How to choose curtains for your dream home
- Written by Sanne Huston-EaglesRussells Consultant
When planning your dream home there are normally hundreds of pins on Pinterest detailing interior colours and styles, kitchens, bathrooms, bedrooms and even exteriors and landscaping. While these are all core design elements we sometimes forget the little things that can make a big difference. We find that curtains often fall into this category with very little budget left over for them at the end of the build.
Curtains make a big difference to the aesthetics of a room and can be much more cost effective than you think, especially when you factor in their great thermal properties. Choosing the wrong window covering can make a room impractical for its intended use or make it feel dull and dreary. To avoid this we have put together a few pointers to help you get it right.
Cannes by Nettex in Pearl
Ceiling to floor
Curtains should be a natural extension of your room. Many home owners choose the same curtains for every room of the house in an attempt to reduce their overall spend. Each room of your dream home will have a different style and function, so it’s best not to use the blanket approach when it comes to curtains. Take the time to select the right fabric and style for each room, what works in a sunny, north facing living area may not work so well in a bedroom with a southerly aspect.
Privacy and views
One of the key functions of curtains is to offer privacy within your home. If you have spent hours planning your dream garden or built your home to take advantage of the views then you are also going to want to make the most of it. Double tracks are a great option for sunny living areas, allowing you to have the best of both worlds with a sheer curtain to maintain views and privacy during the day, and a heavy drape to give privacy at night creating a warm cosy space.
Insulation and ventilation
To enhance your curtains’ insulation it is best to run them from ceiling to floor, or have pelmets installed. For a minimalist look you can have your tracks recessed into the ceiling, a great option if you plan for this before building starts. To get the most out of your curtains ensure they are lined with a thermal blockout. The blockout creates a pocket of air that helps keep out that cold winter chill.
Alternatively, if you have a large budget you could also have summer curtains that allow you to alternate between the seasons. Using sheer curtains in the summer months creates a breezy space with natural ventilation, reducing the damage of harsh UV light.
Hang with style
Choosing the fabric for your curtains is only the first step. There are a number of different heading styles that will influence the look of your curtains, from the simple structured look of a Reverse Single Pleat to the full tailored look of Double or Triple Pleat, each has its own distinct style.
Curtain rods or tracks will also influence the look of your new curtains. There are plenty of options to choose from with wrought iron to time rods with decorative finials or the sleek look of metal tracks that blend into their surroundings.
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