A Guide to Specifying Curtains

Not all windows are created equal.  Some windows lend themselves to floor to ceiling curtains. Others may be small, narrow or in an awkward space, and perhaps a blind might be more suitable.  Consider what type of window you working with and then make a choice on window treatment for curtains or blinds.

Formal or informal?  The style of your home will help inform this decision.  A traditional home with a very high stud and ornamental features my suit voluminous velvet curtains that puddle on the floor while a more contemporary home might suit a more simplistic style, with less volume that sit just to the floor.  The selection of ‘header’ that you choose (of which there are several options available), will also create a certain aesthetic and it pays to research the headers available.  Either way, it works best if you keep the style of your curtain consistent from room to room. 

What is the role of the curtain in the space?  Is it a bedroom that requires full blockout for sleeping, is it a TV room where sunlight needs to be filtered or is it a lounge room that you like to keep warm? Each room in your home will have different requirements depending on who and what the room is being used for.   Think about children and pets and the role they play in the house too with durability, easy clean properties being a priority in the fabric choice.

Depending where you are located in the world, the harsh sun can cause damage to curtains (and interior furnishings). Edges of curtains that face the window can become sun damaged that can cause the fabric to disintegrate. Choosing a fabric that has a good UV protection rating will help reduce this problem as well as ensuring you stack back your curtains as much as possible, so they sit off the window. Alternatively, you might like to use a sheer fabric that lets light and filters the rays at the same time. See our blog on UV and how it affects our interiors.

Did you know that professionally fitted, lined drapery can reduce window heat loss by 40-60% when closed. Working all year round, lined drapery is an important tool in creating a thermal insulation barrier. It’s a no-brainer to have a quality lining behind your curtain fabric, with a variety of options including block out, triple weave, silicone and interlining. There is something for every situation.

We all have a level of investment we are prepared to pay for our home furnishings. Taking into consideration all the factors above you should be able to provide quality information to your fabric consultant or curtain maker in order to find a suitable fabric. There are a range of fabric options available in a variety of price points.