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How to Choose Curtains for the Living Room

How to Choose Curtains for the Living Room

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Shadey
Editorial Team
3rd December, 2024, 3:31 am
7 min read
Styling
3rd December, 2024, 3:31 am
7 min read
Styling

When it comes to choosing curtains for your living room, it’s not just about failing to block out your nosy neighbour’s view; it’s about creating a harmonious space that reflects your style and mood. The right curtains can transform your room from drab to fab by influencing light filtration, which can either make your space feel bright and airy or cozy and intimate.. And let’s not forget the existing aesthetic you’ve lovingly curated; curtains should complement, not clash, with your décor. So, whether you’re channeling boho vibes or classic elegance, let’s dive into the fabulous world of curtain selection and create a living room that’s not just a space to hang out, but a place that truly feels like home.

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Curtain Style Considerations and Priorities

When it comes to curtains, it's not just about blocking out the sun or keeping nosy neighbors from peeking in—oh no, it’s so much more than that! Choosing the right curtain style can be the cherry on top of your room’s aesthetic sundae, so you'll want to consider several factors before diving in. Are you going for a boho vibe or something a bit more sleek and modern? What about functionality? Do you need blackout capabilities or just some whimsical sheers to flutter in the breeze? And let’s not forget fabric choice; it can make or break your entire look! So, before you get lost in the endless world of patterns and colors, let's explore the essential considerations and priorities that will help you find those perfect drapes that not only frame your windows but also your style narrative. Ready to hang out? Let's do this!

Control light

Controlling light in your space is all about reading the room—literally! Start by assessing the natural light levels in your space. Is it a sun-drenched paradise or more of a cozy cave? Once you've cracked that code, it’s time to choose your window treatments wisely.

For a bright atmosphere, sheer curtains are your best friends. They allow light to flood in while still giving you a touch of privacy—perfect for that Instagram-worthy glow. On the flip side, if your room doubles as guest quarters or you seek a well-deserved snooze, blackout curtains are the way to go. They offer ultimate privacy and keep the light at bay when you need it.

Feeling fancy? Layering treatments is a game changer! Combining sheer and blackout options not only allows for versatility but also boosts your energy efficiency, keeping your space cool during the day and cozy at night. So go ahead, play with light like the decor wizard you are!

Privacy

There are two ways to play the privacy game for your living room curtains.

Sheer curtains not only let natural light flood in, but they also offer a breezy feel while discreetly blurring the outside world. Perfect for public-facing spaces like street-side rooms or shared driveways, they keep prying eyes at bay without sacrificing that lovely sunlit ambiance.

On the flip side, we have blackout curtains, the night’s silent guardians! They’re your go-to for nighttime privacy, enveloping your space in darkness like a cozy cocoon. But let's be real: during the day, you'll likely need to open them up to keep that sunlight rolling in.

So, whether you’re aiming for light control with sheer curtains or snug comfort with blackout options, remember that privacy in window treatments is key to creating your personal sanctuary.

Thermal insulation

Don’t underestimate the power of your curtain when it comes to home energy efficiency. Those lovely curtains hanging in your windows can pack a punch when it comes to thermal insulation. Blockout and lined sheer curtains act like cozy blankets for your windows, helping to maintain indoor temperatures by blocking out the chilly drafts in winter and keeping the heat at bay in summer.

But just because we're focusing on function doesn’t mean we have to sacrifice style! Selecting curtains that offer both thermal insulation and aesthetic appeal is key. Gorgeous drapery can elevate your space while providing the practical functionality you crave.

Image of furniture
Product
Sheer Curtain
Fabric
Anna
Colour
Stone
Pictured here are our beautiful Anna sheer curtains in Stone colour.
Image of texture
Product
Sheer curtains
Fabric
Anna
Colour
Stone
Ceiling mounted S-Fold curtain in Anna Stone

Curtain Fabric

The  curtain fabric you select can transform your space from ho-hum to fabulous, while also serving practical purposes like light control and privacy. With a plethora of options—think lush velvets, airy linens, and sassy prints—it’s essential to consider both functionality and aesthetic.

Blackout Curtains

Blackout curtains let you achieve total privacy while still keeping your style on point. These beauties not only cocoon your space in comfort but also come in a delightful array of colours and shades, so you can find the perfect match for your decor theme. Whether you’re going for sleek modern vibes or classic charm, there’s a set that fits your aesthetic.

Beyond their stylish decor options, blackout curtains work double-time adding energy efficiency. They keep your space cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter, which means a happier wallet when it’s time to pay those energy bills. So, if you’re hunting for a solution that beautifully balances functionality with flair, blackout curtains are your go-to. Elevate your privacy game and indulge in the chic comfort they offer. Who knew home decor could be this smart and sassy?

Sheer Curtains

Sheer curtains are like that perfect pair of sunglasses—filtering natural light while adding a touch of elegance to your space. Depending on the style you choose, they can provide varying degrees of privacy, allowing you to enjoy natural sunlight without feeling like you’re on display.

So, whether you’re in the mood for reducing that glare or adding a bit of privacy, sheer curtains are your ultimate design ally.

Pair Sheer Curtains and Roller Blinds

Pairing sheer curtains with roller blinds is the ultimate power duo for light control and privacy! Sheer curtains are your go-to for softly filtering and diffusing that glorious natural light, making your space feel warm and inviting—like a cozy hug from the sun. But if you want complete privacy at night as well, that’s where roller blinds swoop in.

By layering these two styles, you not only gain versatile control over your living spaces but also boost the aesthetic appeal. Imagine the chicness of light, airy sheers paired with sleek roller blinds—talk about a winning combination! Plus, it allows you to switch from a bright, airy vibe to complete privacy at a moment's notice. So, who says you can't have it all? With sheer curtains and roller blinds, you can enjoy both the beauty and functionality in perfect harmony!

Curved curtains

Curved curtain tracks are your new best friend if you’re dealing with those tricky corner window. Available for both blockout and sheer curtains, these tracks provide flawless functionality without sacrificing style.

Imagine the effortless elegance of a seamless track that gracefully wraps around your corner windows—no more unsightly gaps or awkward drapery dilemmas. Whether you're after the cozy darkness of blockout curtains for a good night's sleep or the soft, filtered light of sheer curtains to let the sunshine in, curved tracks handle it all with flair.

So, if you’ve been wrestling with how to dress those corner windows, it’s time to embrace the curves! Your space will not only look sophisticated but will also enjoy the benefits of better light control. It's a win-win, darling.

Length Styles

Another element of curtain design you may not have considered is whether you want your curtains to drape or puddle gently on the floor or instead hover just above the floor.

Hover

Imagine curtains that gracefully suspend just above the floor, creating a clean and elegant look that instantly elevates your space.

Hover curtains aren't just easy on the eyes; they stop dusty hems from sweeping across the floor.  You can simply draw them aside without a hassle, giving your room that effortlessly stylish vibe we all crave.

Puddle

Ah, the concept of a "puddle" in curtain design—a delightful little touch that adds a dash of romance to any room. Imagine those lovely curtains cascading to the floor and gently pooling in a puddle of up to six inches. This elegant excess creates a relaxed ambiance, as if the fabrics are inviting you to sink into their embrace – all while hiding any variance in your floor levels, making them a great choice for heritage homes.

Colour

Colour was probably the first thing you thought of when it came to choosing curtains for your living room. We now know there’s so much more to window furnishings that that, but that doesn’t mean it’s not an important part of the process.

Neutral

Neutral-coloured curtains offer a stunning backdrop without stealing the show. Think soft beiges, warm greys, or dreamy off-whites that create an effortlessly chic vibe. The beauty of these shades lies in their versatility; they can blend seamlessly with any style while introducing a calming presence to your living space.

Light and flowy fabrics gently filter sunlight, making your room feel airy and inviting. These textures can range from subtle weaves to materials with more varying linen-like textures, each lending an organic feel that adds depth without overwhelming the senses.

Not only do neutral curtains soften hard lines and corners, but they also provide the perfect canvas for accent pieces—whether it’s a funky piece of art or that vintage lamp you can’t stop bragging about. So, if you’re looking to elevate your space without going overboard, neutral curtains are your wrap-around hug of stylish sophistication.

Bold

Transform your space into a sanctuary of intrigue with bold, dark curtains that command attention. The moment you pull them shut, the outside world fades away, and your room is enveloped in a moody vibe that whispers drama and elegance. Available in sheer and blackout options, they let you customize your ambiance.

These curtains aren’t merely a means to block out the sun; they’re an attitude, a vibe, a statement. Their rich hues and luxurious fabrics create an atmosphere that makes every moment feel special. Whether you’re hosting friends for a dinner party or enjoying a quiet night with a good book, let those bold, dark curtains set the stage.

So why settle for ordinary? Embrace the allure of the dark side and give your space the dramatic flair it deserves. Trust us; you’ll never look at your windows the same way again.

Wall mount or ceiling mount curtains for living rooms

When it comes to choosing between wall mount and ceiling mount curtains for your living room, the differences can impact both light control and aesthetics in delightful ways.

Wall mount curtains are great for those who want to make a statement with their windows. They hang about an inch or two from the wall, allowing for some light to filter in even when drawn. This option suits traditional styles perfectly, creating a cozy and inviting vibe.

On the flip side, ceiling mount curtains maximize light control and give a streamlined, modern look. They hug the ceiling closely, effectively blocking out light and drawing the eye upward—ideal for those with high ceilings or large windows craving a touch of drama.

Practicality? It boils down to room height, window size, and your design preference. For smaller rooms with low ceilings, wall-mounted options can create warmth without overwhelming the space. Meanwhile, ceiling mounts can turn an expansive living room into a chic retreat, emphasizing height and sophistication. In the end, it’s all about what vibe you want to cultivate—cozy or chic, darling!

Living room curtains for contemporary or heritage homes

Whether your home is a sleek contemporary space or a charming heritage abode, custom curtains are your secret weapon for striking the perfect balance between function and aesthetics.

When it comes to style, made-to-measure curtains cater to your unique vibe, effortlessly coordinating with your existing furnishings. Think rich, textured fabrics for heritage homes or airy linens for contemporary designs; the possibilities are endless! And don’t fret about breaking the bank—quality options are available even if you're on a budget. You can snag professionally made curtains that you can install yourself, making that living room transformation a reality in just 30 minutes.

So, go ahead, dress those windows with flair and watch your space transform! Who knew curtains could be such a game-changer?

Which type of curtains are best for a living room?

For those sunny days, consider sheer curtains for a light and airy feel, paired with blackout options for movie nights. Ultimately, the right curtains can elevate your living space from drab to fab—so choose wisely! Your living room deserves the best, and you’ve got the sass to pull it off!

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