Window dressings - whether they are curtains, blinds, drapes, or some other creative fixture, can set the décor of a room. In fact, window treatments are so crucial to the tone of a room that decorators may even choose to build around these elements when designing a room. Curtains are just one such window covering that can have a dramatic influence on the décor of any room. These tips will help you understand decorating with curtains so that you can achieve a professional looking design with ease.
Know your Space
Curtains are more than just a window covering; they are actually a focal point of a room and should be seen more as a soft furnishing rather than just curtains. Typically used for a couple of reasons - to create the tone of the room or to tie different elements of a room together - curtains should not be an afterthought. You'll want to consider which elements of the room you have already established and pick your curtains accordingly. For example, if you want the curtains to be the central design element, you want to choose colours, textures, and patterns that exude your target ambiance. A light, airy room should have curtains constructed from lightweight fabrics and soft colours and textures. Alternatively, heavy, black-out fabrics may create a richer, cosy feeling in your room.
On the other hand, some designers use curtains as a way to tie different elements of a room together. In this case, you'll want to consider the colours and textures you have already chosen for the room. If you have red furniture, you can coordinate with red curtains while using neutral colours for other aspects of the room. If your flooring, furniture, and other main elements of your room reflect neutral colours, you can get inspiration from accessories. You can achieve an impressively dramatic look by choosing vibrantly coloured curtains that match accessories when your furniture and flooring is neutral in colour.
Get Creative
Most importantly, when choosing curtains, you should feel free to express your creativity. Think beyond curtains as an element of function only there to keep light or prying eyes from entering your room. You can use curtains in so many ways. For example, curtains can make the perfect covering for bookshelves, or may even make a great valance for your bed. Sometimes, curtains can even be artwork. Beautiful, intricately patterned and coloured curtains can serve as an interesting tapestry, or even as matting for a photograph. Or, if you're skilled with a sewing machine, you can convert old curtains (or new ones!) into cushions or upholstery.
Remember, curtains are available in a wide variety of styles, colours, textures, and fabrics. Use your imagination and let your curtains stand out as a focal point of your décor.
Visit Arlene's Interiors for a wide selection of curtains and window treatments.
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