to use the windows. Is there a beautiful view, and lots of natural light that you would like to make use of? Or do you live in a city with a view of an alley, and a need for privacy? Voiles and semi sheer fabrics are the chicest way to get the ‘net curtain effect’ with an element of style, allowing you to see out, but preventing others from seeing in.

Tastes, Preference & Fashion

A fifth factor is your own personal likes and dislikes. If you like an eclectic, or even eccentric, look, use the colors and fabrics that you like the best. If you choose colors in the same value, that is all pastels or all brights, and patterns in the same size range, you can mix and match fairly easily. Busy room? Go easy on the paterns and stick with block colour.

Choosing the best curtains that complement your interior decor will create a finished look that expresses your personal style. Before making the final decision on design, fabric and size, it is important to evaluate the effect that you want to achieve in the room. Draperies and curtains are an expensive investment to your home and the choice that you make may remain for many years. A little research and careful planning will ensure that the window coverings enhance the decor and are appropriate for your home.

Sizes and Styles

The first step in choosing a window covering is to consider the size of the window and the style of the room. In a kitchen, breakfast nook or casual room, a window length curtain looks chic. In a formal room such as a dining room or living room, floor length styles add elegance.

Valances are the icing on the cake and add dimension to a wall. They can be used alone, layered or coordinated with matching curtains. Scalloped edges, swag styles with fringe and tassels or gathered valances dress up a window.

Decorative curtain rods made of wood, polished or flat metal finishes can be exposed if panel style curtains are used. Tiebacks made from the same fabric, tasseled and beaded can be hidden or exposed with decorative hardware.

Curtain Fabrics

The fun begins with choosing a fabric that coordinates with the interior design. Casual areas look best with cotton blends, canvas, and synthetic blends. Sheer fabrics can be used as an inner layer or in combination with blinds to soften a window. If the curtains are for privacy, fabrics that close easily are preferred. If the purpose is strictly decorative, lacy or dressy fabrics that softly drape the window add style.

Colour selection is a vital criterion. The curtains should blend with other fabrics in the room and agree with the wall colour palette. Contrasting fabrics can be used if the accessories pick up the colour decor.

Custom Made Curtains

If you want to match other fabrics such as bedspreads or sofas, it may be necessary to purchase custom styles. Whether you choose a curtain or drapery style that makes a statement or blends with the room, the effect will be stunning if it coordinates with the interior decor. Taking the time to consider the existing furnishings, the wall colours and accessories before making the final decision will ensure that the room will have a finished and well decorated ambiance.