What to consider when buying new curtains

Curtains are super underestimated in the world of interior design. The colours and patterns you choose and the size you go for can really alter the look and feel of a room, defining the character of the interior space.

If you’re confused about the type of curtains to go for, from the fabric to the headings (pencil pleat, eyelet, etc), hopefully my guide will help you out! Below, you can find 6 decisions you need to make when choosing your curtains so you can buy the perfect thing first time round.

Decision 1: Colour and pattern

The colour you choose for your curtains will depend on the existing colour theme within the room. Light colours, including ivory, cream or pastels, make a room feel bright and airy and are great for spaces with little natural light. Dark colours can be beautiful too, creating an intimate and cosy feel in bedrooms or living spaces.

We chose dark curtains for our bedroom because we thought they’d best complement the dark walls. Light curtains may have stood out too much, whereas the dark, autumnal colours really create a gorgeous, cosy space for bedtime.

Pick out existing colours that are in the room, either on the walls or the floor, and ensure there’s some consistency in the curtains. I’d recommend that you purchase fabric samples before making a purchase so you can ensure that you’re happy with your chosen colours.

There’s also pattern as well as colour to consider here. The pattern you choose can really dictate the feel of a room, from large, bold patterns to delicate floral motifs. When you start shopping for curtains, you’ll realise just how many patterns there are available. Chances are you’ll also find a pattern you love, but not in the colours you want. When this happens, just keep looking!

Decision 2. Material and texture

The next thing to consider is the material you’d prefer the curtains to be made from. Different materials provide a different feel, from light, sheer curtains that give a relaxed, boho look to heavy curtains that offer a more traditional look.

The material can also dictate how much light comes into the room. For a living space, you might welcome the light, but for bedrooms, you may want to consider something thicker to keep the early morning light out.

Thicker materials you may want to consider include velvet or brocade, both of which can create a luxurious touch.

Thinner materials, like translucent linens or gossamer cottons, allow natural light to come in while also offering a little bit of privacy. This is ideal for living spaces located at the front of a house.

 

Decision 3. Length and size

As if you haven’t already made enough decisions, there’s the length and size of your curtains to consider. This is a crucial one. Get it wrong, and your curtains won’t close, will drag on the floor or look off.

The longer the curtains, the taller your ceilings will feel, so do take this into consideration. However, as many people have a radiator underneath their windows, you will be blocking the heat when the curtains are shut. This is why you can buy shorter curtains that finish just below the windowsill or above the radiator.

Short curtains generally offer a more informal touch, well-suited for nurseries or kitchens, where usability and convenience come first.

When deciding on the width, the general rule is to measure the window and then add 30% (so multiply the figure by 1.3). So if your window recess measures at 1m, your curtains should be 1m 30cm.

Always measure and measure again to ensure you’re purchasing the right size curtains.

Decision 4. Style and design

The style of your curtains is important, and should match the existing style of the room they will sit in.

Traditional curtains may work well in a period property, and may have intricate patterns in a classic design, tassels and curtain ties and panels and headings. This style would create an old-world atmosphere that perfectly fits in dining rooms, libraries or traditional living rooms.

Modern curtains offer a completely different look. With their clean lines, minimal adornments and simple headings (eyelets, for example), you can create a contemporary design that’s great for family areas, casual living rooms or workspaces.

 

Decision 5. Light control and privacy

We’re almost there with our list of decisions you need to make when choosing some new curtains.

Many curtain manufacturers will ask you what kind of lining you would like, and this is an important question.

Most curtains come with a standard lining that is simply there to gently filter the light and make the curtains look finished. This is fine for a living space or kitchen.

A blackout lining will be a must for bedrooms and other spaces where you’d like to completely block the light, such as a cinema room. This sometimes costs a little extra but is worth every penny in my opinion.

Finally, there’s thermal lining. This helps to control the temperature of a room, insulating it to keep the space warm in winter and cool in summer. Again, this may not be a necessity but if you have a particularly draughty house (or single-glazed windows), it could be a great idea to consider.

Decision 6: Price and budget

Of course, something we all need to consider when purchasing new home decor items is the price. As much as we’d love to just buy the item we adore, this sometimes isn’t an option.

When deciding on new curtains, set a buget and try to stick to it. Some curtains can cost hundreds or even thousands of pounds, and this could be outside what you’d like to spend.

Luckily, there are plenty of affordable options these days so you don’t necessarily have to spend a fortune.

An alternative option is to choose your fabric and have a go at making the curtains yourself!

 

So there you have it – my 6 things to consider when buying new curtains for your home. I hope this has helped (and not left you more confused!).