7 Types Of Curtains For Your Home

Picking out curtains may seem easy as pie, but in reality, it can be daunting because of the many different designs and styles to choose from. It also involves measuring the windows, choosing the right material and picking out the right accessories to go with it, too. To help you out, we’ve listed down the most basic types and which ones you should incorporate into your home. Check them out below:  

1. Café curtains

This style became popular in the 1930s when cafes were the rage in the US. It’s made of two fabric panels, one hung above the other. The bottom rod makes a cross-section on the window. Use plain or printed chintz, linen, or any light, polyester-blend fabric.

2. Sheer

Sheer lets the light in and gives you a hazy view of the outdoors. It works best on huge glass windows, keeping the light from getting harsh. Use voile and lacy fabric and find silhouette patterns on your floor. Hang it with a plain, cylindrical rod with rings. Dress up with drapes.

3. Roman shades

Keep it simple with roman shades. This flat panel goes well in modern interiors. Thin, horizontal rods support the fabric, making it fold upwards when you pull the cord. To get that airy effect, use linen, cotton or any opaque fabric.

4. Classic Victorian

This fancy curtain has three layers—the undercurtain, the drapes, the valances and swags (the fabric looped and dangling on the rod). Try this on windows over 16 feet. A pelmet or flat board conceals the curtain rod. Get drapes in velvet and brocade and a lace undercurtain. Use silk tassel cords and gold tiebacks.

5. Venetian blinds

Developed in the 1920s, blinds are easy to install and look clean and modern. Get it in wood, vinyl or metal. Order it from hardware stores or have it custom–made. Ready-made blind dimensions suit standard window sizes.

6. Blinds encased in sheers

Casing venetian blinds in sheers spells feminine. This combined treatment gives you easy-to-open blinds with the softness and texture of fabric. It allows you different levels of privacy: Open the blinds to let the light in, but keep the neighbors from peeping through the slats.

7. Vertical blinds and fixed side drapes

Balance the rigidity of blinds with the softness of drapes. If your blinds are horizontal, the drapes will help create an illusion of height. Place in the bedroom where you’d want to adjust the light easily. Get total darkness during the day by sewing a black backing on the drapes. 

WHERE TO BUY:

Stephanie Curtains and Pillow Factory

• 2/F MS Prime Block, Tutuban Center Mall, Tondo, Manila
• Open from Mondays to Sundays, 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m

Princess D: House of Curtains

• 1010, 811 Ilaya street, San Nicolas, Manila
• Open from Mondays to Sundays, 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m

Larry's Express, Inc. (Larry's Curtain & Upholstery Supply, Inc.)

• 4/F, SM Megamall, Building D, Epifanio de los Santos Ave, Mandaluyong City
• 570-0000

Read the original article ("Curtains Up") in the July 2004 issue of Real Living Magazine. Download your digital copy of Real Living on the Real Living App now! Log on to summitnewsstand.com.ph/real-living for more details.