Of all the finishing touches in a room, window treatments have the power to make or break the space. There is a bit of an art to choosing the perfect curtain or blind. When done right, they can soften a space and really amp up the cozy factor but when done wrong, it can leave a space feeling unfinished.
And as it turns out, the perfect window treatment idea isn't a one-and-done approach. In fact, layering your window treatments is an interior designer's best-kept secret.
Creating the right mix that allows you to control light and privacy while elevating the room's style. Yet with so many options – from curtains and drapes to shutters or blinds – it can be overwhelming to know where to begin. Here, interior designers share their secrets to expertly layer window treatments to help you create the perfect pairing.
How to layer window treatments like a pro
Doubling up on window treatments usually means pairing curtains with either blinds, shades, or shutters. But should you opt for a sheer and blackout pairing? Can Roman shades and curtains work together? And what about mixing materials and colors?
'Layering window treatments is an art form that combines beauty with practicality,' says interior designer Paula Dixon. 'The key to achieving a stylish yet functional window treatment scheme is balancing both aesthetic appeal and functionality.'
Each layer should serve an individual purpose while still working harmoniously together to create a refined, intentional look. Here are some top tips to help you on your way.
1. Start with a sheer base layer
Light, airy fabrics not only diffuse natural light beautifully but also create a soft, elegant backdrop for additional layering – making sheer window treatments a great place to start.
'One way to layer window treatments is to begin with a sheer base or lightweight fabric like linen,' Paula advises. 'This allows light to filter into the room while maintaining privacy. The soft airy texture of sheer curtains adds a subtle, elegant feel to the space. Sheers are a good base as they do not overpower the room's design.'
Additionally, a sheer plain fabric like linen or muslin can easily pair with a heavy drape that features pattern, texture, or color without clashing. Think of sheer window blind ideas as the canvas that sets the tone for the rest of your window dressing. They should complement, rather than compete with, the additional layers you plan to introduce.
2. Try out woven textures
Another great base layer to add with drapes is a woven or chik blind. Made from natural materials like bamboo, jute, rattan, or grasses, these semi-sheer window dressings bring an organic and timeless feel to any space.
'These functional woven shades also introduce a rich texture to the room,' Paula continues. 'Woven materials such as bamboo or rattan can bring an earthy, organic quality while adding a bit of sustainable design. Pro tip: opt for a natural shade without a lining to allow light to filter into the space paired with a patterned curtain with a visual experience,' she advises.
Jeanne Barber of Camden Grace Interiors agrees saying: '90% of our designs involve drapes that just kiss the floor layered over mounted woven wood blinds. This combination is so effective because it adds texture, warmth, and the illusion of height.'
3. Select cafe curtains for a vintage look
Additionally, you can hop on the cafe curtain trend for a vintage feel. Holly Vaughan of Vaughan Design & Development who created the space above says: 'A sweet cafe curtain paired with a seaside-inspired Roman blind does the job at livening up this cozy snug.'
The great thing about cafe curtains is that you can select sheer or thick materials, plains or patterns, and they pair beautifully with both drapes or Roman blinds. These half-height curtains, which typically cover the lower portion of a window, are a favorite in kitchens, living rooms, and bathrooms, where privacy is needed but natural light is still a priority.
'We're seeing a revival of the chic and versatile cafe curtain,' adds Alicia Meireles, creative director at OWN LONDON. 'They offer a pretty way to create privacy whilst still allowing natural light to flood through. With the right fabric and heading, they will suit any type of space, whether classic, traditional, or contemporary.'
Easy to hang thanks to the pretty ties, these 'Lena' sheer curtains from Anthropologie are totally unlined so you can't expect privacy from these but what they will do is add a whimsical feel that lets loads of light flood in.
For a touch of print, these striped curtains are a budget-friendly option from Amazon that will sit lovely in farmhouse-style kitchens, bathrooms, or living spaces. They're semi-sheer for light and privacy and can be gently machine-washed too.
If you're looking for natural cafe curtains that feel a little more elevated, these embroidered curtains are made from cotton and linen in a soft warm hue and finished with a pretty trailing floral design.
4. Half shutters add practical appeal
For a timeless and highly functional window treatment, half window shutters – also known as cafe shutters – offer a stylish balance of privacy, light control, and architectural interest.
'In bedrooms, layering shutters with weighted curtains enhances both insulation and blackout capabilities,' suggests designer Lauren Gilberthorpe. 'And for bathroom window treatments, a simple linen sheer offers privacy while allowing natural light to filter through softly.'
Much like cafe curtains, they allow natural light to flood in from above while maintaining privacy at eye level but they add a much more tailored, built-in look that instantly elevates a space. And of course, can be dressed with either drapes or a blind above.
5. Mix and match with second layer
Once you've nailed the base layer, it is time to address your final touch. You can take two approaches here: either go matchy-matchy or look to create a contrast.
'When layering patterns, consider balancing bold patterns with simpler textures such as woven shades and/or sheer curtains – this prevents the space from feeling too busy,' Paula continues. 'Floral, geometric, or striped patterns can all work well with a natural woven shade or sheer curtains.'
'Pattern play with texture is key to designing window treatments, never forget functionality. Layering allows window treatments to control light, privacy, and ambiance of the room all while harmoniously blending style and comfort,' she adds.
'Window treatments provide an opportunity to play with contrasting patterns, scale, and texture,' adds Lauren Gilberthorpe. 'For an eclectic look, consider using a different fabric on the front and back of curtains, finished with a trim like fringe or a subtle pompom detail to add a sense of playfulness.'
6. Alternatively, try drenching
For a bold yet more seamless look, consider "drenching" your windows – where curtains, walls, and even surrounding furniture are all enveloped in the same color or fabric, aka color drenching or pattern drenching.
'Curtains are increasingly being used to create a seamless extension of the walls rather than a contrasting element,' says designer Portia Fox. 'Selecting fabrics that blend harmoniously with the wall material enhances the sense of space and grandeur. A simple pinch pleat adds just enough structure to maintain a polished, architectural feel,' she adds.
Drenching a room in one color, including your window treatments, gives an incredibly refined, custom feel. It eliminates visual interruptions, making the space feel larger and more cohesive, and can be adapted for all color palettes and styles. Whether you opt for deep, dramatic hues or soft, muted shades, drenching your window treatments in one color or pattern is a striking yet modern way to dress your windows.
Tapestry fabric is all the rage right now thanks to its vintage feel and rich, botanical hues. This popular Lulu and Georgia print can be found in a multitude of soft fabrics for a pattern drenching moment.
There are no rules against your final layer being sheer. In fact, you can pair these with a blackout Roman blind for a light and airy window dressing that provides the best of both worlds. Pick from 6 rich colors to suit your style.
Designed by Sarah Sherman Samuel, these painterly striped curtains are made to match with coordinating wallpaper and soft furnishings for a punchy impact. The deep sunshine hue also makes a statement all on its own.
The best window treatments are the ones that feel like a natural extension of the room, enhancing the light, providing privacy or blackout when needed, and ultimately tying the whole space together. The beauty of layering is that it allows for endless customization, too. You can mix and match styles to suit your home’s aesthetic, opt for practical solutions like cafe curtains and shutters, or go all-in with a draped, color-drenched effect for a dramatic finish.
