There are no two words more misused and misappropriated than curtains and drapes. While it may seem superfluous to know what sets these two window-treatments apart, I believe it pays to know curtains from drapes when I’m on a budget, or if I’m looking to best optimize the natural lighting in a room, to cut back on those pesky heating or air-conditioning bills, or when I just want my rooms- and home- to look spectacular.
Drapes vs. Curtains: What do they do for my home?
Drapes
Drapes are usually offered custom-made. They are the more formal, lavish, and often pricier cousins to curtains. Panels for custom drapes are sold in pairs, are long and flowing to create a ‘pooling’ effect, and are made from thicker, stiffer fabrics. These qualities make them ideal for when I’m looking to kick things up a notch, to make my dining look elegant and formal, or my Master bedroom more, well, masterful. You can always choose custom draperies to add more details to your decor.
Installation and the subsequent taking them down to get them cleaned, however, can be a pain in the derrière as it usually entails a trip to the dry-cleaners.
Curtains
Curtains are sold in pairs, by the panel, ready-made or custom. The length depends on the size of the window- curtains generally fall just enough to cover the window or the window sill. The average curtain is less effective at blocking out light and noise, and insulating the room, which is why, ideally, I would pair them with blinds or shades, or use them in spaces that do not require a blackout effect: in airy and bright kitchens or open-plan sitting rooms.
Depending on their fabric or length, curtains are relatively easier to maintain: pop them in a delicate-rinse cycle and they’re good to go.
While I prefer custom drapes or curtains as window coverings, ready-to-hang curtains and drapes of a multitude of fabrics, colours, and patterns that are cost effective can be convenient. The limitation to using these ready-made curtains or drapes, however, is the availability of the length you require, and perhaps most importantly, the fabric that is used.
Picking out fabrics for your curtains and drapes
When it comes down to it, the fabric that I pick for my curtains and drapes is what helps with insulation, light and noise control and the aesthetics of the room in question. Investing in good, multi-purpose fabric can go a long way to cut back on utility bills. While light, flirty, or semi-sheer curtains don’t offer much in the way of privacy, they keep the room light, airy, and cool. Blackout or thermal curtains reduce light and noise that stream in from outside and help insulate the room. With custom drapes, you can pick out your fabric, its length, and all the extra furnishings, depending on the room you want to outfit…for a price, of course.
When considering the over-all look and vibe of the room, and with a mind to its functionality and purpose, the choices you have may seem endless and nerve racking. Which is why, understanding your room and its requirements can help you decide on curtains or drapes, and subsequently their texture, colour, prints, and fabrics.
So, drapes or curtains for your home?
I’d say you step into each room and then look around. Think about the atmosphere you’re looking to create. Do you want your kitchen to be open, light, and airy? Then pick curtains. Do you want a formal and elegant kitchen, or a warm and cozy study? Drapes are what you’re looking for. Let the room tell you what its windows need.
(Syndicated press content)
