Step 1 – Think About Why You Need Them

Before you even look at fabrics or colours, decide what you expect your curtains to do. Do you want them to block out sunlight completely for a cosy bedroom? Or filter the light in your living room while keeping it airy.

For rooms where you want plenty of natural light, sheer curtains in soft whites or pastels work beautifully. If privacy and darkness are a priority, say, for a bedroom or a TV lounge, go for heavier fabrics with blackout lining. We often bring swatches to our clients’ homes so they can see the effect in their lighting. The same fabric can look completely different in the store than it does in your own space.

Step 2 – Choose the Right Fabric

Fabric is where most people go wrong. It’s not just about how it looks; it’s about how it falls, how it moves, and how it feels to the touch.

• Lighter fabrics like cotton, linen, or sheer blends work for casual, bright rooms. They give an airy, breezy feel.
• Heavier fabrics like velvet, jacquard, or silk feel more formal and luxurious, perfect for living rooms or master bedrooms.
• Blends are practical if you want style but low maintenance.

Step 3 – Picking Colors and Patterns

This is where personality comes in. As residential interior designers, we often see clients playing it safe with certain colours. While neutrals are timeless, adding a splash of bold colour or a tasteful pattern can bring a space to life.

• For a calm, coordinated look, match your curtains to the wall colour or furniture tones.
• For contrast and impact, go darker or bolder than your walls.
• For interest without overwhelming the space – Opt for textured fabrics or subtle patterns.

Step 4 – Length and Width Are Game-Changers

If you want your home to look more upscale, don’t stop your curtains just at the window frame. Go for full-length, floor-grazing drapes. Even if your window is small, this trick instantly makes the room look taller and grander.

For width, the rule we follow is simple: the combined width of your curtain panels should be at least twice the width of your window. This way, they drape properly instead of looking flat and stretched.

And for homes with higher ceilings, placing the curtain rod closer to the ceiling rather than right above the window makes a huge difference in how spacious the room feels.

Step 5 – Layering for Style and Function

Layering isn’t just for hotels. It works beautifully at home, too. A sheer layer behind heavier drapes lets you enjoy natural light without sacrificing privacy. You can also experiment with colour combinations, such as soft white sheers paired with bold patterned curtains, to create depth in the room.

Layered curtains give you flexibility. Pull back both layers for maximum light, or keep the sheers drawn for a soft, diffused glow.

Step 6 – Hardware Matters More Than You Think

People often choose their rods and tiebacks as an afterthought, but we see them as the finishing touch.

For modern interiors, slim metallic rods in matte black or brushed steel keep things sleek. For classic or traditional homes, wooden rods with decorative ends add richness.

Tiebacks can be as simple or decorative as you like, from matching fabric loops to ornate tassels that add a little drama.

Step 7 – Keep Maintenance in Mind

There’s no point in picking gorgeous curtains if they’re a nightmare to maintain.

Cotton and poly-blends are easy to wash and don’t wrinkle much. Velvet and silk require more care and may need professional cleaning. If your windows get a lot of direct sunlight, choose fade-resistant fabrics or add a lining to protect them.

Lining also improves how curtains hang, giving them more weight and structure.

Step 8 – Add a Personal Touch

We love adding small, meaningful details for our clients, a custom trim that matches their sofa cushions, embroidery inspired by a family motif, or even a monogram on the tiebacks. These touches make the space truly personal and one-of-a-kind.

Anyone can buy ready-made curtains, but when they’re designed for your home, they tell your story.