Make it Modern: Fresh Ways to Think About Curtains

As any decorator will tell you, curtains make a room—but only when chosen correctly. When it comes to window treatments, it’s a matter of color and fabric, length and lining, and custom-made versus off-the-shelf. Check out everything that curtains can do for your space…

They Make Quick & Easy Design Focal Points
Using curtains or drapes behind your bed or headboard (either to mask a window, or for purely decorative reasons) is an easy way to draw more attention to the bed as a visual statement, making it an anchor around which to design your bedroom. Choose colorful, textured, and/or patterned fabric to make the most impact.

They Can Make Your Space Look Larger
Extending the curtain rod beyond the actual window- both in terms of height and width, makes you think the window is larger, and the ceilings taller, than they actually are. If there are two or more windows side by side, try one curtain on the entire wall – hanging separate pairs unnecessarily chops up the space.

They Can Hide a Multitude of Sins
If you have open shelving or visible storage of any kind, you know it’s often a struggle to keep them looking tidy and organized. Curtains are a quick and easy license to cover up anything that looks messy or out of control. With a single swipe you can hide all that messy stuff and render your room ready for anything.

They Make Great Doors and Walls in Small Spaces
If you are short on room, try taking your doors off their hinges and hanging curtains instead. When open, they don’t take up the same space as a traditional door, and don’t interrupt physical and visual flow. Plus, when closed, they add color and/or texture to a space. Note: this isn’t as good of an idea if you need privacy or a sound barrier.

They Don’t Have to Exactly Match The Wall Color
Old school decorating rules suggest that curtain fabric be the same color as your paint. Going this route is a good way to both unify the room, and let any focal point or a stunning view shine like a star. To ensure things don’t get too match-y match-y, try going a shade or so off from the actual color of the walls, or going for a subtle pattern. If you stay in the same color family, you’ll still get a calm monochromatic effect, but it won’t look overdone and overdecorated.