Master the Art of Interior Styling with Curtain Ideas and More

Much of the time, homeowners treat interior design elements as single aspects and don’t consider how well that their furnishings can play with other window treatments and decor. Our Alexander Blank Fabrics & Design interior decor experts take on a whole-room approach, which integrates elements like new window blinds and matching upholstery fabric, into account to help you make the best decision for your design.

Why single out your window treatments? These fabric accents can still take center stage, but design ideas like the ones below add visual interest and practicality.

Layer Different Textures

Using more than one texture in your design adds depth and visual character to window styling. Think about pairing smooth silk curtains with textured linen panels, or combine luxurious velvet drapes with delicate cotton sheers. Natural woven shades and custom drapery made from materials like jute or hemp work beautifully alongside traditional fabrics, bringing an organic element to formal settings.

It's not complicated: Maintain the overall color scheme and vary the tactile qualities of each accent. One way to do this is through a sophisticated monochromatic scheme with elegant, subtle textures that prevent the look from becoming too busy.

Coordinate Curtains with Accent Wallpaper

Strategic wallpaper placement adds drama to your spaces. Select accent wallpaper that complements rather than competes with your window treatments:

• If your curtains have bold patterns, select subtle wallpaper with similar undertones; doubling up on patterns can work, but avoid using two especially bold ones in one window treatment.
• Geometric or floral wallpaper can provide a stunning backdrop for solid-colored drapes.
• Textured wallpaper, like grasscloth or linen weaves, adds dimension without overwhelming patterned curtains.

If you’re willing to try something different (and exciting!), create a feature wall behind your curtains using wallpaper with metallic accents. That adds shine and makes the entire window area an awe-inspiring focal point: The interplay between patterned wallpaper and flowing fabric makes a unique design statement.

Integrate Window Blinds with Soft Drapery

Layering drapery with window blinds elevates a room’s design appeal and functionality; it combines varying textures and adds more insulation. You can select blinds in complementary materials like natural wood, composite materials, metal, fabric, or vinyl.

When coordinating curtains with horizontal blinds, match key design elements for a cohesive look. For instance, coordinate decorative tapes or trim on your curtains with the same colors. You can also echo the material choices in the curtain hardware. We can help you shop for curtain rods to complement wood blinds or fabrics that pick up tones from your color story.

Match Upholstery Fabrics for Cohesive Design

We also promote the idea of connections between window treatments and furniture upholstery. Look for common color families, complementary patterns, or similar textures to get started.

If your sofa has a bold pattern, choose curtains in one of the accent colors from that pattern. Or, use the same fabric for the curtains and throw pillows to create subtle connections. That works exceptionally well in open-concept homes where multiple seating areas need to feel unified.

Consider the scale of patterns carefully. Large-scale patterns pair well with smaller geometric prints, while solid curtains complement busy fabrics.

Play with Length and Proportion

Floor-to-ceiling curtains are a designer’s go-to: This length instantly makes rooms feel grander and more spacious. Puddle-length curtains create romantic elegance but need more upkeep, while curtains that barely brush the floor balance style and practicality.

Keep the length in mind when ordering, because you can hang curtains closer to the ceiling than the window top. This trick makes standard ceilings look taller, especially with solid colors that won't compete with your room's architecture.

Another curtain idea is going with wider panels that extend well past the window frames. It makes smaller windows look more generous, giving you better light control and privacy.

Bring Your Vision to Life with Expert Design Partnership

There's no reason to wait if you’re as inspired by these ideas as we are. Interested in what happens at a consultation? Our talented design team at Alexander Blank Fabrics & Design can’t wait to help you get started.

Visit our showroom or contact us to schedule a consultation in Lutherville-Timonium and the greater Baltimore Metro area.