How to Select Curtains for Living Room

Selecting the right curtains for a living room can be an extremely difficult and time-consuming task, especially for individuals who have never done it before.

This is because many considerations usually come into play when deciding on styles, lengths, pleats, fabric and so forth. Without proper information, it is easy to make grave mistakes when shopping for your window curtains.

It is important to note that curtains usually offer a lot more than simply serving as a window treatment in an interior. They improve the aesthetics of a room.

With the correct colour, size, texture and weight you can create the perfect balance between function and style – giving your home the much sought after urban look.

Here are key considerations for choosing curtains for your living room:

1. Colour

When the opportunity to choose the window curtains colour for your home arises, you must decide whether you want them to stand out or blend into the colour scheme of the space.

Keep in mind that light colours allow in more light, thus making the space to appear larger, while dark colours seem to constrict the area.

Considering that curtains are costly and a long-term investment, you should avoid fads and pick a colour that you love.

2. Weight

In areas where little light is required such as bedrooms, a heavy triple weave fabric such as velvet, suede and tweed is appropriate.

For places where you want to allow in a lot of sunlight, use lightweight bright-coloured curtains or use sheer curtains that provide for a good view without compromising on privacy.

3. Texture

Texture can be visual or tactile, and it helps determine the mood of a room. Fabrics such as velvet, and suede have tactile or 3D texture, which adds a luxurious textured look to a room.

Visual texture on plain fabric is achievable through prints and patterns. To avoid a cluttered and busy look, go for solid coloured curtains if the carpet or upholstery on your furniture has bold patterns or texture.

Always keep in mind that patterns can make a room appear larger or smaller.

4. Thermal insulation

If you want curtains that will provide insulation during the cold season, invest in heavy fabrics such as velvets and silk.

Alternatively, you can have your curtains fully lined in case they are made from a medium or light-weight fabric or use them in combination with blinds. The air trapped between the layers prevents loss of heat through the windows.

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5. Fabric type

Fabric composition is important since it determines its durability, washability and drapery. You should seek professional advice on a fabric’s properties before making a purchase.

Natural fibres, especially silk, can be destroyed by direct sunlight and should be avoided in area of high exposure.

If you are lining your curtains, ensure the lining material has the same properties as the main fabrics to avoid difficulties in laundering.

Lastly, before settling on the window curtain fabric, take a sample and view it in the area you plan to fit it to see if it will have the desired effect.

Some fabrics have colour variations depending on the strength of light they are exposed to.

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