How Curtains and Blinds Can Transform Any Room

October 17, 2022

If you’re new to the world of curtains and blinds in Melbourne, choosing the right style makes a big difference. Here’s how to go about your selection process for a tasteful home interior.

Curtains

Sometimes confused with drapes, curtains are panels of fabric which are normally sold in pairs. They’re hung from an overhead rod and made with various colours, materials, and specifications. Unlike drapes, curtains consist of a single layer of fabric which does not have a blackout effect. Curtain fabric also tends to be lighter and more flowing in general.

Material Selection

Choosing the right material is up to you, though there are generally some common denominators. We suggest choosing curtains that match your décor, fit your budget, and serve their intended purpose. For example, rooms with bright outdoor light may require drapes or darker fabric to effectively block the sun. By comparison, a room with a spectacular view may benefit from sheer curtains instead. Ultimately, every curtain should suit its space.

Sizing Specifications

There’s a lot to consider before cutting your curtains, including optimal presentation. Follow our handy guidelines for the perfect final reveal.

Height

When it comes to hanging your curtains, we’d advise you to go high. In fact, extend beyond the window frame to draw the eye upward.

Floor Length

Generally speaking, window curtains should at least touch the floor. Extending the length by another 3-5 cm is ideal for a more casual look.

Width

Curtains are hung from rods which should extend beyond both sides of your window. Aim for 10-15 cm of extra rod length to showcase external views.

Fabric Dimensions

Curtains are meant to look elegant, which requires considerable fabric. In fact, we recommend panels at least twice as long as your window length for an ample appearance.

Blinds

This type of window covering is among the most common in homes and offices. The construction features adjustable vinyl, wood, or aluminium slats for optimal light control. Unlike curtains or drapes, blinds are designed to sit in window frames for a snug, stylish look.

Indoor Blinds

At Clark’s Blinds & Screens, we’re proud to offer many styles of indoor and outdoor blinds for residential use. Here are a few popular picks for reference.

Venetian Blinds

If you’re only familiar with one, it’s likely the Venetian. These horizontal blinds are commonly available in white PVC for a clean, crisp interior. Browse our aluminium and timber models in multiple slat widths.

Vertical Blinds

As the name suggests, these blinds consist of vertical rather than horizontal slats in 89- or 129-mm widths. Our wide selection of styles, colours and fabrics can be tailored to any room. Better still, affordable pricing and low-budget appeal make customised vertical blinds a client favourite.

Outdoor Blinds

Aussies are no strangers to sunlight, so we’re more than prepared with outdoor options. Here’s how to protect your home with modern window treatments.

Straight Drop Geared Blinds

You guessed it: these guys go straight down for complete veranda coverage. Operation is easy with a manual crank or motorised control. Available in canvas or mesh plus clear or tinted PVC, they’re well suited to outdoor living spaces with adjustable lighting and privacy.

Ziptrak® Outdoor Blinds

These outdoor patio blinds use a slide retention system to stay securely in place. Choose from manual or automatic options available in a variety of fabrics and styles. Keep your space secure with the help of a sturdy lock system.

Window Wisdom

Finding the right curtains and blinds is easier than you imagine. If you’ve still got questions, we’d be happy to assist. Clark’s Blinds & Screens has built and installed blinds in Melbourne’s southeastern suburbs for over 25 years. Let us show you how beautiful your home can be!