Window coverings come in many types. Curtains, blinds and shutters are all viable options for your home.
However, it can be challenging to know where to deploy them. Yes, you can put curtains in the kitchen, but are they really the best option?
In this post, we take a look at the dimensions along which you should consider window coverings. Check out the following.
Aesthetics
First, you want a window covering that reflects the mood of the space. Anything you choose should enhance the style and character of the space.
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In many cases, drapes are the best option, particularly in communal rooms where you want to create a sense of opulence.
In bijou kitchens, roller blinds might be the superior choice. That’s because they add a cleanliness and crispness to the room that you can struggle to get with other types of window dressing.
Views
You’ll also want to consider how your window fitting affects views of the outside. Ideally, the fitting should frame the view.
Drapes tend to be good when the view is below you. For instance, you might look down out of a top floor bedroom window onto the garden below.
Blinds, on the other hand, are a good option if you have south-facing views. These allow you to carefully set the amount of light coming into your rooms.
Privacy
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You’ll also want to consider the level of privacy that your window dressings offer, particularly if you live in a property with ground floor rooms close to the street.
Sheer curtains are a good idea during the day. This allows you to prevent people from peering into your property from outside. You can also use blinds, but you will need to keep them slanted so that they block views of your rooms.
In some cases, privacy doesn’t matter. In which case, you’re free to choose a window dressing that fulfills your other criteria. You may also have sand-blasted glass windows, again preventing people from looking in.
Energy Rating
Homeowners may also want to consider energy rating. Thick, thermal curtains tend to perform best in this regard as they act like blankets, keeping energy in the room. Blinds and shades don’t work as well since they do not contain any insulating air pockets that prevent warmth from escaping.
You can search for the energy efficiency of your curtains online. Most manufacturers will provide you with a rating.
Light Control
Shades, blinds and curtains should also regulate the amount of light entering your rooms. Windows facing south (if you are in the northern hemisphere) will always receive more light than those facing other directions.
In some cases, you may wish to use blackout curtains. These prevent unwanted sunlight from entering your rooms. You can also get special types of blinds that prevent light from penetrating, though these are rare.
Moreover, in other rooms, you may want to encourage light to enter. For instance, you might opt for sheer curtains in the living room to maximise the amount of light during the day.
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