After more than a decade writing about interior design, one thing has been drilled into my brain above all else: good drapery matters. When window treatments are done right, they can completely transform a room.

The catch? Good drapery tends to be custom, and costs can easily climb into the hundreds (or even thousands) of dollars per window.

So when I decided I wanted pinch pleat cafe curtains for my breakfast nook, I went in fully prepared to spend the money on a custom option. I had previously gone the budget-friendly route and purchased inexpensive rod-pocket cafe curtains, which I’d hung with clip-on curtain rings, and it just wasn’t doing anything for the space. I was set on the tailored, elegant look of pinch pleat curtains, which are almost always custom.

I'd already measured, ordered fabric swatches, and was narrowing down my choices when I came across a curtain brand gaining traction on Amazon for its custom-looking, quick-ship pinch pleat curtains at a fraction of the price of actual custom drapery.

I bought them immediately.

The cost for the Amazon curtains was just $43 for two panels (they come in a bunch of lengths and widths, so costs can vary if you go for a full-length curtain), and they were wide enough that I’d only need one panel for each window. Plus, they came with drapery hooks and a set of curtain rings. I was skeptical, and fully prepared to return them, but for under $50, I had to at least see if they lived up to the hype before committing to custom curtains, which would be three times as expensive.

When the curtains arrived, I pulled them out of the box and immediately knew they were a keeper. The fabric was substantial, the pinch pleats were crisp, and they looked remarkably similar to the custom pinch pleat curtains in my bedroom. On first impression, they very much exceeded my expectations for $43.

Once I decided I was going to hang them, I started inserting the included drapery hooks, which required some finessing at first until I got the hang of it. I did end up purchasing a different set of curtain rings to hang them with, because the set came with black rings and I wanted brass to match my curtain rod. (The rings were just $11 for 40, so my all-in cost for my new cafe curtains was $54). And then, I slid each curtain onto the rod.

Honestly, they look great. A huge improvement over my old rod-pocket style, and they have that tailored, substantial look I was after.

Another plus? The curtains come in 17 color options, from neutrals (I went with ‘beige white’, which is a warm ivory/off-white color) to various shades of blue, green, and pink solids. Not every color is available in every length, but there is plenty of variety.

What was honestly the most impressive part of this drapery, aside from the price, is that there are so many sizes and color options, and they all ship in a few days. Typically, if you’re looking for a non-standard drapery size, like a 40” x 30” cafe curtain or a 70” x 102” pinch pleat drapery panel, it would be a custom order that could take weeks to come in. These drapes come in all sorts of options, and most arrive in under 48 hours.

As a custom curtain devotee, it’s safe to say that I didn't expect much from an Amazon curtain. And I was wrong.

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In the bedroom of my first apartment, I was lucky enough to have a large, double-hung window that overlooked the city below me. As much as I loved the view, I knew I needed something to hang in front – a set of curtains to decorate the space and provide some level of privacy. I initially wanted a long, billowing style, but I was met with one concern – the radiator beneath the window.

Back then, I thought any curtain idea that could shield the unattractive look of a large and clunky radiator was a good one. But should curtains hang in front of a radiator? And would that affect radiator efficiency, or worse, become a safety hazard? These were the questions I asked myself back then, and because I didn't know where to find the answers, I left my window as it was.

Years later, and now that I have a network of connections in the interiors industry, I have the answers to those exact questions. Read on to find out what design experts have to say about the common curtain-over-radiator predicament.

Should Curtains Hang Over Radiators?

Should your curtains or drapes hang in front of the radiator? In most instances, no. However, there are lots of factors to consider.

'Having lived in New York City apartments for over twenty years – each with radiator heating – I can confidently say: never let drapery panels touch the radiator or the exposed pipe leading up to it!' interior designer Darci Hether explains.

Depending on the type of radiator in your home or apartment, hanging curtains in front of it can become a fire hazard – so avoid hanging anything on top or placing anything in front of it.

However, according to design consultant and curtain design specialist Matthias Silverton, the answer is a bit more nuanced when dealing with hot water heating – which is what most homes and apartments with radiators have. In that case, it comes down to efficiency, textile durability, and aesthetics.

'Covering the radiator acts like a barrier, funneling heat straight up the back of the curtain and onto the cold window glass behind,' Matthias explains.

Raymond Yang, Founder of Deconovo, adds to Matthias's sentiment, explaining that 'when curtains fully cover a radiator, heat is trapped behind the fabric, making the room feel cooler and forcing the radiator to work harder.' By covering a radiator with curtains, you're blocking heat from entering the room – leaving you cold and your utility bill heightened.

Not only that, but curtains that hang in front of a heat source are subject to significant discoloration, depending on their material. 'The constant heat can damage the fabric, cause discoloration, and shorten the life of the textile,' Darci tells me.

Can Curtains Hang Over Radiators?

That being said, it's not always a bad idea to hang curtains over radiators. 'If there’s a properly vented radiator cover that extends in front of the unit, you can safely hang drapery panels outside of that footprint – but proceed with caution,' Darci tells me. 'Be mindful of airflow: heavy, floor-length panels can still trap heat and make your heating less efficient.'

Layering window treatments can also be a solution to the curtains-over-radiators issue. Consider styling a window with Roman shades and long curtains that are held back by hooks. The Roman shade can provide privacy while the long curtains deliver aesthetic appeal. When the radiator is on, tuck them back, and when it's off, let them flow freely.

So, while there are some instances in which curtains can hang over radiators, it's more often than not considered a curtain mistake to avoid. Sure, long curtains might give you that dramatic, billowing effect, but with potential safety hazards, efficiency issues, and textile durability matters in question, it's best to forgo long curtains styles on windows with radiators underneath.

What Coverings Are Best for Windows With Radiators Beneath?

Now that we know that long curtains aren't ideal for windows with radiators underneath, which types of window treatment ideas are better?

'We would recommend using shorter curtains that end just above the radiator or installing the curtain rod slightly wider so that the panels can open completely to the sides and expose the radiator,' Raymond tells me. For short curtains, Raymond suggests hanging them about an inch or two above the radiator to ensure that they don't touch its surface. 'This length prevents heat buildup and protects the fabric's color and finish,' he explains.

Like Raymond, Darci also recommends going wide. 'When possible, I like to mount the hardware a bit wider and higher than the window so panels can frame the opening beautifully without interfering with the radiator,' she says. 'You get the look of full drapery – and the warmth – without the risk or wear.'

But if you want to completely put your mind at ease, you can always forgo curtains completely and solely rely on blinds to cover your radiator-stricken windows. As Raymond tells me, styles like Roman shades, roller blinds, or bamboo shades 'allow full heat circulation above the radiator.'

Shop Window Styling Essentials

Whether you have a radiator under the window or not, these window styling essentials can help you make the most of the windows in your home. Shop them, below.

Now you know: it's best to refrain from hanging curtains over radiators – for the safety of your home, the efficiency of your heating system, and the look of your curtains.

Next time you need to measure for curtains, take into account the radiator beneath your window and allow enough space for heat to flow freely.

Curtains instantly make any room look and feel cozier – they are an absolute must in my book. However, living in rentals for most of my adult life has often meant I have had to go without them, or try propping up a tension rod (which usually came down a few days later).

Imagine how annoyed I was when I finally discovered these renter-friendly Tap Brackets, from Amazon, which allow you to hang curtains in under 60 seconds without damage, three years after I needed them.

I wish I had these renter-friendly curtain rod holders when I was in college to hang curtains without drilling – here’s why.

Renter-friendly curtain rod holders

The brackets are super simple to use. To hang curtains, all you have to do is line the bracket up with the top of your window frame and use a hammer (from Lowe’s to tap the bracket into your frame. No extra nails, no screws, and no drills needed for this decorating tip to make a rental feel like home.

The bracket will leave a super tiny hole on the very top of your window frame, but it will not be visible to any landlords. If you want to be extra safe, you can always patch it with the tiniest amount of wood filler, also from Lowe’s, but this is not a necessary step.

With over 1,000 five-star reviews, thousands of renters and homeowners alike also love just how convenient these tap brackets are for sprucing up their homes.

Verified Amazon shopper Misty, hailed them as ‘great for apartments,’ sharing, ‘My apartment also has a “no drilling” rule, so I didn’t know what to do. I bought this product, and it took 60 seconds to install. It instantly solved all my problems. Whoever made this is a genius! It’s so simple it’s ridiculous. Love it! Definitely a must buy.’

Fellow shopper Angel added, ‘It may be a bit exaggerated, but I think these things practically saved my marriage! We tried to hang curtains before, and it was awful. But these were so easy to install, just as described. Good quality too.’

What to shop

The only downside to these brackets is that your curtain rods will be situated directly atop your window frame, giving you little control over how high to hang curtains around your home. If it is this or no curtains, however, we know which option we would settle for – curtain ideas all the way!

Incorporating decorating trends from the past decades into modern schemes is a wonderful way to create spaces with character, personality, and an important element of history.

Increasingly interior designers are mixing vintage trends and styles from across the eras to create eclectic, lived-in spaces that have evolved organically over time.

If you’re a purveyor of the past, or simply have an adoration for vintage style, these are my favorite nostalgic interior design trends making a comeback in 2025. They could be the inspiration you’re looking for to turn back the hands of time, at least in your home.

1. Charming Chintz

Chintz and florals were so overdone in the early 80s that everyone got sick of them; after that the aesthetic of the 90s was very gray and boring. Now there’s been a full circle and we’re coming back to the floral look.

Once dismissed as old-fashioned, this flowery pattern style is back in a more refined guise yet still as delightful as ever. After centuries of appeal, Chintz continues to resonate with new generations of decorators in both modern and archival-inspired depictions.

And it is not just Chintz, but the beauty of florals in a home is that they make a house feel alive: they remind us of the natural world outside and give it that sense of fluidity and movement. The patterns often include greens, too, which is a color I’m always drawn to and crave. It is an aesthetic that reminds me of the homey abodes of older relatives and grandparents – a look that embodies 'home' for many.

Interior designer Sarah Vanrenen shares my penchant for floral room ideas.

'I actually think florals can be timeless when done well,' she says. 'Whenever I’m abroad I visit any flea market I can find, and I always find myself drawn to the stalls selling vintage fabrics – the fabrics are like jewels to me. I love drawing inspiration from the prints and then doing something new with them. You can make old designs look more contemporary by changing the color palette or scale, which is something that applies both for when I’m designing a fabric or if I’m planning a room.'

Few, if any, textiles can rival Chintz for the revelations it throws upon the tapestry of global trade, cultural intersection, and international competition in technical skill. The story of Chintz is one of artistry and innovation, colonialism and craft, indigenous knowledge, and industrialized production. It is also the story of the power of design – which not only captivates worldwide admiration but also has the power to ignite rivalries for commercial dominance.

2. Pelmets and trims

Traditionally only now found in grand period properties, pelmets are seeing a resurgence in modern-day country homes in 2025.

‘You should always consider a pelmet,’ says Emma Deterding, founder and creative director of Kelling Designs. ‘They offer an extra level of detail to your window dressing while providing a way to hide curtain poles and fixtures. If you have a neutral scheme, you can bring charm to the space with a pelmet in a shapely design or bold fabric. If you have vibrant curtains, then opting for a pelmet in a neutral fabric would work well. But why not use the same bright fabric on the pelmet as the curtains, to make your window dressings sing?’

If a pelmet is just a little too 'dated' for your taste, try a trim instead. Edging your curtains with trim is an excellent way to add character and color to your window treatment ideas.

‘There are a number of benefits to adding braids or fringes to curtains. If I have a very patterned or textured scheme, I might keep the curtains a muted color but add interest with a colorful braid or fringe. A bold trim can also help frame a window and draw the eyes to the view outside,’ says Sarah Peake, founder of Studio Peake.

‘When adding a braid on the leading edge of a curtain, remember to ask the curtain maker to insert it on the top of the first fold, so it really stands out – otherwise, you risk it getting lost among the folds of the curtain.’

3. Rich brown color schemes

As a child, it was impossible to escape the brown color scheme in residential homes. The mahogany furniture, faux brick wallpaper, and predominantly brown carpets and rugs were absolutely everywhere. I loathed it for many years until quite recently, when I realized the positive benefits and decorating versatility of decorating with brown.

Considered a dark neutral, earthy brown is grounding but also has an elegance that is truly sophisticated. Versatile, it can be striking on its own or allow other hues to stand brand.

Brown is polychromatic, so it goes with everything. Don’t be scared to use dark colors in a small, gloomy room. It’s never going to look light, so choose a fab, rich color, and the effect can be truly transformative.

It would appear that our parents and grandparents were on to something with their floor-to-ceiling brown room ideas. However, these days, we recommend throwing in splashes of accent color to add a contemporary edge to your home. My favorite options, such as yellow, pink, and orange, will give your space the sparkle that was lacking in the 1980s.

Alternatively, add depth and dimension by mixing brown hues together. Offering myriad warm hues that sit harmoniously together, the fall-inspired brown palette is loved by designers for its ability to create relaxed, grounding spaces with enduring appeal.

‘I adore combining various brown hues,’ explains fabric designer Vanessa Arbuthnott. 'Walking through woodland is so inspirational, with leaves falling and crunching underfoot in rust, terracotta, and ochre. These colors give interiors a calmness and a feeling of serenity. They sit back in a room and don’t jump out at you.'

Cocooning and surprisingly versatile, browns, in particular, are growing in popularity, and are celebrated in Little Greene’s much-loved Sweet Treats collection. ‘Browns and honey-hued colors are re-taking their rightful place in our interiors once again. Shades of honey, caramel and chocolate will bring warmth and comfort into our homes, creating cozy enveloping spaces,’ says Ruth Mottershead.

The beauty of decorating with brown is that the tones work wonderfully layered together, but also naturally complement the timber and stone prevalent in period homes. It is a color that I am welcoming back into my home in 2025.

Interior designers and homeowners alike love decorating with vintage, as it creates interiors with soul, personality, and stories to tell. If choosing to invite nostalgia into your home, take a look back at photography, mementos and heirlooms from the past.

Combining new pieces with those from across the decades brings unique personality to interiors. However, it’s a careful balancing act – too much vintage and spaces can end up looking like a museum but, when carefully curated vintage trends can really enhance a room.

Stripes have long been incorporated into interiors. From nautical styles to more whimsical and playful looks, there's always been a place for stripes in the home. They're (surprisingly) neutral and tend to look good in most spaces, adding interest with their bold color and striking pattern.

We witnessed stripes having a moment in 2024 and it seems the design trend continues this year with designers opting for an even more pronounced look. Taking its name from the pattern-drenching trend, the 'stripe-drenched' look is similarly impactful and bold. While it's not for everyone, there are many variations of the style but the full-force, large-scale stripe look has turned our heads and impressed us with its potency.

Speaking with design experts, we've got the scoop the stripe-drenching trend and discovered designers' favorite ways to decorate with stripes in their projects.

1. Try perfectly matched stripes

Meticulously matched stripes are an impressive look. This type of stripe-drenching is best described as a head-to-toe look, where an interior is entirely doused in coordinating stripes, much like the pattern-drenching trend.

The room designed by Lulu & Georgia showcases the look best, where the sofa has been upholstered and skirted in a print that perfectly matches the wallpaper. It's undoubtedly a big statement and a bit of a design risk (that we aren't all willing to take) but you've got to admire the bravery of the stripe-drench look and its one-of-a-kind distinctiveness.

If you're braving the stripe-drench style, the key is to consider the details. Stripes are (of course) crucial in this look, but the smaller accompaniments will tie the overall look together and make the room look coordinated. Consider highlighting smaller areas by matching them to the stripes, like painting the window frame with the same paint shade.

Another way of creating a unified look is to bring in contrasting decor that complements and enhances the room. The hard part is finding a coordinating wallpaper and upholstery fabric, but once you've sourced these, the rest is easy.

2. Vary the stripe directions

A variation of the stripe-drench is cohesive clashing which involves pairing multiple stripe patterns together in one room. Cohesive is the important part of this term as you want your stripes to harmonize side-by-side while appearing intentionally clashed.

The key to creating a contrasting stripe look is choosing two patterns that have both differences and similarities. The crucial part of this look by Farrow & Ball is the intentional use of contrasting wallpapers, that clash in color and stripe direction but are very similar in pattern.

Patrick O'Donnell, Brand Ambassador at Farrow & Ball explains that, 'Stripes can change the dynamics in a room. Be as delicate or as bold as you dare. We have seen braver choices, almost to the point of happy clashing.'

3. Go for a classic look with heritage stripes

Although stripe-drenched is a current trend, there are many examples of striped interiors that are totally timeless. You can often find them in historic buildings as they 'highlight architectural nuances such as curves and angles,' says Carol Miller, trend and color expert at York Wallcoverings.

Mark D. Sikes is known for his love of stripes. He almost always incorporates striped print in his designs and credits this to its versatility and timelessness. He describes the pattern as, 'classic, tailored, easy on the eye, and universally beloved. Everyone likes them – women, men, young and old. I like stripes best when rooms are “stripe-drenched” – placing one stripe on everything.'

Stripes are often synonymous with classic heritage style. They can be preppy and expensive looking but also bring a sense of coziness and comfort despite their often loud connotations. 'There is heritage and familiar warmth in the use of stripes that help tell the story of any room,' adds Carol.

Creating a classic striped space is all about choosing a color scheme with two tones. The heritage stripe interior is white or cream and is paired with a blue, green, or red. Acknowledging the latter color, the decor is color-matched to tie the space together and create a unified look.

4. Pair different stripe widths

We've seen looks with varied stripe directions, but stripe width is just as important when creating a 'drenched' look. Combining stripe patterns in varying widths is a great way to create drama through layering the print.

'Combining thick and thin stripes creates a dynamic, layered look that adds visual interest. The boldness of thick stripes draws attention, while the thinner stripes help balance the contrast, bringing a sense of rhythm and harmony to the pattern.' says Hannah Reach, Brand Manager at WallPops

When designing a space with stripes in mind, establish a shared color palette and then incorporate your striped wallpaper, furnishings, and decor. This will ensure the room is not overwhelmed and feels cohesive yet quirky.

Hannah gives a great example of this look, saying, 'For instance, if your walls feature bold red and white awning stripes, balance them with pinstripes or hairline stripes in coordinating red or white tones for upholstery, curtains, or artwork.'

5. Create texture with tiled stripes

Although stripe drenching is usually achieved with paint ideas or wallpaper, other materials can create a stripe pattern on your walls. If you're fully committed to the stripe look and want to make a statement, tiles are a less common yet equally effective method of drenching your space in stripes.

Albeit being a more permanent choice, tiled stripes are dramatically bold in scale and size, making them great for smaller or more secondary spaces. Fully drenched stripes are a big statement so incorporating them in a small room will still create impact and prevent the risk in your bigger communal rooms.

Noz Nozawa likes to use stripe drenching in smaller rooms like the bathroom. She says, 'I love to start by adding patterns to the walls and/or ceiling – the largest surfaces of a space. Stripes are a timeless, "safe" pattern for folks who want more from their surfaces than solids because you can limit a whole room to just two colors (if your stripes are alternating colors) and still pack in plenty of boldness.'

We often see tiling in the bathroom, like the image above where the room has been tiled head-to-toe in uniform yellow and white stripes. Lauren Stephens has added a blue and white vertical striped shower curtain to unite the scheme.

Stripe-drenching is undoubtedly bold but we love the bravery of designers who have approached this style head-on and committed to the stripe. There are various ways to douse your space in stripes but with these expert tips to guide you, drenching your home in this iconic pattern has never been easier.

2025 is going to be all about characterful rooms. Adding textiles, texture, and color are among the ways to bring personality to a space, and curtains are among the most underrated ways to do this. While we often discuss the role soft furnishings play in customizing a design, curtains are usually left out of that conversation. Drew and Johnathan Scott, formally known as The Property Brothers, want to change this.

The iconic renovating duo launched a celebrity home decor collection with Kohl's in 2019, and it's full of curtains we want to add to our homes this year. From blackout to sheer curtains, Drew and Johnathan's range provides drapery for every room at a competitive price. The materials are high quality and add a hint of texture, while maintaining a neutral color and feel that could fit into any room.

The brothers are just as thrilled about their curtain ideas as we are. In a press release for the launch, Johnathan exclaims: 'We are excited for the opportunity to collaborate with Kohl’s to create a lifestyle brand that allows families to outfit their homes with our exclusive furniture, bedding, bath, home décor, and more.' Drew added: 'Scott Living incorporates modern, stylish home design without sacrificing the functionality and value we know families need, and we’re thrilled to work with Kohl’s to bring this to life for customers nationwide.'

Styling modern curtains to elevate any room is a matter of balancing design and functionality. For instance, I would recommend using more opaque curtains in a bedroom, and more sheer curtains in a living room where you do not need to block out as much light. You can also decide if you'd prefer to use solids or patterns around the windows, based on what other patterns or colors are in the room. Curtains are a great way to engage with the 'pattern drenching' trend and cover your entire home in bright and brilliant pattern. No matter your style, Scott living is a great place to start.

Curtains may feel like an afterthought to your design, but when they're this easy to install, simple, and affordable, it's a no-brainer.

As the cold winter weather sets in, keeping your home warm and energy-efficient becomes a top priority. One of the biggest causes of heat loss in homes, particularly older ones, is poorly insulated windows.

Whether you’re dealing with drafty single panes or crafting solutions for quirky window shapes, finding the right window insulation method can make a noticeable difference in comfort and heating bills. Fortunately, there are plenty of practical, affordable, and even stylish options available to help you prepare a house for cold weather.

In this guide, we explore some of the most effective methods to insulate windows for the colder months. With five tips from our experts, suited to different types of windows, you're sure to find a method that fits your style, budget, and home design.

1. Install weatherstripping

'Weatherstripping is one of the simplest and most cost-effective ways to block drafts around windows,' recommends Bob Berriz, owner of Berriz Design Build. 'This flexible material can be applied along the edges of sashes or frames to create a tight seal. It’s ideal for older homes where windows may not close tightly anymore, and it’s easy to install and remove without causing damage.'

According to Bob, Frost King’s Self-Adhesive Weatherstrip Tape available at Walmart is a reliable choice. 'It comes in different widths and materials, such as foam and rubber, to suit your window type. For homes with wooden window frames, consider a felt weatherstripping, which is gentler on the finish.'

To apply, clean the window surface thoroughly, measure the perimeter, cut the weatherstripping to size, and press it firmly into place. With its easy installation, you’ll notice a significant reduction heat loss immediately, and feel the benefits of DIY draft proofing. This works particularly well when paired with putting your windows in winter mode, to guarantee maximum heat retention.

2. Use a window Insulation film

Window insulation film is a popular solution to insulating windows because it’s almost invisible once applied. The film shrinks when heat is applied to it, and is stretched across the inside of your windowpane and secured using double-sided tape. This forms an airtight layer that reduces heat transfer and eliminates drafts.

'The 3M Indoor Window Insulation Kit is a best-seller for a reason,' continues Bob. 'It includes everything you need for installation and the product is known for its clarity and durability.'

'To install, attach the film to the frame, leaving some extra. Next, use a hairdryer to shrink the film until it’s taut and smooth. This method is especially effective for single-pane or older windows.'

Therefore, while triple pane windows are worth it, this is an affordable, budget-friendly option that's suitable for rental properties, too.

3. Hang thermal curtains or insulated drapes

Adding thermal curtains or insulated drapes is a great curtain hack for a warmer home in winter. They’re made with dense fabrics and often feature a thermal lining designed to trap heat inside the room. These are particularly useful for homes with large windows or patio doors, where other solutions might be less effective.

'INOVADAYs Thermal Insulated Blackout Curtains from Amazon are stylish, affordable, and come in a wide range of colors to match your decor,' continues Bob. 'For extra efficiency, look for curtains with triple-weave technology.'

To maximize their effectiveness, hang the curtains as close to the window as possible and ensure they extend a few inches beyond the frame on all sides. When drawn, they’ll create a snug barrier that keeps warm air inside and cold air out.

4. Install insulating cellular shades

'Cellular shades, also known as honeycomb shades, are an elegant and highly effective way to insulate your windows,' recommends Sabi Kampeas, CEO and founder of Kasa201 LLC. 'Their unique design features pockets of air trapped within the cells, which act as a barrier to heat transfer. Cellular shades are available in various levels of opacity, from sheer to blackout, making them a versatile choice for your windows in any room.'

Sabi recommends the Bali Cellular Shades from Home Depot, which are also rated 4.5 out of 5 by customers, as they offer excellent insulation properties and come in customizable sizes to fit your windows perfectly.

These shades are easy to install and operate, providing an attractive, low-maintenance solution for year-round insulation.

5. Draft snakes

Draft snakes are a charming and inexpensive way to block drafts at the base of your windows, and doors for that matter. These fabric tubes are filled with materials like sand, wheat, foam or rice and can be placed along window sills or between sashes to prevent cold air from seeping in.

'While you can buy ready-made draft snakes, such as the Fowong Twin Draft Guard from Amazon, making your own can be a fun and personalized project,' says Sabi. 'Simply sew a fabric tube and fill it with rice, beans, or even old socks for an eco-friendly solution.'

Place the draft snake snugly against the window to see an immediate difference. This solution is practical for quirky or hard-to-fit windows, as they can be customized to any size.

Similar to winterizing your home, winter-proofing your windows doesn’t have to be an arduous task as there’s a solution for every home and budget.

Insulating your windows not only keeps your home cozy but also helps reduce heating loss. So, why wait? Take the time to insulate your windows now and enjoy a warm, draft-free home all winter. Next, learn how to draft proof your living room or draft proof your bedroom for maximum comfort when relaxing.

Kitchen cabinet curtains have been a huge trend this year, and it's not hard to see why. They can offer a bold splash of pattern and a tactile texture into the room in the home which is often the most hard, angular and plain.

The idea of a kitchen cabinet curtain may make you think of your grandparents' house, and you are not wrong. The trend has circled back around and is making waves in all the most stylish of kitchens.

Tapping into the kitchen trend for Cottagecore – a cute, English countryside style – kitchen curtains are best suited to more traditional, shaker style kitchens. While most commonly used under the sink, they can in fact be used as a replacement to any or all of your lower cabinets.

As with any design decision you make for your kitchen, there are practicalities to keep in mind. So before you tear out your cabinet doors and in favor of your latest favorite print,

We've spoken to interior designers and kitchen experts to share the pros and cons of going soft, and how you can make a kitchen curtain work for your space. So scroll down before you tear out your cabinets and hang a pole, there is much to be considered.

The pros of switching cabinet doors for curtains

Kitchen cabinet curtains bring a soft feel to a scheme

A key reason why you should replace your kitchen cabinet with a curtain, is because they bring a softness and warmth to a scheme, making it feel instantly more homely.

'Adding cabinet curtains complements a casual aesthetic and can make kitchens feel more like inviting, lived-in rooms rather than purely functional, utilitarian spaces,' says Lauren Lothrop Caron, founder of Studio Laloc. 'Kitchens typically feature hard finishes, so curtains are great for bringing a softer feel to the space, creating a homey atmosphere that aligns with the current popular design direction.'

As more and more of us want our kitchens to be more like comfortable living areas rather than simply places to cook, we're spending more time and money on making them feel comfortable, as well as practical.

An increasing desire for swapping cabinets for curtains 'reflects a broader shift towards embracing more relaxed, homey interiors that balance functionality with a cozy, lived-in feel,' says Victoria Fletcher, senior buyer at Garden Trading.

They offer design flexibility

As curtains are generally easy to swap in and out, they offer more design flexibility, allowing for an easy way to chop and change your kitchen's look. If you're someone who tires of a scheme easily or likes to adapt your rooms to the season, this is a great way to do that.

'With so many different fabrics and colors to choose from, you can really have fun mixing and matching your ‘doors,' says Molly Mahon, founder of a British textiles company of the same name. 'They are so easy to change and you can have a set or two that you can interchange when the mood takes you, or when they need a quick wash, bringing an instant refresh to your kitchen.'

And you don't need to stop at just two designs. 'Kitchen cabinet curtains offer endless design possibilities, allowing you to easily change fabrics with the seasons or interior design trends, giving your kitchen a fresh look without a complete overhaul,' says Lauren Gilberthorpe, creative director at Lauren Gilberthorpe Interiors.

Cabinet curtains are very cost-effective

If you're keen to spend your money wisely, a curtain can be considerably less expensive than a run of cabinet doors, so the money you save can be put towards other design features, like a granite worktop or statement kitchen tiles.

'Replacing cabinet doors with curtains can often be more budget-friendly than custom cabinetry,' says Lauren Gilberthorpe.

And Victoria agrees, 'Curtains are a cost-effective solution for updating cabinets without the expense of new doors.' Even a high quality, water resistant curtain will be less expensive than the least expensive of doors, so it's a great way to get an expensive look for less.

The cons of switching cabinet doors for curtains

Cabinet curtains provide less protection

While a solid door completely conceals what's behind it, providing a barrier from steam, dust, and smells, a curtain simply doesn't offer the same degree of protection.

'Unlike solid doors that can keep items safe from dust and grease, curtains may offer less protection for what’s behind them,' says Lauren Gilberthorpe.

This is something to consider if you'll be storing delicate items, or pieces which are precious to you, such a wedding gifts or inherited items. Your best pots and pans, trays or jugs are likely to last longer if they're kept behind a solid door.

'Curtains don’t provide the same level of protection as solid doors, so you may need to be more mindful of dust and spills,' Victoria reiterates.

Don't forget to consider other ways to use kitchen curtains too. 'Curtains tend to work best in spaces where practicality isn’t the highest priority, such as the laundry rooms. Here, concealing items like the washer and dryer with fabric can help maintain a clean, organized look,' says Victoria.

They trap dust and allergens

Kitchen curtains do tend to get dirtier than cupboards. With excess material which often sweeps across the floor, they can gather dust and dirt very easily.

'As curtains can attract dust and allergens, they may not be ideal for those with sensitivities,' says Lauren. If you have a condition or allergy that's worsened by dust, it may be best to avoid this design feature.

It's not surprising, then, that kitchen curtains may require more maintenance than a solid door. 'As they collect dust and dirt easily, they are more time-consuming to maintain,' says Lauren Lothrop Caron.

You can keep the maintenance as simple as possible by choosing the right kind of curtain. 'Be sure to choose durable, easy-to-clean fabrics,' says Victoria. There are even hardy, water-resistant designs out there, which can make removing stains quicker and easier.

They are less durable than doors

If you're a keen chef who treats their kitchen like a pro culinary space, there is a chance a kitchen curtain could be a little impractical. If you're in a hurry, a curtain may slow you down as you hunt for your favorite pan, and it could be fiddly to open and close.

'In kitchens where splashes and spills are common, curtains may require more frequent cleaning than solid doors,' says Lauren Gilberthorpe. 'Fabric may not hold up as well as cabinetry over time, particularly in high-use areas where they can get caught or torn.'

The kitchen cabinet door v curtain debate does mostly come down to aesthetics and if you want to create that cozy farmhouse kitchen feel. But there are practicalities to consider too, a kitchen is a hardworking room and bringing lots of fabric into that space might not work if you and your family like to cook and host. A good option if you like the look but are not sure it's the most practical decision for your space is to have a balance. Maybe just replace a few doors with curtains in areas that don't see a lot of wear and tear, like in the pantry.

A drafty bedroom can disrupt sleep and drive up energy bills, especially during colder months. Draft-proofing helps create a cozy, quiet, and energy-efficient space for your winter slumber.

In this article, heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) experts reveal exactly how to do it, including the best products to use and the common mistakes to avoid.

Knowing how to run and clean your HVAC system, as well as how to draft proof your bedroom, is key to ensuring a warm and comfortable sleep year-round.

Step 1: Inspect windows and doors

Start by identifying the primary sources of drafts. Common culprits are gaps around window frames and under doors. Head of Solved, Punteha van Terheyden found weatherstripping was a quick and easy fix for her drafty front door and this is easily used for bedroom windows and internal doors, too.

Josh Mitchell, HVAC technician and founder of Air Conditioner Lab, says, 'Keeping your bedroom draft-free is essential for a good night's sleep and overall health. Drafts can mess with the temperature, increase your energy bills, and make you more likely to get sick.

'On a windy day, check for drafts by holding a lit candle near window and door frames; any flicker will indicate air leaks. This method is simple and can pinpoint even small leaks that might be overlooked.'

Steve Pacholski, brand president of HVAC experts Varsity Zone, adds, 'Another often-overlooked source of drafts is the gap between baseboards and the floor, so it's worth using your candle to test there also. A flexible caulk can seal those gaps without much effort.'

This multi-use GE Silicone All Purpose Caulk from Lowe's is great for sealing around bedroom windows and doors.

Step 2: Apply weatherstripping

Weatherstripping is one of the simplest and most effective ways to seal gaps around windows and doors.

Mitchell says, 'Install self-adhesive foam or rubber weatherstripping along the frame where the window or door seals with the structure. Ensure the surface is clean and dry before applying to ensure good adhesion. For windows that slide or doors that you use frequently, consider using durable silicone weatherstripping, which performs well against friction and weather elements.'

Mitchell recommends this Frost King M13WH V-Shape Weatherstrip from Walmart, adding, 'This weatherstrip is versatile and easy to install. It's particularly effective for sealing both movable and stationary parts of windows and doors, offering flexibility and durability throughout the seasons.'

Applying insulation film to windows can add another layer of protection. For more tips, check out our guide on how to weatherproof your windows.

Step 3: Use draft stoppers

Draft stoppers are a quick fix for gaps under doors. These can be as simple as a rolled-up towel or a more permanent solution like a weighted fabric stopper.

Mitchell says, 'Door snakes are excellent for blocking drafts under doors. Choose a fabric draft stopper that matches your decor and is heavy enough to stay in place without needing constant adjustment.'

For further tips, check out our guide on how to soundproof a door.

Step 4: Consider heavier curtains

Thermal or blackout curtains add an extra layer of insulation to your windows. They help keep warm air inside during winter and block drafts effectively.

Mitchell says, 'Investing in heavy thermal curtains can drastically reduce window drafts. These curtains also help with thermal insulation, keeping your room warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer.'

Pacholski agrees, recommending the ECLIPSE DraftStopper Room Darkening Curtains from Amazon. He says, 'These curtains are ideal for stopping drafts because of their thick, insulated fabric that can block cold air from windows.'

Our curtain hacks for a warmer home this winter will help bring maximum coziness, including making sure your curtains fully cover the windows and extend beyond the frame.

Step 5: Seal outlets and switch plates

Electrical outlets and light switch plates on exterior walls often allow drafts to enter.

Pacholski says, 'Electrical outlets on exterior walls can easily get overlooked, but they often let unwanted cold air into the room. Installing foam gaskets behind the outlet covers is a simple fix that can stop those sneaky leaks.'

This pack of New Resources Group Electrical Outlet Gasket Covers from Walmart helps to stop drafts in their tracks.

What to avoid

Our experts advise being wary of oversealing, blocking home ventilation, and selecting sealants that might be incompatible with the materials of your bedroom windows or doors.

Pacholski says, 'While draft proofing, it’s important to avoid over-sealing the room. Completely sealing off airflow can create ventilation problems, leading to stale air or moisture buildup, which could cause mold. Instead, focus on sealing obvious gaps while still allowing the room to breathe.'

Mitchell adds, 'Check that the sealants and weatherstripping materials are suitable for the surfaces you're applying them to. For example, some adhesives can damage painted surfaces or varnished wood.

'Also, be careful not to block intentional vents or air supply registers, as these are necessary for your heating and cooling system to function properly.'

Check out our guide to whether you should close vents in unused rooms.

FAQs

Can draft proofing your bedroom help with noise reduction?

Yes, sealing drafts in bedrooms can also reduce noise from outside by blocking gaps that let sound in. Mitchell says, 'Sealing gaps and adding heavy curtains can reduce outside noise, contributing to a quieter bedroom environment.'

Do I need professional help to draft proof a bedroom?

Not necessarily. Most draft-proofing tasks can be done as DIY projects with basic tools. However, if you have significant structural issues, moisture problems, or extensive leaks, consulting a professional can ensure long-term effectiveness.

What's the most cost-effecting draft proofing measure I can take?

Using weatherstripping or foam gaskets for windows, doors, and outlets is one of the cheapest yet most effective methods. Draft stoppers for doors and rolled-up towels can also work well. Mitchell says, 'Applying weatherstripping is one of the easiest and most effective ways to improve comfort and save energy. It's inexpensive, easy to do, and gives immediate results.'

So there you have it how to draft proof a bedroom like the pros. Draf -proofing your bedroom is a practical way to improve comfort, lower energy bills, and ensure restful sleep. By following these steps and avoiding common mistakes, you’ll create a snug, energy-efficient retreat.

Next, check out the nine essentials our writer can't sleep without and how to draft proof a basement. We also have an expert guide on how to draft proof your living room for a more comfortable winter.

When you're renovating, the bathroom is at the top of your priorities. Of course, you want to start putting in lovely things immediately but if you can't shower or take a bathroom break, there is simply no hope for moving in.

During my renovation, the bathroom was the first 'finished' room. I say finished lightly because it is still missing baseboards, but other than that it is fully functional and pretty aesthetically pleasing in there.

But there was one bathroom renovation mistake I made that I'm now realizing just wasn't the right choice for my bathroom. So let's dive into why I'm regretting the practical, well-loved bathroom window treatment idea and why I'm looking to switch out in the New Year.

At the beginning of our slow renovating journey, we split an upstairs bedroom into two rooms with a partition wall to create an upstairs bathroom.

Of course, there are a few first things to consider when planning a new bathroom like plumbing and tiles before we could get into details, but after we'd finally pieced the room together it was pretty clear we needed to get something up at the window ASAP for some extra privacy. So I took the most obvious, tried-and-tested route and installed a bathroom blind.

Now I'm not one to follow the rulebook entirely, so I chose a relaxed roll-up blind because I like the blend of tailoring with a whimsical edge that offers privacy while fitting the room's aesthetic. However, after living with them for a while, I began to notice a significant downside.

Even when pulled all the way up, the blind blocks a good portion of the top of the window, leaving my bathroom darker than I’d like. And as someone who relies on natural light to brighten up my mornings, it became clear this popular window treatment just wasn’t working for me.

While window blind ideas are great for their purpose and can come in a myriad of colors and prints to suit your style, they often limit how much light enters the room, especially at the top of the window. This means it creates an unintentionally gloomy atmosphere, making my bathroom feel colder and less welcoming.

And of course, when you're planning a small bathroom like mine, window treatments become even more important because you want to maximize light in the space to make it feel bigger and brighter.

My bathroom window is on the side of the house and is actually south-facing but it unfortunately doesn't benefit from a large window or a lot of direct sunlight. So I have had to come up with a plan to rectify this bathroom regret.

Enter cafe curtains. Mostly seen in chic French cafes (hence the name) and designed to cover only the lower portion of the window, these charming vintage-inspired half-window curtains are quite popular with interior designers right now.

Not only are they delicately sweet but cafe curtains provide the privacy I need without sacrificing the natural light streaming in from the top of the window.

Cafe curtains are a wonderful alternative for bathrooms that demand both light and privacy. By allowing daylight to flow freely through the upper portion of the window, cafe curtains create an airy, inviting feel while still concealing a big portion of the window that might need shielding from outside view. They're functional, yet on-trend and an especially charming way to add softness to such an otherwise austere space.

Additionally, the benefit is that they can be installed relatively easily. Unlike blinds or full-length bathroom curtains that often require complex hardware, cafe curtains are lightweight and straightforward to install.

All you need is a tension rod or a small curtain rod, like this Inside-Mount Cafe Set from Rejuvenation which can easily be mounted at the desired height. This minimal hardware not only makes the process quick but also reduces the risk of damaging your walls – a major plus if you're renting, or a little indecisive like me.

If you’re finding that your current window treatments are leaving your space darker than you’d like, consider making the switch to cafe curtains too.

Sometimes, it’s the simplest changes that have the biggest impact on how a space looks and feels. Whether you’re tackling a bathroom renovation or just looking for ways to refresh your space, a new window treatment might just be the upgrade you didn’t know you needed.

In winter, finding ways to keep a house cozy can often feel like an almost impossible task.

From radiators to log-burners, solutions are often expensive and, failing that, ineffective – particularly if you live in an older, or high-ceiling home. But, what if you could increase the insulation of your space, without breaking the bank?

Here, HVAC experts explain how to use your curtain ideas to keep your home toasty, without increasing your energy bills.

Curtain hacks for a warmer winter

1. Choose heavier fabrics

Just like clothing, opting for heavier fabrics for your living room curtain ideas or bedroom curtain ideas will help keep your home warmer.

Al Fouz, owner of Abaco Air Experts in Jacksonville, explains, 'To keep your home warmer in winter, opt for heavier fabrics like velvet or wool for your curtains.

'I've seen how even clients in less frigid climates benefit from these materials. They serve as insulating barriers, much like how properly maintained HVAC united preserve indoor temperature.'

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

2. Use magnetic strips or wooden pelmets

While you may consider pelmets a dated window treatment to avoid, they are an effective way to keep your home cozy. And, if you are really opposed to them, Malak Bellajdel, interior designer and current consultant for Metal Plex, who was recognized as one of Interior Design Magazine's '30 Under 30 Top Designers' in 2023, suggests magnetic strips.

She says, 'On those windy days where your curtains blow slightly, and where the heat floats away, you can use magnetic strips (such as the Blackout Blind Accessory 12 Pair Magnetic Closure with Adhesive for Blackout Curtains available at Amazon) along the top edge of your curtains to stick them to metal window frames.

'For wooden frames, using a simple wooden pelmet works wonders.'

3. Add curtain reflectors

Curtain reflectors work by reflecting your indoor heat back into the room, helping to keep warm air inside, rather than letting it be lost through the window.

Francis Kaspar, HVAC technician at The Chill Brothers, explains, 'They can be a game-changer, especially for older windows that might not be doing their fair share for insulation. Just attach them to your existing curtains, and you're all set.'

For this, Kaspar recommends the Warm Window Insulated Fabric available at The Warm Company, as 'it can keep up to 95% of heat from slipping out the window.'

4. Consider window insulation

HVAC expert Fouz recommends considering window insulation to help your curtains do their job better this winter.

He says, 'For those conscious about air quality, consider window treatments that integrate eco-friendly materials.' This not only helps to cut energy bills, but is also a great way to be sustainable at home.

HVAC expert Kaspar recommends the 3M Indoor Window Insulation available at Amazon, 'A bit of a bonus tip – it goes on your windows and works wonders when paired with thick curtains. This combo will block drafts and save energy!'

5. Layer your curtains

We love layering in interior design, and layering your large window curtain ideas not only looks great, it's practical and affordable, too.

Colin Matei, owner and president of Clean Air Heating & Cooling, says, 'Layering curtains is a practical method that adds not just to the aesthetic but also improves the thermal barrier.

'I recommend a doubled-up approach where a sheer curtain is combined with a heavier thermal layer. This traps air between the layers and acts as an insulating pocket.'

6. Choose longer curtains

Wondering how long curtains should be? Well, if it's warmth you're after, opt for longer, says interior designer Bellajdel.

She says, 'Let your curtains lightly touch the floor or even puddle slightly. Go for two to three inches longer than needed and just make sure they're not so long they become a tripping hazard.'

Conquer how to measure for curtains, and purchase ones with some extra length. This can reduce heat loss by up to 40%, and trap any drafts which may come through the window.

Caulk, such as the GE Momentive Performance Materials GE286 Advanced Silicone 2 Kitchen & Bath Sealant available at Amazon, can also be used to seal gaps in windows and stop cold air leaks. Just make sure you know the places you shouldn't caulk around windows before getting started – basically any moving parts.

7. Add thermal insulated lining

If you don't want to splurge on any new modern curtain ideas, HVAC expert Kaspar suggests insulated liners, instead. He says, 'Insulated liners clip right onto the back of your current curtains. They're like a secret later that works to trap heat inside.'

Kaspar recommends the Thermalogic Ultimate Thermal Energy Saving Blackout Window Curtain Liner available at Amazon, which fits with all curtain styles, as they are, 'simple to install, add weight, and are great at keeping rooms toasty.'

FAQs

Does keeping curtains closed keep heat in during winter?

Simply keeping your curtains closed in winter is a great way to keep your house warm without turning up the heat, helping you to save money at home.

High-quality curtains can reduce heat loss by up to 40%, particularly if they are floor length. Keeping thermal curtains closed will also increase their efficacy.

Still looking for ways to keep a poorly insulated house warm? Why not try using window film or heaters to keep your home feeling comfortable and cozy.

Draft-proofing sunrooms should be top of your to-do list before cold weather hits if you want to be able to continue to enjoy this space just as much through the winter as you did during the summer.

Sunrooms, sometimes also referred to as conservatories, solariums and garden rooms, are notoriously tricky spaces to get the temperature right in – often either overheating in the summer or feeling Arctic in the winter. Happily though, that needn't be the case.

We asked a range of experts for their top DIY draft-proofing tips to ensure that your sunroom stays cozy and warm no matter how low temperatures drop outside.

1. Fill in any gaps around windows and doors

Even if you have taken the time to ensure you aren't making any of the more common heating mistakes when it comes to your sunroom, you might still find it is too cold to spend time in during the winter if you don't address drafty windows and doors.

'All windows and doors have gaps and cracks in the trim and framing that keeps them held into the wall,' explains Josh Rudin, owner at ASAP Restoration LLC. 'Sunrooms, having many more windows that are bigger and often thinner or single paned, have more trouble keeping the internal temperature consistent and inside, where it belongs,' continues Josh. 'Sealing these gaps and cracks can go a long way towards thermal consistency. Simply add some caulking and weather sealant to these areas, sit back and enjoy the energy bill savings.'

'I suggest going heavy on flexible fillers, decorators' caulk, weatherstripping, or similar products to fill any gaps in the windows and wall space,' agrees Timothy Wood, founder and CEO of Fix It Today. 'You could also invest in spray foam insulation to keep heat from escaping the ceiling.'

All prices correct at time of publication.

2. Consider tinted glass or window film

Although often thought of as a method of preventing overheating in a sunroom, certain types of window film can actually help when it comes to keeping them warmer – and when you consider the cost of a sunroom, it makes sense to ensure you can use it as much as possible.

'Using clear plastic insulation film on your windows is the cheapest and easiest way to boost the windows' insulation – in some cases by up to 90%,' says Yaeir Moinzadeh, a MHIC licensed contractor and the owner of Blue Rise Baltimore Roofing.

3. Hang thermal curtains or blinds

While you might not want to block out all the light that your sunroom is designed to allow you to enjoy, as night falls, good quality, thick thermal curtains are the perfect way to keep snug and cozy. If you are dealing with small sunroom ideas, thermal blinds, available at Wayfair, can be a better option as they won't encroach on the space as much.

'If you’re trying to keep a sunroom warm throughout the night, when the most heat loss will occur, you can reduce this loss by adding thick thermal curtains to the windows and drawing them closed at night,' explains Josh Rudin. 'This will help to reduce the amount of contact the air in the sunroom has with the window glass and thus reduce heat transfer through it.'

'Thermal curtains or blinds are indeed a game-changer,' agrees Yaeir Moinzadeh. 'They can significantly reduce heat loss through those giant windows. And, above all, you can install them very easily. The trick is to choose curtains with light colors facing the window. This will help reflect the heat back into the room.'

4. Throw down some heavy floor coverings

This is a trick often used by homeowners looking at how to keep a poorly insulated house warm. Soft floor coverings can really help when it comes to draft-proofing and while you might not want to fit a wall-to-wall carpet in your sunroom, a large thick rug (or two) is a brilliant idea.

'Consider adding a thick, insulating rug – they're not just made to enhance looks,' says Yaeir Moinzadeh.

If your sunroom is often used as a route from your backyard into the rest of your home, be sure to choose a rug that is easy to clean or, even better, machine washable.

5. Don't forget about the ceiling

If your sunroom has a glazed ceiling, as opposed to a solid design, do be sure to check it for drafts in the same way you would your doors and windows.

When looking into how to prepare a house for cold weather, you should be aware that there are ways of drawing rising heat back down into the sunroom itself.

'A common mistake is forgetting about the ceiling,' says Yaeir Moinzadeh. 'As heat rises, warm air accumulates in the upper part of the room. Consider adding a ceiling fan set to rotate clockwise – it will help push warm air back down.'

FAQs

Does a sunroom need ventilation?

If you have been carefully researching ways to improve ventilation in your home, don't forget the importance of this when it comes to the design of your sunroom.

'A common mistake in keeping the sunroom warm is overdoing it,' warns Herbert Post VP of safety and health at Tradesafe. 'Often we are so focused on the task of sealing any gaps that we forget to leave room for proper ventilation. Without the right amount of ventilation, condensation can happen as well as mold growth.'

There are several ways to ventilate a sunroom. In some cases you can tie the sunroom into your HVAC system. However, if this is not an option, you can purchase a portable air conditioner.

This Portable Air Conditioner with Dehumidifier from Amazon balances humidity and helps introduce fresh air.

You could also consider adding a vent fan. These are similar to exhaust fans, but allow hot air in the ceiling space to be vented outside.

Meet the experts

As winter draws ever closer, be sure to familiarize yourself with how to prepare your home for a freeze – you don't want burst pipes and a faulty boiler to contend with.

With details that pique the curiosity at every turn, the house design scheme in this Antwerp home is like a jewel box of surprises. From the tassel fringe on a lampshade to the braid contouring a hand-painted wallpaper; the piping on a sofa to the contrasting lining of a curtain, there is always something to excite the eye.

‘It is the small details that make all the difference,’ notes Stephanie Barba Mendoza, the creative behind these confident yet surprisingly calm interiors. ‘They turn a room from good to great,’ she adds.

Stephanie, who was born and raised in Mexico, cut her teeth with one of the most noteworthy maximalists of our time, Martin Brudnizki, who has studios in both New York and London. She spent 10 formative years at the London practice, and it was her work as lead designer on the exuberant interiors of Mayfair’s private members’ club, Annabel’s, that caught the eye of these homeowners.

‘I had just set up my own studio at the start of 2020 when they contacted me, originally for help with the drawing room,’ she recollects. The couple – he is Belgian, she is Dutch – had built the Tudor-style home on the outskirts of Antwerp six years previously.

‘She is a passionate Anglophile and every detail had been done beautifully using very carefully chosen materials,’ recounts Stephanie. ‘She is also a big collector of antiques and chinoiserie and she loves to be brave with color and pattern. We were a match made in heaven.’

The conundrum the owners faced was how to furnish the large drawing room so that it could feel warm and intimate when just the pair of them were at home (their two teenage children are at boarding school and university).

‘My client loves the English country house style of the American interior designer Mario Buatta, so that was our starting point, together with some gilded chinoiserie mirrors she already owned,’ says Stephanie, whose experience designing for the hospitality industry proved invaluable: ‘I have often designed large rooms to accommodate smaller groups of people, and that’s exactly what we needed here.’

A pair of back-to-back sofas have a zoning effect, effectively dividing the room in half. Within these two spaces, Stephanie has created further intimate pockets, such as an area for playing cards and a reading space next to the fireplace. The star of the show is a hand-painted wallpaper from de Gournay, which is complemented by the owner’s collections of art and antiques as well as fabrics and passementerie that bring a sense of warmth and comfort.

‘I didn’t use any printed fabrics as I felt this room needed something richer: silk velvets for the sofas and more robust tapestry weaves for pieces such as the ottomans, as they double as footstools,’ says Stephanie, who offset these colorful choices with a neutral-toned, leopard-patterned carpet. ‘Like me, the client loves an animal print,’ she approves.

Thrilled with the drawing room, the owners asked Stephanie to turn her attention to other spaces in the house including the family room, the dining space off the kitchen, and the large main suite. For the latter, the brief was a chintz-filled room: ‘I came up with five different options and in the end, the client chose a leafy Jean Monro chintz as it was such a departure from the scheme she had before; I also think that a botanical pattern is good for creating a sense of calm,’ Stephanie says.

The same fabric was used for the walls – where it was backed with paper – bed drapes, armchairs, and blinds, whose sumptuous festoon style adds softness to the windows. The carpet, which features a moiré pattern that complements the headboard fabric, is an archive design by another decorating great, Madeleine Castaing.

‘We tracked down the company in France that still produces Madeleine Castaing carpets and we had five different samples made to get the exact color we wanted,’ says Stephanie, admitting that such exacting levels of detail require a certain degree of patience. ‘We were decorating the house during the depths of the pandemic so everything took time.’

For Stephanie – and, indeed, her clients – that patience has paid off. ‘There is a personality coming through these rooms that reflects the passions and interests of the owners; you really get a sense of who they are,’ she says. ‘I truly believe color and pattern enhance your life – they make it more interesting'.

A bathroom is a space of tranquility, the place we start the day and unwind at the end of it. But a room full of hard lines and cold surfaces doesn't quite give off the right vibe, so more people are replacing their bathroom vanity doors with curtains. But is it a good idea?

Your bathroom vanity ideas are the main furniture piece and storage space, so making the right choices can make or break your design. And while opting for a curtain over a door might be a stylish choice, is it practical in a bathroom?

Here, we've turned to interior designers to find out whether you should replace your bathroom vanity doors with curtains, and whether it's a stylish and practical addition to your bathroom ideas.

Should you replace your bathroom vanity doors with curtains?

A bathroom vanity is one of the most functional features in your bathroom, especially when it comes to hidden storage. It's one of the only places to keep the less aesthetic essentials and linens, but this doesn't mean you can't add a stylish touch.

'While bathroom vanity doors are undeniably practical, replacing them with curtains can infuse softness into a space that may feel quite utilitarian. Curtains not only introduce an element of warmth but also provide an opportunity to add pattern, scale, and color – bringing a touch of fun to a bathroom design,' says interior designer Lauren Gilberthorpe.

As well as adding to the visual appeal of your scheme, there are practical benefits of choosing vanity curtains, too. Creative consultant and textile designer Rosanna Falconer introduced curtains in her bathroom, and it wasn't just for the aesthetic.

'They are much more forgiving to frequent use than heavy doors. Their ease of use encourages a tidy approach to the vanity top, meaning our beautiful creamy Caesarstone quartz can be showcased at its best. It feels calming to have a clean space,' she says.

What's the best fabric to use for bathroom vanity curtains?

There are some things to consider before replacing your bathroom vanity doors with curtains. The fabric you choose needs to not only drape correctly but also be able to withstand the damper conditions of a bathroom.

'When selecting curtains for the bathroom, materials like linen and cotton are superb choices. These fabrics are breathable and have a lovely drape, creating an airy feel while also being easy to care for. For added durability, consider moisture-resistant options such as treated cotton or polyester blends, which can withstand the humidity typical of bathroom environments,' suggests Lauren.

'Choose a washable fabric. Our bathroom is well-ventilated and quite large. Curtains can work in smaller bathrooms but I would urge you to consider possible dampness; ensure the fabric can withstand this and dry quickly,' Rosanna adds.

As well as choosing an appropriate material for its practical qualities, it's also important that the fabric is in keeping with the rest of your bathroom design – you don't want your bathroom vanity curtains to feel like an odd addition to your scheme. Luckily, there are a few different ways to choose a fabric design that works in your existing space.

'I quite like to choose a patterned fabric that features a color from the existing bathroom. This could be a neutral that perfectly matches the tiles or even a lighter-weight sheer fabric that is more subtle than heavier cotton. I would also suggest bringing larger swatches of fabric samples to review under both natural and artificial light as this can dramatically change the overall look,' Lauren advises.

For a more statement design, Rosanna suggests looking to the 'hero piece' of your bathroom and use as the inspiration – not only will it tie in the focal point of your space, but it will help a bolder color to work in your bathroom.

'Start with your hero piece for the room and then ensure the palette ties into that. In our case, this was the hand-painted porcelain basins. The tiles, paints, and then finally the curtains had to tie into that.'

What's the best way to hang bathroom vanity curtains?

How you hang your curtains will depend entirely on your vanity style and personal preference. The simplest choice is to hang your curtains on an exposed rod, and make a feature of it.

'For hanging curtains around your bathroom vanity, opt for a discreet rod mounted beneath the countertop. Use curtain clips for easy access, and consider a decorative pole in a matching finish to the bathroom hardware (such as brass or brushed chrome),' says Lauren.

Alternatively, if you prefer the look of curtains with hidden fixtures, Rosanna's approach may appeal. 'We had gathered curtains made, fitted on two discreet tracks. The tracks are uncorded (much more practical for frequent use).'

'They were made on a triple-row heading tape so that I can adjust the hooks should the fabric shrink with washing. The top of the tape is fitted just below the top of the curtain to help hide the track neatly under the vanity counter,' she adds.

You'll also need to decide whether the curtains will run around all three exposed sides of the vanity or just across the front where the doors would sit. A full curtain would require more alterations as the vanity would lose solid supports all the way around but can create a much more striking look in larger schemes.

Alternatively, simply adding a vanity curtain in place of the doors is a much easier project, and offers a balance of clean, strong lines and a softer finish. Both designs look beautiful and remain functional, so it really comes down to which would work best in your bathroom and the style that you prefer.

So, if you're considering replacing your vanity doors with curtains, you can rest assured it's a designer-approved design choice. Make sure to choose a fabric that works with your bathroom design and can withstand a damper environment for the best results.

The bathroom isn't the first room that springs to mind when you're thinking of curtains and drapery. Long, flowy fabric and moisture don't always mix; but there is a case to be made for such an elaborate window dressing.

Sharing her favorite bathroom window treatment idea, interior designer Marie Flanigan has shared an ode to the bathroom curtain in her latest video – and we have to admit, she makes a pretty good argument.

From her favorite fabric to why she loves them so, here's why Marie Flanigan is encouraging you to add floor-to-ceiling drapes to your bathroom window. Spoiler: they're a game-changer for traditional bathroom ideas.

'One element I am constantly trying to add to every bathroom is floor-to-ceiling drapery,' says Marie in her video shared to Instagram.

Why? Because the bathroom is such a utilitarian space, everything is wipe-clean, functional, and well, pretty boring. 'It gives the opportunity to bring in some softness, where we don't always get that,' she explains.

A far cry from boring bathroom blind ideas, a long drape can also add drama and a sense of elegance. As well as making the space feel cozier, and adding a pop of color or print should you so wish.

Marie, however, likes to steer clear of color or print and prefers something light and airy. 'My go-to fabric is always a white, gauzy linen. That's what is going to make your bathroom feel extra special,' she advises.

She also told H&G, 'The flowing fabric gently diffuses light, creating a serene atmosphere that invites tranquility. This design choice not only enhances privacy but also transforms the bathroom into a personal retreat. It’s the perfect way to blend functionality with beauty, making youreveryday routine feel like a luxurious escape.'

Just like in the space, seen above, designed by Marie Flanigan Interiors, the debate of drapes vs blinds in this space was pretty clear cut.

With a nod to tradition thanks to the warm neutral color palette, marble checkerboard floor, a roll-top bathtub, and of course, decorating with antiques – something as modern as a Venetian blind just wouldn't have provided the drama that the soft drape provides here.

Long linen curtains don't just provide drama and plenty of light, but they also can help to length the proportions of your room.

'It can really elongate the space the height of the space because you're taking it floor-to-ceiling,' suggests Marie. If you're looking to create the illusion of more height in your master bathroom or ensuite, curtains that span the full height of the room can make the space feel more voluminous and luxurious.

While it might seem like a bad idea, as long as you steer well clear of your splash zones, there's no real reason why you shouldn't hang long, floor-to-ceiling curtains in your bathroom. In fact, as advised by Marie Flanigan, there are plenty of reasons why you should embrace flowing drapes to soften up this space.

Having the perfect outdoor living set-up is key to making the most of your backyard space during drier months. Pergolas are a great addition to your yard, bringing shade, a designated outdoor living space and to provide structural interest.

If you've already explored the best pergola ideas and have picked out one for your own space, you might want to think about how to add more garden privacy to this area of your yard. This is especially important if you plan to use your pergola for hosting or relaxing and don't want surrounding neighbors to see in.

The good news is there are many ways to make your pergola more private. Here are five ideas from backyard design experts to get you started.

5 pergola privacy ideas

You can design a pergola in an endless number of ways, as these outdoor structures serve a wide range of purposes, including adding privacy to your home. Whether you're using a pergola for outdoor dining or simply as a space to sit and enjoy cozy fall evenings, it can be wise to consider adding some privacy to make it more comfortable.

1. Hang curtains on your pergola

This is a great solution for adding adjustable privacy to your pergola. Hanging outdoor curtains brings class and elegance to an outdoor space, and their practical purpose means you can close them to make your pergola more secluded when needed.

'Installing fabric curtains to a pergola is a great way to add privacy, as well as color and movement in an outdoor living space,' says landscape design expert Joe Raboine. 'Curtains create beautiful motion when they catch the breeze, and you can change colors or patterns depending on the season,' he adds.

Using outdoor curtains will also help create some pergola shade and are also often used for balcony shade. Choosing weather-resistant materials means your curtains can stay in place throughout the year.

Find outdoor curtains for your pergola online, like this selection of outdoor curtains at Wayfair.

2. Use a decorative privacy screen

If you're looking for a privacy solution you can rely on year-round, try using a privacy screen. These come in a wide range of styles and often resemble garden fences that create a wall for your pergola.

'Decorative screen panels are great for adding privacy as well as some aesthetic flare to a pergola,' says Joe. 'There are metal pergolas available today that can be purchased with additional decorative panels to create privacy without being too opaque or distracting from the overall design of the outdoor space,' he adds.

You can also use privacy screens for patio privacy and can choose screens of different materials to complement other furnishings you have in your outdoor space.

For example, this metal privacy screen from Amazon allows plenty of light in, while this wooden privacy screen from Amazon provides a natural look.

3. Opt for a pergola with a roof

A low-maintenance and easy way to ensure your pergola has privacy is investing in one with built-in coverage - like a roof. Pergolas come in a range of styles, including those with a trellis roof that let a lot of light in. However, you can also choose a pergola with a solid roof or one with slats that can be opened and closed.

'You can top your pergola with retractable or decorative shade panel,' suggests backyard design expert Leslie Adkins of Trex Decking. 'These stylish and functional panels can be tailored to the size of virtually any structure to provide added protection from sunlight and harsh UV rays, diffuse strong winds and reduce temperature for added comfort,' she adds.

Often this is a perk of pergolas over gazebos, as you can adjust the amount of sunlight that comes through - like this pergola with a sliding roof from Wayfair.

4. Add plants for a natural screen

An alternative way to add pergola privacy is by opting for the best plants for privacy and creating a natural garden screen. There are lots of ways to achieve this, from planting trees for privacy near your pergola or creating a container garden alongside you pergola.

'Adding more plant life and greenery is never a bad idea, and a pergola is the perfect place to create a vertical garden,' says Joe. 'Climbing vines that grow well in your climate can spread throughout the structure, creating more privacy and adding to the scenery,' he adds.

Depending on where you want privacy on your pergola, you can opt for the best plants to grow up a pergola or even use trellises to create a green wall at the sides of your pergola.

'Many homeowners also like to use tall planters filled with hardy ornamental grasses for privacy to give their pergola a lush, retreat-like feel,' says Aaron Brundage, landscape design expert at System Pavers.

'By choosing hardy, drought-resistant grasses that are native to your US hardiness zone, you’ll have year-round privacy that adds texture and movement to your outdoors while requiring very little upkeep,' he adds.

5. Install pergola shades

You can also choose to install shades on your pergola, which offer privacy in the same way outdoor curtains do. While there are lots of outdoor shades to choose from, roller shades are a good option if you're looking for adjustable privacy.

Outdoor roller shades are made from durable materials to withstand different weather conditions. They can be rolled up or down depending on the privacy and shade you want to create - just like these outdoor roller shades from Amazon.

Having outdoor blinds can also uplift your outdoor living room and make it feel cozier when using your pergola in the evening.

FAQs

How do you block sun from a pergola?

There are lots of ways to create more pergola shade to block out sun and keep it cooler. For example, you can use roof shades, roller shades, curtains and even tall planting to cast shade in this area of your yard. Not only will they keep the sun out of your pergola, but these methods are just as effective at creating privacy.

The best thing about these pergola privacy solutions is they can be used in different ways to create as much privacy as you like. You can even try using a few of these methods together to enhance the appearance of your pergola and boost the amount of privacy it has, such as growing climbers on a privacy screen.

One thing to consider before putting your pergola in place and installing more privacy, however, is whether you can build a pergola next to a neighbors fence in your area.

The humble tension rod is far from the most exciting or decorative home purchase. More often than not, they are used to hike up a shower curtain when we can’t drill into tiled bathroom walls or otherwise left to collect dust in the store.

However, these no-drill hanging rods have a whole range of other uses around the home, from improving home storage ideas to increasing privacy, and all without any need for serious DIY.

Here, H&G’s Solved editors share six ways we've cleverly used tension rods around our homes to inspire your creativity and boost functionality in your vital spaces.

Our tried and tested alternative uses for tension rods

One of the best things about tension rods is they are adjustable, meaning that they can often slot into any space needed, with no DIY finesse or extra tools required. Better yet, they are incredibly affordable, helping to spruce up or organize a home on a budget or in a rush.

1. Alternative cabinet door

If you are looking to replace kitchen doors for an easy update or have an open cabinet you want to conceal the contents of, a tension rod can be a simple solution, allowing you to hang a curtain.

Punteha van Terheyden, head of solved at Homes & Gardens, says, 'We had a repeated hinge problem on one cabinet door in our kitchen where the particle board inside had disintegrated and nothing we did would keep the hinge in place. Our kitchen cabinets were not replaceable like-for-like as the doors had been discontinued.

'I bought a thin tension rod that fit across the width of the space along with a cutesy cottage-style linen fabric material and slid the rod through the loop space. Now it looks like an intentional cottagecore addition to my kitchen and serves its purpose well, hiding my slow cookers, freezer bags and other day-to-day kitchen items.'

2. Organizing cleaning supplies

One of my least favorite parts of organizing a kitchen is organizing cleaning supplies. I have so many bottles and products shoved into the cabinet under my sink that it was hard to grab what I need quickly without battling through the mess – not to mention that they always fell over when I had them on shelf risers.

The solution? To use a tension rod to hang the spray bottles from.

I used an extending tension rod along the top of my cleaning cabinet and simply hooked each spray trigger over it, suspending the bottles at the top of my cabinet so that I could use the base of the cabinet for heavy containers.

To reduce the weight on the tension rod and stop it from falling down, I split up my cleaning supplies into rooms. Any bathroom cleaning products are now stored in my bathroom cabinet instead. Not only does it help to reduce clutter, but it makes following my different day, different room housekeeping schedule a little easier.

3. Doubling hanging closet space

Organizing a small closet with lots of clothes can be tricky, especially if you don't want to declutter. When you need to make a little extra space, a tension rod could prove to be your saving grace – especially when organizing children's clothes.

Punteha van Terheyden, Head of Solved at H&G shares, ‘My daughter is now nearly eight but two years ago we upgraded her cute clothes hanging rail to a three-door closet. It had a single hanging space on either side of cubbies and drawers which was a great set up, but after using it for a week or two, I realized there was a lot of dead space on the bottom half of the hanging area.

‘My daughter also couldn't reach the top half to grab things herself in the morning so I decided to get a small tension rod that would fit the small width of her closet and double her hanging space on that side. Now, her school uniform goes on that bottom row and she can access it easily herself. I bought a pack of two tension roads and held one back as a spare. We store her foldaway Barbie house under her clothes in the other closet and so far, the tension rod that's in play has not budged an inch.

‘I bought spring tension expandable rods from Amazon that come with these little brackets for extra support and they have been fantastic. Easy to install, customize the size, and they haven't moved in two years.’

4. Hanging kitchen utensils

If you have ever seen pictures of beautiful hanging kitchen storage, displaying matching brass kitchen pots and utensils, and been incredibly jealous – you are not alone. Not only is wall-mounted kitchen storage beautiful, but it is incredibly practical too, helping you grab what you need quickly and with little to no fuss.

Luckily, all is not lost if you cannot drill into your kitchen walls. Ottilie Blackhall, Solved news writer at H&G, says, ‘You can use a tension rod to organize kitchen utensils underneath wall-mounted cabinets. Picking a rod that stretches the entire span of the cabinets gives you loads of vertical storage to save space. You can then use small hooks to keep utensils and mugs close to hand and hang kitchen towels to keep your countertops clear.

‘Keep in mind that too much weight on the tension rod may make it fall, so try not to hang anything too heavy, such as large mugs or pans, to prevent any damage beneath it’ Ottilie adds.

5. Hanging a privacy curtain

Living in a rented home means I am limited in what I can do when drilling holes, but I still want the same levels of privacy as any other home on the street. Given that my kitchen window looks directly into the neighbor's house, and my bathroom window overlooks everyone's gardens, I wanted a little extra piece of mind that not everyone could see me showering or moving around in my pajamas.

The solution was to follow the cafe-curtain trend and install some temporary privacy curtains for each room. I used a tension rod fitted into each window recess and cut one pair of sheer opaque curtains down to make two sets that would hang perfectly from the midpoint of the window to the windowsill. This still lets plenty of light in while obscuring the view outside. The best thing? It added a little touch of whimsy.

6. Storing craft supplies

If you are a keen crafter like me, then you will be familiar with the pains of trying to organize art supplies neatly without making them hard to reach. A tension rod was the perfect solution for keeping ribbons and strings for gift wrapping neat and organized without the need to tuck them all into a box. Better yet, it prevents things from unraveling and becoming tangled in storage.

Similarly to hanging my essential cleaning supplies, I ran the tension rod along the top of one of the cabinets in my home office and threaded the string and ribbon reels onto it. Now all I need to do is open the door, pull a length off and cut it to size as I need it.

Remember when using tension rods that unless they have wall brackets, they may be prone to slipping when put under too much weight. Pick rods with brackets or sticky rubber stopper ends to help limit falls and prevent big messes to clean up later down the line. Ensuring your tension rod sits perfectly in the space and is not too small also helps.

Next learn the unusual uses for petroleum jelly around the home including getting rid of rust, and the unusual ways you can clean with denture tablets at home.

New York City is known for seamlessly blending urban design with rustic style – and arguably, nobody knows this quite like Daisy Edgar Jones.

The Twister actress shared a candid snap of her living room via Instagram, and it's clear that she designed it with her zip code in mind. The home’s design choices pay homage to the rustic-modern feel of the city, incorporating quintessential features such as exposed brick and hardwood floors. However, despite these raw elements, the actress's space doesn't feel uninviting.

Edgar-Jones balanced the room's industrial style with personal touches such as the delicate white curtains tied (elegantly into knots at the bottom). She pairs these with other textured pieces, including a textured couch, accent chair, and an array of plants that contrast the room's industrial backdrop. It's a decorating technique that hasn't gone unnoticed by designers, including Nina Lichtenstein, who describes the space as a charming testament to the actress’s love for the city.

Firstly, Lichtenstein describes the exposed brick walls as a ‘nod to New York’s architectural heritage, bringing an authentic, textured backdrop to the space. 'When paired with the light hardwood floors, ‘the room feels open and airy, balancing the ruggedness of the brick with a touch of elegance.’

Edgar-Jones's personal touches are just as important. Lichtenstein notes how the choice of the white curtains to frame the windows ‘allows for a soft diffused light to pour in, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere.'

Indoor plants are similarly simple but effective ways to refresh a space, as Edgar-Jones demonstrates via her eclectic collection on her windowsill. 'The collection of verdant plants breathes life into the room, infusing it with a natural, calming essence that contrasts beautifully with the urban vibe of the brick walls,' Lichtenstein notes.

Edgar-Jones’ choice of furniture further warms the space the centerpiece being her stylish textured white sofa which Lichtenstein says, ‘offers a plush, comfortable spot to relax’.

Edgar-Jones pairs the sofa with a brown wooden armchair. Both adorned with neutral-coloured throw pillows which ‘add subtle character and charm.’ Together these various elements ‘create a cohesive, harmonious look, balancing texture and comfort.’

The actress continues the theme of mismatched wood tones and materials incorporating a glass coffee table made up of dark wood with a metal frame and an on-trend translucent surface. This style is repeated in the end table next to the couch and Lichtenstein describes the two tables as ‘industrial-chic – perfectly complementing the exploded brick walls and the overall aesthetic of the apartment.’

Finally, no room is complete without a piece of art to add interest to the walls. Edgar-Jones adheres to this rule, including a single framed art piece hanging between the two windows. The art ‘pulls together the room’s color palette and serves as a focal point that ties the entire space together. 'Overall, the space is the perfect blend of New York's urban spirit and cozy, personal touches, creating a space that is both stylish and inviting.’

When it comes to design choices, hybrid styles like ‘rustic-modern’ are growing increasingly popular, as shown in Edgar-Jones’ apartment. Combining industrial styles with homely touches is the perfect way to elevate and add depth to any space, even those beyond the Empire State.

We all need a fresh start sometimes, but renovating your entire space isn't necessarily the answer. Often, it's best to start small. And while it's normal to crave a bit of a spruce as the seasons change, knowing where to begin can prove quite difficult. That's where Brittaney Elise comes in.

Brittaney is the principal, founder, and CEO of West Coast design firm BE. by Brittaney Elise. Having designed for celebrities, business leaders, and high-end companies for years, she knows her way around a full-scale, luxury remodel. But she also knows how to make a well-designed space even better – and small, impactful spruces that don't require renovation often fit the bill.

If you're looking to give your home a quick refresh before summer's through, you're in luck – Homes & Gardens sat down with Brittaney, and she shared her top four go-to spruces. From quality window treatments to a signature scent, here are the expert-approved home decor ideas you'll want to take home.

1. Invest in quality window treatments

Brittaney's first tip for a stunning home refresh is simple: invest in high-quality window treatments: 'In my experience, it's an area that people dread spending the money on because they can be pricey – they don't have to be, but they can be. But they do instantly transform a space,' Brittaney tells H&G.

For the best effect, Brittaney suggests placing the curtains, drapes, or blinds of your choice a bit higher than the window frame – in fact, she says the higher the better. While the norm used to be placing window treatment hardware just above the window, she says this 'little trick' makes any space look lighter.

'If you just extend further beyond that, as close to the ceiling as possible, you’re going to dramatize the space. It just makes it feel elevated and more wealthy. Window treatments, I think we all can agree, make a huge difference. They're worth the investment,' she says.

2. Bring the outdoors in

House plants and floral arrangements are welcome additions to any home, bringing loads of extra character and life in an instant. But Brittaney suggests something different for a long-lasting, low-maintenance spruce that'll still elevate your space with ease: foliage.

'I love dry foliage, just dry greenery. They last longer than flowers, and that shade of green – that olive, that neutral hunter green – is so pretty when it dries out. Larger branches like that are going to instantly transform a space,' she says.

3. Find your signature scent

Scent is extremely underrated when it comes to interior design. A welcoming, warm design scheme relies on all five senses, and a luxurious scent makes a good living room great in seconds. Brittaney says this feature is so important that 'it's worth it to invest in a more expensive candle,' referencing high-end brands like Diptyque and Le Labo.

'Anyone who owns any of those candles can say when they light them in their home, when they have guests over, it instantly elevates and transforms the space. It's appealing to a different sense,' she says.

BE. by Brittaney Elise has a candle of its own, too, in a sandalwood vanilla scent that took Brittaney four years to perfect. 'Anyone who gets their hands on it is obsessed with it,' she says. Recently, the firm also partnered with Last Candle Co., a company that sells refillable candle holders in luxurious stone materials like marble.

'This is an example of another statement candle piece that I think is worth the investment. You have this stunning marble piece, and you've got different scents that you can change throughout the year,' she says.

4. Make a statement with the lighting

'My last one is going to be light fixtures,' says Brittaney. 'A statement lamp, a statement chandelier, pendants – they make a huge difference in a space.'

For impactful punctuation in any space, look to the lighting. A well-considered, planned-out lighting scheme makes quite the difference, and just one well-placed fixture can change the entire design scheme.

Whether your style is sleek and contemporary or vintage and eclectic, seek out a light fixture that tells a story – your space will be left with a gorgeous focal point to admire.

Home refreshes don't have to be costly or all-consuming – as long as you bring in design features that make your home feel more like you, you're on the right track.

Sunny summer weather offers the perfect time of year to host friends and family. However, the temperature doesn't always agree.

Sleeping in summer is difficult at the best of times. Between sticking to the sheets and combating allergies, we often spend more time tossing and turning than sleeping – this is only made worse when you are sleeping in someone else’s home.

This is why hosting and etiquette experts urge us to properly prepare with the guest bedroom essentials needed for a comfortable stay in the heat.

How to prepare a guest bedroom for summer

These small touches might not seem like a big deal, but they can make all the difference to a guest who struggles to get comfortable in summer.

1. Deep clean to minimize allergens

Allergen flares can ruin our summer experience. Waking up sneezing or with a clogged nose after sleeping with the window open to stay cool is far from the refreshing morning routine we want.

To help keep guests comfortable, Kathy Cohoon, cleaning expert and operations manager at Two Maids, suggests using some cleaning tips for allergy sufferers before they arrive to help minimize the impact of allergens:

‘First, you’ll want to give the room a deep clean to reduce allergens. Dust all the surfaces, including ceiling fans, windowsills, furniture, and light fixtures. The best vacuum with a HEPA filter will help get rid of dust and allergens in the carpets and rugs,’ she says. ‘And don't forget to wash all the bedding, including mattress covers and pillow protectors! Hypoallergenic options can make a big difference in keeping the room fresh and comfortable.'

2. Add a water station

Guests might not feel comfortable leaving their room in the night to wander to the kitchen and get a drink, which is why Lisa Mirza Grotts, lifestyle and etiquette expert and author suggests making a guest room feel more homey by setting up a portable water station in the bedroom for guests to help themselves. ‘For extra credit, infuse the water with citrus and mint from your garden,’ she adds.

Use a water jug with a lid to help keep the water fresh, and fill it with ice cubes to keep it cooler for longer.

3. Opt for light linens

You wouldn’t want to hunker down under brushed cotton bed sheets during a heatwave, so don’t make your guests do the same, urges Bethany Skorik, etiquette and protocol consultant and founder of The Charming Diplomat. Investing in the best cooling sheets to help guests sleep better is important.

‘Ensure the room is ready for comfortable sleeping. This includes blackout curtains, a fan, and leaving the door open before their arrival to ensure fresh, cool airflow,’ Bethany adds.

4. Keep fresh air flowing

Improving the ventilation in your home is the best way to keep your guests comfortable in summer, reducing the temperature and the humidity, explains Kathy Cohoon, cleaning expert:

‘Before your guests arrive, open the windows to let in some fresh air. This helps get rid of any musty smells and brings in a nice summer breeze,’ she says. For a touch of added freshness, ‘make sure the linens are freshly laundered, including sheets, pillowcases, and towels. A light, summer-scented fabric softener can add a delightful touch of freshness.’

5. Add in cooling toiletries

The best hosts always curate a perfect guest welcome box and set it out for when their guests arrive. Lisa Mirza Grotts, lifestyle and etiquette expert, suggests giving it a summer touch by including cooling toiletries such as freshening body and face wipes, cooling towels, and even cooling eye masks that can be chilled in the freezer.’ It is sure to leave a lasting impression on your guests.

6. Check fans and AC are working

Of course, the easiest way to prepare a guest bedroom for summer is to keep it cool, using AC or fans is essential, says Crystal Shell, expert host, CEO and founder of Hello Guest Screen:

‘Ensure the space is comfortable by adding fans or verifying that air conditioning systems are functioning efficiently. This helps maintain a cool environment and ensures guests stay comfortable despite high temperatures.’

‘Finally, the most important and often overlooked preparation for house guests is that you must, at some point, sleep overnight in that room prior to their arrival,’ concludes Bethany Skorik, etiquette and protocol consultant. ‘I can tell you many horror stories of hosts finding out too late that there are bats in the walls, branches scratching against the window pane, broken AC units, and yard lights shining through the curtains.’ Sleeping in there first will allow you to eliminate any nasty surprises and achieve the perfect temperature before the guests arrive.

If you've been living in your home for a little while, you might start to realize that there are certain design decisions you made years ago that are now starting to look a little naff compared to more modern iterations. And it may just be that your window treatments could be making your home look dated in 2024...

Seemingly a small decor item, window treatment ideas (curtains, window blinds, and shutters) can actually make or break a room's, mood, ambiance, and style kudos if they're left looking a little dated.

So, on a mission to steer you in the right direction with your window dressings, we've asked the experts for their take on the most dated window treatments that they're urging you to avoid. Here's what they had to say.

Dated Window Treatment Ideas to avoid in 2024

Window treatments do a lot of heavy lifting. They help filter and determine how much light comes into a space, they can solidify a design scheme (like a cherry on top), and can even serve as an unexpected statement that lifts a rather plain room. So it's important to make sure they are updated and consistent with your current aesthetic.

Of course, you shouldn't just succumb to all new interior design trends, it is your home so whatever you prefer is absolutely the best option here. But if you're intrigued by the window treatments that interior designers are steering clear of this year, here are the dated window treatments to avoid in 2024 – according to the experts.

1. Valances and pelmets

'Valances that are visually prominent and are made of the same textile as the rest of the drapery can feel dated,' suggests Kristina Khersonsky, designer and founder of STUDIO KEETA. And we have to agree – in certain schemes.

If you're wondering what is a valance vs a pelmet, you're not alone. Valances, pelmets, and cornices are additional accessories that tend to be paired with long drapes and can be either a fabric-covered box that sits at the top of the window, or a smaller frilly curtain that also sits at the top. Not dissimilar to a cafe curtain, but on top. It's a very traditional and formal look and should be approached with caution in 2024.

'With many new products on the market for window treatments, you can have a more discreet and hidden valence or eliminate it completely,' she suggests. 'But in some cases, an accentuated valance that is made in a different pattern, shape, or material can elevate and add more interest to the window. They can be a great opportunity to add a patterned, contrasting fabric or add a material detail with trim or edging.'

2. Swags and tails

If you're wondering what's making a home look date in 2024, swags are definitely up there. Made from soft pleats of fabric that hang from the top of the window and drape to a low point in the center, swags are quite an old-fashioned look that interior designer Benji Lewis is keen to see the back of.

'I would say swags and tails have had it and won’t ever come back,' says Benji. 'But then you go to a lovely country house like Greys Court where you can see all manner of fantastic elaborate window dressings that fly in the face of what’s fashionable!'

'So, I think it’s more about the fabrics that you choose to use to dress your windows,' he advises. 'I have this thing about bad blue and yellow fabric in some type of dreadful fleur de lys design used in a swags and tails style that gives me the shivers.'

Instead, if you're still looking for that soft, lightly ruched look but want to update it to feel more contemporary, a 'relaxed Roman' blind could be just the summer window treatment idea you're after.

3. Too heavy drapery

'In general, overly heavy drapery tends to be a dated look,' suggests renowned designer Kathy Kuo. Think of the curtains that you used to play hide-and-seek behind at your grandparents' home decades ago, they were so heavy and thick that no one ever found you!

These days, we want to open up our homes to light, air, and warmth that is making its way into our rooms rather than shield from it. It is likely in part thanks to double glazing, but either way, heavier curtains and blinds are now a thing of the past.

'Window treatments that feel physically heavy, and even more so if they're rendered in a darker color, can add a sense of heaviness to the room and don't let in much natural light,' advises Kathy. 'If you need to be able to block out light from the window completely, there are plenty of sleek and subtle options for black-out shades that aren't going to also add a dated sensibility to the room.'

4. Shutters

Are window shutters out of style, asks curtain and fabric expert Tori Murphy. With the rise in popularity of softer fabric window coverings, it can be easy to see why shutter ideas might start to feel a little outdated in 2024. But they do bring a sense of nostalgic style, clean lines, and a lot of privacy that can be hard to achieve with blinds and curtains.

'Have the shutters come down on certain kinds of shutters?' says Tori. 'I would say that there is still a place for them in certain settings, but what I have noticed and am feeling is that there is now a desire to opt for softer more tactile window treatments, that add character and practical personality to a window setting, rather than uniformity of shutters.'

Alternatively, embrace the half-height cafe curtain trend or look to Venetian blinds that can be rolled right up and away rather than static shutters.

While this is a list of "don'ts" from interior designers, hopefully you feel inspired enough to know what to avoid and where to look instead when choosing window treatments in 2024. And remember, just because we or an interior designer deem something dated, if you love it then by all means keep it! It's your home, the only rule is that it should make you happy.

In the summer months when the sun (hopefully) pours through your windows filling your room with light and warmth, it can be hard to know what color drapes to have up. 

If you do live in a warmer climate it does pay to swap out heavier drapes for summer window treatments as you don't want to block the light or for your existing scheme to look out of season. As a general rule of thumb, lighter colors reflect sunlight whereas dark colors absorb it, making a room feel warmer than you may like. 

One of our most asked questions is what curtain ideas are best for summer – so we asked our experts for their top tips on how you can choose curtain colors for any room for the summer season below – and there are some lovely choices.

What color drapes are best for the summer?

It's often said that light and airy is the way to go when it comes to summer decor ideas – this works for both interiors and what we wear. But it's also about what suits your scheme. We have a look at some fabulous options below that will help you choose which color curtains are best for summer for whichever room you want to upgrade. 

1. White

There's nothing lovelier than seeing pretty voile curtains blowing gently in a summer breeze, and white is perhaps the most obvious color to choose. 

It's easy to see why – light and airy – and they take up very little visual space in a room. Fabrics to consider are lace, muslin, cotton, and the perennial favorite – linen, but a lightweight version. We explore the best fabrics for your home in summer in our dedicated feature.

'Hanging some crisp white French linen up at the windows will set the scene perfectly,' agrees Helen Parker, creative director of deVOL Kitchens.

2. Sandstone

Not keen on white? Then consider sandstone – it's a little like caramel and a notch up from a neutral like taupe or cream. It goes well with other earthy shades like oatmeal, grey and saffron. 

'During the summer months, we often want to keep spaces feeling bright, airy and cool. Lighter colors, such as cream, caramel, and pastels give a lovely summery feeling to a space; if the material is sheer enough to let a little light through, it can have really beautiful results,' explains Tim Walters, managing director at George Spencer Designs. 

The fabric you choose is also important, Tim shares, 'Natural fabrics are always best for curtains as they have a much better drape. Look for fabrics that are light with beautiful texture, made from natural materials such as cotton and linen.' We look at sheer window treatment ideas in our separate piece. 

3. Shades of green

Allow the lush colors of summer to dictate your drapes this season. There's something beautiful about looking through a window into your backyard that's looking full of the joys of summer, via a pair of curtains in shades of green. 

If you can't decide on one particular tone then why not pick more than one and opt for a stripe or check? Stripes will elongate visually and therefore ideal if your ceiling is low. 

4. Warm copper

Contrary to popular belief, you can opt for a rich color for your summer curtains. If your space doesn't get much natural light and can feel a little cold even in when it's warmer, then consider copper. 

'Warm earthy tones are a great color choice for curtains, not just in summer but all year round,' says James Gomez, co-founder, Yarn Collective. We agree, and if you don't want to change your curtains seasonally, then pick a color that works all year round, not just for summer. 

James adds, 'Terracotta, sienna or warm copper hues are full of warmth, energy and comfort which is exactly the feeling you want to imbue within your interior…think of a room filled with sunshine, it instantly lifts your spirits and makes you feel happier and these warm color schemes can help recreate that feeling within your home and help enhance the natural light within your room.'

5. Pink and blue

Two tone is a good idea if you love two colors equally, or if it suits your style. 

We asked Molly Mahon, founder and creative director of Molly Mahon, for her expert advice:

‘Fresh, vital colors will deliver an instant summer feel to your home, no matter what the actual weather is outside and a beautifully printed fabric as curtains will create a wonderful focal point, framing any views to your garden or terrace. Celebrate the colors of the garden by bringing the beauty of nature inside with fresh greens, joyful pinks and evocative blues, these uplifting colors will bring a happy energy to a room.'

And if you want to team different material types and colors together then go ahead, Molly adds, 'For a truly unique and adventurous approach, consider mixing and matching different fabrics together, this can create a dynamic and eclectic look. Keep your color palette to 2-3 colors to ensure a sense of cohesion and harmony.’

6. Blush pink

Jamie Watkins, co-founder of Divine Savages loves blush pink curtains for the summer months. 

'You can’t go wrong with a pale pink for a calm and cooling atmosphere. These soft, delicate pastels reflect the most light and heat, helping to keep the room cooler.'

He also suggests matching your drapes to your bedding for your bedroom curtain ideas, it will create a light and airy feel and cohesion. 'This bedroom features sheer barely-blush curtains which complement the dusky rose silk bedding and the ‘duchess pink’ shade that we named our Bloomin’ Marvellous wallpaper. The height of this room, with its original oak beams exposed by opening up the ceiling, together with the lightest touch, palest pink voile curtains, maximizes the light reflection inside making for a summery space that feels airy and bright,' Jamie adds. 

7. A pretty floral

If you really can't decide on what color drapes are best for summer then why not pick a floral design? It makes a scheme easier to pull together and you can mix and match accessories by using the colors in your chosen fabric. 

There's also nothing nicer than seeing pretty floral design on a white background – it's ideal for summer as it's so joyful visually. You could match your couch pillows to the print too and combine them with some textured plains, perfect for summer living room ideas.

Choosing the right curtain color will depend on your existing scheme, but if you like to keep things simple, then choose a white or neutral shade that will elegantly blend in. However, if you want to refresh your space for the summer and add impact, then a brighter color will lift the scheme for those cheery few months. 

When planning what color curtains are best for summer, always be sure to avoid these common curtain mistakes.

Adding softness, color, and privacy, having curtains in the kitchen sounds like a great idea on paper. But it's also a space where humidity, heat, water, and sometimes open flames come into play. So, I asked the experts: is hanging curtains in your kitchen ever a good idea?

A pretty divisive topic, kitchen curtain ideas can help to make or break a scheme. Curtains and window treatments can soften the hard lines of a kitchen, creating a more inviting atmosphere, while your choice of design will show more personality than you realize.

So it does seem like a missed opportunity to forgo them entirely as a window treatment idea. Here, I ask interior designers if curtains do belong in a kitchen – and all the practical things you need to consider first.

Should You Hang Curtains In The Kitchen?

The rather unanimous decision is that you can have kitchen curtains. But there are a few practical factors that you need to consider first.

Of course, you're going to have to be mindful of placement. Naturally, if you have a window right by your kitchen range cooker, long pooling curtains aren't going to make sense, look right, or be safety compliant.

'At Neptune, we believe that every room, including the kitchen, can benefit from the addition of elegant curtains or classic Roman blinds,' says design director Fred Horlock. 'Curtains can add a touch of warmth and style, making the space feel more inviting and cohesive while also helping with acoustics, by softening the noise of a busy kitchen. Opt for fabrics that are easy to clean and maintain, as kitchens are prone to spills and splatters.'

Similarly, if you have a sink underneath the kitchen window to maximize the views while washing up, any window treatments placed there must be as high up and away from moisture as possible.

It just takes a little common sense. Most curtains aren’t waterproof, which means that they don’t tend to last long in kitchens due to humidity, splashes, and spills.

To avoid this, 'clever' fabrics might be your savior. In the kitchen, you want curtains that are easy to clean and maintain. Look for wipeable options and machine washable to handle the inevitable messes like polyester and synthetic blends. Be sure to opt for curtains labeled as fire-resistant to minimize risk, especially if they are close to cooking appliances.

'Kitchens can often be busy, high-traffic areas, especially if there are children and animals in the house so it's best to avoid fabric pooling or puddling on the floor and keep that fuller look for a living room or bedroom,' advises curtain designer Tori Murphy.

As the heart of the home, kitchens are typically bustling spaces, where natural light is crucial for cooking and socializing. Light-filtering curtains are a fantastic choice for kitchens, they allow ample light while ensuring privacy and reducing glare.

'Wafty sheer curtains are wonderful in kitchens especially if they lead outside, allowing the breeze to come in but keep the heat out in the day,' adds Tori. 'Particularly good too for covering French windows that can often look very dark and cold at night if not dressed.'

This can be achieved with your fabric choice (think linen and lightweight cotton) or with a half-height cafe curtain.

'We love a cafe curtain in a kitchen for a bit of privacy without blocking the light and view entirely,' says Heather of Heather Peterson Design. 'In this lake house kitchen [seen above], the traditional cafe curtains we chose are modern in their construction and application. We installed an inside-mount rod (rather than surface mount) with rings hand-sewn to the header making more of a ripple-fold than a traditional pinch pleat.'

Curtains can also add an unexpected element of softness to a kitchen, balancing out the typically hard surfaces like countertops, cabinets, and appliances.

'The kitchen is a place that primarily houses hard surface materials and a hit of softness from a curtain can break it up and be an opportunity to add a soft material,' suggests Kristina Khersonsky of STUDIO KEETA.

'There are a variety of Cafe Curtain or Roman Shade styles that can be applied to different styles of kitchen, whether you lean contemporary or traditional. Since kitchen window treatments are fairly small investments, consider keeping a rotation of colors, textures, or pattern variations to swap out seasonally for a quick change.'



Softness is a big word in kitchen design in 2024. With us all seeking a more 'living kitchen' aesthetic, meaning a more sociable, comfortable, and beautiful space that accommodates family living and convening better than a utilitarian cooking space does. Curtains help to blur the edges between your living room and kitchen area to create a space that feels more intimate and inviting.

Additionally, kitchen curtains help to pull the entire scheme together. They can complement existing decor, highlight architectural features like stained glass windows or high-arched doors, or even act as a focal point in their own right.

They also provide an opportunity to introduce pattern and color into a kitchen. Whether you choose bold prints or subtle tones, a new window treatment can add character to the space, making it feel more personalized. A relatively easy and inexpensive fix for updating and refreshing a neutral kitchen that you might be feeling tired of.

'Whether or not to hang curtains in your kitchen is a matter of personal taste,' says interior designer Kathy Kuo. 'But I do find that window treatments are a nice way to add color and personality into a room of the home that often tends to be a bit more utilitarian. Coordinate your curtains with your kitchen wall art for a chic and pulled-together look,' she suggests.

Alternatively, you might prefer a blind – or a mix of blinds and curtains – for a more practical take that still dresses your window and doesn't leave it looking like an afterthought.

'Not adding a window treatment in the kitchen is a missed opportunity to add softness to a room full of hard surfaces,' agrees interior designer Dina Bandman Goldstone. 'They can also be used to connect the space to other nearby rooms that already have window treatments.'

'I love to use classic Roman shades in the kitchen as they’re more practical than curtains (and not such a fire hazard!). I typically use curtains to make a room more dramatic, especially if the room has windows that are longer and take up a greater scale in the room. Kitchen windows tend to be smaller and Roman shades can feel more appropriate,' Dina advises.

As Dina suggests, window blind ideas could be better suited to your kitchen – particularly if you have a small kitchen window. Combining blinds with curtains can offer the best of both worlds, merging functionality with warmth. It’s a versatile solution that works well in various kitchen styles, from contemporary to traditional.

Ultimately, the decision to hang curtains in your kitchen is a personal one, depending on your desire for aesthetics, functionality, and ease of maintenance. After speaking with interior designers, it is clear that there are no hard and fast rules on having kitchen curtains – just a few sensible things to consider before you invest.

Whether you choose curtains, blinds, or a combination of both, the right window treatments can significantly enhance the look and functionality of your kitchen.

When exploring what color curtains go with gray walls, the number of options can be overwhelming. Gray, you see, is the perfect background, working with almost anything; being either a pair to equally neutral hues or a foil to more richly pigmented ones.

'When it comes to pairing your curtain ideas with gray walls, the sky's the limit!' says Miranda Cullen, founder of the Denver-based studio Inside Stories. 

However, there are some suggestions that can help you on your way with your gray room ideas, ensuring you find the right saturations, that you don't pair the wrong tints, and that you end up choosing the perfect accent colors for gray to create a harmonious and timeless scheme.

What color curtains go with gray walls? 

When choosing curtain colors for any room, you not only have to consider your wall color, but also your chosen furniture colors, accessories, flooring and more. 

As there is a lot to consider when choosing curtains for the home, we thought we would offer some expert advice for those decorating with gray – one of the most popular shades chosen for room color ideas.

1. Dark blue

One way to work with gray is to look for a total contrast, and a deep, dark blue offers an update of the classically soothing coastal design trend (which works anywhere to make spaces you want to relax into).

A case in point is this dining room, designed by the Houston-based interior designer Missy Stewart. 'Dark blue drapes are a perfect choice for a light gray room, adding sophistication and depth to the space,' Missy says. 

'The rich, dramatic blue contrasts beautifully with the calming, neutral gray, creating a balanced and elegant environment. The gray tones soften the intensity of the blue, allowing the drapes to make a statement without overwhelming the room. Additionally, the dark blue drapes act as a stunning frame for the amazing view of the lake outside the window, drawing the eye and enhancing the natural beauty of the scene. This combination of colors not only enriches the interior but also highlights the picturesque landscape beyond, making it a focal point of the room.'

2. Yellow

Gray is the perfect neutral, in that it goes with almost any color. But because of the tinges and tones within gray – that could be anything from blue to red to black pigments – it's important you pick the right tones for the color you're pairing it with, too. 

A sunny yellow can add the perfect dose of warmth to a cool gray room, but as with this scheme above by Vanessa Arbuthnott, it's key to look for a shade that veers closer to mustard than to chartreuse. 

'Using yellow is about avoiding any green in it, avoiding the lime tinge,' says the interior designer Tamsin Johnson, who is well versed in this mood-boosting hue. 'I love a mustard which has a slight chocolate tone to it, or a soft butter yellow. Anything that looks sunkissed.' 

We explore how you can make a cool gray room look warmer in our dedicated feature.

3. Dark gray

As with any wall color, a sophisticated approach to building a palette around it is to go tone-on-tone. In this space by Studio Sven, the very pale gray walls are a soft backdrop to the dark gray curtains. 

'A modern approach to gray walls is through texture, whether it be wallpaper, Venetian plaster, limewash or another decorative finish,' says Lauren Svenstrup, principal designer at Studio Sven. 

'We are all about a monochromatic room wrap, where a wall color like a medium gray and textured sheer window treatment ideas in a similar tone fade into one another and serve as the textural backdrop to allow for art or other statement pieces in the space to have their moment. Many of our Chicago projects have floor-to-ceiling windows, making it imperative to consider the impact of the sun, while still designing a beautiful space. We incorporated UV sheer drapery from Creation Baumann into the two-story living room of one of our past Chicago projects. The aluminum-metalized sheer fabric offers effective heat and glare protection and guarantees the best possible views of the city.' 

For more inspiration, we explore should your curtains match your wall color in our separate piece.

4. Cornflower blue

Because of the blue tones that are often found in the cooler, paler grays, you'll find that light blue curtains are a good complement. They seem to take the walls in the direction of a summer sky, rather than a winter one (gray paint can often read a little cool if you're not careful). It's a subtle heat, one that still has a bit of a Scandi contemporary vibe.

'These all wool soft cornflower blue curtains we used for this living room, which is swathed in a Phillip Jeffries gray lightly textured wallcovering, offer a dramatic balance against the cool tone of the walls,' says Layton Campbell of the Charlotte, NC-based studio JLayton Interior. 'But without being [too] warm and muddy.'

5. Emerald

It's very possible to take gray walls in a sumptuous direction, which works well for a formal dining room in which you want to host elegant dinners. You'll find that gray makes a grown-up backdrop on which to layer more lavish shades.

'As with anything in design, it’s all about the feeling and mood you want to create in a space,' says Miranda Cullen of the Denver-based design studio Inside Stories. 'For this dining room,  we paired a rich saturated emerald color fabric on the windows. With gray, you can go big and bold!'

6. Cream

If your walls are a very dark gray, you may find you need to add lighter colors in order to stop the room reading as dingy. This living room by the Illinois-based studio Park & Oak added light-reflecting hues to work against the saturation of the walls, from the pale carpet and coffee table top to the beige – or oatmeal – curtains.

'Any time we work with gray, whether it's a pale, neutral gray, mid-tone, or dark charcoal, we try to warm it up with natural textures and tones, such as cream,' say Christina Samatas and Renee DiSanto, the studio's founders. 'Gray can sometimes feel cold, but by adding these elements, especially via window treatments, it keeps the room cozy.'

We explore, should curtains be lighter or darker than walls in our dedicated feature.

7. White

White has been used for the top half of these curtains in this project by Inside Story. 'We designed an a-typical paint treatment and the window coverings followed suit with beautiful two-toned paint and drapes,' Miranda says, and you'll notice that while the bottom half of the walls are gray, the top half are white, too. 

Creamy whites take pale gray into a more uplifting direction, offering a way to bring a tiny bit of heat while still remaining very pared back. 'With gray you can go soft and neutral,' Miranda adds. 

To help you even further with your curtain color choice, be sure to avoid these curtain color mistakes that could ruin your entire decorating scheme.

Blackout curtains are an excellent addition to any room. Not only do they give you the most amount of control over the light, but they can help to keep heat both in and out, depending on the season.

However, how you install blackout curtains makes a big difference to their efficiency. Hanging them wrong could result in light leakage that mitigates their purpose.

Here, professional handymen have shared their top tips for how to install blackout curtains correctly.

How to install blackout curtains

Before you install blackout curtains, it is essential to measure first and pick the right size curtains. Picking the right size can help block light at the top of curtains and will forgive many hanging sins by easily covering all of the window.

When measuring for curtains, measure from a few inches below the ceiling straight to the floor for a full, luxurious drop, and then measure across the window, adding eight to 12 inches to either side of the frame to block light at either side.

1. Choose the right curtain rod

Blackout curtains are some of the heaviest window treatment ideas, with thick quality fabric needed to help block out light. As such, you need to pick a good, heavy-duty curtain rod to support them, begins Brandon Walker, construction manager at ASAP Restoration.

He recommends picking up an extendable option to accommodate larger curtains.

2. Mark the bracket positions

When hanging curtains, getting the rod in the right position is the most important step – from getting the perfect height to ensuring it is flush enough to the wall to stop light leaking around the edges of the curtains. Ideally, you want to hang them a minimum of two inches above the window, but preferably as close to the ceiling as possible, with a rod that sits close to the wall. Not close enough that you cannot open and close the curtains easily, but close enough that the curtains still brush the wall when hanging.

‘The curtain rod will need to be held to the wall with brackets, and typically these are installed with wall anchors and screws,’ Brandon Walker, construction manager, continues. ‘Installing curtain rods may sometimes require more support than this, but for the most part, this is universal.

‘Start by marking where the brackets will go once they are supporting the curtain rod, and make sure that they are positioned equally on both sides of the window opening. Some like to mark the edge of the bracket while others like to make a mark where the screw hole is placed in the bracket so that they know where to drill.

‘Installing the brackets can sometimes require drilling a pilot hole in the wall if there is a stud in the way,’ Brandon says. ‘If there isn’t then you will likely need to place a wall anchor in the spot where the screw hole will go. Then you can mount the bracket against the wall and screw in the provided screws until they won’t turn anymore. This ensures they are as tight as can be and won’t let your curtains fall off the wall when opening and closing them to see the light.'

3. Hang the curtains

With the rod and brackets in the final spot, you can take the rod back down and hang the curtains themselves, continues Ira Lysa, style expert and owner of Imperial Alterations. She urges you to avoid some common curtain mistakes to help make curtains look expensive and improve their efficiency:

‘If using curtain hooks or rings attach them uniformly on the top part of the curtain tab. This makes the furniture evenly balanced hence helping in preventing the chances of sagging in the future,’ she explains.

4. Check for light leaks

With the curtains hung, you can check for light leaks. All being well, the room should be plunged into darkness.

‘Draw the curtains and examine the surfaces lightly for any cracks or openings along the edges. Check the curtain positioning and if possible add some sort of liners that will help in total blockage of the light,’ suggests Ira Lysa, style expert.

5. Block any leaks

If there are significant light leaks, check that the curtain rod is not too far away from the wall, or that the curtains are not large enough to fully engulf the windows. If they fit well, but you are not happy with escaping light, consider adding to the curtains, suggests Andriy Boyko, professional handyman at A.O. Handy Inc.:

‘Use tape or Velcro to attach the curtain edges to the wall, preventing light from entering from the sides,’ he recommends. ‘For larger gaps at the top or bottom, consider using light-blocking tape, such as Blackout Ez Total Blackout Window Cover from Amazon, or caulk to seal these areas effectively.'

‘For the most relief from the light and to achieve as close to darkness as possible, it may be necessary to mount a second rod and a set of flush curtains that are sheer against the window wall,’ adds Brandon Walker, construction manager. ‘This makes for a better “seal” to keep out the light.’

FAQs

How can I make my blackout curtains more effective?

A great way to make blackout curtains more effective is to use a wrap-around curtain rod to bring the curtains around the window to stop light leaks, rather than having them sit against the wall and risk light coming from either side.

What curtain headings are best for blackout?

When picking blackout curtains, deep pencil pleat curtain headings are some of the best options as they can be mounted to a track that is flush to the wall, minimizing light leaks from the tops and sides of the curtains.

How you hang your blackout curtains will only make so much difference to the light levels in your room. – picking the best curtains for a bedroom or the best curtains for a living room is another essential step. Low-quality curtains will equal more light leakage, so invest in the best quality you can afford.

Choosing window treatments can often be an afterthought, but ask any interior designer and they will tell you that they are integral to the look, function and comfort of a room. 

With so many options available, from curtain ideas and blinds, to shutters and window film – it’s tricky to decide which style is best suited to your space. Curtains are often considered the traditional choice, but when it comes to window treatment ideas are curtains out of style? 

While some see them as timeless and elegant, others argue they can feel dated compared with sleek roller blinds and shutters. To get the verdict, we asked interior designers and industry experts what they thought, plus we share their advice on how to keep curtains looking timeless and fresh for window treatment trends.

Are curtains out of style?

When we asked interior designers if curtains were out of style for this year's window treatment trends, the feedback was unanimous: curtains are most definitely still in style and are great for bringing character and comfort to any room. 

Practically speaking, curtains offer essential control over light and privacy, plus they help insulate heat and sound, however, they can also make a wonderful design feature. From discreet, lightweight voiles to thick, full-length black-out drapes complete with pelmets, there’s a style for every room, plus there’s an infinite array of fabrics to choose from to coordinate with any interior scheme.

‘Curtains are very much in style, and are an important part of setting the tone for a room. I like to think that curtains to a room are like shoes to an outfit,' says Kristen Scharer of the Washington, DC and Ohio-based Kristen Scharer Interiors. 'Curtains have an incredibly transformative ability to dress-up or dress-down a room depending on their design, style, material, length, width, level of transparency, etc.’

Emma Deterding, founder of Kelling Designs and KD Loves agrees that curtains have enduring appeal. 'Curtains remain a timeless staple in interior design, offering a blend of functionality and the opportunity to add a design-led finishing touch. They are a versatile option that complements both modern and traditional spaces, and aside from the beauty and impact they can add, are popular for enhancing privacy, controlling natural light and even improving acoustics in a room.' 

The benefit of curtains over blinds and shutters is that they bring extra softness to interiors and are wonderful for creating warm, comforting environments. Sleek roller blinds and shutters work wonderfully in a contemporary space, and are loved for their streamlined look – plus they are available in water-resistant materials making them perfect for bathrooms and moist areas. Alternatively, curtains offer a more relaxed, traditional feel which many find welcoming and comforting, especially in bedrooms and bathrooms.

We explore drapes vs curtains vs shades vs blinds in our dedicated feature.

How can you keep curtains looking timeless?

To help prevent your curtains from going out of style we asked the experts to share their tips for achieving timeless curtain designs alongside some dos and don'ts on what to consider.

1. Visual balance is key

For curtains that stand the test of time, the right fabric is key. Always consider the other colors and prints within a room when choosing fabrics say the experts. If you have ornate wallpaper ideas, think about subtle curtains in plain fabrics, similarly, if you have a neutral scheme, a patterned curtain can be a fabulous way to add depth and interest.

'I always opt for neutral curtains if there's a lot of color and pattern in the room already. Not only does this help to balance the scheme, but if you have spectacular views out the window, then this will allow them to flow into the room making the room feel a lot larger,' advises Emma Deterding of Kelling Designs. 'If you have a neutral design scheme, then introducing some color and pattern through curtains will not only make a statement but will automatically draw the eye to the window, again making the room feel more spacious.'

2. Invest in quality fabrics

Perhaps not surprisingly, fabric choice was cited as the most important thing to consider when we asked the experts for their curtain advice.

'By selecting different fabrics, patterns, and colors, you can steer how a room is perceived,' advises interior designer Henriette von Stockhausen, founder of VSP interiors. 'It’s essential to invest in good quality materials to achieve longevity. Avoid delicate fabrics like silks in windows that receive a lot of sunlight, as they can deteriorate quickly.'

'Sheer window treatments and light curtains can create illusions of spaciousness by allowing light to filter through, while heavier, thickly lined curtains can keep drafts and cold out in large rooms with tall windows, such as those in old country houses. Overall, curtains can make a significant difference in both the practical and aesthetic aspects of living spaces.'

3. Don't be afraid to be bold

When it comes to window treatment trends, curtains are still popular, in fact, interior designers and homeowners alike are going bigger and bolder with their fabric choices to make their curtains a real focal point. 

‘One of the main fabric trends for curtains I see is patterns and motifs – curtains are becoming a centrepiece for the room, as such there is a willingness to go bolder with the fabric choice,' says Hayley McAfee, head of fabric and wallpaper brand Villa Nova. 'Alternatively combine natural textures to create a soft, ‘cocooned’ feel. This can be created by having a heavier blind with floaty curtains or even by adding a border to the bottom section of the curtains in a different texture. For example,  a pair of linen drapes teamed with a border of velvet.’

'If you are bold and daring, then why not use the same bold fabric on the pelmet as your curtains, or opt for a contrasting design to really make your window dressings sing?' adds interior designer Emma Deterding.

4. Match curtains to walls for a seamless look

Opting for a pared-back look and matching curtains to your room color ideas is an easy way to keep rooms feeling timeless and restful. Decorating with neutrals over both walls and window treatments, as demonstrated here, is a look guaranteed to stand the test of time and is ideal for guest accommodation or rental properties. The benefit of using curtains over shutters or roller blinds in neutral spaces is that they add a layer of softness, helping add subtle warmth without overwhelming a scheme. 

‘Curtains are a brilliant way of bringing warmth, interest and character to a room and as we continue to crave welcoming, cocooning spaces within our home they are very much in demand,'  says Caroline Milns, Head of Interior Design, Zulufish.

5. Avoid excess draping and frills

Heavy floor-to-ceiling drapes which gather on the floor paired with plenty of swags and frills can be great for achieving a flamboyant, maximalist look, but some feel the excess frills are what date curtains and give them a bad rep. 'For a timeless look, keep curtains classic on a pole without excessive draping. This style will remain elegant and last for many years,' suggests Henriette von Stockhausen.

To keep curtains looking good over the years, always ensure they are made to fit the space and are correctly fitted. 'The most common curtain mistake to avoid we see is clients mounting their curtains too low (you really want to mount them as high as you can to help emphasize the height of your ceilings), or not having it that their curtain material hits the floors,' adds Cathleen Gruver of Northern Virginia-based interior design firm Gruver Cooley.

If you want to keep things traditional with a pelmet then keep it simple, says Henriette von Stockhausen. 'I particularly favor simple curtains on a pole or a pelmet attached to a pole over heavily upholstered pelmets, which can feel too rigid and dated.'

6. Conceal curtain fittings for a contemporary look

When it comes to choosing curtains it's not just material you need to consider – how curtains hang and the fittings you choose can have a big impact on the look and feel of the space. 'Curtains that finish flush with the floor will create a sleek, contemporary look, whilst allowing a slight ‘puddle’ of fabric on the floor will give a more traditional feel,' says Caroline Milns, Head of Interior Design, Zulufish. 

Generally speaking, curtains attached to a track and which sit flush with the ceiling give a more streamlined, contemporary look, while those hung on poles with rings have a more traditional feel. 'I am very keen on running the curtains into the coffers or architectural molding (as pictured above), which allows the curtains to hang seamlessly, creating a constant flow of fabric from ceiling to floor. This keeps the overall appearance very pared back, so that the curtains just soften the angles of the window, creating a very timeless and elegant look' adds Caroline Milns.

'If you do want to give your curtains a really decorative touch then it’s worth considering a pelmet, these can be very simple with straight lines for modern curtain ideas, even finished in timber and not fabric, or perhaps try an unusual, geometric shape and play with the lines of it.'

7. Go for an on-trend cafe curtain

Cafe curtains are having a moment right now and are part of a wider interior design trend towards cafe-inspired interiors which has become a particularly popular aesthetic in kitchens. Cafe curtains are nothing new – the design, usually in lightweight linen, cotton or sheer fabric, has been around for decades, but fell out of fashion along with 80s net curtains. Now they're back and are popular with those looking to bring a touch of romantic European cafe culture into their homes. 

Aesthetics aside, simple cafe curtains are a discreet way to provide privacy without overwhelming a room, plus they help soften spaces such as bathrooms which can often feel stark and clinical. 

For interior designer Louise Copeland, the cafe curtain is the perfect solution for this small bathroom in her Germantown, NY project. 'The window in this bathroom is quite low and so we didn’t want to cover it completely and block the beautiful view outside. Instead, we applied a sheer curtain with a contemporary print to make the traditional curtain more updated, making the curtain as short as possible while still providing privacy,' explains Louise Copeland, founder of L.B. Copeland Inteirors.

8. Choose a classic pinch pleat

Just as the curtain fittings are important, the curtain heading style you choose can have a big impact on how your curtains look and feel, too. For a sleek look consider a simple wave curtain or a tailored pinch pleat. Alternatively, if you're a fan of the vintage or cottage curtain look go for a cottage pleat. You could even have a flop-over-frill for a really soft, pretty look.

Currently the pinch pleat is a favourite among many interior designers. 'Pinch pleat curtains are having a moment – particularly in more formal spaces,' says Kristen Scharer of the Washington, DC and Ohio-based Kristen Scharer Interiors. Many of my clients incorporate curtains more for look than function in, say, a living room or dining room. The pinch pleat allows the fabric to remain tailored and crisp- bringing elements of elegance, warmth and sophistication to a room without the fuss.'

Interior designer Kathleen Groomer also favors a pinch pleat. 'I think keeping hardware on your curtains minimal is great, and getting a curtain with a pinch pleat can help elevate your space as well.' 

For more timeless curtain inspiration, we explore in our separate piece, do curtains need to match?

Cafe curtains have had a bit of a resurgence of late. You might already have noticed, but the cafe curtain, once relegated to Grandma's home only, is firmly back in style, and it's really easy to see why.

A chic and versatile window treatment, these charming vintage-inspired half-window drapes are especially popular with interior designers right now. Originally thought to date back to 19th century Vienna, Austria, cafe curtains were used to adorn the bottom half of windows in bistros to create privacy for diners while still allowing sunlight to filter in from the top.

Creating a cozy, farmhouse and cottagecore feel while working with just about any interior design style, this curtain idea provides just the right amount of light while ensuring a cozy, intimate atmosphere. Here, the experts make their case for embracing the cafe curtain trend.

Are Cafe Curtains On Trend In 2024?

Cafe corner ideas or 'Cafecore' is big news for interior design trends this year. Encouraging comfort and connectivity, this trend is all about evoking the feeling and style of your local bistro cafe and bringing it home with you.

The trend forecasters at Pinterest predicted it would see a huge spike in popularity in 2024, and they weren't wrong. We've already seen designers creating cafe corners in their kitchen designs, carving out coffee nooks, and coffee stations, and coffee bars. You name it, we're into it.

And the humble cafe curtain, well that's just the cherry on top of these European-inspired convening areas.

Of course, that means they are especially popular in kitchens, bathrooms, and dining areas, where they strike the perfect balance between functionality and aesthetics.

These darling miniature curtains could just be the solution you're after for dressing a window where you still want natural daylight to flood in, and benefit from the view outside. They add a quaint, yet sophisticated touch to kitchen windows, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.

'Cafe curtains are my go-to window treatment for any room that requires privacy but would benefit from natural light... and a little charm,' says interior designer Shannon Eddings who designed the pink kitchen seen above. 'Their history of use in French cafes and English Country homes only added to their charming allure.'

And, they're not just reserved for windows. Cafe curtains are also being creatively utilized as alternatives to traditional cupboard doors for valance ideas for kitchens, as demonstrated above in this pale yellow pantry with an under-counter curtain by East London Cloth.

This trend reflects a move towards more relaxed and personalized, living kitchen spaces. Replacing cupboard doors with a curtain can soften the look of a kitchen, introducing texture and color in a way that is both practical and aesthetically pleasing. It's an ideal solution for open shelving, where the fabric can hide clutter while adding a decorative element.

'In recent years we've really seen people embrace new ways of using fabric within their homes. Of particular note, is the use of curtains to replace areas where joinery had once reigned, such as window shutters,' notes Gemma Moulton, founder of East London Cloth. 'Cafe curtains offer a pretty way to add a veil of privacy whilst still allowing the light to flood through. There's also something very comforting and cocooning about fabric, it also has a lovely effect on acoustics and is a great way to add color and interest to a room,' adds Gemma.

But don't think you're stuck to one 'look'. Cafe curtains come in all shapes and sizes, varying prints and patterns, with different hardware and methods of hanging them.

'Cafe curtains have been around for ages, but they are enjoying a boost in not only popularity, but also, perhaps, in chicness,' says interior designer Bethany Adams. 'The curtain itself can be as cute or as elegant as you please based primarily on the fabric and hardware you select,' she suggests.

'A darling pattern in cotton with clip-on rings would be adorable in a kids' bathroom, a mudroom, or a country kitchen, for example. A silky pinch-pleat sewn-in ring cafe curtain has a more elegant look and pairs well with sophisticated and expensive finishes. They're both fantastic and appropriate uses of cafe curtains, but they are not exactly the same.'

Helen Parker, creative director of deVOL who makes timeless kitchens and accessories including aged brass cafe curtain rails, is a huge fan of the vintage look.

'The café curtain is not only the prettiest of window coverings, but it is actually a very useful and authentic method of sectioning off a room, hiding a view, or creating privacy,' says Helen.

'Find a window, find a delicate piece of sheer wispy fabric, and attach one of our brass rails to create a vignette of beauty. Our rails are all supplied with fancy little brass clips [seen above] that allow you to hang up a muslin, vintage cotton, antique lace, or a simple crisp linen panel in an instant.'

Typically, you'll see a cafe curtain in either a soft, breezy linen or a frilly floral. But for more contemporary spaces, we love this bold red stripe by bespoke stripe fabric makers Colours of Arley.

Louisa Tratalos, founder of Colours of Arley, says: 'Cafe curtains are a firm favourite for window dressings, done right they are anything but twee, and if anything, they give a little more of an edge than a traditional curtain. The overall look you want to achieve will depend on the type of fabric you opt for, from floaty, lightweight linens to more quirky designs in heavier-weight fabrics.'

'Stripes pair brilliantly with almost any pattern, so whether your space is complete with painterly florals, scallop shapes, or geo prints, a stripe will be the perfect match,' she suggests. 'If your home is more on the minimalist side, stripes can be a great way of introducing patterns without committing to an overly busy design. Generally, thinner stripes tend to give a more classic look, so for a contemporary update opt for a bold, thick stripe in a vibrant colorway to add a fresh new take on an old-time trend.'

Full of vintage charm, the cafe curtain can be introduced into any style of home. From dainty florals to organic linens and contemporary stripes, they really do add a lovely touch to any space. So will you embrace the trend?

With a plethora of curtain ideas out there, it can be hard knowing where to start when it comes to picking the right set for a room. You need to think about what type of curtain you want for each room and the overall look you’re going for, whilst also making sure that you avoid any common curtain mistakes. 

And within all the considerations is the decision on whether to choose curtains that match or not. You might think this is a simple choice, but actually much of this depends on your chosen style and the overall visual look you’re trying to create in a room. As with all interior design choices, the key is to create a look that’s balanced and cohesive – however dramatic or colorful your curtains ideas might be.

Do curtains need to match?

'While exact matching is not necessary, curtains should complement the room’s decor by coordinating in color, pattern, texture, and style,' explains Debbie Leigh, design manager at ILIV. 'Choosing curtains that harmonize with the existing design elements, such as the color scheme, furniture, and other soft furnishing, will help to create a stylish and cohesive look.'

Good window treatment ideas can make or break a room, as Pippa Jameson, interiors stylist, creative director at Pippa Jameson Interiors lays out, 'As you enter a room, the curtains are the furthest point from you. They need to provide a stable backdrop, grounding the space to help you read the rest of the decor.'

'In a contained area, curtains act like a picture frame, anchoring the room. Consistency in curtain design ensures a cohesive framework while allowing for diverse details within the room.'

Our interior design experts have lots of suggestions surrounding matching or mismatched curtains, so let’s see what they recommend.

Match your curtains for balance

'Mismatched curtains draw immediate attention and can make the room feel unbalanced,' says Pippa Jameson. 'Keeping them matched ensures a visually pleasing space.'

This is a concept that Amy Youngblood, founder of Amy Youngblood Interiors agrees with, 'I typically like for curtains to match to set a consistent background for the space. Mismatched drapes near each other can really throw off the look, feel, and balance of a room.'

Because curtains should tie a room together, too many clashing and mismatched styles in close proximity to each other can really ruin the aesthetics of a space. Too many clashes in style, color or texture can look jarring and distracting to the eye. 

As designer Kathy Kuo, CEO of Kathy Kuo Home sums up, 'Having all of the curtains within one room match is a nice way to add a visual throughline that feels intentional and cohesive. I love the idea of having different sets of curtains throughout the different rooms of a home, but I do think there's something to be said for matching curtains in any given distinctive room.'

2. Remember that practicalities play a part

One size doesn’t fit all when it comes to curtains, and you need to think about the space you’re working with. As well as the look you want and the cohesive feel you need in a room, you’ll need to consider practical factors. As Claire Garner, director of Claire Garner Interiors, explains, 'Practicality should guide your choices. Consider the function, maintenance, and durability of the fabrics you choose, especially in high-traffic areas or rooms exposed to a lot of sunlight. Opting for fabrics that are easy to clean and maintain can save you time and effort in the long run.'

'It’s crucial to select treatments that are right for each window. For instance, if you have full-height doors that need covering, beautiful linen curtains would be ideal. On the other hand, if you have a smaller window in the same room with a radiator underneath, a Roman blind would be better suited. Mixing curtains and window blinds can provide both aesthetic appeal and functional benefits, tailored to the specific needs of each window.'

Tara Brien and Julie Croll from Roo’s House expand on this point, 'If each window in a room is different, they may not match in terms of treatment. For instance, a pelmet may be needed on one window, to bring the height down so that it balances with an adjacent window which might only have room for a curtain pole.  In this instance when they don't match in style the color is the key, also imperative to ensure, if using a pattern, that this matches across the room.'

Mix pattern and solid color

A simple way to start bringing a little variety into your curtains is to introduce a mix of patterns and solid colors. The rule here is to choose fabrics that still work well together. You want fabrics and colors that blend, creating a harmonious rather than clashing effect. As Artem Kropovinsky, founder of Arsight says, 'The mixture of various patterns or textures can provide a visual element that is, at the same time, cohesive through color and material.'

How do you put this into practice? Tara Brien and Julie Croll suggest that 'Fabric can be alternated across a room. For example, a pretty floral curtain could be matched with a striped blind, however, to bring them together you could use the stripe as a trim on the floral curtain edging. Equally the face / front fabric could be swapped around so the pattern is on the front and the stripe is used as the lining.  You also want to make sure there is a common color that flows between each of them to make them look like they were designed to be paired together.'

Claire Garner suggests using different patterns to divide up open plan spaces, 'You can mix patterns, which works particularly well in an open plan room to zone areas. For instance, you could have a printed fabric in the kitchen and then pick either a complimentary pattern or solid fabric for the dining area. This approach allows you to create distinct zones within an open space, providing visual interest and character without the need for physical barriers.' And Amy Youngblood agrees with this, 'In a very large room that is broken up into more than one type of area I believe drapes that don’t match but complement each other in pattern and color can add some division and interest to the space.'

Coordinate with the rest of the room

Standing slightly apart from the rest of the room, it’s easy to forget that curtains need to blend in with your other color choices in a space. As Claire Garner explains, 'Curtains do not necessarily need to match, but they should harmonize with the room’s décor. While complete matching is not necessary, coordination is key. Curtains and window treatments should complement the overall color scheme and style of the room. This doesn’t mean they have to be identical, but they should work together to create a cohesive look. Contrast can also be used effectively to highlight certain areas of the room or to draw attention to specific features.'

Debbie Leigh reminds us to think beyond colors as well, 'The texture of the curtains should also complement the textures present in the room, such as upholstery, rugs, and other textiles. For instance, heavy, luxurious fabrics like velvet might suit a more formal room, while light, airy fabrics like linen are better for casual spaces.'

She also suggests a simple way to coordinate your curtains, ;For a subtle look, pick a fabric for your curtains that is slightly lighter or darker than your wall tone. If you prefer a contrasting color, choose an accent color from in the room, drawing a shade from a cushion or throw for example.  Neutral-coloured curtains (like white, beige, or grey) are versatile and can blend well with various interior styles and colour schemes. They provide a subtle backdrop that enhances other design elements.'

And by making sure you’re coordinating with the rest of the room, you may not need to match your curtains, as Artem Kropovinsky explains, 'Balancing different curtain choices with other elements like furniture or rugs makes the overall aesthetic harmonious, even if the curtains themselves don’t match.'

There’s a time and a place for both matching and mismatched curtains, with the key being to recognize what works for both your space and your individual interior design style. 

As Martin Waller, founder of Andrew Martin, says: 'Curtains do not always have to match. In fact, embracing eclecticism and individuality can lead to more interesting and dynamic spaces. While matching curtains for all the windows in a room can create a cohesive and harmonious look, mixing different styles, textures, or colors can inject personality and character. The key is to ensure that there is a thoughtful balance and a common thread that ties the elements together, whether it's a subtle color palette, complementary patterns, or a unified design theme.'

Window treatment mistakes are, unfortunately, quite easy to make. Because drapes and blinds tend to be chosen later in a project, when other colors and pieces have already been selected, decisions are often made when budgets are lower, creative minds are distracted and people are in a hurry to get the room completed.

'Nothing elevates a room quite like window treatments,' says the designer Ashley Ferguson. 'The right drapery selection can be make-or-break for a space, especially for a large window.'

So in order to stop you making any errors with your window treatment ideas, which can both cost you more in the long run (if you need to redo) or can ruin the way a room comes together. Ashley and a host of other interior designers have shared their advice for getting window treatments right, the little tricks that can end up making a big difference.

1. Approaching installation wrongly

When it comes to measuring up for window treatments, there is a right way and wrong way – and the right way might surprise you. And in fact, if you approach the installation of your window treatments in the way that the interior designer Olga Ashby suggests, you'll find it's much easier to ensure the perfect measurements and avoid costly mistakes.

'Everyone is always in a rush, but we always install the curtain poles and curtains separately,' Olga says 'When the pole is installed we measure up a precise drop and adjust the curtains accordingly.' Measuring the curtains without the pole in place will give you a difference of about one inch – which can actually make a surprisingly large impact on the overall look. 

2. Getting the width wrong

There is an easy equation to measuring up the width of the fabric needed for window treatments, too, and Olga Ashby is on hand to supply it.

'In terms of width, we normally hang the outside of the curtains eight to ten inches further out than the window itself and then make sure they cover two inches of the window itself, which hides the window frame. This way, you get a nice pillar of around 12 inches of fabric on either side of your window treatment.' 

3. Making the window look smaller

When chosen wrongly, a window treatment can actually make the window it's hung against look smaller, thereby making the room feel darker and more cramped. Quite a big effect for a swathe of fabric!

'A tried-and-true tip is to hang the drapery taller and wider than the window to create the illusion of a more open, airy space,' says the Austin, TX.-based interior designer Ashley Ferguson. 'This will also give the window treatment a very sophisticated and tailored feel.'

4. Scrimping on the quality

As curtains are often a finishing touch, chosen after much of the rest of the room has been designed, they often come when much of the budget has been spent. This means it can be tempting to scrimp on them, in order to claw back some money that was unexpectedly spent elsewhere.

But Olga says this is a false economy, and can quickly lead to shrinkage, or even stretch. All those carefully made measurements gone to waste. 'It is important to choose the fabric which wouldn’t stretch over time, though it can shrink if it is hung over a radiator,' she says 'So we only shop for good quality fabric.' 100% cotton is a good choice, being both durable and washable, prolonging the life of your window treatments.

5. Accidentally increasing the budget

While on the subject of budgets, the wrong window treatment can actually up your spend considerably – either because you have to redo them or because the material doesn't age well.

If you are looking to save on how much you're spending, Ashley has a pro-tip. 'To save on costs, an alternative option is to use stationary panels,' she says. 'While these won't provide privacy, they will achieve the look of drapery panels and work to visually soften the room.'

6. Obscuring the view

If you're lucky enough to have a picture window, or large glass panes that look out onto an incredible view, the worst thing you can do is obscure that with the wrong window treatment. At the same time, you do need to choose something, so as to deal with glare, or perhaps enhance privacy. 

In this space designed by Amy Kartheiser, she went for sheer drapes which help to dapple the sunlight a little, while not totally hiding the incredible scenery outside. 'I love to think about beautiful views as a piece of art in itself,' Amy says. 'And just like designing a room around a show-stopping piece of art, I will also design a room around a beautiful view. In this lakeside project, we designed the color palette of the room around the beautiful water and sunrise visible from floor-to-ceiling windows.'

7. Using pattern wrongly

Although patterned curtains are a fun way to introduce print into a space – keeping it at the edges so as not to dominate the design – it's not advisable for every window. 

'Nothing elevates a room quite like window treatments,' Ashley says 'The right drapery selection can be make-or-break for a space, especially for a large window. In this scenario, above, it's best to avoid patterns and opt for a solid-toned curtain. The drapery doesn't necessarily need to be neutral, but definitely a solid color. Busy patterned drapery on a large window can quickly overwhelm a space. Instead, incorporate some fun pattern on pillow textiles or elsewhere in the room.' 

8. Creating too much of a color contrast

Another temptation can be to go for a bright curtain – and for a neutral room this can look well curated. But in a space that already has a lot of color in it, the result can be overwhelming.

Here, Amy chose an ombre blue effect for the curtains, but by matching that blue to colors seen on the furniture already it created a cohesive scheme.

'Neon colors such as yellow, orange or green would create a jarring visual contrast. Deep browns would feel too heavy. Burnt orange would feel too earthy and disruptive. The muted tones we chose helped create a balanced and relaxing living room,' Amy explains.

9. Forgetting a valance

Valances tend to feel a little formal, but when used in the right space they can actually become a perfect finishing touch, a little extra addition that has the overall effect of making the room seem well-considered. Here, in this kitchen designed by Missy Stewart, choosing a valance in the same fabric has the window treatment simply creates an extra, elevated layer.

'A valance is just a great pop of color in a kitchen and ties in with the color theme,' Missy says. By choosing blue for both the window treatment and counter stools, the whole room looks so much more grown up and inviting.

Window treatment mistakes are easy to make, but easy to avoid. The key takeaways are simple; measure, measure measure, don't let your window treatments be an after-thought both in terms of style and budget and really consider what styles, colors and patterns are going to work in your space – what you put at your windows can have as much impact as the color of your walls or material of your flooring. 

No bathroom is complete without a shower curtain, but finding stylish, aesthetic options can sometimes be tricky. Gone are the days of boring shower curtains made from unappealing materials – some beautiful examples can make a real style statement in your bathroom.

If you've been searching for shower curtain ideas, you might have come across some striking designs, but where can you buy them from? There are plenty of retailers selling stylish options, but it's important to choose something as functional as it is pretty.

So, if you're looking for the best place to buy stylish shower curtains, look no further. We've put together a curated list of the best places to source stylish pieces that not only look great, but have all the practical benefits, too.

Where to buy stylish shower curtains

Shower curtains play a big part in your bathroom decor, so choosing something that feels in keeping with your bathroom aesthetic is key to a successful design. Whether you prefer warm neutrals, vibrant hues, or pretty patterns, these are the places to shop for stylish shower curtains.

1. McGee & Co

If you love a neutral bathroom scheme, McGee & Co's shower curtains will be just your style. In its true California casual style, there is a mixture of plain, textured designs and subtle patterned fabrics that add an eye-catching feature without overwhelming the space.

A small but curated selection, all of the shower curtains have a very natural, organic color and texture, each with its unique features. Each has holes for shower curtain hooks, giving you the option to choose something in the same finish as your bathroom's hardware.

Every piece is made from cotton or linen, giving them a lovely lightweight appearance that doesn't look like your average shower curtain. The use of natural materials means they are easy to wash and style with other colors and fabrics within your bathroom scheme.

2. Anthropologie

Alternatively, if you prefer shower curtains with more playful, patterned designs, Anthropologie has an eclectic mix. From colorful borders to floral patterns and animal designs, there's plenty to satisfy a variety of interior design styles.

The appeal of Anthropologie's stock is the array of designs – there's something to suit more minimalist tastes as well as maximalist bathroom schemes. There are several collaborations with other brands, designers, and artists, all of which contribute to the vast array of options.

Stand-out pieces include an on-trend leopard design available in a few different colors, ruffle shower curtains that come in block colors elevated by the textural details, and woven stripe designs to add a playful pop of color. Most of Anthropologie's shower curtains are made from organic cotton, so they tick the sustainability box, too.

3. Serena & Lily

Paired-back and simple perfectly describe Serena & Lily's selection of shower curtains. With a varying range of white shower curtains with tassel details, the brand's stock offers a chic finish to your bathroom design.

All nine of the shower curtains feature a tasseled edge, with four options offered in various shades of blue, perfect for coastal bathrooms or spaces with a subtle bohemian style. If blue isn't to your taste, there are also all-white options, as well as a beautiful warm-hued linen design.

While Serna & Lily's shower curtain edit is on the smaller side, the simple designs work beautifully in any interior design scheme, from colorful spaces to more minimalist schemes. They are also great if you like to change your decor around frequently, as they fit in with a variety of bathroom color combinations.

4. Macy's

A quick search for shower curtains on the Macy's website gives you over 300 results, so there's plenty to choose from. As you'd expect from a department store, many brands are stocked at Macy's giving you a wider variety of shower curtains at different price points to consider.

There's a real mix of designs here – from plain block colors and simple patterns to more textural and even mural-style designs. To help you navigate through all of the shower curtains on offer, there are sixteen filters to narrow down your results, including color, price, and fabric.

In particular, the Madison Park collection has some truly timeless pieces, while the Lush Decor range features some bolder designs for a more maximalist bathroom scheme. There are a lot of different fabrics featured, from cotton and linen to heavier fabrics like velvet, so we recommend using this filter to get the look you desire.

5. CB2

CB2's shower curtain selection is small but filled with staple designs – light and airy with the addition of a couple of more colorful options, alongside a black option which is less commonly seen despite being a hue regularly used in bathrooms.

Cotton, linen, and organic materials make up the shower curtain collection here, and for the pieces that are more sheer than you might like, there are also shower curtain liners listed alongside them in corresponding sizes.

The shower curtains at CB2 are more tailored to minimalist and modern interior design styles, featuring lots of neutral colors and clean lines – a lot of these pieces certainly wouldn't look out of place in a Wabi-sabi or Japandi style bathroom.

6. Wayfair

With over 50,000 results under the shower curtain and liner section, Wayfair is one of the best when it comes to offering a vast and varied selection. Another store offering stock from different brands, there are guaranteed pieces for every interior design style here.

Luckily, Wayfair has an in-depth filtering system so you can create tailored results – filter by size to be served only the shower curtains that will fit your space, or filter by color to find a design that suits your bathroom scheme.

There's a really mixed shower curtain selection here, with prices from $20 right up to almost $700. While there are some beautiful designs, ranging from simple to more decorative, you do get what you pay for, so if you do go for a more affordable option, it won't feel quite as luxurious as those from higher-end brands.

7. Crate & Barrel

Crate & Barrel's edit of shower curtains features simplistic designs in neutral and earthy tones. Thanks to the paired-back nature of the pieces, there's something to suit almost every scheme, whether your bathroom is more minimal and tranquil or fun and colorful.

There's a versatile range to choose from, including various stripe designs (which are proving on-trend right now) and lightweight linens in multiple colorways. There are also shower curtain rings in black and matte nickel so you can choose something to match the rest of your bathroom hardware.

The majority of Crate & Barrel's shower curtains are made from natural materials, organic cotton, or EUROPEAN FLAX ™-Certified fabrics, making them enduring and sustainable options. The prices here are on the slightly higher end, but they are all styles and materials that are hardwearing and will endure trends.

Shower curtains aren't all made equal, but these brands and retailers offer some of the most stylish pieces. So, whether you're a maximalist or a minimalist, prefer a block color or a pretty pattern, these are the places to shop if you're looking for shower curtains that marry functionality and aesthetics.

The Uplift is a monthly series in which our Style & Trends Editor Charlotte Olby uncovers the best decor to bring joy to your home. She consults our experts and picks through thousands of pieces from the biggest designers and retailers to bring you the very best.

Summer is upon us, and with that comes the natural need to throw those windows and doors open in search of sunlight and a gentle breeze. So it makes sense that switching out your window treatments when the warmer weather starts to hit is an excellent way to get your home summer-ready.

And the editors at Homes & Gardens agree. Summer is all about bringing the outdoors in. Lightweight, airy fabrics such as sheer bamboo blinds or linen drapes can replace heavier winter materials, allowing sunlight to filter through and brighten your rooms. They can really set the tone of a room, provide privacy, and control natural light, making window treatments a versatile and impactful addition to any space.

Personally, I am remodeling and have curtains and blinds to source for just about every room in my home. I'm on a personal mission to find window treatments to shop this June that deliver on style and quality and that are purse-friendly without compromising on those two key attributes. So I've taken on hours of research to source my top picks.

Here, I've tapped into the expert minds of the H&G editors to help me find the very best curtains and blinds out there. Whether you're looking for something soft, subtle, and neutral, a trend-led cafe curtain, or perhaps a more statement-making drape, there's a perfect option for every aesthetic below. Here's what we found.

Whether you love a simple blind or prefer to make a statement at your windows, there's surely something to suit your style here. From luxury, trend-led buys from Pottery Barn, Anthropologie, and Lulu & Georgia to more function-first and budget-friendly picks from Wayfair and Amazon, our editors have used their years of shopping and interiors knowledge to bring you an edit of the best. Happy shopping!

Buying blackout curtains is a great investment. They help to fully darken a room – be it a bedroom or cinema room – while also maintaining privacy and blocking out heat (and cold in winter).

Their blackout material only does so much to keep light at bay, however. If you are looking for a true blackout experience, you might find yourself bothered by the small bits of light that escape around the top of your curtain ideas. But how do you block light at the top of curtains?

We talked to designers and curtain experts to learn how to stylishly block light at the top of curtains.

How to block light at the top of curtains

Whether you are trying to create a darker sleep sanctuary or choose the best curtains for a living room for a cinema-like experience, thinking about leaking light is a must.

Luckily, there are four ways to stop any light from getting in that don’t look slapdash. This is what the experts recommend.

1. Use a valance

If you are a fan of the traditional look, adding window valance ideas to the top of your curtains can help to block out some more of the light that escapes the top, suggests Drew Sewitz, designer and curtain expert at Valley Drapery & Upholstery. Attaching a valance to a pelmet box that encases the curtain rail will instantly darken any space.

Don’t mistake traditional for dated, however. Done well, a curtain valance can instantly elevate your drapery and make curtains look expensive by layering lush textiles.

2. Layer window treatments

Layering is everything in interior design. Not only does it make a home look more expensive and feel cozier, but it has many practical applications too. For instance, layering window treatments can work wonders for blocking out any leaking light – even with blackout curtains.

‘I really like having different layers. Instead of just having your usual curtains or your blackout window blinds, have them both as they’ll really block any sunlight from coming in,’ shares Anna Tatsioni, lead interior designer and architect at Decorilla. ‘What I love about this approach is that on top of offering really good light blockage, it allows you to have different ambient lighting in the room. If you want some light then you can just have the curtains and if you want it to be darker but still have some bits of light here and there you can just open up the curtains and lower the blackout blinds.

‘It gives you options. And there are different fabrics and types of curtains and blinds so you can just opt for the ones that make more sense to you.’

3. Opt for a seamless cornice

For a seamless look that blocks light at the top of curtains, consider adding a cornice with decorative plasterwork to bring your wall trim out and around your curtain rail to cage it in and stop light, Anna Tatsioni, interior designer, recommends:

‘I am a fan of cornices. They are elegant, classy, and chic without being too much. I recommend them way more than pelmet boxes. Somehow, cornices have a vintage feel to them without being outdated as opposed to pelmet boxes, which to me just seem from another time.

‘Cornices smoothly transition from the ceiling instead of being a separate part of it. My suggestion is that you pick the same color for the cornice and the ceiling so they can have an appealing visual effect.’

4. Apply a window film

If a more DIY-heavy approach such as hanging new shades or building a box to conceal the rail is not an option, you can consider using window film to frost glass and reduce light altogether, suggests Bob Berriz, professional designer and owner of Berriz Design:

‘Consider applying blackout window films directly to the glass. I've used these in high-end projects where maintaining a sleek look was crucial. The films add another layer of light control without affecting the overall aesthetics, making them a versatile option.’

FAQs

Why is my room still light with blackout curtains?

Your room may still be a little light even with blackout curtains if the curtains are not snug around the window. Light wil lleak from around the top, edges, and bottom if the curtains are not big enough or do not sit against the frame completely.
It can sometimes help to mix curtains with blinds or shades to help with this and achieve a completely dark room.

If you want an alternative to blackout curtains that stop all light, you could swap them out for some shutter ideas instead. These are a little trickier to fit than regular drapery, however, they can instantly block all light with very little leakage, while also improving your home's energy efficiency, protecting privacy, and boosting home security. Layer curtains with shutters for a cozy feel that is sure to leave your room completely dark for perfect sleep or a killer movie night.

As a self-professed collector of 'nice things,' I often find myself fighting a constant battle with clutter in my home. But while my obsession with collecting has led me to amass a few too many decorative items, I feel like I've mastered the art of 'balance' in my home.

With a few clever tricks, your cherished possessions don't have to be an eyesore. I've managed to disguise unsightly messes and conceal clutter in plain sight, I'm confident these stylish solutions can help you organize your home, too.

The following 6 ideas are not only practical, but they also add a touch of elegance to your home. So, if you're ready to tackle the clutter and create a more streamlined space, read on.

How to conceal clutter in plain sight

Whether you're living in small apartment or a spacious family home, these 6 tried-and-test methods of concealing 'clutter' will help you reclaim your space:

1. Ottomans

Ottomans are undoubtedly among the most multifunctional pieces of furniture you can have in your home. They not only help you conceal ugly household items, but they also provide a place to rest your feet or extra seating in a pinch.

I look for ottomans with plenty of hidden storage inside. These are perfect for storing away items like remote controls, books, or even extra pillows and blankets. When not in use, they can easily blend into your room's design, keeping your space tidy and organized.

2. Fabric Cord Covers

Electrical cords are one of the most frustrating sources of clutter in my house. Luckily, they don't have to ruin an otherwise beautifully organized home office or movie room.

I started doing this next clever trick after watching a tour of Emma Roberts's gorgeous mid-century home. She utilizes stylish fabric cord covers to blend unsightly wires into their surroundings. The best part of these covers is that you can match them to your room's color scheme for a cohesive look or opt for contrasting and patterned prints for a playful touch.

I also use cord organizers to bundle and hide multiple cables together, keeping them neat and out of sight. These are also available in a variety of styles, such as this Wooden Kirigen Cord Management Box from Amazon, which proves that cable organizers don't have to look plastic and cumbersome.

3. Anchoring items

This technique has been a game changer when it comes to containing clutter in my living room. Rather than hiding away all my coffee table books and candles inside cupboards, I've started to use decorative trays and chargers to 'anchor' and curate objects together. Though these items remain in plain sight, this process makes them look intentional rather than cluttered.

Try placing a decorative tray on a coffee table, dresser, or kitchen counter to gather items like candles, books, and small decor pieces. This method reduces visual clutter on surfaces and makes it easier to move items when you need to clean or rearrange your space.

4. Curtains

This next tip is particularly useful if you live in a rented apartment or you're currently in mid-renovation mode. Installing cafe curtains allows you to cover up under-sink clutter, busy open shelves, and untidy bookcases without needing to carve out new storage spaces or alcoves.

These half-length curtains can be hung from tension rods and easily drawn to conceal items behind them. Choose a fabric that complements your decor, and you'll find that a once cluttered space takes on an 'intentionally curated' appearance.

To create a DIY cafe curtain, I bought a brass tension rod from Amazon and purchased these affordable cafe curtains from Wayfair.

5. Storage boxes

This next tip is a tried-and-tested method of concealing clutter that I've been doing for years. Decorative storage baskets are one of the most versatile and attractive ways to corral and hide the mess.

I use storage baskets everywhere in my home, and I even have a couple of empty baskets that I use for my 15-minute decluttering routine each day. You can place baskets in living rooms, bedrooms, or entryways to store items like blankets, magazines, toys, and more.

Personally, I like to opt for baskets made from natural materials like wicker or seagrass because they add a touch of warmth and texture to my home.

6. Clear Jars & Containers

Sometimes, simply removing busy or unattractive labels from packaging can significantly reduce visual clutter in a kitchen. This method works well for organizing pantry items and it makes cleaning supplies look more attractive and less 'cluttered'. It can also elevate your bathroom vanity by giving your bottles and containers a more cohesive feel.

I also opt to decant food items into plain storage containers for a more streamlined look. Just make sure you keep a record of what’s inside labelless containers, especially for items with expiry dates or potentially harmful ingredients.

If you're still concerned that you have too many 'things' taking up valuable space in your home, try adopting some decluttering tips for collectors and hoarders. The act of letting go of household items can be the first step toward a tidier and more relaxing space.

For somebody who doesn't use curtains in her home, Martha Stewart sure knows how to design them.

Speaking during a lecture at the Nashville Antiques and Garden Show in 2022, the lifestyle went as far as to say she could title her book 'A House With No Curtains,' but the reason doesn't come down to her dislike for their aesthetic. Instead, her ideology is more practical.

'I wake up really, really early,' she also previously shared during a Q&A with MasterClass CEO David Rogier. 'There are no curtains...so I let the sun come in as I start having workers come to my farm. I live on a farm, and they come...at 7:00 a.m., so I have to be up.' For those who don't live on a farm, however, Stewart recognizes that curtains are a key part of our decor – so of course, she designed some that are beautiful enough to elevate every type of window.

Martha Stewart's curtain collection, available on Amazon, comprises a range of lengths and thicknesses—whether we want delicate sheer (perfect for a cafe corner) or a black-out option for a long night's sleep. Our favorites (below) are reduced, and we're investing before it's too late.

There are few things more infuriating when showering than the shower curtain developing a mind of its own and sticking to you mid-shower – besides running out of shampoo, we suppose. 

Luckily, there are some simple DIY fixes for this bathroom nightmare, helping to keep your shower curtain ideas stay in one place, so that you can enjoy your shower in peace.

These are the four methods contractors suggest to keep your curtain still, and why this annoyance happens in the first place.

How to stop a shower curtain from blowing in

As practical as they are, shower curtains also come with their fair share of problems. Not only does it feel impossible to clean a shower curtain to get rid of staining, but many often seem to blow in on you even when there is no breeze. 

However, this might be a sign that your shower curtain is doing its job and protecting your bathroom, says Bethany Uribe, mitigation division supervisor at ASAP Restoration. 

‘If a shower curtain is blowing in, then that means it is doing its job perfectly. The reason for this is because of air pressure differences between the hot moist air inside the shower, and the cooler dry air outside the shower,’ she explains ‘Hot air rises, and leaves behind a vacuum of space. The cool air down near the shower floor is trying to get in and this forces the shower curtain to blow in.’

This helps to keep you warm and your bathroom dry. But, if you’re sick of unsticking yourself mid-wash, you can try these solutions.

1. Deploy your extractor fan

To help mitigate the pressure effect that is causing the curtain to blow in in your bathroom, you can use your bathroom extractor fan (or open the window) to help equalize the pressure, suggests Bethany Uribe, mitigation division supervisor. This prevents the vacuum from forming while helping to prevent and get rid of shower curtain mold and mildew. 

For even better results, you can also opt to keep the shower curtain slightly open at the opposite end of the showerhead, adds Martin Smith, managing director at Westside Bathrooms. ‘This will allow free-flowing air into the shower and minimize movement.’ 

2. Use a heavier or weighted curtain

Another great way to keep a shower curtain in one place is to opt for a heavier shower curtain fabric, or pick a weighted shower curtain, continues Martin Smith.

‘A heavier shower curtain can make a difference as it’s less likely to blow into the shower compared to a lighter-weight curtain. You can also add weight to your existing curtain with heavy-weight magnets, such as these from Amazon, to prevent movement.’

More often than not, a heavier or thicker shower curtain also helps to make a shower look more expensive, too. So it’s a win-win in our eyes. 

3. Use magnetic strips or suction cups

For a more robust approach to keeping a shower curtain still, you can use something to physically hold it in place as you bathe. 

‘Use suction cups to attach the shower curtain to the wall or bath, keeping it in place,’ recommends Martin Smith. ‘These can be attached to a wall in a shower enclosure or onto a bath for showers above a bathtub.’

‘Magnets are a solid solution when it comes to shower curtain placement, but most tubs and shower stalls these days are made with fiberglass and plastic composites. This means that the magnets will have nothing to stick to. To fix this, simply get some magnet strips and affix them to the interior of the shower with some hot glue. This will keep them in place, while at the same time allowing for their removal in the future,’ suggests Bethany Uribe, mitigation division supervisor.

4. Invest in a curved shower pole

Alternatively, if you would like more space to move in your shower, you can invest in a curved shower pole rather than a straight one, recommends Rosie Anna, of Eagle General Services. Your shower curtain may still move, but it will be less likely to stick to you when it does. 

‘You'll have more space to shower after doing this, I promise,’ Rosie adds. 

FAQs

How do I add weight to my shower curtain?  

If you want to weigh an existing shower curtain, you can use weighted clips to help weigh down the bottom, or for a more stylish DIY option, sew small weighted beads into the hem of your curtain for a more seamless look.  

Is it okay to shower without a curtain? 

It is generally not a good idea to shower without a curtain or a screen to stop water from going everywhere. Showering without a curtain can soak your bathroom and, unless dried thoroughly afterward (which is a lot of effort) result in mold and mildew.  

If you are really tired of your shower curtain and don’t mind a small bathroom renovation, Martin Smith, bathroom design expert highly recommends switching to a screen instead. ‘For a more permanent solution, invest in a good quality shower screen, especially if your shower is over a bathtub. Not only do screens stay still while you shower, but they make cleaning a bathroom easier too.’  

Country interiors are often defined by muted palettes, but this Surrey home is imbued with a joyful interior full of kaleidoscopic color, thanks to interior design studio Olivine Design.

The clients, a family with three young children, had moved out of London looking for a property with more space. They found this seven-bedroom house, which is around 30 years old but needed updating.

‘They were attracted to it because is it spacious and filled with light’, says Victoria Gray, co-founder of Olivine Design with Taline Findlater, who was tasked with renovating the interior.

‘The architecture and proportions of the rooms are wonderful, but it was a bit of a white box – there was nothing quirky or interesting.’ With a brief to inject character and personality into the interior and reflect the family, it fell to Olivine Design to introduce life with colorful paint ideas and carefully curated detail.

‘At Olivine we do love colour!’ adds Victoria. New bathrooms were installed and a large dining room off the kitchen, which the family knew they wouldn’t use, was transformed into a generous playroom.

‘It was built for a reason but it needed to adjust with time,’ explains Victoria. The color palette was dictated by the layout of the property.

‘Downstairs, most of the rooms interconnect and, if they don’t interconnect, they have French doors into the garden and the hallway so we couldn’t really design any of the rooms in isolation to the others,’ says Victoria.

‘They had to all work with each other, which was crucial to the design downstairs.’ Clean, calm and fresh hues were selected, focusing on pinks, blues and reds, with pops of yellow and green, for a cohesive feel.

‘The rooms are very light and we didn’t want to overwhelm them with anything too dark,’ says Victoria. ‘The punches of color came through on the furniture and the fabrics. The fabrics are what shine through in the rooms and, although they’re not dramatic, they work beautifully together.’

The capacious sitting room, for instance, showcases soft pink walls with bursts of yellow, blue and red and those colors are picked up in the exquisite florals. ‘It’s rare to have a room that size that you can break up with furniture,’ says Victoria.

Playful touches, a nod to the young family, include a bold red lacquered cabinet and a scallop-edged rug that echoes the detail on the scalloped console. The blue in the sitting room is picked up and intensified in the snug – the clients’ favorite room – but Olivine Design selected a deeper shade for it.

‘The snug was the only room where we went darker and we made it work,’ says Victoria. ‘It is not a color the clients would naturally have chosen, but we punched through with pops of yellow on the chairs and bright orange on the curtains.’

Modern pieces ensure the style is transitional. In the kitchen, for instance, against a soft green backdrop, a monastic-style pale oak table rubs shoulders with clean-lined chairs. ‘The client didn’t want anything too modern nor too precious or antique,’ says Victoria.

Upstairs, fluted bedside cabinets inject a contemporary feel into the bedrooms. That eye for carefully considered detail spans the interior, from the oversized floral headboards in the bedrooms and the scalloped curtains in the nursery to the wavy-edged cabinetry that hugs the wall in the playroom, all of which ensure that this family home is now bursting with character.

Meet the designers

Victoria Gray and Taline Findlater share their style inspiration

What part of the project do you think is the biggest success?

Adding built-in joinery in the playroom – it showcases the wonderful collection
of books the children have.

What's your go-to color?

For this project, pale pinks in all shades.

What's your favorite small change that has a huge impact?

Oversizing the headboards in the larger bedrooms of the house to make an impact.

Favorite design detail?

Trims - on cushions, curtains, and furniture.

How do you find inspiration?

We love a trip to a museum or gallery, like the V&A in London – we can spend hours
here finding detailing inspiration.

Can you reveal a secret address we should have on our radar?

Painswick Fabrics in the Cotswolds.

How does this house epitomize the country idyll?

There is a lovely inside-outside feel to the house, especially on the ground floor.

More daylight can make rooms look bigger and contribute to well-being, so who wouldn’t want to optimize it? But when budget forbids calling in the pros, DIY hacks for getting more natural light into your home are required.

Great house design can maximize the daylight that reaches the interior. And in an existing home it‘s possible to boost it by remodeling. Yet there are ways to bring in daylight that are less disruptive and costly and, even better, that you can achieve yourself.

These expert hacks will make rooms lighter, brighter and larger feeling with just a little time and effort that will be well worth it for the results.

5 light-boosting hacks to try at home

Clever decor choices, like choosing the right colors for walls and decorating with mirrors, can boost the light once it’s reached your room. And major interventions such as fitting a roof lantern can increase natural light as well.

But if you want to let more light into your house in the first place and achieve your goal by your own efforts? These are the DIY ways to do it.

1. Clean windows

If window panes attract your attention because of what’s on them rather than the view through them, they’re obstructing natural light.

The remedy? ‘Clean your windows regularly to remove dirt, rain stains, dust, and grime that can block light,’ says Jeramy Sibley, president of Glass Doctor, a Neighborly company. ‘Make sure to clean both the glass and the surrounding frames to ensure maximum light entry.’

Avoid streaks by using the tried-and-tested ways to clean a window for glazing that’s light maximizing, like the fall window cleaning trick for more light, for example.

2. Think curtain rods

Like windows that aren’t pristine, the position of curtain rods could be compromising the passage of natural light into your home. Fabric blocking the glass means fabric blocking the natural light, so you might need to alter the height of a rod or invest in one that’s wider.

‘Opt for curtain rods mounted well above the window frame to allow maximum light exposure,’ says Tina Priestly, CEO of Ready, Set, Refresh. Use the rules designers follow to decide how high to hang curtains and place curtain rod brackets to allow for panels to be pulled away from the glass. Installing curtain rods is a simple DIY job.

And if privacy prevents the glazing being totally unobscured during daylight hours but brightening the room is a priority? ‘Swap out heavy curtains for sheer or lightweight fabrics,’ says Tina. ‘Sheer curtains soften the light and add an airy, ethereal quality to your rooms.’ In other words, more light without compromising privacy.

3. Trim foliage

Cleaning windows and hanging window treatments differently can let more light in, but what if the light’s impeded before it even reaches the window?

‘Trim any foliage that might be overshadowing your windows from the outside to allow more natural light to penetrate your indoor spaces,’ recommends Jeramy Sibley.

‘This is particularly important for windows that face garden areas or have trees nearby. Keep trees and shrubs around your home well-trimmed to maximize sunlight reaching your windows.’

To keep the plants healthy, follow the one-third pruning rule that stops you snipping off too much in one go; it will also help keep their structure open so light (as well as air) flows through the foliage since you’ll want to enjoy their presence along with boosting the light inside your home.

4. Tunnel the light

While it’s a more complicated job than some of the other hacks, fitting a light tunnel, also known as a solar daylighting tube and by other similar names, is a DIYable project.

As the name suggests, one of these introduces natural light into a space in your home via an entry point in the roof, bringing it to the room through a tube and then diffusing it into the space.

‘Because the light is coming from above rather than the side, it provides excellent illumination,’ says Gabriella Dyson, Head of Solved at Homes & Gardens. ‘Even better, one of these can be fitted where a window wouldn’t go.

‘You can pick up the parts you’ll need to construct a sun tunnel in a hardware store when you’re DIYing,’ she advises. ‘But if you like the idea of this daylight booster but don’t want to go up on the roof, you could call in a pro installer.’

5. Borrow light

If natural light is reaching a room well, but the one beyond is dark, then the answer is to borrow the light from the first room. A DIYable way to achieve this is to swap a solid interior door for one that’s glazed – or partially glazed.

Clear glass will maximize the movement of light, but frosted glass will still let daylight through and offer privacy if that’s required.

Think about the door’s style when borrowing light. ‘A single glazed panel lets the most light through,’ advises Gabriella. ‘The muntins of a multi-panel design will block a certain amount. And if you’re opting for a door with, say, two or three glass panels, those with narrow stiles (the vertical pieces) and narrow rails (the horizontal pieces) will minimize light impediment.’

Getting more light into a home has a host of benefits. ‘These strategies enhance your overall wellbeing by making spaces feel more open and connected to the outdoors,’ says Jeramy Sibley. ‘They also support a healthier home environment by boosting mood and productivity through increased exposure to natural light.’

Are you aiming to block out external noises to create a quiet sanctuary or workspace? Perhaps you need to contain sounds, like in a music room? Well, you are in the right place. Our experts have compiled six techniques to effectively soundproof any door, offering solutions from simple fixes to more intricate solutions.

One of the key steps to take when soundproofing a room, alongside soundproofing windows, is to target the door. Often, doors are where the majority of sound enters and escapes a room due to their lighter mass compared to walls and potential gaps or inadequate seals around the edges. The key to soundproofing doors lies in addressing these factors.

Whether you're a seasoned DIY enthusiast or your skills are limited and you're on a budget, these steps cater to a wide range of skill levels. Just like fixing a drafty door you can choose individual approaches or use them in combination for the most effective results.

How to soundproof a door

Before you begin soundproofing, it's wise to carefully assess your door to pinpoint areas needing attention to optimize your efforts and avoid unnecessary expenses or efforts.

Cracks and gaps are common culprits and can easily be remedied with simple and low-cost solutions. If sealing these gaps proves effective at reducing noise, you can save time and money by ditching additional soundproofing methods. However, if the door itself is an issue or you require a combination of methods to properly soundproof your door, strategic planning is essential. Consider the best order, materials, and approach carefully to achieve the best results.

1. Use soundproofing sealant

'The most effective way of soundproofing a door is to use door seals to fill gaps where sound can escape/enter through,' says Ethan Denby, SEO of sales advisor at Muffle Acoustics. 'This is not only highly effective but also very simple. To do this, you can use acoustic caulking and expandable foam.'

Star by inspecting the door and its frame for any gaps or cracks where sound could potentially escape and enter. A good way to work out where the focus of your soundproofing efforts should lie is by testing where drafts come from. To do this, close all doors and windows, turn off any fans of HVAC systems in the room, and hold a lit candle or incense stick near the edges of the door frame. Pay attention to where the flame or smoke flickers, as these will indicate the draft-prone areas where sound may also be leaking through. This should be where you focus soundproofing efforts, such as sealing, to minimize sound transmission.

Apply the sealant generously, ensuring it completely fills the gap and forms a tight seal. Smooth out the sealant and scrape away excess foam with a putty knife. If you are using expandable foam, only fill gaps about 50-75%. It expands as it cures, so you must allow for expansion to not damage your door or frame.

2. Install weatherstripping and gaskets

Weatherstripping is installed along the edges of doors to create a seal between the moveable parts, such as the door and frame, to prevent sound leakage. These often come with adhesive-backed foam tape or are magnetic.

Door gaskets are typically used with weatherstripping – this is the approach to employ if you want to improve the effectiveness of your weatherstripping when soundproofing,' says Kerry Sherin, a consumer advocate at Ownerly. 'A door gasket, like weatherstripping, fills gaps between the door and the frame.' However, unlike weatherstripping, which is applied to the door frame, gaskets are securely attached to the sides and bottom of the door. They are somewhat more expensive, however, so if the weatherstripping does the trick on its own you won't need to also buy gaskets.

Additionally, if your door has a window in it consider installing acoustic window inserts. These are designed to provide an extra barrier to limit the amount of noise that can go through your window. These inserts go on the inside of your window to ensure that there are no gaps around the frame of your window.

3. Install mass-loaded vinyl

Mass-loaded vinyl (MLV) is a soundproofing material made from plastic with added weight from sand, lead, or other materials. 'This material adds weight and density to the door, effectively blocking more sound from passing through,' says Jake Herman, CEO of Spray Foam Insulation USA. 'We recommend using MLV at least a 1/4 inch thickness of mass-loaded vinyl for noticeable soundproofing results.'

You can secure the MLV with screws for a durable fit and cover it with a decorative panel to ensure you don't have to compromise on aesthetics.

4. Add soundproofing panels

Both soundproofing blankets, from Amazon, and acoustic panels provide an additional layer to absorb noise as they lower the intensity of sound waves passing through them. While both are viable options, acoustic panels are a more permanent solution where the blankets are simply hung over the door as a temporary soundproofing measure.

These panels are designed to add density to your door to block sounds and are often less expensive than high-end alternatives.

'Panels are particularly effective as they can be customized to fit the exact size of your door. They are available in a variety of materials, including foam, which is the most common, and solid wood.'

To install acoustic panels, you can nail them to the door or use adhesive strips – such as these scotch-mount mounting strips from Walmart – to prevent damage. Ensure the panels cover as much of the door as possible to maximize sound absorption.

5. Add a door sweep or draft excluder

While creating a tight seal to block sounds at the bottom of a door may not be practical, that doesn't mean there's nothing to be done to soundproof the gap that exists at the bottom of many doors.

'You can put all the gaskets and paneling you want on your door, but if there is a gap at the bottom, massive volumes of sound will still seep through. To avoid this, place a door sweep on the bottom of the door to close the gap and block sound waves,' recommends Kerry Sherin.

'Soundproof door sweeps need some effort to install (you'll need a drill and screws), but the significant gain in soundproofing is generally worthwhile.' You can also find those wich attach to your door with adhesives, like this Porfeet adhesive door strip. However, even with these, you still risk peeling off your paintwork when removing it.

If you don't want to risk damaging the door, consider investing in a sound-blocking draft excluder as an effective alternative. You can prioritize one that adds to your space's aesthetics, or a simple but effective draft stopper, from Amazon that can slide under the door.

6. Use a sound blocking curtain

We love curtain ideas as a way to add color and pattern to the home, and with the benefit of being able to dampen sounds, we recommend incorporating this affordable solution to your door soundproofing checklist.

Curtains made with thick, heavy fabrics will absorb more sound waves than thin, light ones. Look for sound-deadening textiles like acoustic velvet. The curtain should completely cover the door frame and extend to the floor and ceiling to block all sound pathways.

While we're on the subject of stylish covers, if your door has keyholes and letter openers that let sound through, you can find a range of made-to-fit soundproof covers for them that can make a significant difference.

FAQs

What type of doors are the most soundproof?

Solid core doors are easily the most soundproof option, with a higher density and mass, they are excellent for absorbing and blocking sound transmission than hollow core doors.

If you are willing to spend a bit more in your quest for a soundproofing door, upgrading to a solid-core door is definitely the most effective way to go.

For cases requiring extreme sound isolation, such as home studios, using double doors with a dead air space in between can be highly effective. Since there is space between the doors, any noises that get through the first door are blocked out even more before they get to the second. The air gap itself stops sound from traveling. For the best results, both doors should have mass-loaded vinyl or another sound-dampening material on them.

If you have used acoustic caulk and weather stripping, be sure to occasionally check these to see if they are worn and need to be renewed.

There are so many window treatment options out there. From curtains long and short to blinds (and all the styles they come in) to shutters. Shutters, typically reserved for more traditional-looking homes, can sit stylishly alongside most interior design styles from farmhouses to more modern homes. But, are they on trend?

With the rise in popularity of softer fabric window treatments or coverings, and the growing trend for cafe curtains, it can be easy to see why shutters might start to feel a little outdated in 2024. But they do bring a sense of nostalgic style, clean lines, and a lot of privacy that can be hard to achieve with window blinds and curtains.

So, we've taken it upon ourselves to sit down with some experts and get them to weigh in on window shutters. Their pros, their cons, and whether they'll be using them in their or their client's homes this year.

Are Window Shutters Out Of Style?

Shutters are versatile window treatments that have adorned homes for centuries, offering both functionality and aesthetic appeal. But have they become a thing of the past?

'YES, goodbye and good riddance,' says Kristen Fiore of Kristen Elizabeth Design. 'Unless you live in Florida or Hawaii, avoid shutters in your home. "Plantation Shutters" have a very distinct look that is most suited to tropical climates only so in homes that are in other climates, I feel that they look out of place. They are heavy and block an enormous amount of light into the room and home.'

While shutters offer excellent light control, their design can sometimes feel a bit imposing, especially in smaller spaces.

'Plus, shutters are cumbersome. The only way to open or close them is to use the louvers, you can never have a fully open window,' she continues. 'They create a feeling of being enclosed, even when open, the louvers can act as bars blocking a view and the light. Whenever we see them in a home we are updating, it is an immediate design choice to remove the shutters and welcome in the sun.'

According to designer Bethany Adams, however, window shutters continue to hold their own in the design world. They offer a level of privacy and light control that many other window treatments struggle to match.

'The moniker "plantation shutters" certainly should be [out of style], but the style of the shutter itself, however, is perfectly fine and useful in houses of the correct proportions (read: large),' she advises. 'Most of us would be better served by a 1" shutter which is harder to source, but much more appropriate to the scale of most homes.'

The general consensus is that window shutters can block out a lot of natural light, so you need to be sure to use them in an open space that prioritizes privacy over brightness.

'Shutters are classic but I think it’s important to consider where you are putting them because they can block a lot of light in a space if not used correctly,' advises Meredith Owen of Meredith Owen Interiors.

A kitchen or bathroom, for example, could just be the perfect spot for shutters. For one, they're inherently waterproof and do a great job providing privacy for bathrooms and overlooked rooms in your home.

Sam Tamlyn, managing director at California Shutters, says: 'With inevitable splashes and spills that occur in kitchens and bathrooms, easy maintenance is paramount. Shutters are a breeze to clean, requiring only a quick wipe between slats with a damp cloth.'

Additionally, shutters are known for their durability and low maintenance requirements, making them a practical choice for busy households.

'Wherever you are in your home, privacy is essential to relaxation,' says Sam. 'Unlike other window treatments, shutters provide complete flexibility for light and privacy, especially tier-on-tier and full-height designs. This means you can easily adjust the shutters throughout the day to suit your needs and requirements. For bathrooms, opt for tier-on-tier shutters to allow plenty of light in without taking away from privacy. For kitchens, especially those on busier streets, café-style shutters are always a popular choice.'

Ana Zuravliova, trend specialist at Blinds Direct, agrees, saying: 'While 2024 is looking like a year for the maximalists and lovers of bold patterned curtains and blinds, shutters still have an important part to play in home interiors.'

'When compared with soft fabric curtains and blinds, shutters offer equally beneficial light management and greater privacy, while also offering more versatility in certain rooms,' Ana advises. 'In the bathroom or kitchen for instance, where steam can severely damage soft fabrics, faux wood shutters are moisture resistant and will add an elegant finish that lasts for years.'

'The sleek appearance of shutters also makes them suitable for almost any 2024 interior design trend from minimalist rooms, to providing a counterbalance in vibrant maximalist spaces.'

If you're sold on the look of shutters, but concerned about the functionality in your home a great alternative is bamboo, rattan, or traditional chik blinds. Or, of course, you can go for a softer approach with curtains, drapes, roller, or Roman blinds.

Blinds and shades can provide the clean and streamlined appearance of shutters without the hassle of having to deal with slats, and they're much less obstructive. Additionally, curtains will offer a softer, more traditional feel, adding warmth and texture to a space. Ultimately, your choice between window shutters and alternative treatments will depend on your style preferences, budget, and the desired look and feel of the intended space.

While there is always much debate on what is 'on trend', it's clear that shutters are a timeless fixture that absolutely still has a place in modern interiors. With ease of light control, durability, and versatility, shutters offer a great option for homeowners seeking functionality and style. The key is to choose a window treatment that enhances the overall look and feel of your home, without getting too hung up on design trends.

If you’re looking to create the ultimate relaxing sleep space, you need not look further than the cottagecore aesthetic. This slow-living-inspired trend is more than just a fad – it is a wistful decorating scheme that is perfect for encouraging rest and relaxation.

But how do you organize a cottagecore bedroom without disrupting the cozy look?

These five aesthetic organizing tricks are essential for organizing a cottage bedroom, helping to create a serene and organized space that is perfectly in keeping with the homey, cottagecore feel.

How to organize a cottagecore bedroom

As you might expect, many of the usual rules for organizing a bedroom apply: reduce clutter, keep walkways clear, and ensure all your essentials are easy to grab. To make it cottagecore, however, you need to focus on your storage products, and how you keep things hidden.

This is what professional organizers and designers suggest.

1. Stay away from plastics

Unlike organizing a modern bedroom, you will generally want to stay away from sleek and polished bedroom organizers – such as those made from plastic, metal, or plain glass, begins Jennifer Bell, professional organizer and owner of Bell Home Organizing. Instead, you’ll want more rustic options, such as woven baskets and wood, she continues:

‘Cottagecore focuses on sustainability and items made by artisans. To organize your bedroom using this design style, stay away from plastic bins and storage containers and instead opt for materials like water hyacinth bins or cotton rope baskets to keep a natural and calming vibe that many people love about cottagecore.

‘I personally love these water hyacinth baskets from The Container Store. They come in two colors (natural and mocha brown), and a variety of shapes and sizes so they can easily adapt to your space.’

2. Use visible storage, such as walls

How you choose to use and display your bedroom storage is also important in the cottagecore trend.

'The aesthetic prides itself on displaying all of your knick-knacks and collectibles to help make your space feel more lived-in and homey. For this reason, using visible storage, such as hanging things on walls or using open shelving, feels right at home for this design style', says Devin Shaffer, lead interior designer at Decorilla:

‘Use your walls as much as possible (without making the space feel cluttered). Depending on the size, you can add wooden shelves and decorative boxes or baskets, and even potted plants, your favorite books, or decor items to them.

‘While this style has a curated and collected look, having too many things around will make it overwhelming,’ he warns. ‘To avoid this, you can group things, for example organizing a bookshelf by color.’

3. Keep electronics hidden

It shouldn’t come as a surprise that, for a design style so heavily anchored in rustic, old-world charm, it is advisable to hide away all your electronics. And yes, that includes bedroom TVs, advises Jennifer Bell, professional organizer.

‘Bedrooms need to store a variety of items from clothing to TV remotes, phone chargers, and even children’s toys. It is important for bedrooms to conceal clutter and visual noise. It has been shown that clutter-free bedrooms help you have a more restful sleep, after all.

‘Water Hyacinth and rope bins, such as these at Amazon, provide attractive concealed storage and will help keep your bedroom calming and clutter-free. ‘Choose soft natural colors to provide a clean and airy look in line with the cottagecore style,’ Jennifer adds.

As for your bedroom TV ideas, consider clever ways to hide a TV, such as covering it with art, integrating it into a cabinet, or picking a framed TV that you can blend into a gallery wall with some nice cottagecore-style art on display.

4. Swap closet doors for curtains

While there are several ways to aesthetically organize a closet, when it comes to organizing a cottage bedroom, it is about how you hide your clothes away. Opting for natural wood or a painted closet door is a good place to start for a whimsical look, but if you really want to lean into the style, consider curtain closet ideas instead.

When picking out some fabric for curtained closets or cabinets, opt for traditional, small-scale country patterns, suggests Marie Goodwin, head designer at Prestigious Textiles. ‘This trend lends itself well to floral designs, but we’ll also see small-scale gingham and stripes which aren’t going anywhere, mixed with leaf and tile designs. Traditional shades of powder blue and mid-greens will work well.’

5. Recycle old containers for rustic charm

Another cornerstone of the cottagecore style is repurposing and recycling – meaning it is very easy to organize without spending any money. When organizing a cottagecore bedroom, interior designer Devin Shaffer suggests keeping hold of old wooden crates and vintage-looking boxes and tins for repurposing.

‘You can take a vintage old wooden crate can and turn it into your nightstand or a vintage box or suitcase as a side table, get creative with it.’

Overall, cottagecore bedrooms are a great aesthetic trend to consider if you are often trying to organize a bedroom with too much stuff. With an emphasis on corralling your most treasured items and displaying your collections and trinkets, there are few home organizing schemes as cozy and welcoming as this one.

We're inching closer to peak springtime, and with that comes an appreciation for florals in the home. While fresh-cut bouquets can act as seasonal decor in their own right, flowery-patterned home pieces are undoubtedly an interior essential for spring. From delicate tablecloths to bold accent pillows, floral decor can act subtly or make a vibrant statement.

Emma Roberts has opted for the latter, making a statement with her pink and green floral curtains in her bedroom. Pierce & Ward, the famed design duo known for their work with high-profile clients such as Josh Brolin and Johnny Galecki, posted a photo of their bedroom design for the American Horror Story and Scream Queens star, and it's a fresh take on balanced maximalism. 

The floral curtains run behind the bed, seamlessly transitioning the same pattern onto the box spring, while the warm woods and solid, pastel hues of the pink door and green sofa ensure that prints do not overwhelm the space.

Floral prints naturally conjure a maximalist spirit; bright colors and intricate designs  form the backbone of these patterns, and experts recommend embracing the abundance and vibrancy.

'More is more! Being enveloped in a room feels good - and in the case of florals - it can also feel like bringing the outdoors in,' says Elizabeth Drake, principal designer of her eponymous company. 'It's just human biology that we feel good being outside in nature - so of course, we feel good when we recreate that sensation in our homes. Especially in a bedroom or a cozier room where you want to feel comforted and cocooned.'

This calming ambiance counterbalances the powerful presence of the prints – so much so that Drake encourages utilizing them at full capacity in a room.

'[With] styling – for the height of maximalism – cover the room in the same pattern everywhere - wallpaper, drapery, upholstery, bedding – that can have a brilliant effect,' she says.

For those looking for some contrast with their florals, mixing patterns can be a great way to break up the florals while maintaining visual interest. Roberts has done so via some leafy-patterned bedding, which ties in with the nature theme.

'If that feels like too much, you can always balance a busier, patterned paper with solid upholstery and/or a soft stripe,' Drake suggests.

Shop the edit

Below, find some floral bedroom essentials.

When we pick an aesthetic for our kitchens, our focus is usually on the cabinets, paint, and small accents – but what about our storage? 

When following the cottagecore trend in your kitchen, you might pick out soft color schemes, natural materials, and plenty of soft furnishings with plaids reminiscent of days picnicking in flower fields. However, leave the storage to an afterthought, and your perfect scheme will likely be disrupted by hash plastics and metals that throw it off balance.

This is how to organize a cottagecore kitchen with your theme in mind, according to expert home organizers. 

How to organize a cottagecore kitchen

Your kitchen storage ideas should be practical above all else, but that doesn't mean that it has to look ugly. These top five picks are ideal for keeping that cottagecore allure alive.  

1. Combine open and closed storage

One of the defining traits of cottagecore is the collections of knickknacks and well-loved pieces kept on display, giving the room the feeling that it has been lived in and well-loved. To keep your kitchen functional while sticking to this aesthetic Elizabeth Lulu Miranda, professional organizer and owner of Mercury Organizing, recommends mixing traditional closed storage with open kitchen shelving: 

‘Create exposed upper cabinets without doors or add glass door cabinets to feature your favorite decorative glassware and plates, or install plate rails, and rustic and decorative wooden shelves to keep near the stove for easy access to cooking oils and spices. You could even hang cups on hooks and place saucers on a wooden wall shelf.’

2. Choose storage materials that match the aesthetic

The types of kitchen organizers you pick can make or break the overall feel of your cook space. Cold gray plastic containers will stand out in an otherwise old-world kitchen, for instance – and not for the right reasons. 

As such, it can be helpful to select storage baskets and jars made with natural materials in warm-toned woods, continues Elizabeth Lulu Miranda, professional organizer:

‘Highlight your favorite vintage pieces by choosing appropriate storage for a cottagecore kitchen,’ she begins. ‘Use wooden crates, canisters, bins, ceramic jars, and old tins to enhance the cottagecore charm – these will serve well as functional storage pieces containing small items you need in a kitchen. Large ceramic jars or large glass ball jars are also perfect for holding foods like grains, dried herbs, dried fruit, and nuts.’

3. Recycle containers

The cottagecore aesthetic and slow living go hand in hand, so it only makes sense that you look to be more sustainable at home when organizing your kitchen, suggests Amélie Saint-Jaques, expert organizer and Kon-Mari consultant, owner of Amélie organizes. Recycling old containers is a great way to add a little extra character to your kitchen while also organizing without spending any money – just ensure you are only keeping containers that you will use and will be practical, Amélie reminds us, and avoid being tempted into keeping a pretty jar and letting it collect dust. 

4. Swap cabinet doors for curtains

Replacing doors with curtains has become a bit of a trend as of late, but it is a timeless staple of a cottagecore style kitchen suggests Amélie Saint-Jaques, home organizer:

‘You can also consider curtains on tension rods underneath the kitchen counter, especially underneath the kitchen sink, as they hide unsightly pipes and cleaners while still allowing everything to remain accessible.’

5. Avoid clutter

Just because cottagecore emphasizes curating beautiful collections of well-loved items doesn't mean you should be cluttering up your worksurfaces, reminds Audra George, professional organizer and owner of Pretty Neat: An Organizational Solution, Oklahoma. You must continue to follow the golden rules for a clutter-free kitchen. She recommends decluttering and storing most items and leaving only the essentials on the countertops in sight. 

‘You can use your open cabinets or shelving to display some vintage dishes, cast iron, old cookbooks, and things that have more of a retro feel to help with the overall look and cottage core feel,’ Audra adds. 

FAQs

What are the best cottage kitchen cabinets?  

If you want to give your kitchen a cottage makeover, picking out more traditional cabinet fronts is a great place to start. Shaker kitchen cabinets or inlaid kitchen cabinets, for instance, give an old-world charm reminiscent of a traditional cottage. For a whimsical touch, you can also consider replacing some cabinet doors or even a whole pantry door with a curtain in a cottage-like fabric instead, such as a gingham or light cotton, for the fairytale look.  

What is the difference between a cottage kitchen and a farmhouse kitchen?  

Although the two styles both have a similar charm, a cottagecore kitchen evokes a more simple approach to life and a connection to nature. It can also be more whimsical with a mismatch of furniture, colors, and decor giving a sense that the space has been collated over time – making it popular among slow-living advocates. 

A farmhouse kitchen, on the other hand, tends to lean into cleaner lines and more neutral schemes. It still has a lived-in look with some distressed furniture and accents but doesn't place as much emphasis on old-world charm, making it a little more modern.  

When designing a bathroom, the aesthetics are often the first thing on our mind and then later down the line, we realize not all of our dream features are the easiest to maintain and keep clean. 

While it might not be the first thing to consider when planning a new bathroom, considering how easy the space is to maintain is a good consideration to keep in mind if you want to save time and energy and not wind up hating your new space. 

We talked to interior designers to learn how to design a bathroom that is easy to clean without designing a bathroom that doesn’t feel sterile.  

How to design a bathroom that is easy to clean 

From bathroom layout mistakes to avoid to bathroom storage mistakes making your space difficult to maintain, this is what to avoid for an easy-to-clean bathroom.  

1. Don’t pick tiny tiles

Picking out your bathroom tiles is one of the best parts of a bathroom renovation. However, they make the biggest difference to how easy your space is to clean, so making a mistake here could result in you hating your new space. 

Joe Human, interior designer and owner of Design by Human, suggests picking large-format tiles or slabs that are easier to clean. Water will run off of them more easily than smaller tiles. 

‘Don't get me wrong, I love a great mosaic or small tile, but cleaning grout lines creates more maintenance. If you do go for a tile with a lot of grout I recommend using epoxy grout, it will keep its color and resist mildew a lot better than regular non-sanded grout.’

2. Ditch floating sinks

A floating bathroom vanity unit can look very sleek while still offering ample bathroom storage, but they are a nightmare for cleaning beneath and are magnets for dust and dirt, reminds Anne Haas, principal designer at Anne Haas Design. 

When designing her own bathroom, Anne shares that ‘the vanity went all the way to the floor. It was not floating or a style that looks like furniture, so you do not have to clean underneath it. It also went into the corner and didn't leave space to collect dust between the edge of the vanity and the wall.’

3. Avoid ‘living’ finishes

There are several critical questions to ask before buying bathroom faucets – the main one being whether you are willing to maintain a ‘living’ metal finish, such as brass that will stain and discolor without rigorous maintenance. 

‘I love living finishes but for maintenance purposes stick with a traditional finish such as a chrome or matte black,’ Joe Human, interior designer, recommends. ‘They will require the usual clean and wipe down but not polish like a true living natural brass would, even though natural brass is a lovely finish! This can go for both fixtures and sinks as well as accents.’

4. Pick nonporous countertops

Picking a natural stone countertop can look beautiful, but they require serious upkeep to keep them looking their best and avoid mold, adds Daniel Brown, professional cleaner at Handy Cleaners: 

‘Consider using countertops with non-porous materials as an effective solution to avoid water absorption and prevent the formation of mold and mildew. Although it looks beautiful, the permeable natural stone surfaces will be more susceptible to staining and require sealant regularly; otherwise, the maintenance is time-consuming.’

5. Use shower glass, not curtains

Shower curtains can add a whimsical touch to any bathroom, but removing mold and mildew from them is one of the hardest household cleaning tasks. Daniel Brown, professional cleaner, thus recommends picking glass doors instead: 

‘Curtains need frequent washing or replacement, so enclosing your shower with glass is preferable for the highest level of hygiene and the least amount of maintenance involved. 

‘Frame-type shower walls made of glass are a great no-cleaning solution around bulky metal frames and shower curtains, offering a neat and easy-to-maintain appearance,’ he adds.

6. Always add a hand shower

A common shower room design mistake is installing one fixed shower and calling it a day. Interior designer Joe Human recommends always opting for a handheld shower instead, however, to make cleaning and rinsing your shower down ten times easier. 

‘No matter what the budget for a project I am working on I always add a hand shower. If nothing else, it makes cleaning the tub or shower a lot easier with the added benefit of being functional for showering also.’

7. Install ventilation fans

Proper bathroom ventilation is absolutely essential in any bathroom, but more so when designing a space that is easy to clean. 

Good ventilation fans will help to remove moisture before bathroom mold and mildew grow, Daniel Brown, cleaner, explains. This then contributes to a healthier and more hygienic bathroom space. 

8. Install a skirted toilet and integrated sink

Any bathroom feature that creates little nooks and crannies will inevitably make your bathroom more difficult to clean. As such, it is helpful to pick bathroom features such as skirted toilets and integrated sinks (not sinks that sit on top of your counters) to eliminate small gaps where dust and bacteria can accumulate. 

This was something else designer Anne Haas was considerate of when planning her own space: 

‘The toilet was skirted, so there are no nooks and crannies to clean on your hands and feet. This is a place where so much dirt and dust collects (as well as urine if you have boys!). Not only is this easier to clean, but the smooth, continuous surface means it looks less fussy and cleaner as well. The sink was an integrated sink, which is easier to clean because you don't have to contend with the undersides of where the countertop and sink meet. Mold tends to grow in its wet environment.’

FAQs

What is the easiest bathroom floor to clean? 

The easiest bathroom floor type to clean is ceramic tile with minimal grout lines. When planning a bathroom that is easy to maintain, opt for large format tiles that have minimal joints so that you can steam them, rather than have to get on your hands and knees and scrub the grout lines one by one to prevent discoloration. 

What is the lowest maintenance shower material? 

Showers made from acrylic paneling are often the easiest to maintain and clean due to the lack of grout lines and non-porous surfaces. These panels also come in a variety of colors and textures, making them perfect for customizing your bathroom.  

Designing a bathroom that is easy to clean just doesn't benefit you in the immediate future; it is also a great way to future-proof your home and design a multi-generational bathroom, too. Simple to clean surfaces means that it is easy to teach children how to maintain surfaces such as the vanity and sink, while older generations can still maintain the space without any safety concerns. 

All too often, the bathroom is a room that we overlook when styling our homes. White and grey porcelain and stone take over, and we focus on creating functional, easy-to-clean spaces, rather than beautiful ones filled with character.

Yet it's worth paying attention to these rooms and by looking to the past, we can find inspiration in times when the bathroom was a continuation of the grandeur, luxury, and comfort found throughout the rest of your house.

We spoke to 8 interior design experts about how they've used tradition-inspired elements to instantly add character to a bathroom. With these bathroom ideas, you too can elevate yours into a sanctuary that is both practical and full of time-honored charm, even if your home is brand new.

8 tips from design experts on how to add character and charm to a bathroom

From patterned bathroom wallpaper to full-length drapes, we find out the simple and effective ways you can introduce historical elegance to your bathroom. Expert designers talk us through their projects, discussing how heritage-inspired style has elevated their practice and added character to such a practical space.

1. Create a focal fireplace

‘Having a fireplace in a bathroom adds wonderful character to the room,’ says Mary Graham, co-founder of Salvesen Graham. This bespoke fender, upholstered in Soane’s Old Flax, is a lovely detail that recalls bygone days. ‘The traditional fireplace reflects the tone of the room, intentionally bringing in a new layer to the scheme and creating an inviting environment with a classical feel.' 

2. Introduce wall panelling

Wall paneling may be big in interior design trends right now but its origins in homes from the Tudor period onwards make it a strong choice for traditional bathroom decor today. 

‘In a bathroom with high ceilings, paneling can help break up the walls and add visual interest,’ says Jamie Bebbington, managing director, Aston Matthews. ‘Try tongue-and-groove paneling for a country cottage effect, while square beaded panels work well in a grander setting.’ 

3. Try traditional-style tiling

‘Traditional-style bathroom tiles, especially ones that are handmade, handpainted and full of unique character, are a great choice in older properties,’ says designer and color consultant Emma Diaz, who chose these classic Delft style tiles for the bathroom in her Cotswolds cottage.

‘The uneven finish of handmade tiles naturally softens the space, no matter what color or design you use, and feel more harmonious in their surroundings compared to uniform, machine-made tiles.’ 

4. Embrace period quirks

Listed period properties with awkward architectural elements can rarely be altered. Rather than attempt to ignore the low-slung dormer window in this en suite, West One Bathrooms has used it to frame a beautiful designer bathtub. 

‘Do consider head height – a basin wouldn’t work here, but the bath, sat at a rakish angle allowing a peep to the flamingo behind, looks stunning as you step into the room,’ says head of design, Louise Ashdown.

5. Opt for curtains over blinds

The unexpected use of sumptuous full-length curtains with deep pleats and a traditional pelmet brings the grandeur of a historic hotel bathroom to this spacd. 

‘Exclusively used by a careful lady owner, we went against all the rules and chose luxurious silk curtains but in a family bathroom we’d recommend the amazing outdoor fabrics now available – try Pierre Frey – that no longer feel like woven plastic and are soft and warm,’ says Nicky Mudie, director, Violet & George. 

6. Decorate with patterned wallpaper

‘Wallpaper is so effective on slanted ceilings. I think it is a very English thing, that adds even more comfort and coziness to walls that already have character,’ says interior designer Sarah Vanrenen. 

‘This is the principal bathroom in a 15th-century manor house and we wanted to make it really luxurious. The clients had a wonderful art collection, so we hung some lovely paintings to add to the splendor.’

7. Incorporate antique finds

Lean into the authenticity of a traditional home by decorating with antiques for every element, right down to the accessories. In this period home, anything new was vetoed, and even the bathroom flooring was reclaimed from a nearby nunnery. 

‘Antiques and montage pieces make a bathroom feel less utilitarian and more like a comfortable room that happens to be for bathing,’ says Henriette von Stockhausen, creative director, VSP Interiors. 

8. Welcome dark wooden elements

Popular in the early 20th century, bringing furniture in dark wood, such as rosewood and mahogany, into the bathroom lends a richness and texture that’s perfect for paying homage to a period setting. 

‘The dark wood vanity grounds this bathroom to the historical elements of the home and creates a warm atmosphere,’ agrees Tanya Smith-Shiflett, founder of Unique Kitchens and Baths. ‘The linen closet is a vintage piece that adds richness and provides that traditional element that only vintage pieces can achieve.’ 

As with any room in the house, in the early stages of designing a bathroom, it's worth considering the true historical value of the room, and whether there are original features that should be preserved or even emphasized. However even when working with a modern room full of clean lines, smooth surfaces, and equal proportions, adhere to the above design tips and tricks and you can recreate a characterful space.

By adding period-style flourishes, you can build up a layered bathroom interior that is brimming with character – a welcoming space that you want to linger in as you go about your morning and evening cleansing rituals. Elegant and luxurious, like the restrooms of historical homes, yet with all the convenience and functionality of modern times.

Reba McEntire's got a lot going on lately. With the announcement of a sitcom return and her recent performance of the national anthem at the 2024 Super Bowl, the Queen of Country is booked and busy. 

While the time for lounging may be minimal at the moment, when the actor and musician has a moment to unwind, she, of course, does so in style. Her set-up? A light brown leather couch, enhanced by dark brown, velvety curtains shielding the space from the sun. 

Curtains are so much more than a barrier between the home and the outside world. Factors such as fabric, color, and transparency can drastically alter the appearance of these window blockers and act as a cohesive part of a room's existing style.

When choosing curtains for a space, experts recommend beginning with color.

'Neutral colors are one of the most versatile picks for curtain colors; they go with a variety of trends from modern organic to Biophilic design,' says Homes & Gardens' digital editor, Jennifer Ebert. 'You can't go wrong with a beige or brown linen.'

Alternatively, patterned and textured curtains can add unexpected personality to an otherwise minimal space, such as Reba's rich brown set. 

'Graphic and geometric prints on curtains are striking,' Jen says. 'Interesting visuals on curtains act as a hanging art piece, and as such establish a focal position in a living room, bedroom, or dining room.'

There are also several types of curtains to choose from within curtains, from box pleats to tab tops. Jen recommends thinking about how the curtains fall and what the desired appearance will be.

'Any kind of pleat, whether pencil or pinch, will create visual interest through the material's natural gathering. For more of a unique cute, look for ripple fold or goblet pleated curtains, which are elegant in their tight gatherings.'

It's also worthwhile to consider how much light to let in. Sheer curtains, while delicate and ethereal, don't allow for much privacy, while thick, light-blocking curtains are extremely discreet but, for some, perhaps too dark.

Peruse some of our textured and colored curtain picks below.

Window treatments form a key design element in pretty much every room throughout the home, not only as a practical addition but also as a stylistic one. With so many options spanning blinds, curtains, and shutters to name just a few, it can sometimes be tricky to decide which are best for your space. 

One window treatment idea that we're seeing more and more of so far in 2024, is café curtains. Dating back to 19th century Europe, café curtains perfectly embody a nostalgic, romantic style that adds instant charm to the home.

Interior designer Emily Henderson recently posted on Instagram about this window treatment trend, and we're taking on board her expertise. We spoke to Emily to learn more about café curtains and how to incorporate them into your home. Or, if café curtains aren't quite your style, she suggests another, more modern window treatment to consider too. 

What are café curtains?

Café curtains are typically made from lightweight fabrics in light colors and usually hung on the lower section of a window, creating an airy look as shown below. The beauty of them is that they allow some element of privacy from the outside world, while they still allow plenty of natural light to fill the room, making them a good choice for bright spaces where you want to create subtle shade but avoid anything too heavy. 

What's the best way to style café curtains?

According to Emily, café curtains can be embraced in lots of different ways and can be styled throughout the home, even beyond the kitchen or bathroom. 'I don’t feel like there are any hard rules with where and when to use café curtains,' explains Emily. 'I do love them in kitchens, but I also have them in two of the smaller windows in my living room and some in my primary bathroom. Ultimately, they are perfect for rooms where you still want to have that wonderful natural light coming in but also a little more privacy at the same time. It’s the best of both worlds.'

Once you've decided on a room that you'd like to decorate with café curtains, it's important to consider their placement in relation to the shape and size of the window. 'I would definitely think about where the rod is going to land on the window. If you have a window that slides open vertically then I would match the rod placement in line with the top rail of the moving window or go above it. After that, the height is up to what you think looks best!'

And when it comes to choosing the best fabric, it's really all down to your style preferences. 'I would also consider if you want your fabric to be light-filtering or not,' adds Emily. 'I prefer a thinner fabric for that reason but that style also works really great with my home. If your decor style would look great with something heavier, like velvet, and during the day you plan to slide the curtain to the side for more light that’s also great.'

Opt for Roman blinds in more modern spaces

While café curtains are a great choice for creating a vintage and airy look, they may not be the best choice for all spaces and styles. If your style leans more towards modern decor, café curtains can appear too delicate, while spaces that need more privacy and more light-blocking may benefit from heavier window blind ideas. Below, Emily explains the benefit of opting for Roman blinds instead: 

'I also love Roman shades. It’s just a different look and style that may work better than café curtains depending on the house, window, or style. If privacy is your goal, then Romans may be a better option since they cover the whole window when drawn, or if you prefer a more modern, tailored look. But I also have a Roman shade in my living room (and drapes) so mixing in different curtain styles is also a great option that can help your space feel a little more layered.'

Depending on your space and interior design style, window treatments can be chosen to best suit your space. Café curtains are an on-trend option that works well in bright spaces that have a vintage feel, such as farmhouse decor. In contemporary or even traditional style spaces, Roman blinds are a classic choice. Below, you can shop both window treatment styles to channel your favorite. 

As we sit on the brink of a new year, our thoughts will inevitably turn to the trends we can expect to see in the seasons ahead – but in some cases, that involves looking to the past. 

This is the case with an emerging retro curtain trend – already exhibited in Vanessa Hudgens' Los Angeles abode – drawing from the bold prints of the '70s to starkly contrast modern-day minimalism. It offers us full permission to experiment with the patterns and hues we may have neglected in favor of a more neutral palette – and while minimalism will never fall out of favor, we predict a more maximalist year ahead. 

Vanessa's patterned curtains epitomize the retro revival trend – an aesthetic that, designers say, is a response to the modernist and minimalist nature of our contemporary day.

'In an era characterized by rapid technological advancement, the desire for retro '70s aesthetics reveals a collective yearning for the simplicity and authenticity that defined a bygone era,' comments New York-based designer Elizabeth Grace. 

Elizabeth emphasizes that the 'tactile nature' of retro prints, colors, and furnishings 'offers a stark contrast to the digital minimalism of today' – and 'reimagines' nostalgia to invite us to tap into the quirks of a bygone world. 

'The enduring appeal of retro '70s-inspired interiors is a testament to the indelible mark this era has left on the design world. It celebrates color, craftsmanship, and artistic expression that transcends time and trends,' Elizabeth comments. 

'As we continue to shape our living spaces, the echoes of the '70s remind us that true design knows no expiration date – it's an ever-evolving symphony of artistry that resonates in the heart of every home.'

Boldy-patterned living room curtains like Vanessa's are an impactful way to tap into this design trend – but as Elizabeth explains, we can do so on a smaller scale with retro-inspired accessories. Vanessa has experimented with dark greens and browns, but Elizabeth also recommends yellow and rusty hues for an instant retro-revival. 

'The golden ochres and burnt siennas of the '70s palette evoke a feeling of timelessness, a connection to an era that celebrated the playfulness of color in its most authentic form,' Elizabeth comments.

'These hues often brushed across walls or elegantly woven into textiles, breathe life into interiors with a unique blend of familiarity and novelty. Their ability to create an inviting ambiance and a visually stimulating environment is a testament to their enduring popularity.'

We can also follow the actress's lead with this retro fabric, like the one in her home, available on Etsy below.

French cafe curtains may have spent seasons in the sun (because who can resist their Parisian-inspired charm?) – but there's still room for their new alternative. And who better to introduce us to this emerging trend than Gwyneth Paltrow? 

It's no secret that we're already admirers of Gwyneth's chic Montecito home, created by design force Brigette Romanek, no less. However, the lifestyle guru has just given us another reason to take note as she experiments with the new 'dresser curtain' trend.

Much like cafe curtains, dresser curtains are designed with both practicability and functionality in mind. Increasingly, designers are using them to conceal open shelves and doors for instant interest and privacy. While cafe curtains are often used as a window treatment (most probably in the kitchen), dresser curtains accommodate smaller areas –  just as Gwyneth demonstrates on her curtained door.

Gwyneth has used dresser curtains in (what appears to be) her pantry, but we can bring this idea into any space –starting, most obviously with the kitchen, but also our bedrooms and dressing rooms. Their quaint aesthetic is hard to deny, but what makes them so practical? 

Designer Tori Murphy, a pioneer in dresser curtains, experimented with the technique in response to a compact kitchen, noting that fabric is a beautiful alternative to bulkier doors. 

'Dresser curtains are a direct result of our family's needs. We restored an antique dresser but didn't have space for doors to open around it, so a fabric curtain was the perfect solution to disguise pots, pans, and the general chaos of family life,' she says.

The versatility of this design trend means its growing appeal is unsurprising, but it's hard not to note its charming style, which is reminiscent of its French cafe counterpart. 

'Curtains take up far less space than doors and add a tactile, nostalgic feel,' Tori says.' And it's refreshingly simple to set up. If you want to replace cupboard or wardrobe panels with fabric, choose a double rod pocket curtain, which simply slides and gathers onto your pole or cord.' 

For a Gwyneth-inspired starting point, we're tempted to start in the pantry, where we can conceal the jars and packets with a more beautiful printed fabric. Gwyneth has opted for a yellow colorway, but we also love these three options below.

Windows are likely the area that produces the most sound transmission in your home, so soundproofing your windows is an important job to ensure your space remains tranquil. However, replacing and upgrading your windows can be a costly venture. Luckily there are a few ways to improve soundproofing on your windows, without breaking the bank.

These hacks are low-cost and easy to install yourself, so can be a quick fix if you need to urgently soundproof a room.

From making sure windows are completely sealed, to adding window treatments to dampen sounds, these expert-recommended methods can help you to soundproof your windows without replacing them. Although they cannot completely soundproof your windows, they can significantly improve the sound insulation of your existing windows.

How to soundproof windows without replacing them

'Windows are the biggest transmission point in a wall, and they can make a considerable difference in noise reduction. Soundproofed windows reduce noise pollution by causing the sound wave to lose power, which is achieved by using materials that absorb and reflect sound,' explains Zlatka Dimitrova at Fantastic
Services.

1. Seal gaps and cracks

'An effective way to soundproof your windows is by sealing any gaps or cracks around the frame,' says Zach Shelley, founder and CEO of A-List Properties. 'These small openings can let in a significant amount of noise, especially if your windows are old or poorly installed.

'To seal these gaps, use a high-quality acoustic caulk, [such as this Auralex StopGap acoustical sealant, from Walmart], or weatherstripping tape. Apply it along the edges and corners of your window frames to create an airtight seal. You can also add weatherstripping foam tape to the bottom of your window frame to block any noise coming through the gap between your window and its sill.'

2. Use soundproof window dressings

'An easy way to soundproof your windows without replacing them is by using soundproof curtains or drapes,' says Zach Shelley. 'These specially designed curtains are made with multiple layers of fabric and sound-absorbing materials such as mass-loaded vinyl (MLV) or fiberglass insulation. They can significantly reduce the amount of outside noise entering your room.

'To install the curtains, simply hang them over your windows using a curtain rod. Ensure that they cover the entire window frame and extend below it to create a seal. You can also add additional layers of soundproofing materials between the curtains and the window for even better noise reduction.'  You can find soundproof curtains, on Amazon.

Additionally, Zlatka Dimitrova recommends, 'Shutters are another great way to reduce the amount of noise in a room. Solid wooden shutters can considerably cut out traffic noise.

'Alternatively, for an enhanced noise reduction, use both curtains and blinds combined.'

3. Apply soundproof window film

One of the best ways to soundproof your windows is by using a soundproofing window film. This adhesive film can be applied directly to your existing windows, significantly reducing incoming noise.

'Soundproof window film is a thin sheet of plastic that can be applied directly onto your window glass. It works by dampening sound waves and reducing their intensity, making it an effective way to soundproof windows without replacing them,' explains Zach Shelley.

'The film is easy to trim to size, only takes minutes to apply, and is easy to remove,' says Zlatka Dimitrova.

'To apply, simply cut the film to fit your window size and stick it onto the glass using a water-based adhesive,' continues Zach Shelley. 'Make sure to smooth out any air bubbles for optimal performance.'

You can find this window film at Walmart.

Additionally, 'Choose multi-layer films for enhanced noise blocking capabilities,' recommends Yama Jason, founder of Parlun Building. 'There are multiple sources of noise, and it is recommended to use multiple methods at the same time to achieve the best sound insulation effect.'

'While this option is not as effective as other methods, it can still provide a noticeable reduction in noise levels.' 

4. Invest in made-to-measure window inserts

'Consider a clear acrylic panel fitted to your window frame – it creates an extra barrier for sound without the need for structural changes,' explains Alexander Havkin at Ecoline Windows.

'While these methods won't replicate the soundproofing quality of specialized windows, they can significantly reduce noise intrusion, improving your living or work space's tranquility without a major renovation.'

'Made-to-measure window inserts create a secondary glazing effect by using a custom-fit plastic frame that sits inside the window sills,' advises Zlatka Dimitrova. 'However, keep in mind that their degree of quality varies, and some can look quite cheap.'

5. Use a carbon panel

'Another high-tech DIY sound barrier you can use on your windows is a carbon panel,' says Zlatka Dimitrova. 'Carbon panels are perfect for absorbing low-frequency sounds like thunder or machinery that's being operated on a nearby industrial site.

'A carbon panel can be placed over your window to dampen unwanted noise and also block out light. The difference is that a carbon panel is a higher-quality material, so you’ll notice better soundproofing results.'

However, this option should only be used in cases where soundproofing is more essential than using the windows since these are black-out.

6. Apply foam insulation

Like using caulk to seal cracks, 'Injecting spray foam insulation into the window frame cavity can seal cracks and improve sound insulation,' says Yama Jason.

We recommend using expanding foam spray to ensure no areas remain open, allowing the transmission of sound, such as this insulating foam, from Walmart.

FAQs

Remember that while these methods can help reduce noise, they may not provide the same level of soundproofing as replacing the windows with double-glazed, soundproof ones. However, they can significantly improve the sound insulation of your existing windows.

If you're looking for a temporary soundproofing solution, you can hang soundproof blankets or acoustic panels over your windows. These can be easily removed when they are not needed.

Wondering whether a particular window in your home needs curtains? If they’re not essential, after all, then going without can seem like a great idea for a host of reasons. 

Yet curtain ideas are not only functional, they can also be an important element of the design of a room, making going without seem like a risky choice that might leave the room feeling as if it’s not fully dressed even if you have other window treatment ideas in mind.

To answer the question of whether curtains are always a must or it’s possible to go without we called on the expertise of interior designers, and this is what they shared with us.

Are curtains always essential?

There are some very good arguments for curtains being essential. They create privacy, of course, but they can also make the lines of a room softer with their gentle pleats. They can also add the color and pattern that make the room in which they’re hung cohesive. What’s more, they can pull off the clever trick of making a ceiling feel higher and a window taller and wider than it really is.

Yet, there are occasions on which you can go without curtains successfully and these are the guidelines from designers on choosing between with and without.

When you can go without curtains

There are some circumstances in which you don’t need curtains, according to design experts. 

Vivianne Chow, interior decorator and founder of Viv and Tim Home, makes an exception to the rule of using curtains depending on window size and shape. ‘The instance in which I wouldn’t recommend using curtains would be when the window is really small and narrow,’ she says. ‘For small windows, I’d recommend using roller shades or Roman shades for privacy instead.’

Owner of a gloomy room? Interior designer Artem Kropovinsky suggests you might not need curtains here. ‘Where light is the most treasured guest, like in a dimly lit dining room or a north-facing studio, leaving windows undressed invites luminosity to dine or dance across the walls unhindered,’ he says.

Curtains aren’t the right choice in some rooms because of their functions. ‘In kitchens or baths, practicality trumps plushness, omitting curtains dodges issues of moisture and maintenance, preferring ease over opulence,’ says Artem. Choose an alternative here, agrees Alexander Havkin, project manager at Ecoline Windows. ‘In high-humidity areas like kitchens or bathrooms, it's more practical to opt for blinds or shutters as they handle moisture better and are easier to clean.’

You might want to avoid curtains in some family homes, too. ‘For homes with small children or pets, going without curtains can eliminate the risk of accidents or damage,’ says Alexander.

Perhaps you have a fabulous outlook from a room? In that case, you don’t need curtains. ‘Embrace the view when nature grants a panoramic backdrop. Windows unadorned become frames to the ever-evolving artwork of the outdoors,’ says Artem.

If you want your budget to go further, be aware that this can also be a good reason to go without curtains. ‘Curtains can be a significant investment,’ says experienced remodeler Ben Gold, founder of Recommended Home Buyers. ‘In situations where homeowners are on a tight budget, opting for alternative window treatments like blinds or shades can be a practical choice.’

When you should go with curtains

While curtains aren’t necessary in some rooms, there are situations in which they are a must.

‘When it comes to aesthetics, curtains frame out a window which adds formality to a room,’ says Luis Carmona, owner and lead designer at VERDE Interior Design.

They also pull off a visual trick, Luis notes. ‘They can be installed floor to ceiling which will give the illusion of a taller ceiling making the room look bigger than it may be,’ he says. Vivianne Chow agrees. ‘My personal preference is to always use curtains to dress up windows,’ she says. ‘Curtains are instantly able to elevate your whole space by drawing the eyes up and making the ceiling feel taller.’ 

Curtains can also be needed to dampen sound. ‘Curtains, like other items with fabric in a space, can help absorb sound waves making a space less echoey,’ advises Luis. ‘This really makes a difference in bedrooms where you want it to be as quiet as possible (especially at night) and living or dining rooms where there may be more noise.’

For bedrooms, curtains are also worthwhile. ‘Curtains play a crucial role in bedrooms, providing privacy and blocking light for a better sleep environment,’ says Alexander Havkin.

They have a practical as well as an aesthetic role in living spaces, too. ‘They’re important in living areas for controlling glare on screens and improving energy efficiency by adding insulation against heat loss or gain,’ says Alexander.

And in both bedrooms and living rooms curtains do, of course, create privacy. ‘They provide a sense of security and seclusion, allowing individuals to relax without the worry of prying eyes,’ says Ben Gold.

Think curtains for home movie spaces as well. ‘Blackout curtains in a media room aren’t just about darkness, they’re an investment in ambiance, enhancing the cinematic journey by eclipsing the external world,’ says Artem Kropovinsky.

FAQs

Modern curtain ideas are desirable for many rooms but they can be a considerable investment, so be mindful to care for them correctly so they stay beautiful. Knowing how to clean curtains will ensure they remain free of dust and marks. And it’s also crucial to be savvy about how to wash and care for curtains as their fabrics can be fragile.