How you dress your windows can make a huge difference to the look and feel of a room, and we have plenty of ideas to inspire.
Love a pared-back Roman blind? Or prefer a sweep of lush fabric? Windows are a focal point, so whether your priority is beauty or practicality, it's worth getting it right. From curtains to frosted film, if you want to add privacy without scrimping on style, here are eight window dressing ideas for inspiration.
Embrace the opportunity to introduce a patterned fabric into your room to add interest and sophistication. Opt for something subtle that is light in colour and will continue to let natural light pass through.
A well-chosen pattern should gently diffuse light, rather than block it. Make sure your fabric ties into the colour scheme throughout the space, whether that's a subtle continuation of a hue, a happy clash, or a complementary colour (like the paired blues and greens here).
Having a cushion or even a chair made up in the same fabric will ensure cohesion. Just remember, picking a patterned fabric, like buying art, is about going for something you instinctively love. It's a chance to admire something beautiful on a daily basis, so choose wisely.
Venetian blinds are wonderful if you want to diffuse the light, bathing your room in a soft but structural glow. Take the edge off a bright sunny day without engulfing a space in darkness – this is particularly handy in the rooms in which you regularly watch TV or use a laptop, like a living room. This natural bamboo option from the House Beautiful collection at Hillarys evokes the on-trend minimalist style of Japanese design.
For front rooms that look onto streets or busy roads, a single curtain is the simplest way to introduce privacy. Evoking the irresistibly chic style of old Parisian cafes, just make sure you opt for something sheer to allow plenty of natural light to enter. Hanging at the halfway point on a taller window allows you the pleasure of staring dreamingly at the sky and trees without nosy passersby interrupting your peace.
East London Cloth is a great place to find beautifully made linen curtains and generally admire exceptional window-dressing.
Shutters are a timeless and durable way to dress your windows, giving your home chic, French-style château vibes. A tier-on-tier style with top and bottom panels that open independently (like this design from the Hillarys x House Beautiful collection), brings extra flexibility over light and privacy levels. Even better, opt for colour to add interest to your space, like this delicate and pretty chalk pink.
Away from the bedroom, look for waterproof shutters for kitchens and bathrooms – a stylish and practical option.
Putting a film in any room other than a bathroom may come as a bit of a surprise, but when it comes to letting in as much light as possible while having complete privacy, a frosty window is an easy and quick solution.
There are many subtle choices available, but equally, plenty of vibrant and patterned designs in abundance. Window films are also a really good solution for renters, as typically the film can be easily removed. With a repeat pattern, this Provence Botanical design by Purlfrost has a modern whimsical charm.
If you want to opt for classic drapes but are struggling to find the perfect fabric, consider layering two. You can attach using two separately fitted rods – useful if you're wanting to block half a window with your first layer but provide full cover with the second. Alternatively, there are many homeware suppliers that stock super-practical double rods.
We recommend layering a heavier fabric on top of a sheer fabric. Consider the effect of colour and pattern as well as literal weight. The outer layer should block out light and noise, and trap in warmth, allowing you to relax into peace and quiet in the evenings. The lighter layer will give you the extra option to diffuse strong light and create more privacy in the daytime. It really is the best of both worlds.
Iliv is a great supplier of interior textiles, and has options suitable for both.
For understated luxury, Roman blinds are the way forward. When pulled up, the folds gather to create an undeniably elegant ruching effect.
You can't go wrong with a fabric in a warm neutral like Rise Mushroom from Thomas Sanderson. Their blinds are made to measure and they offer electric smart controls for ease of use, installed helpfully by a dedicated team as part of their bespoke service.
Roller blinds are an easy way to introduce a touch of pattern into an otherwise neutral space. They are simple to use, uncluttered and contemporary-looking, and provide an extra layer of insulation.
Hillarys have a wide selection of patterned roller blinds to choose from, including from our very own House Beautiful collection, and will helpfully oversee measuring and fitting to take the hassle out of the installing. Consider motorised controls to enable you to open or close your blinds at the touch of a button.
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