Spring and summer curtains: Brighten your windows with color

Tag : Plain Curtains

I have always thought it prudent to consider the style of windowbefore as a guide to deciding on a particular style of curtain.
Georgian style Windows
If you are looking to splurge out on curtains then for the summer Iwould advise Long curtains in plain or striped light cotton, thecolour should depend on the decor of the room.
However, if you are looking for an inexpensive way to lighten thehouse for the summer then Roman blinds in cotton would do quitewell.
Large Recess Windows
With Large recess windows, a pole outside the recess on which tohang two long curtains, held back by curtain holders presents aninviting atmosphere. Short curtains would look nice too.
However my favourite look for large recess windows I find is cafecurtains, they always manage to give a room a continental look.Think linen or muslin, move away from the usual fabrics; you willbe pleasantly surprised.
Bay Windows
I have always found the day to night look on bay windows gives aroom a sophisticated look without making it look stuffy. That is,having plain voile behind Cotton or linen curtains.
You draw the voile during the day while tying back the longcurtains. This allows for privacy while still allowing light in tothe room. At night the curtains can be drawn to.
Blinds in cotton can also work, but they tend go give a more casuallook.
Always remember that linen will pinch after a while.
Patio Doors
Patio doors have always been my favourite; I love the fact that youcan give those all sorts of looks with soft light fabrics. You canhave long curtains flanked on either side, blinds or muslin drapedover a long pole, I Love it when the muslin rises in a breeze, Ialways feel like I'm in the south of France.
I find that cotton and calico do quite well for patio doors.
If you are going to use Voile in ground floor bedrooms, patternedvoile over a roman blind will ensure privacy.
Measurements
Length of Curtains
For short curtains always measure from the pole to 13cm (5in) belowthe sill
For long curtains measure from the pole to the floor add extra ifcurtain breaks on the floor.
Width of curtains
Measure between architraves and add an extra 30cm (12in) on eachside
Blinds
Blinds should be fixed about 20cm (8in) above the architrave toallow a much light as possible in to the room
For the width measure the arc and add 5cm to each side
When choosing curtain material you always need to consider how ithandles, consider the traffic through your patio doors especiallyif you have children.
Learn more about this author, Helen Bakojja .
Click here to send author comments or questions.