How to Choose Curtains for a Living Room

How to Choose Curtains for a Living Room

Your living room is often the centerpiece of your home—a space where you entertain guests, relax with family, and showcase your style. Choosing the right curtains can transform this space, adding warmth, character, and functionality. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you pick the perfect window curtain fabrics for your living room while keeping both style and practicality in mind.

Curtain Styles for Living Rooms

Start by determining what you need from your curtains:

• Purely Decorative: If your curtains are purely decorative, focus on color, texture, and pattern. Heavier fabrics like velvet or lighter ones like linen can complement your design.
• Functional Needs: If light control or privacy is essential, select functional options like room darkening or blackout curtains. These are particularly effective in living rooms where you watch movies or need to regulate brightness.

For a polished look, coordinate the curtains with other design elements like your sofa, color palette, and interior design.

Measuring Length and Width

Proper measurements are critical for a polished look. Here’s how:

1. Length: Measure from the top of the rod to the floor. Decide on your preferred length style:

   • Hover: Just above the floor for a clean, tailored look.
   • Break: Add an inch to create a subtle designer look.
   • Puddle: Add up to 6 inches for a relaxed, romantic feel.

2. Width: Measure the window width and add at least 12 inches on either side. This ensures that your curtains frame the window beautifully without blocking too much light.

Check out our step by step guide on how to hang curtains.

Choosing the Right Curtain Fabric

The fabric you choose will affect how your living room curtains look, feel, and function.

• Blackout Curtains: Opt for heavier fabrics like velvet or lined polyester to block out light and add thermal insulation.
• Light Filtering Curtains: Lighter fabrics like cotton, linen, or sheers allow natural light to brighten your space while maintaining some privacy.
• Performance Fabrics: Revolution’s curtain fabrics offer the perfect balance of durability, style, and easy maintenance. They’re stain-resistant, machine washable, and simulate the look of natural fibers like linen.

The Best Colors for Living Room Curtains

Your choice of color depends on the mood you want to create and the existing elements in the room:

• Neutral Colors: Beige, cream, or light gray are versatile and complement a variety of dining room and living room designs.
• Bold Shades: Choose vibrant hues or patterns to make your curtains the focal point of the room.
• Contrast or Blend: Decide if you want the curtains to blend with the walls or stand out as a statement piece.

Order a sample of Tres Chic, HERE

Curtain Hardware and Accessories

Don’t overlook the hardware—your curtain rods and finials contribute to the overall design. Choose from materials like wood or metal in styles ranging from ornate to minimalist. Ensure the rods extend at least 12 inches beyond the window frame to allow the curtains to stack neatly without obstructing light.

Layering Window Treatments

Layering curtains with shades or blinds adds depth and functionality. Pair bamboo blinds with sheer linen curtains for an organic feel or combine room-darkening panels with sheers for flexibility in light control.

Revolution Performance Curtain Fabrics

Revolution Performance Fabrics offers machine-washable, stain-resistant options that are ideal for living room curtains. Patterns like Shelter and Sunset provide the luxurious look of linen or cotton with the added benefit of durability and easy care—perfect for spaces that see heavy use or where pets and kids are present.

Our Washable Fabrics are perfect for window treatments. 

Why Choose Revolution for Your Living Room Curtains?

• Stain-resistant, easy-to-clean performance fabrics.
• Machine washable for hassle-free maintenance.
• PFAS-free and environmentally conscious.
• Made in the USA with durability that lasts.

By following these tips and exploring high-quality options like Revolution Curtain Fabrics, you’ll find the perfect curtains to enhance the beauty and functionality of your living room.