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Redesigning a bedroom typically centers on creating a serene and stylish environment conducive to restful nights. Elements reminiscent of high-end hotels—such as blackout curtains, plush upholstered bed frames, and luxurious bedding—can facilitate a tranquil sleeping atmosphere. However, many people prefer their personal sleeping quarters to feel inviting and homely, rather than resembling a hotel room.
To achieve this balance, individuals often incorporate personal touches that enhance comfort without compromising warmth. Quality sheets designed to complement personal sleep habits, adjustable loft down pillows, and premium toiletries, such as indulgent shampoos or revitalizing body wash, are often chosen as personalized elements. One key feature, blackout curtains, serves as a powerful aid for improving sleep quality but offers less flexibility in style than other interchangeable décor pieces.
“I firmly believe that your living space should promote relaxation and rejuvenation, which is where blackout curtains come into play,” remarks designer Alvin Wayne. “That said, I might opt against them in spaces that benefit from more natural sunlight during the day, or if they visually overwhelm the area. It truly is about finding the right balance.”
Curtains play a pivotal role in defining the overall aesthetic of a bedroom, and to ensure an ideal blend of functionality and style, two designers share their expert guidance on selecting and installing the right curtains.
Shopping for Blackout Curtains
Blackout curtains are primarily designed for their practical benefits—creating complete darkness, which can make sleeping in tempting, particularly for those who enjoy late mornings. However, it can be a challenge to find options that do not starkly contrast with a sophisticated bedroom design.
“Your curtains should complement your overall design while still delivering the desired level of light control,” advises Lee Crowder, national director of design and model experience at Taylor Morrison.
Before diving into the shopping process, it’s essential to accurately measure the desired length for your curtains. Ideally, they should gently touch the floor without creating unsightly pools at the bottom. Considerations regarding panel width are equally important; to effectively block out light, the curtains need to completely cover the window. The effective blackout property hinges on a densely woven lining that typically comes in darker shades, and potential buyers should decide how much darkness they prefer in their space.
“Always hang them high and wide, as this makes the room appear taller and the windows larger,” Wayne adds. “Don’t hesitate to layer your curtains! Combining blackout curtains with sheer options underneath can enhance the aesthetic appeal and functionality.”
Top Recommendations for Blackout Curtains
For those seeking blackout curtains that bring an upscale touch to their bedrooms while ensuring a darkened sleeping environment, here are four designer-recommended choices worth considering.
The Shade Store Custom Blackout Drapes
“Custom blackout drapes from the Shade Store are my go-to option when aiming for a sophisticated design,” Wayne notes. “The customization possibilities are virtually limitless, ranging from fabric choices to pleat styles, and the quality is exceptional.”
Pepper Home Ruby Burgundy Custom Curtain
“Pepper Home stands out as my preferred online destination for custom drapery and pillows,” Crowder shares. “Their variety of quality fabrics and trim options, alongside customizations for material, rod pockets, width, length, and privacy lining, is outstanding. Currently, I’m particularly fond of their floral-printed cotton curtains in ruby burgundy.”
West Elm Worn Velvet Blackout Curtain
“I admire the luxurious texture of the West Elm worn velvet curtains with blackout lining,” Wayne observes. “These curtains add a rich depth to any room, effectively blocking light without sacrificing style.”
Pottery Barn Emery Linen Blackout Curtain
“The Emery linen blackout curtains from Pottery Barn embody a relaxed, organic aesthetic, blending the softness of linen with the functionality of a full blackout,” Wayne explains. “They’re especially suitable for coastal or minimalist bedroom designs.”
For those interested in a custom option that remains budget-friendly, The Hues offers a service tested by commerce editor Audrey Lee to transform her bedroom. “These curtains are incredible at blocking out sunlight,” Lee states. “In the initial weeks, I found it unusual to be awakened by my alarm in such darkness—though they aren’t soundproof.” With an e-commerce model, users can explore fabric colors, grommets, header and lining types, and sizes, choosing between preset options or entering custom dimensions for a tailored fit.
Source
www.architecturaldigest.com