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How to layer your window like a pro
Barely-dressed windows can make your home look a little empty, while window furnishings that are over-layered with curtain styling can look messy and distracting. Here at Spotlight we have the largest range of materials and accessories available for your windows, but with all that variety comes the question - how can I effectively layer my windows?
Read on to find out our favourite tips and tricks for window styling with curtains, blinds and everything in-between!
Consider Your Space
Before you get excited and start buying your dream window furnishings for curtain styling, take a breath and consider what you actually need them to do. Most curtains and blinds will need to be at least partially functional, and that function will depend on a number of factors surrounding the windows. Do they face the sun, is privacy required, are they above a bed or are they behind furniture?
The rest of the furniture in the room can also play a part in how your curtain style turns out. If you have a bold quilt on a bed, a brightly patterned rug or a gorgeous dining table, having eye-catching window styling can take away or even clash with these pieces. However you can also choose to complement these pieces by choosing accentuating colours and prints.
The answers to these questions will inform what kinds of window furnishings you will choose.
Matching Your Materials
Spots and stripes, socks and sandals, denim on… denim. We all know the popular fashion don'ts, but there are some you need to keep in mind for window furnishings as well! Here are some quick tips to make sure your pairings are on point:
Patterns and prints
The right pattern can really elevate your window furnishings from backdrop status to centrepiece! But depending on how many layers you plan on having, too many conflicting patterns can create a confusing and messy look.
Try to choose one pattern per room (what you have in your bathroom can be different to your bedroom or kitchen) and stick with that pattern for one layer. Your other layers should use a complementary colour that will accentuate the pattern and not distract from it.
Sheers and opaques
combining sheer and opaque layers is an easy and effective way to control light levels in your home while also maintaining privacy. Both curtains and blinds are available in these varieties, allowing you to mix and match your preferred choices to suit the look you are going for. A popular choice is sheer blinds with blockout curtains, however keep in mind that sheers might not be appropriate in certain areas like bathrooms.
Hard and soft
window furnishings are available in hard materials like wood, plastic and metal that are useful for making shutters, shades and blinds. They are great for function and are quite durable, plus most can be opened to varying degrees giving you complete control over how much light you are letting in.
Curtains are created from soft materials and will add elegance and fluidity to a window. When you combine hard and soft materials together, you can create visual depth in your layers that are also functional.
Layering Your Windows
Now you've got the rules down, let's move on to layering!
Base Layer
Your first layer should, if possible, be installed in the recess of the window. This is the best place to block outside light and will also ensure you have plenty of room for additional layers. Shutters and inside-mounted blinds or shades are perfect here as they are very effective at blocking out light when mounted close to the glass of your window.
Second Layer
Full-length curtains can help give the illusion of higher ceilings, and they look lovely when paired with blinds or shutters. Ensure that whatever design or colour you are using for this layer compliments your base layer.
Third Layer
For a little added sophistication, a third layer can be added at the top of your window in the form of a valance or pelmet. A valance will require its own rod, fixed to the face of the window frame (architrave).
Don't just limit your window styling to large windows - smaller ones, like those in bathrooms or above your kitchen sink, can also benefit from a little dressing. Small cafe-style curtains or a single valance can be a nice way to add some style without making a small space too busy.
Curtain Styling with Spotlight
No matter how you decide you want to layer your windows, Spotlight has the curtains, blinds and raw materials for you to bring your vision to life.
Still a little unsure about what will look best in your home? Check out our guide on how to choose the best window furnishings for your home, or head to your nearest Spotlight store and ask one of our friendly team members for advice.