Corner windows are a great way to add natural light, ventilation, and architectural interest to any room. They create a cozy and inviting atmosphere, as well as offer stunning views of the outdoors. However, corner windows also pose some challenges when it comes to choosing the right curtains for corner windows. You want to find curtains that enhance the beauty of your corner windows, while also providing the desired level of light control, privacy, and functionality. In this article, we will discuss some of the key factors to consider when choosing curtains for corner windows, as well as some tips for installation and maintenance.
Table of Contents
Understanding Corner Windows
Before you start shopping for corner window curtains, it is important to understand what corner windows are and what makes them unique. Corner windows are windows that are placed at or near the corner of a wall, forming an angle with the adjacent wall. They can be of different shapes and sizes, such as square, rectangular, triangular, or curved. They can also be single or double, meaning that they can have one or two windows on each side of the corner.
Corner windows have some advantages and disadvantages when it comes to know How to Choose Curtains for Corner Windows.
Advantages of Corner Windows
- They allow more natural light to enter the room, creating a bright and airy space.
- They offer a wider and more panoramic view of the outside, making the room feel more spacious and connected to nature.
- They add architectural interest and character to the room, creating a focal point and a sense of depth.
Disadvantages of Corner Windows
- They can be difficult to measure and fit with standard curtains, requiring custom-made or adjustable rods and hardware.
- They can create glare and heat issues, especially if they face the sun directly, requiring curtains that can block or filter the light effectively.
- They can compromise the privacy of the room, especially if they are located on the street-facing side of the house, requiring curtains that can cover the entire window area.
The choice of curtains can have a significant impact on the overall look and feel of your corner windows. You want to find curtains that complement the shape and style of your windows, as well as the decor and theme of your room. You also want to find curtains that balance the amount of light and privacy that you need, as well as the functionality and ease of use that you want.
How to Choose Curtains for Corner Windows? 5 Factors to Consider
There are several factors that you need to consider when choosing curtains for corner windows, such as:
Measurement and Sizing
One of the most important factors to consider is the measurement and sizing of your curtains. You want to make sure that your curtains fit your corner windows perfectly, without leaving any gaps or excess fabric. To measure your corner windows, you will need a tape measure, a pencil, and a paper. Here are some steps to follow:
Step 1: Measure the width of each window on both sides of the corner, from the inside edge of the window frame to the outside edge. Add 2 to 4 inches to each measurement to allow for some overlap and fullness.
Step 2: Measure the height of each window from the top of the window frame to the bottom of the sill or the floor, depending on how long you want your curtains to be. Add 4 to 6 inches to each measurement to allow for some hemming and hanging.
Step 3: Record your measurements and use them to find the right size of curtains for your corner windows. You can either buy ready-made curtains that match your measurements or order custom-made curtains that are tailored to your specifications.
Fabric Choices
Another important factor to consider is the fabric choice of your curtains. You want to find a fabric that suits your needs and preferences, such as:
Light control:
Depending on how much light you want to let in or block out, you can choose a fabric that is sheer, semi-sheer, opaque, or blackout. Sheer fabrics are thin and transparent, allowing a lot of light to pass through. They are ideal for rooms that need a lot of natural light, such as living rooms or kitchens.
Semi-sheer fabrics are slightly thicker and less transparent, allowing some light to pass through. They are ideal for rooms that need some natural light, but also some privacy, such as bedrooms or bathrooms.
Opaque fabrics are dense and solid, blocking most of the light from entering. They are ideal for rooms that need a lot of privacy and darkness, such as media rooms or nurseries. Blackout fabrics are specially designed to block out 100% of the light from entering. They are ideal for rooms that need complete darkness and insulation, such as bedrooms or home offices. You can take a help of our compressive guide on different types of fabrics.
Privacy:
Depending on how much privacy you want to maintain, you can choose a fabric that is more or less revealing. Sheer fabrics are the most revealing, as they allow anyone to see through them from the outside. They are not recommended for rooms that face the street or the neighbors, unless you layer them with another curtain or a blind.
Semi-sheer fabrics are less revealing, as they create a soft and blurry effect that obscures the view from the outside. They are suitable for rooms that need some privacy, but also some light. Opaque fabrics are the least revealing, as they prevent anyone from seeing through them from the outside. They are suitable for rooms that need a lot of privacy, but also some light. Blackout fabrics are the most private, as they block out any view from the outside. They are suitable for rooms that need complete privacy and darkness.
Style:
Depending on the style of your corner windows and your room, you can choose a fabric that matches or contrasts with them. You can choose a fabric that has a similar color, pattern, texture, or theme as your windows or your room, creating a harmonious and cohesive look. or you can choose a fabric that has a different color, pattern, texture, or theme as your windows or your room, creating a contrast and a focal point.
For example, if your corner windows have a modern and minimalist style, you can choose a fabric that has a simple and sleek design, such as a solid color or a geometric pattern. Or, if your corner windows have a traditional and ornate style, you can choose a fabric that has a rich and elaborate design, such as a floral print or a lace trim.
Style Considerations
Another important factor to consider for selecting curtains on corner windows is the style of your curtains. You want to find a style that complements the architecture of your corner windows, as well as the decor of your room. There are many styles of curtains to choose from, such as:
Rod pocket: Rod pocket curtains are curtains that have a pocket at the top that slides over a rod. They are easy to install and operate, and they create a casual and relaxed look. They are suitable for corner windows that have a simple and straight shape, and they work well with sheer or semi-sheer fabrics.
Tab top: Tab top curtains are curtains that have loops or tabs at the top that hang from a rod. They are also easy to install and operate, and they create a modern and chic look. They are suitable for corner windows that have a curved or angled shape, and they work well with opaque or blackout fabrics.
Grommet: Grommet curtains are curtains that have metal rings or grommets at the top that slide over a rod. They are also easy to install and operate, and they create a sleek and elegant look. They are suitable for corner windows that have a contemporary and minimalist style, and they work well with any type of fabric.
Pinch pleat: Pinch pleat curtains are curtains that have pleats or folds at the top that are pinched together and attached to hooks or rings. They are more difficult to install and operate, and they create a formal and sophisticated look. They are suitable for corner windows that have a classic and ornate style, and they work well with any type of fabric.
Color Coordination
Another important factor to consider is the color coordination of your curtains. You want to find a color that matches or contrasts with the color of your corner windows, your walls, your furniture, and your accessories. You can use a color wheel to help you find the best color combinations, such as:
Monochromatic: Monochromatic colors are colors that have the same hue, but different shades, tones, or tints. They create a harmonious and soothing look, and they are easy to match. For example, if your corner windows are white, you can choose curtains that are also white, or a lighter or darker shade of white, such as cream or gray.
Analogous: Analogous colors are colors that are next to each other on the color wheel, such as red, orange, and yellow. They create a warm and vibrant look, and they are also easy to match. For example, if your corner windows are yellow, you can choose curtains that are also yellow, or a similar color, such as orange or green.
Complementary: Complementary colors are colors that are opposite to each other on the color wheel, such as red and green. They create a contrast and a focal point, and they are more difficult to match. For example, if your corner windows are green, you can choose curtains that are also green, or a contrasting color, such as red or purple.
for an inspiration you can explore our guide on What Color Curtains Go with Gray Couch? 7 Amazing Ideas for Every Style and Mood.
Functional Considerations for Corner Window Curtains
Another important factor to consider is the functionality of your curtains. You want to find curtains that are easy to use and maintain, as well as suit your lifestyle and needs. For example, if you have children or pets in the house, you may want to avoid long or heavy curtains that can pose a safety hazard or get dirty easily. Instead, you can opt for shorter or lighter curtains that are out of reach or washable.
If you have hard-to-reach windows or want more convenience, you may want to consider motorized curtains that can be operated with a remote control or a smart device. This way, you can adjust your curtains without having to get up or use a ladder. If you want to save energy and reduce your carbon footprint, you may want to consider thermal curtains that can insulate your windows and keep your room warm or cool, depending on the season. This way, you can lower your heating or cooling costs and enjoy a more comfortable environment.
Tips for Installation and Maintenance
Once you have chosen the curtains for corner windows, you need to install and maintain them properly. Here are some tips to help you with that:
Installation
Tools & Materials:
Rod
Brackets
Screws
Drill
Level
Tape Measure
Pencil
To install your curtains, you will need a rod, brackets, screws, a drill, a level, a tape measure, and a pencil. You can either use a single rod that bends at the corner, or two separate rods that meet at the corner. You can also use a corner connector or a finial to join the two rods together.
Step 1:
To determine the placement of your rod, you need to decide how high and how wide you want your curtains to hang. Generally, it is recommended to hang your curtains at least 6 inches above the window frame and extend them at least 6 inches beyond the window frame on each side. This will create an illusion of height and width, and make your windows look larger and more elegant.
Step 2:
To mark the placement of your brackets, you need to measure and mark the distance from the corner to the end of each rod, and the distance from the ceiling to the top of each rod. Use a level to ensure that your marks are straight and aligned.
Step 3:
Then, drill holes and attach the brackets to the wall with screws. Make sure that the brackets are sturdy and secure and can support the weight of your curtains.
Step 4:
To hang your curtains, you need to slide them over the rod, or attach them to the hooks or rings, depending on the style of your curtains. Then, place the rod on the brackets, and adjust the curtains to create an even and symmetrical look. You can also use tiebacks, clips, or holdbacks to create different effects and shapes with your curtains.
Maintenance
For maintaining your curtains, you need to clean and care for them regularly. Depending on the fabric and the color of your curtains, you can either wash curtains by hand, machine, or dry clean. Follow the instructions on the label of your curtains and use mild detergent and cold water to avoid fading and shrinking. You can also use a lint roller or a vacuum cleaner to remove dust and dirt from your curtains.
To iron your curtains, you need to use a low or medium heat setting, and a damp cloth or a steam iron. Avoid ironing directly on the fabric, as it may damage or burn it. You can also use a wrinkle releaser spray or a dryer to smooth out the wrinkles and creases on your curtains.
To store your curtains, you need to fold them neatly and place them in a plastic bag or a container. Avoid exposing them to sunlight, moisture, or insects, as they may cause discoloration, mold, or damage. You can also use a cedar block or a lavender sachet to keep your curtains fresh and fragrant. Explore in detailed 4 effective curtain storage ideas for utilizing maximum space.
Conclusion
Choosing curtains for corner windows can be a challenging but rewarding task. You need to consider various factors, such as measurement and sizing, fabric choices, style considerations, color coordination, and functional considerations, to find the perfect fit for your space. You also need to install and maintain your curtains properly, to ensure that they last long and look great.
By following the tips and guidelines in this article, you can transform your corner windows with well-chosen curtains, and create a cozy and inviting atmosphere in your room.
For comprehensive guidance on enhancing your corner windows with carefully chosen curtains, refer to this informative article on eyebrow window treatments.
We encourage you to share your own ideas and experiences. Home decor is a personal and evolving process, and your insights could inspire others on their quest for the ideal eyebrow window solution. Join the conversation, exchange ideas in our community and let your creativity flow.