We’re sure that by now you know just how much the right blinds and curtains can change the impact of a room. The incredible range of styles, fabrics and designs is testament to all the different looks you can achieve effortlessly. And of course, there’s no denying how fabulous they look on their own, but have you thought about pairing them up? In other words, using blinds and curtains together simultaneously?
We don’t mean using curtains on one set of windows and blinds on another either. We mean using both, at the same time, on the same windows. If not, you’re in for a treat. Not only does this double down on functionality, you also get a flexible look and feel for your space.
This style of doing up window furnishings has become quite popular, and the options are pretty much unlimited. It’s also particularly useful in terms of insulation, seeing as how you have two layers acting as barriers.
The final result depends on your personal preference, and of course needs. And you likely want to get it right the first time around. So let’s see what you can do to make that happen.
1. Choose the Type of Blind First
Let’s start with the bottom layer of the combination, the blind.
Now when it comes to style, you can go for pretty much any of them. But it’s worth remembering that blinds like vertical blinds for instance, have panels that rotate 180 degrees. So you’ll need to leave your curtains open whenever they are, to ensure they sit right. Something like roller blinds for instance or honeycomb blinds however, will not have this issue when opened/ raised. You can leave your blinds open with sheer curtains drawn for instance, as in the picture on the top right. Thinking about functionality and how you’ll uniquely use your blinds and curtains at the same time, is key.
The blinds you select could depend on other factors too. For example, honeycomb blinds are famous for their insulating properties, and so will suit colder climates. Or you may want something with a natural feel such as Venetian blinds. Not only do they look great, they’re also excellent for precise light and privacy control and insulation. Their neutral colours can be offset with bright bold curtains, or even soft, muted sheers.
Choosing the right blind first, will help set the foundation for your pairings.
2. Avoid Pairing Prints Together
We love us a good print and patterns are a fun, quirky way of adding character to a space. However, prints on both your blinds and curtains could be too loud and more of an eyesore. You want your window furnishings to be a point of attraction, not distraction. Think of it like dressing yourself. You would never go for an all-print outfit now would you? It would clash and look absolutely terrible. Your windows are no different.
When pairing prints, it’s the age-old rule of thumb; mix them with block colours. You can never go wrong this way. So think block coloured blinds and patterned blockout curtains for instance. There’s no hard and fast rule though, if you feel like it should be the other way around, go for it. If you select the block shade in a colour that’s already present in the print, this’ll really tie it all together and look beautiful.
3. Ensure the Curtain and Blind Colour Matches the Rod Colour
If you spend all this time and effort in perfecting the fabrics, then you should do the same with the rest. To be precise, we’re talking about the rods. It’d be a shame if everything came out perfectly, only to have your rods in a whole other colour.
Now while there are rods in silvers and golds out there, we recommend steering clear of these. They may look nice at first glance, but they really aren’t a great option. For one thing they can come off a bit gaudy and tacky. Matte colours tend to work best, as they perfectly blend everything together. Plus, they suit all types of interior design schemes, and are more suited to modern palettes.
4. Light and Privacy Needs
All of the above points are related to aesthetics, or how the window furnishings look. But of course, practicality is important too. This typically relates to light and privacy, and each room in your home will have its own needs.
For instance, sun-facing rooms that see a lot of natural light throughout the day will need better light control. Others will need to let in as much light as possible when it’s available. Then there could also be rooms that are street-facing or close to neighbours which means that others can see in. Naturally, you want to maintain an element of privacy from them without blocking out light completely.
As impossible as it may seem to balance all of these elements, it’s actually easier than you’d think. Luckily, there are so many types of blinds available in various styles that can be customised accordingly. Curtains too come in varying fabrics such as blockouts and sheers to complement them. For example, Venetian blinds have slats that can be rotated, while the blinds themselves can be raised or lowered. This gives you precise control as needed. Throw a sheer curtain on top of this so as to enhance the natural look of the blinds. Not only does this further help diffuse light, it limits views from the outside in without stifling the space.
Conclusion
Pairing blinds and curtains correctly is one way for a room to give off an artistic flair. Additionally, you get to improve its functionality quite easily. The whole project can be a lot of fun too, seeing as how you get to play with colour schemes and themes! Don’t be afraid to think outside the box. Consider matching your window furnishings with the wall or furniture to make a statement. You can go for different shades on the same colour spectrum. For instance if you have light blue walls, you can choose dark blue curtains/ blinds. You can even match them with complementary colours like pinks or greens. There’s really no limit to what you can do.
Of course it can feel like you’ll never make a decision when faced with so many options. But that’s what we’re here for! Let us know what’s on your mind and we’ll help your vision come to life. Get in touch with the team for a personalised plan on customised window furnishings that are designed for you.
