WHY CURTAINS & BLINDS ARE ONE OF THE MOST SIGNIFICANT INTERIOR DESIGN INVESTMENTS FOR YOUR HOME
Curtains & blinds are often underestimated as an aspect of Interior Design, yet they play a crucial role in shaping the ambiance, thermal control & functionality of a room. Choosing the right curtains can enhance natural light, add privacy, & have a key role in bringing together the overall aesthetic of your space. Whether you’re redecorating a room or moving into a new home, understanding the key factors in selecting curtains can make a significant difference in your interior design journey & your long-term investment.
Curtains & Blinds are a key focal point.
When we look at the design of a space, the areas which visually dominate the most are those positioned at eye height. Placed in the context of interior design, this space is most often the walls & windows. Therefore, curtains & blinds become a key element in the design of your space, especially when they are closed.
When considering colour, pattern & fabric, it is important to choose something which you will be able to ‘live with’ for years to come. That vibrant pattern in a trending pop of colour, may be wonderful for now, however if the trend passes quickly can date a space before you know it.
Not only this, pattern, colour & texture can greatly impact the mood of a space. Therefore, it is important to consider how you would like your room to feel. Once again, a vibrant red pattern with lots of movement may not be appropriate for a bedroom where you intend on retreating at the end of the day. Choosing tones which are harmonious, & calming would be more appropriate to create a tranquil space.
Function over form
Before delving into colour, pattern, & fabric, it’s essential to determine the primary function of your window furnishings. Considering elements of privacy, light control, or insulation is key to ensuring your space is comfortable to live in.
For bedrooms & spaces where privacy & thermal control is paramount, consider thicker fabrics or blackout curtains that effectively block out light & offer thermal control properties. In contrast, sheer curtains are ideal for spaces where you want to maintain privacy while allowing ample natural light to filter through, such as a living room, dining space or sunroom.
Remember: Where thermal control becomes a consideration in selecting window furnishings, there are financial savings on energy costs to heat or cool your home.
Optimising light & space
The amount of natural light in a room can influence your choice of curtains. In North facing rooms flooded with sunlight, lightweight fabrics such as linen or cotton voile can help diffuse the light whilst still providing privacy. On the other hand, for rooms with limited natural light, you might like to opt for lighter-coloured curtains that can reflect what light there is & create a brighter, more open feel.
Additionally, consider the size & height of the windows. Floor-to-ceiling curtains can add height & drama to a room, whilst shorter curtains can make a space feel cozy & intimate.
This is where professionally fitted blinds are well worth their investment, which are carefully measured to ensure your curtains are the right length & width for your windows.
A decision for your future investment
Choosing your window furnishings wisely can offer the long-term benefits towards the value of your property. Should you place your property on the market, the photos will be the very first impression to draw potential buyers in. The quality, functionality, & street appeal that the curtains & blinds offer the property may well become an important factor when a buyer is considering how much they wish to pay come sale day.
Additionally, carefully considered window furnishings, that are professionally fitted may well impact your energy bills during summer & winter as you attempt to heat or cool your home.
Conclusion
Chosen poorly, the investment you make in window furnishings can become a very costly exercise, particularly when you consider the visual, functional, & thermal impact they make towards your space. Anne Hogarth, Director of Design & Decoration at Thornton & Blake says, ‘My clients are constantly surprised at what a big impact new curtains & blinds make in their space’.
Arming yourself with the support of a professional interior designer can be worth their weight in gold, not only in ensuring you choose wisely, but also ensuring your window furnishings are fitted correctly, to offer the most benefit for your home, & your lifestyle.
Engaging Thornton & Blake to support you with your Interior Design & window furnishing needs has never been easier, simply click the link book an initial conversation with an experienced interior designer, either over the phone or in our Leura showroom.
