We think of everything ranging from color to style, decor and accessories when dreaming up our image of a ‘perfect home’. Yet we often tend to ignore some of the little things that ultimately make the biggest difference. Window curtains definitely fall into this category and do not generally get the attention that they deserve. Part of it lies in the fact that many homeowners are turning to other window coverings to get the job done. Then there is the factor of ‘budget limitations’, which means it is often stuff like gorgeous window curtains or exquisite carpets that take the fall first!But a curtain can go a long way in elevating the aesthetics and ergonomics of a room and is far more cost-effective than you think. And they definitely should not be an afterthought or an impulsive buy in the overall scheme of things. Choosing the wrong curtains can ruin the appeal of your living room or bedroom and would leave it a duller, more dreary space. To help you avoid this conundrum, here are a few pointers to help you get the basics of curtain shopping spot on –The curtains you choose for your windows must seem like a natural extension of the room.

Sounds pretty basic, does it not? But in an attempt to cut down on ‘drapery expenditure’, many homeowners opt for the same curtains in every room. Faux Barn Wood RugThis might work in a few select homes, but it fails in more contemporary residences where each room has a specific theme, style and aura of its own. Inversion Therapy Weight LossIf it is indeed the costs involved that are stopping you from adding curtains to the windows of your home, start slowly with just the living room. How Does Cd Lens Cleaner WorkThere is no hard and fast rule that all the rooms must have window curtains at the same instant!Obviously, when we say ‘an extension of the room’, we do not mean curtains that have the exact same color as the walls of the space.

Feel free to use curtains in colors that are different from the ones already existing in the room to give it a different and unique vibe. This works well in themes that range from eclectic and Mediterranean to vintage and even modern. Another popular method is to take a tone-on-tone approach to decorating, which gives the room a monolithic yet intriguing look. If you want a room full of just neutral hues, this is indeed a great choice.Picking window curtains is not just about form and beauty alone. In fact, the primary purpose of curtains is to keep away any prying eyes while providing an option to switch between privacy and unabated views with ease. It is here that the curtain fabric and weave become an essential factor, as some offer a lot more privacy than others. While sheer curtains look and feel great and do bring with them visual lightness, they do a poor job in this regard. Add an additional layer of solid curtains along with the sheers to give yourself a wider range of options.

Still reeling from the chill of winter outside? Thermal curtains are a great way of keeping out this cold for good and increasing the energy efficiency of your home’s heating system in the winter months. Adding curtains to the windows (and even doors) gives you an additional layer of insulation and can even bring down your power bills in the long run. Of course, pretty soon the chill outside will disappear and you will be longing to bring the exuberance of spring and warmth of summer indoors. And all you need to do then is draw those curtains back and take in the sights and sounds outside!While we warned you against the use of sheer curtains if privacy is your basic goal, they are great for creating breezy, cheerful spaces that have wonderful natural ventilation. Take into account how adding window curtains affects the flow of natural light in your home and pick a fabric accordingly. Adding heavy drapes that completely block out light in an already dark, cluttered home can be counter-productive and unappealing.

Are you trying to add some vivacious pattern that will breathe life into your living room? Maybe your bedroom needs an additional plush texture that will add elegance and a hint of romance to the space? Consider these questions before you go shopping for a window curtain. Curtains are an easy way to introduce a fun geometric pattern or a velvety new texture to the room without making major overhauls. With bold, mid-century prints and retro motifs making a comeback recently, maybe your window curtains are the easiest way to keep the interior fresh and on trend!Adding a curtain to your window is not just about picking the best possible option, but also displaying it in the most apt fashion. There are numerous ways that you can hang the window curtain, and the heading of the curtain defines this look. From the cool and contemporary back-tab ripple fold to the more ornate and even Victorian styles that evoke an air of lavishness, the choices here are plenty. Consider carefully the final ambiance of the room, the overall impact of the drapery header and how it plays into the theme of the home before making the final call.

5 Common Victorian Style Elements to Incorporate into Your Apartment in Decorating on April 05, 2010 by Staff Writer The Victorian style of design is influenced by a number of traditional themes, such as Georgian, Vintage, Country Cottage as well as Shabby Chic. The elements of the decor, inspired by the elegance of yesteryear, all add to its romantic charm and femininity. Use Floral Prints to Enhance the Victorian Style You really can’t have a Victorian decor without the use of florals. When using floral patterns in upholstery, window treatments or wallpaper then, choose prints that are traditional. For example, pick small floral prints that are old-fashioned or pretty roses to enhance the style. Use delicate spring and summer colors in mauve, pink, lilac, light blue, pale yellow and mint green. Include molding and cornices carved with flowers to impart the elaborate styling of the period. Choose ornate floral handles for doors and vases with floral patterns to add the right finishing touches to the Victorian theme.

Include Paints with Rich Colors and Mid-Tones for Victorian Decors Victorians cherished colors that were rich and deep, such as burgundy, hunter green, gold and amber. Use these warm colors in main rooms of your apartment and neutrals in moderate tones such as taupe and gray for your halls. Paint your walls in these hues or choose flocked wallpapers with the aforementioned shades and tints to emphasize the style. For example, burgundy with dark green accents or vice versa work well together as the contrasting hues complement one another as well as add a little drama when fused into an old-fashioned theme. They also add to the feeling of luxury that a Victorian decor exudes. Choose Luxurious Materials, Sheers and Lace for Your Fabrics To further accentuate the Victorian style, choose durable fabrics for upholstery or curtains that emphasize richness. Such Victorian materials include velvet, brocade, damask and embroidered fabrics. Also, include lighter materials such as chintz, cotton and muslin with lace trimmings for bedclothes, curtains and sheers.

Select Accessories that Denote Old-Fashioned Character For an apartment decorated in the Victorian style, “old-fashioned” plush carpeting is a good selection. Include a couple of traditional rugs in Persian or Oriental styling to define the look. Add lighting accessories with elaborate designs and dazzling chandeliers made of brass and cut glass or crystal. Choose Tiffany lamps and small, decorative lamps made of marble, china or brass with fringed lamp shades. Hang gilt-framed, old-fashioned paintings and prints that depict the innocence of children, kittens or puppies. Include family photos in antique silver frames on mantles and shelves. Display knick-knacks such as china, lace doilies and porcelain dolls on antique side tables and in china cabinets to complete the look. Choose Solid, Durable Woods and Wicker for Your Furnishings When choosing furnishings, select reliable furniture with solid, darker finished hardwoods such as teak, walnut, mahogany, oak and rosewood.