How to choose the curtains?

Choosing the right curtains for bedroom and living room is a crucial aspect of interior design that can significantly impact the overall look and feel of the space.

What Are the Key Factors to Consider When Choosing Curtain Colors?

1. Coordinating Curtain Colors with Wall Colors

If your walls are in neutral shades such as white, beige, or gray, opt for bold or contrasting curtains to add a pop of color.

2. Matching Furniture and Floor Colors

Select curtain colors that align with your main furniture pieces, such as the sofa, floor or bed.

3. Considering Living Room Light and Ambiance

In well-lit rooms, darker curtains can help control brightness. For dimly lit spaces, lighter or semi-transparent curtains allow more natural light to flow in.

4. The 60-30-10 Color Rule

• 60% Base Color: Dominant color on walls, curtains, and large furniture.
• 30% Secondary Color: Appears in smaller furniture items, rugs, or accent walls.
• 10% Accent Color: The boldest shade, often found in artwork, pillows, or curtains.

Timeless Color Choices That Never Go Out of Style

White Curtains: Sheer vs Light Filtering

White curtains are a timeless choice that can effortlessly elevate your living room's aesthetic. Sheer curtains provide an airy feel, while light-filtering white curtains are excellent for west-facing living rooms and spacious interiors.

Beige & Cream Curtains for Sunrooms & Minimalist Spaces

For minimalist and understated rooms, beige curtains add subtle elegance without drawing attention away from clean lines and simple décor.

Linen Curtains for Farmhouse Living Rooms

Linen curtains are a quintessential choice for a farmhouse living room, bringing a touch of rustic charm and cozy comfort.

Brown Curtains for Traditional and Autumn/Winter Living Rooms

Brown curtains are the perfect choice for traditional or autumn/winter living rooms, offering warmth and sophistication.

Blue Curtains for Coastal or Beach-Inspired Living Rooms

Blue curtains are the perfect choice for creating a coastal or beach-inspired living room, evoking a sense of calm and tranquility.

Green Curtains for Nature-Inspired or Spring/Summer Living Room

Green curtains bring the freshness and tranquility of the outdoors indoors, perfect for nature-inspired or spring/summer settings.

Yellow Curtains for Modern Avant-Garde Living Rooms

Yellow curtains add bold color and energy to modern avant-garde living rooms, infusing warmth and creativity.

Red Curtains for Contemporary Living Room

Red curtains can make a bold statement in a contemporary living room, symbolizing passion and energy.

Gray & Black Curtains for Industrial Living Room

Black curtains are a striking choice for an industrial living room, creating a dramatic contrast and offering excellent light-blocking capabilities.

What to consider first

Curtains affect both the functionality and atmosphere of a room. They provide privacy protection, regulate light and set optical accents. But the right choice requires planning. Here are the main steps:

• Measure out windows : Precise bulk prevents incorrect purchases. Measure width and height at multiple points.
• Determine the curtain type : Day curtains, blackout curtains or intermediate solutions – choose by room and purpose.
• Choose matching fabric : Natural fibers (e.g. B. Linen, cotton) for elegance, synthetic fabrics (e.g. B. Polyester) for ease of care.
• Color and design : light tones for small rooms, dark for cosiness. Use patterns discreetly.
• Plan assembly : curtain rails for simple appearance, rods for decorative accents.

With this checklist you will find curtains that fit perfectly with your home.

Step 1: Measure windows correctly

Exact mass are the key to perfectly fitting curtains. Even a small measurement error can lead to curtains being too narrow, letting through light or throwing uneven wrinkles. Therefore, always measure twice – preferably with the help of a second person – and use a metal tape for maximum accuracy. With precise masses, you can make all other decisions, from the choice of fabric to the assembly, in a targeted manner.

Determine width and height correctly

For the width of the curtains, it should be 2 to 2.5 times the window width to create beautiful folds. Measure not only the width of the window frame, but also the entire length of the curtain rod or rail. For rods, it is recommended to plan a projection of 15 to 20 cm on the left and right, so that the curtains can be pushed completely to the side.

You can measure the height from the top edge of the curtain rod or, for rails, from the bottom edge of the rail. The desired length depends on the style: for a "floating" look, the curtains end 1 to 3 cm above the floor. If you want an elegant style with light ground contact, add 1 cm to the floor length.

Avoid common measurement errors

A common mistake is to measure only in one place. Since floors and ceilings are often uneven, you should measure the height at at least three points along the window. Otherwise, the curtains could hang crookedly or grind on one side on the floor. Also, be sure to consider window handles and radiators during measurement.

Another typical mistake is to calculate the amount of substance too scarcely. For harmonious wrinkles, the width of the fabric should be at least twice the width of the window. If you use multiple lanes, divide the total width by the number of webs. For natural substances, you should also plan a few centimeters as a shrinkage reserve.

With accurate masses, you create the ideal basis to select the right curtain type in the next step.

Step 2: Determine the appropriate curtain type

Once you have the exact mass with the help of a measurement guide, you can opt for a style that best suits your room. Three main factors play a role here: light control, privacy and decoration. Each room has different requirements – the bedroom needs different curtains than the kitchen or living room. Here you will find an overview of the different curtain types and their respective properties.

Curtain types and their functions

Day curtains (often referred to as stores) are made of lightweight, semi-transparent fabrics. They let daylight in while providing some privacy during the day. These curtains are ideal for rooms like living room, kitchens or dining room where you want to enjoy the natural light without feeling watched.

Intermediate curtains (in-between) are denser than day curtains, but lighter than blackout curtains. They are a good choice for study or living spaces where you are looking for a balance between brightness and privacy protection.

Night curtains are heavier than day curtains and provide more privacy in the evening when the light is switched on. However, they do not necessarily block all the light.

Darkening curtains completely block the light and are made of dense materials such as velvet or lined polyester. They are ideal for bedrooms, children's rooms or home theaters. In addition, they offer an insulating effect against heat loss and reduce external noise.

Functional curtains, such as thermal, acoustic or antibacterial curtains, are specially designed for specific needs. In small rooms, heavy curtains should be avoided, as they can visually reduce them. Lightweight fabrics such as stores, on the other hand, create a more airy atmosphere. For kitchens, easy-care cotton curtains in window sill length are offered, while bedrooms benefit from floor-length blackout curtains.

Comparison of curtain types

Curtain type	Main function	Light control	Privacy	Recommended rooms
Daily curtain	Light filtering & decoration	Low (translucent)	Funds (only during the day)	Living room, kitchen, dining room
Intermediate Curtain	Balance between light and privacy	Funds	Funds to high	Study, Living room
Night curtain	Privacy & atmosphere	Funds to high	Up	Bedroom, living room
Darkening curtain	Total darkening & isolation	High (blocked 100%)	Up	Bedroom, Home Cinema, Children's Room
Function curtain	Heat/sound protection/UV protection	Variable	Up	Road-related spaces, draughty areas

An often chosen combination consists of a day curtain and a heavy side curtain. This combination makes it possible to flexibly control light and privacy throughout the day.

Step 3: Select the right fabric

The choice of fabric not only influences the durability and ease of care, but also the ambience of a room. Essentially, you can choose between natural fibers such as cotton, linen, silk and wool, as well as synthetic fabrics such as polyester and acrylic. Both categories have their own advantages and disadvantages, which should be carefully weighed depending on the room function, lighting conditions and desired maintenance effort.

Natural fibers vs. synthetic fabrics

Natural fibers such as cotton and linen come from plant sources, while silk and wool are of animal origin. Synthetic substances such as polyester, on the other hand, are produced by chemical processes from petroleum-based materials. A decisive difference lies in the resistance to sunlight: While polyester and acrylic hardly fade and are UV-resistant, natural fibers such as silk and cotton without protective lining can yellow or become brittle with intense sunlight.

Synthetic fabrics also score with easy care: they are machine washable, low-wrinkle and dry quickly – perfect for households with children or pets. Natural fibers, on the other hand, often require dry cleaning or elaborate ironing. In damp rooms such as kitchens or bathrooms, synthetic fabrics are also at an advantage, as they hardly absorb moisture and are resistant to mold. Natural fibers, on the other hand, can be more susceptible to stick stains.

On the other hand, natural fibers offer better breathability and temperature regulation, which allows for good air circulation. Synthetic fabrics, on the other hand, are more likely to store heat and moisture. Also visually natural materials convince with their soft, organic fall, which gives the curtains an elegant look. Cotton fabrics usually range from CHF 10.–40.– per meter, linen fabrics to CHF 20.–60.–, while polyester is often available from CHF 4.–20.

Comparison of the material properties

The following table provides an overview of the main features of the two material groups:

Property	Natural fibres (linen, cotton, silk)	Synthetic fabrics (polyester, acrylic)
Breathability	High; supports temperature compensation	Low; stores heat and humidity
Shelf life	Means; prone to shrinkage	High; resistant to abrasion
UV resistance	Low; tends to fade	High; colourfast and UV-resistant
Care	Elaborate; often dry cleaning	Simple; usually machine washable
Best Use	Bedrooms, formal living spaces	kitchens, bathrooms, much-used areas

If you are using curtains made of silk or linen in sunny rooms, a UV protective lining is essential to prevent premature bleaching. For households with high care, synthetic substances are a practical choice, as they are stain-resistant and easily washable. An interesting alternative are mixed fabrics made of cotton and polyester, which combine the natural look with the uncomplicated care of synthetic materials.

Step 4: Choose colors, pattern and design

After you have selected the fabric, it goes to the design details. The color choice of the curtains plays a central role in the spatial effect. You should not only take into account your taste, but also room size, light conditions and the existing furnishings. There are four proven approaches: tone-on-tone for a calm harmony (e.g. From anthracite curtains against light grey walls), contrast for a striking effect (such as mustard yellow curtains in front of white walls), complementary colors for a modern ambience (such as terracotta curtains on green walls) or neutral tones such as white, cream or beige, which ensure balance, especially in colorful rooms. Below you will learn how to optimally adapt colors and patterns to the room.

Color selection for different room sizes

Bright colors create a feeling of width and lightness in small rooms, while dark tones make large rooms look more comfortable and warmer. Make sure that curtains and wall color have the same color undertone. To get a harmonious overall picture, you should limit yourself to 2–3 main colors in the room – too many colors can quickly look restless. It is best to test the colors and patterns in daylight to make sure they look as desired in the room.

For a harmonious interior design, you can match the curtain color with important pieces of furniture. For example, the curtain fabric could be matched in color to the sofa. The function of the room should also be taken into account: calming shades of blue or green are well suited for bedrooms, while vibrant yellows or reds create a dynamic atmosphere in kitchens.

Use patterns effectively

Patterns bring texture and interesting accents into the room, but should be used specifically. Small rooms benefit from subtle textures or small patterns, while large rooms can tolerate eye-catching prints, stripes or large-scale designs. Combine eye-catching patterns with neutral elements to avoid overloading.

The fabric quality also has a great influence on the perception of color. Heavy fabrics such as velvet look more intense and luxurious, while light materials such as linen or voile let the light shine through and make the colors appear softer. An interesting option is the combination of several layers: Transparent stores in the inner layer combined with heavy decorative scarves on the outside make it possible to mix colors and patterns while optimizing light control. The right choice of colors and patterns not only gives your curtains style, but also fulfills their practical function.

Step 5: Check fastening systems and installation requirements

Before selecting or mounting your curtains, you should make sure that they are compatible with the existing mounting system. The decision between curtain rails and curtain rods is not only a question of design, but also influences the type of suspension – the so-called “header” of your curtains. In Switzerland, floor-mounted rails are particularly popular, as they create an elegant, seamless appearance where the curtain seems to come straight from the ceiling. Curdium rods, on the other hand, set visible accents and are particularly suitable for suspension styles such as eyelets or loops. Once the appropriate system is selected, the precise installation is required.

Types of fastening systems

Curtain rails are ideal for a simple, minimalist style and are standard in Switzerland. The curtains are attached with gliders that can be easily moved in the rail. When measuring, you should measure from the lower edge of the rail to the desired end point. Curdium rods, on the other hand, are decorative elements that are attached to the wall above the window frame. Here you can measure from the top edge of the bar.

For a more flexible solution, surface curtain profiles offer an interesting option. These aluminum rails use Velcro fasteners for fastening the curtains, which allows subsequent height adjustments of about ±1 cm. This allows the curtains to be perfectly adapted to measure.

Before buying, you should check which system is already installed with you, as this will affect your selection. Eyelet curtains, for example, are not compatible with standard rails. If you want to install a new mounting system, make sure that it fits your desired curtain style. After selecting the system, it goes to professional assembly.

Installation tips

Since floors, ceilings and curtain boards are often uneven, you should measure at three different points to make up for possible bumps. For surface curtains, it is recommended to remove 2.5 cm from the total height so that the fabric floats 1–2 cm above the ground. Also, pay attention to the wall or ceiling type – plasterboard requires different fastening methods than concrete. If rails are already in place, check whether the new gliders are compatible with the width and depth of the rails.

For precise measurements and uncomplicated assembly, it is best to work for two. So you can keep the measuring tape horizontal over longer distances.

Conclusion

This checklist provides you with a practical guide – from precise measurement to professional assembly. Start with accurate measurements to ensure the curtains fit perfectly. Then consider the main purpose : Should the room be completely darkened, as in the bedroom? Or do you need privacy screens in daylight, such as in the living room? Maybe it's just about decorative accents? Their answer to this influences the choice of the fabric – whether darkening fabrics, light materials or something in between, there are options in different price ranges.

Easy care also plays a role: While cotton is often machine-washable, silk or wool usually require a dry cleaning. As already mentioned, precise measurements and proper assembly can help make rooms look larger and more harmonious. Pay attention to the compatibility of your gliders with the rail width (e.g. B. Maxi: 6.2–6.6 mm, Mini: 3.6–4.0 mm).

A modern look can be achieved when the curtains float 1–2 cm above the floor. This not only looks chic, but also makes it easier to clean – especially in households with children or pets. With this systematic guide, you can be sure to select curtains that fit both functionally and visually perfectly to your home.

26. Which curtain length fits my room style?

The choice of the right curtain length significantly affects the effect of a room. Floor-length curtains are perfect if you want to give your room an elegant and luxurious atmosphere. They fit perfectly with classic interior styles and look particularly classy.

For a modern or casual look, shorter curtains are a good choice. These can end just above the floor or reach to the window sill – ideal for rooms that prefer a relaxed or functional style.

The most important thing: Take the mass carefully. Precise dimensions ensure that the curtains look harmonious and optimally complement the style of your room.

27. Which substances are ideal in a lot of sun or high humidity?

Polyester fabrics, such as thermal curtains, are an excellent choice for sunny rooms. They reflect the sun's rays and help to keep the room temperature comfortable. In rooms with high humidity, on the other hand, water-repellent or air-permeable substances are ideal because they can absorb and regulate moisture more efficiently.

28. How do I combine daily and darkening curtains?

With the combination of daily and darkening curtains, you can regulate light and vision according to your wishes. A two-barrel curtain rail is the perfect solution here: attach the blackout curtain to the rear rail to completely darken the room if necessary. On the front rail, place a transparent day curtain that lets in pleasant light during the day. In this way, you create a flexible atmosphere that can be easily adapted to the time of day and your needs.