Your window décor influences the overall look of your home.
When deciding the curtains to hang, individuals often wonder whether to purchase plain or patterned curtains.
Read on to learn the best option.
Should You Go With Plain or Patterned Curtains For Your Home?
Whether to go for a plain or patterned curtain depends on various things. Bear in mind that what works for one room may not suit another. Therefore, you have to weigh the pros and cons of each style before you settle on any. It would be best to think of your style preference and the room’s general appearance when choosing which option to opt for.
What Are Some Considerations When Choosing Between Plain or Patterned?
Here are some things that will influence your decision;
1. Overall Theme
Whether you are installing the curtains in a new room or an already existing one, the chances are that it already has a theme.
If the room already has multi-colored furnishings or various patterns on the wall covering, you may want to avoid patterned curtains.
Adding more patterns in such a room makes it look messy and confusing.
In this instance, it’s best to go for a plain design.
You can choose the shade that complements the main color space or matches it to reduce the “busy environment” and give the eyes some relief.
But in a room that seems to have plain walls and furnishings, adding patterned curtains can be a great way to spice the environment.
But, you also have to be careful with the color pattern you choose and the shade.
2. Closed or Open Windows
Bear in mind that your windows will not permanently be closed or open.
During some seasons, you will want to open the room, and in some, keeping the windows closed will be the right thing.
For instance, most people keep their curtains closed during the long winter.
This makes the room have a different look and feel.
While in the summer, any windows remain open. So, this is something you need to consider when deciding whether to purchase plain or patterned curtains.
When you pull together patterned curtains, it can create an effect as a piece of art. So, it adds some beauty to the room.
On the other hand, solid curtain designs give neutral appearances when drawn together. The look is still neat, but nothing beyond the ordinary.
3. Unity of the Room
If you’re a person that loves coordination, you’d want to create a coordinated effect in your home.
So, plain curtains may be suitable for you.
You only need to pick a color that complements other accessories and objects in the room.
For instance, you can pick the same curtain color shade as your area up or feature wall.
This will accentuate the color without making the room look messy.
But, a patterned curtain design can be suitable for someone who doesn’t give much thought to coordination.
The important thing is to ensure that the room is primarily plain and doesn’t have many colors.
Remember that placing patterns of various things in the room makes it feel cluttered and unattractive.
4. Flair
Sometimes you may find that the room is very plain.
For instance, those with a single color scheme or a minimalist white may have a solid look.
In that case, you may want to add patterned curtains to give a visual excitement.
These designs add an extra flair to a room, making it look less dull and messy. You can choose a bold curtain design.
Since it is outstanding, it will attract people to the room, making the windows a focal point.
Plain Vs. Patterned Curtains: Which is Which?
Plain curtains offer various decorating options.
Therefore, you can modify them easily with various accessories.
They are the best options when you already have other patterns in the room as they provide balance.
But when choosing plain bright curtains, make sure that the color coordinates with other colors in the room.
If you have a monochromatic or an elegant style, opt for bold curtains as they attract attention.
But remember that using bright colored curtains in rooms that receive too much sunlight can make them fade with time.
You can also blend your curtains with décor by choosing slightly darker-colored curtains than the color of your walls.
This creates a soft look but is harmonious at the same time.
On the other hand, patterned curtains offer instant decoration.
However, you may choose to avoid them if your wallpaper, bedding, or furniture has distinctive patterns.
If your room is plain, don’t be shy to choose bold curtain patterns. Large graphic patterns look fantastic with the color, and the existing décor relates.
But if you’re a subtle person, consider small prints such as florals or dots.
You can create a traditional interior with trellises, medallions, and arabesques or opt for a modern look with chevrons and stripes patterns.
Five Things to Consider When Buying Curtains
1. Determine the Right Length
When choosing curtains, you need to consider the right length for the room.
Generally, there are five length choices, 63, 84, 95, 108, and 120 inches.
The right length depends on our windows’ height and ceilings.
To determine your curtain rods, measure from the road pocket, where the curtains hang off to the end of the fabric.
Bear in mind that there are also shorter curtains measuring from 24 inches or 36 inches.
So, you need to decide if this is the length that works for you.
2. Choose a Fabric
The overall look and amount of light that passes through the curtains are the main factors when deciding on the curtain material.
Sheer or cotton fabric offer lots of lines.
They come in various colors, allowing you to control the natural light.
Opt for linen curtains if you only want a moderate light amount or velvet if you want to block out light completely.
Note that you also have to choose the pattern and color with all these fabric options.
Choose bold colors if you want the room to stand out or a laid-back color if you love simplicity.
3. Trims and Accessories
These include pullbacks and valances or ornamental curtain tracks that you fix on the wall above your curtains.
If used properly, they can add beauty to the curtains and a room’s overall look.
You can use them with light drapes to create a decorative look.
4. Dry Clean Only or Machine Friendly
You need to decide which of these options is suitable for you. Bear in mind that sometimes washing the curtains yourself can ruin them.
Plus, it’s a lot of work. If you want to save time and money, consider purchasing one that can be machine-washed.
5. Think of the Room
If you’re buying curtains for the living room, make sure to set your priorities right.
Do you want curtains for aesthetics, control light, or offer privacy?
Your answer will determine the right curtain for you.
Remember that bright colors fade quickly when exposed to natural sunlight.
So, consider neutral colors that easily blend with the theme in the room.
Also, you need to consider moisture when buying curtains for the bathroom. 100% linen curtains tend to grow mold, hence unsuitable for this room. In that case, consider a 100% machine washable poly fabric.
Related
References
The Secret to Choosing Curtains to Make Your Room Look More Expensive
