How to Choose Drapery Curtains for Various Room Styles: Living Room, Bedroom, Kitchen, etc

 Window treatments are a big part of any room design. Their role is to provide privacy and block out sunlight, but they also influence a space's aesthetic. Whether you're on a budget or just want to add some flair to your living spaces, there are many options available for you to consider. Some of these include curtains and drapes. The two styles are often thrown together and used interchangeably, but there are subtle differences between the types of fabrics and designs that can help you decide which one to use.

Drapery Curtains

Drapery Curtains are hung from a rod and may have a wide choice of pleated headings, including popular pinch pleats, triple pleats and goblet pleats that can create elegant and formal looks. They can be either lined or unlined and come in a variety of fabric choices, colors and plains to suit the overall look you are trying to achieve. They can be either gathered or pooled on the floor to create a dramatic and luxurious look. They can also be tied back with tie tops, tab tops or rod pockets that can make them more casual and contemporary.

 Shorter lengths

The length of your curtains will also affect the look you are trying to achieve. For example, shorter lengths like 63" or 84" will allow light and air to pass through them while longer lengths will keep more of the sun's rays out.

Neutral tone

Another important consideration is whether you want the curtains to blend with the rest of the decor or stand out and be a focal point. The color you choose will help determine this, as well. A soft, neutral tone will work best to blend with the existing hues in your room while a bold color can act as an exclamation point.

 Pepper Home and Annie Selke

You can shop for Drapery Curtains at any number of retailers online or in-store, but the quality of the fabrics and the level of customer service you can expect will vary. If you're shopping on a budget and just need something basic, you'll likely find the best selections at larger chains like Target or Amazon. Smaller companies, such as Pepper Home and Annie Selke, offer more unusual and fashion-forward options but typically have higher price points. Pottery Barn strikes a balance between the two, with its wide selection of distinctive fabrics, including linen from the famed Belgian mill Libeco and shimmery Dupioni raw silk.

Conclusion

When you're ready to buy, be sure to measure your windows to ensure the proper fit. You can use the standard 63", 84" and 96" lengths available in stores, or you can have custom curtains made to your precise window measurements and the aesthetic you are trying to achieve. This can be especially helpful in rooms with multiple windows where you want to get the exact same look throughout. If you do this, be sure to include the width of the window frame when measuring so the curtains will hang properly.