Curtains are often the crowning glory of a room but where do you start? Pelmet, pole, pattern, plain…. the choice is endless. Below, our interiors expert Bee helps to navigate the curtains and blinds maze.

 

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First decide whether you need low maintenance window treatments for ease of cleaning.

Or high maintenance for a more glamorous look.

Low maintenance fabrics are cotton or synthetic fabrics, which are great for washing and allergies.

 

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High maintenance are more expensive fabrics, with pleats and details that will need dry cleaning.

Heavier curtains suit more traditional décor.

Whilst sheers suit more contemporary décor.

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Decide how much sunlight you want to come through, at the outset.

Then make decisions on linings, and interlinings, choosing bumph for a chunky cosy feel.

As a rule of thumb we always use black lining for all rooms, as it protects artwork as well as creating darkness.

We measure the width of the frame and then multiply it by 2.5 to give you the fabric required.

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We love neutral fabrics as then tend to date less quickly, you can add colour in accessories, as these are less expensive to change.

An inexpensive way to add detail is to use a trim or contrasting fabric for the leading edge.

Choose a curtain heading that suits the space, gathered or cottage pleats for ease of washing, and a more relaxed feel.

Triple pinch pleat or goblet headings create a more formal feel.

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We use blinds for windows in a recess but be aware of the light they will block out.

Roller blinds are useful for blackout and sheers for privacy.

Framing a window is also nice, we use rolled up fabric with leather straps, which makes a lovely faux blind.

Electric blinds are incredibly useful, if you are a techno, creating good security too, as they are operational from your phone whilst away.

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Our two rules of thumb are never to use silk for a window treatment as it fades and rots.

Never hang curtains at cill length, it is my pet hate!

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Bee brings a personal approach to each client and over the past two decades has designed a vast array of residential and commercial properties, both in the UK and overseas.  Inchbald trained, Bee and her professional team provide expertise, attention to detail and exceptional creativity to every project they undertake, whether it is a home or a boutique hotel.