Choosing the perfect curtains for your living room involves considering several key factors. Understanding what a curtain is, as opposed to drapery, is crucial. “A curtain, unlike drapery, is typically a lighter and more casual window treatment,” explains Margaret Donaldson, a Charleston-based interior designer and founder of MDI Luxury Design. Curtains are usually unlined, allowing more light to filter through, which can be ideal for living rooms where complete light blockage is less necessary than in bedrooms.
When selecting the right curtains for your living room, consider the amount of light you want, the desired style and texture, and how the curtains fit with the room’s existing aesthetic and color palette. This task might seem daunting, so we consulted experts Margaret Donaldson and Louise Hane of Rock Hill, South Carolina-based Louise Hane Interior Design. Here’s a comprehensive guide to choosing the perfect curtains for your living room.
“Light exposure is an important consideration when selecting living room curtains,” says Hane. Think about how much light you are comfortable with when the curtains are closed and whether your curtains serve a functional purpose or are more about aesthetics. Hane recommends blackout lining for rooms with a lot of light, but for most living rooms, a basic cotton lining suffices where light exposure is moderate.
There are various styles to consider for your living room curtains, including single panels, panel pairs, lined or unlined options, and different header types. Choosing the right style means considering how you want the curtains to hang, whether the rod should be a focal point, and details like pleating. Exploring all these facets ensures that you achieve the right balance for your living room’s look and function.
Curtains in your living room don’t necessarily need to go floor-to-ceiling, close completely, or extend beyond the windowsill. The right length and size depend on your privacy and light control needs. Donaldson suggests extending curtains above the window to create the illusion of larger windows and taller ceilings. Design tricks like pooling the curtain bottoms on the floor for a relaxed look or using extra fabric for a fuller appearance when the panels are open can enhance the style to match your personal preference.
First and foremost, ensure the curtain color complements or harmonizes with the room’s palette. “Light-colored curtains can make a room feel brighter and more open, while darker colors can add coziness but may make a space feel smaller,” Donaldson says. When it comes to patterns, scale and size are crucial. “The size of the pattern should match the scale of the room and its furnishings,” Donaldson advises. “Large patterns work well in spacious areas, while smaller patterns can add detail without overwhelming the space.”
Color and pattern aren’t the only visual aspects to consider. Your fabric choices should fit into the room’s aesthetic. While you can swap out curtains seasonally, selecting curtains with year-round appeal might be more practical. Texture is also essential, as it can complement existing furnishings and add dimension and warmth to the space if needed. By considering these factors, you can choose curtains that enhance both the functionality and beauty of your living room.
